Family Guide to Gulf Shores, Alabama: An Easy Getaway from Des Moines
** This post was sponsored by Alabama’s Beaches and Gulf Shores. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Planning a family beach vacation that is both relaxing and packed with things to do? Alabama’s Beaches, home to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, are one of the most family-friendly destinations in the South, and surprisingly easy to reach from Iowa. After experiencing it firsthand, this is a trip that feels doable, memorable, and easy to plan from start to finish.
How to Get to Gulf Shores from Des Moines
One of the best parts about planning a trip to Alabama’s Beaches is how simple it is to get there from Central Iowa. Flying with Allegiant Air offers a direct and budget-friendly option for families. You can leave Des Moines and be on the beach in four hours or less, without the stress of layovers or long travel days. For families traveling with kids, that shorter, direct flight makes a big difference and helps your vacation start the moment you land.
Where to Stay in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
We stayed at The Oasis at Orange Beach with Beachball Properties, and it truly checked every box for a family-friendly stay. It felt less like a rental and more like a home away from home, which makes a big difference when traveling with kids.
Having a full kitchen makes mornings and quick meals easy, and the space itself was comfortable, clean, and beautifully designed. The beds were cozy, the layout gave everyone room to spread out, and the balcony views of the ocean were absolutely breathtaking. Small details also stood out, like having beach towels ready to go and access to beach toys, which made packing lighter and days on the sand easier.
The property amenities make this an easy place to spend entire days without needing to leave. Between the outdoor pools, splash pad, indoor pool, and hot tub, there is something for every age. There is also a workout room, an on-site restaurant, and direct beach access, so everything you need is right there. It is the kind of place where you can truly settle in and enjoy a slower pace.
Use code DESMOINESPARENT for 10% off a stay with no blackout dates!
Places to Eat in Gulf Shores
One thing you will quickly realize is that you will not go hungry in Gulf Shores. There are so many family-friendly restaurants, and each one offers a slightly different experience.
CoastAL Orange Beach was one of our favorite spots. Located right on the white sand beaches, it offers incredible waterfront views along with fresh coastal dishes and local seafood. The atmosphere feels like a true beach vacation, especially with live music playing daily at the CoastAL Beach Bar. If you go, do not skip dessert. Make sure you order a Bushwacker too!
Another must-visit is Original Oyster House, a longtime favorite known for its casual atmosphere and southern hospitality. Even if your kids are hesitant about seafood, this is a great place to try something new. The chargrilled oysters are award-winning, and the Peanut Butter Pie was a favorite for everyone.
For a dining experience that feels like an activity in itself, LuLu’s Gulf Shores is a must. Owned by Lucy Buffett, this spot is built for families. Kids can play in the large sand area, explore ropes courses, and enjoy the arcade while you wait for your meal. There is live music most nights, and the menu is incredibly accommodating, including allergy-friendly options that are thoughtfully prepared.
Breakfast and quick bites are just as fun. Daisy’s Donuts is a small shop, offering creative donuts, boba tea, and iced coffee. The Ruby Slipper Cafe brings a New Orleans twist to breakfast and brunch (try their eggs Benedict!), while Duck’s Diner serves up local favorites all day long, including over-the-top French toast.
For dinner, Zeke’s Restaurant is another great option, especially if you are craving a seafood boil. No matter where you go, you will find that the food scene here is both approachable and memorable for families.
Things to Do in Gulf Shores with Kids
There is no shortage of things to do in Gulf Shores, especially if your family loves being outdoors. One of our favorite experiences was renting bikes from Beach Bike Rentals and exploring Gulf State Park. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers more than 28 miles of paved trails that wind through nine different ecosystems, making it an easy and scenic ride for families. Along the way, we even spotted an alligator, which the kids thought was the highlight of the day.
The rental process was simple, and we appreciated that helmets and baskets were included. There is also a free bike share program throughout the park that can be accessed through the Bloom app, which is another great option for families with older kids.
For a more high-energy outing, The Track Family Fun Park is packed with activities. From multiple go-kart tracks and mini golf to blaster boats and a large arcade, it is easy to spend several hours here. The Slick Track was especially fun and added a little extra excitement.
If you are looking for something a little more relaxing, booking a tour with Hammock Time Tiki Tours is a great way to see the area from the water. You will cruise through the back bays on a tiki-style pontoon boat, with opportunities to stop at Robinson or Bird Island. We even saw a dolphin during our tour, which made the experience feel extra special.
Another unique activity is booking a session with Sandcastle University. They bring everything you need right to your spot on the beach and teach families how to build impressive sandcastles. It is hands-on, creative, and something kids will talk about long after the trip is over. We had no idea that you could become a pro and certified in sandcastle building!
For families who enjoy history and exploring, Fort Morgan Historic Site is worth a visit. Located where Mobile Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, this historic fort offers a mix of learning and beautiful scenery. Beyond the history, there are beaches, picnic areas, and nature spaces that make it easy to turn your visit into a full outing. We were all in awe of this incredible spot and how much history it held.
Why Alabama’s Beaches Are Perfect for Families
What makes Gulf Shores and Orange Beach stand out is how easy it is for families to enjoy their time together. Everything feels designed with families in mind, from restaurants that offer built-in entertainment for kids to outdoor activities that are accessible and fun for all ages.
You can spend your mornings on the beach, your afternoons exploring trails or local attractions, and your evenings enjoying great food and live music. Or, you can slow things down and stay close to your condo, letting the kids bounce between the pool and the ocean.
A Simple, Memorable Midwest Getaway
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, is one of those destinations that checks all the boxes for Midwest families. It is easy to get to, easy to navigate, and full of experiences that both kids and parents will enjoy.
With direct flights from Des Moines, family-friendly accommodations, incredible food, and a wide range of activities, Alabama’s Beaches make planning a vacation feel simple instead of overwhelming. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, this is a trip that delivers both.
