Sun, sand, and sweet treats — is there a better trio for a summer day?

Ice cream after dinner? Around here, it’s not just a suggestion — it’s the unofficial way to say, “Yep, I’m officially on vacation.” You haven’t truly checked into Beachballer mode until you’ve had your nightly scoop — it’s the sweet tradition that leaves us smiling long after the sun sets.

From the sunny beaches of Perdido Key to the quiet charm of Fort Morgan, the Gulf Coast is packed with spots that serve up scoops worth remembering. That’s why we’ve put together the Coastal Ice Cream Crawl — a fun, self-guided adventure through the best frozen treat stops along the Gulf Coast’s sugar-white shores.

Whether you’re all about sprinkles, soft serve, or scoops stacked higher than your beach bag, there’s a spot (or nine) calling your name.

The Scoop on the Best Spots

1. The Yard Milkshake Bar — Gulf Shores, AL Milkshakes so big they need their own zip code. Think overflowing mason jars stacked with brownie chunks, cookies, and candy bars. Try “The Mermaid” — it tastes like cotton candy dreams and comes with enough sprinkles to stock an elementary school craft drawer. It’s outrageously over-the-top (in the best way!).
2. Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream — Gulf Shores, AL A fan favorite with locals and visitors alike. This old-fashioned shop dishes out rich, creamy scoops in flavors like Banana Pudding and Peach Cobbler. The waffle cones are crunchy perfection, and every bite tastes like a front porch in July.
3. Spoonz Hand Rolled Ice Cream — Gulf Shores, AL This spot is part dessert bar, part live show. Spoonz lets you choose your base and mix-ins, then rolls the ice cream up right before your eyes on a frozen slab. Creative, delicious, and super fun to watch—especially for kids.
4. Yumm Twister & Ice Cream — Gulf Shores, AL If your sweet tooth and your Instagram feed had a baby, this would be it. Warm, swirled chimney cones stuffed with gelato and toppings galore. It’s the kind of treat you say you’ll share but definitely won’t.
5. Dippin’ Dots — Gulf Shores & The Wharf, AL It’s not just ice cream—it’s time travel. Take a trip back to middle school snack bars and mall food courts with these frozen pebbles of pure joy. Kids love them. Parents love pretending they don’t.
6. Southern Grind Coffee House & Gelato — Orange Beach (The Wharf & Beach Blvd) Don’t let the name fool you—yes, they serve amazing coffee, but the gelato is the real sleeper here. Tucked inside these cozy coastal cafés, you’ll discover gelato flavors so rich and creamy, you’ll think you’ve wandered into a little slice of Italy by the sea. Come for the cozy vibes, stay for the pistachio and tiramisu gelato. It’s classy, but not too classy to get a second scoop.
7. Bahama Buck’s — Orange Beach, AL This tropical treat stop brings all the color and flavor of an island vacation. With endless shaved-ice combos, smoothie creations, and their signature Bahama Sodas, this spot is great for when you’re craving something sweet but light. Bonus: the beachy vibes are strong.
8. Sweet Cone Alabama — Orange Beach, AL A bright, welcoming cottage-style shop that’s full of charm—and sugar. They’re known for the Key Lime Pie cone, which hits that perfect balance of creamy and tart. It’s a photo-worthy treat and a flavor bomb you’ll want every night of vacation.
9. Vampire Penguin – Perdido Key, FL This beachy spot spins shaved snow into sweet, fluffy magic. Think ice cream’s lighter, cooler cousin—with