From the best places to stay in Fort Morgan AL, to the most beautiful places to stay in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, here’s your guide to choosing the perfect accommodation for an unforgettable vacation.
The Gulf Coast of the U.S. is a stunning region along the Gulf of Mexico, featuring beautiful beaches, warm waters, and vibrant coastal towns. Popular destinations include Florida’s Emerald Coast, Alabama’s Gulf Shores, Louisiana’s bayous, and Texas’ Gulf beaches.
This picturesque area blends natural beauty, southern charm, and endless recreational opportunities, making it a top getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Want to elevate your Gulf Coast vacation? Staying in a vacation rental is the way to go. These short-term accommodations offer comfort, privacy, coastal charm, and a touch of luxury — transforming your trip into an unforgettable experience.
In this blog, let us guide you through the best vacation rentals in the region, helping you choose the perfect getaway for an unforgettable vacation with your loved ones. Whether you opt for one of the best places to stay in Perdido Key Florida, or one of Alabama’s exceptional rentals, you’re in for the vacation of a lifetime.
But before we start, a little bit about us…
At Luxury Coastal Vacations, we run many of the top places to stay in Pensacola FL, and we guarantee exceptional customer service with meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of your vacation experience. With us, you’ll discover the best accommodations in Perdido Key, Pensacola, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores.
Want more tips on the Gulf Coast? Head over to our destination blog! We’ve covered a variety of topics, including the top pet-friendly spots, a guide to bringing dogs to the Gulf Coast, kid-friendly activities, the best breakfast places, and tips for a perfect beach day.
Ready to experience some Gulf Coast magic? Let’s dive in!
Gulf Coast’s Top 4 Destinations
Here are the vacationers’ most beloved destinations along the Gulf Coast:
Gulf Shores, Alabama 🏖️
Known for its sugar-white beaches and family-friendly vibe, Gulf Shores offers a mix of relaxation and excitement. You can explore Gulf State Park for hiking and biking trails, indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, or enjoy water activities like fishing, kayaking, and dolphin cruises. The city also hosts annual events like the Hangout Music Festival and the National Shrimp Festival.
Orange Beach, Alabama 🐚
Located just east of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for paddleboarding, jet skiing, and deep-sea fishing. The Wharf is a central hub for shopping, dining, live music, and family-friendly attractions like the Ferris wheel. With a slightly more laid-back vibe than Gulf Shores, it’s a favorite for beachgoers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Pensacola, Florida 🐠
A city rich in history and culture, Pensacola features stunning beaches, a vibrant downtown, and family-friendly attractions. Highlights include the Pensacola Lighthouse, Naval Aviation Museum, and historic sites like Fort Pickens. Pensacola Beach, located nearby, offers crystal-clear waters and an energetic boardwalk scene, making it ideal for beach lovers.
Perdido Key, Florida 🌅
A quiet, laid-back destination, Perdido Key is ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty. It’s home to pristine, uncrowded beaches and the protected Gulf Islands National Seashore, perfect for wildlife spotting, kayaking, and nature walks. Perdido Key also boasts great fishing opportunities and local seafood dining, offering a tranquil escape from busier destinations.
Types of Vacation Rentals Along the Gulf Coast
With a diverse selection of vacation rentals, you can always find accommodations along the Gulf Coast that suit your preferences, group size, and the type of experience you want to enjoy while vacationing.
Here are the types of accommodations available along the Gulf Coast:
Beach Houses 🏠
Staying in beach houses while vacationing along the Gulf Coast delivers the ultimate coastal escape. These rentals combine comfort, privacy, and easy access to nature, letting you wake up to the gentle sound of waves and step right onto the Gulf Coast’s soft sands. Many beach houses come with private pools, expansive balconies, and outdoor spaces offering stunning views. Some even provide beach essentials like loungers and paddleboards, making it effortless to soak up the beauty of Gulf Shores’ beaches. If you’re traveling with your furry companion, pet-friendly houses are the perfect option for you and your best friend to create unforgettable moments together.
Who are beach houses ideal for?
- Large Families
- Larger Groups
- Romantic Getaways
- Nature Lovers
- Pet Owners
Townhomes 🏘️
Townhomes offer a spacious and comfortable retreat with a home-like feel. These multi-level properties often feature private balconies or patios, modern kitchens, and shared amenities like pools or beach access. These rentals provide the convenience of being close to the beach while enjoying a relaxed, residential atmosphere.
Who are townhomes ideal for?
- Small Families
- Longer Stays (Snowbirds)
- Beach Lovers
Beachfront Condos 🌇
Condos combine modern convenience, affordability, and access to shared amenities, making them a great choice for vacationers. Typically located in multi-story complexes, many condos are beachfront or just a short walk from the water. They offer comfortable, functional spaces ideal for travelers seeking easy access to the Gulf Coast’s attractions without the commitment of a larger property.
Who are condos ideal for?
- Couples
- Small Families
- Solo Travelers
- Budget-Conscious Travelers
Top Places to Stay in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Pensacola and Perdido Key
The Perch, Gulf Shores / Fort Morgan
Imagine experiencing Gulf Shores from this stunning Alabama vacation home, located just a short walk from the beach. Relax under an umbrella, let your kids play in the water, and explore nearby attractions like Gulf State Park and Fort Morgan State Historic Site. After your beach adventures, return to this newly constructed haven, complete with a soothing aquatic ambiance and beautiful beach-inspired decor.
The spacious living area features a 55″ smart TV, while the fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances provides all the comforts of home. Grill on breezy days, enjoy alfresco dining on the furnished patio, and take advantage of the shared pool and hot tub access. Your dream beach getaway awaits!
Colonnades 1601, Gulf Shores
Experience the beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast from this stunning unit at The Colonnades. Situated right on the beach, the views from your private balcony are truly unmatched. This unit is the ultimate relaxation retreat, featuring an outdoor dining set perfect for enjoying the sound of the waves as you dine.
The living room boasts breathtaking views through its wall-to-wall windows, while the fully equipped kitchen invites you to embrace your inner chef with modern stainless-steel appliances that make cooking a breeze.
For added fun, take advantage of the community amenities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness center, all while staying in this family-friendly condo.
The Bluffs #6, Orange Beach
This luxurious masterpiece is nestled in the serene and picturesque surroundings of Orange Beach, offering easy access to the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This brand-new house at The Bluffs serves as a sanctuary of elegance, with every detail designed to redefine coastal living.
Step inside to a grand foyer adorned with exquisite coastal-inspired decor. The open-concept living area invites you to relax and unwind, seamlessly blending sophistication with laid-back charm. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, highlighting the tastefully appointed interiors.
Outside, a private pool awaits, providing a refreshing escape on warm days. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, soak up the sun on the surrounding deck, or unwind in the shaded lounge area. The poolside patio offers an ideal setting for alfresco dining and entertaining, complete with a gas grill to elevate your outdoor culinary experiences.
Lei Lani 301T, Orange Beach
Experience Orange Beach like never before and make the most of your next vacation at this stunning 3-bedroom condo located on the pristine shores of OB. With access to an expansive stretch of private beach and just one mile from the legendary Flora-Bama Lounge, this is the ultimate coastal retreat.
This new coastal-chic condo boasts breathtaking Gulf views, thanks to floor-to-ceiling glass windows that surround the living area. The spacious kitchen is a chef’s dream, offering ample counter space and plenty of cookware to prepare delicious meals. The master bedroom features a king bed with direct Gulf views and an ensuite bathroom, perfect for a relaxing soak.
Lei Lani offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including two outdoor pools, an indoor heated pool, a barbecue area with grills, a covered picnic area, and convenient beach boardwalk access.
Sunset Sands at Lost Key Villas, Pensacola
Welcome to Sunset Sands at Lost Key Villas! This charming 2-bedroom townhome is nestled within the prestigious Lost Key Resort and offers three levels of thoughtfully arranged living space, designed for both comfort and convenience.
The bright and open kitchen is perfect for gatherings, providing ample space for creating memorable lunches and dinners. Step onto the covered patio off the living room to relax with your favorite beverage or enjoy grilling on the provided gas grill. With its thoughtful design and amenities, Sunset Sands is the ideal getaway for families, snowbirds, and even your furry companions.
Guests also have full access to the incredible amenities at Lost Key Golf Club and Resort, including a championship golf course, community pool, tennis courts, and hot tub.
Bella Villa Estate, Pensacola
Bella Villa Estate is where vacation dreams come true. This stunning gated waterfront property is the perfect retreat for weddings, reunions, and group events. It offers ample space to bring friends and family together for rest, relaxation, and celebration.
Situated directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking views of Johnson Beach and the Gulf of Mexico. The expansive lawn leads to your own slice of paradise on the sandy beachfront of the canal, with the added convenience of an onsite boat dock. Guests also have access to family-friendly amenities, including kayaks, paddleboards, and beach equipment, ensuring endless fun for all.
The Estate comprises two spacious Villas and a loft suite, comfortably accommodating up to 32 guests. The Waterfront Villa features 3 bedrooms, a deluxe chef’s kitchen perfect for culinary enthusiasts, an elevator, and 3 balconies offering stunning beach views from every angle.
Blue Angel Casa, Perdido Key
Located in the newly developed community of Serenity, this home is the perfect place to unwind after a day in the sun with friends and family. With 4 bedrooms, it comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests. The house is conveniently located just minutes from several public beach access points, state parks, restaurants, a kayak launch, and grocery stores.
Blue Angel Casa, built in Spring 2022, features modern furnishings and décor, granite countertops, and full-size appliances. The kitchen is fully equipped with all the utensils needed for a chef to create a gourmet meal. The outdoor living space includes a grassy area, a grill, and luxurious outdoor furniture, offering the ideal setting for your family to make memories while preparing dinner.
Top Places to Stay Along the Gulf Coast 🌅
Looking for an extra idea to make the most of your vacation on the stunning Gulf Coast? Booking your stay with Luxury Coastal Vacations. We offer the finest selection of luxury rentals on the Gulf Coast, spanning Alabama and Florida.
When you choose to stay in one of our homes or condos, you can anticipate a 5-star experience that you’ll cherish forever. Browse through our options and discover what awaits you on the beautiful Gulf Coast.
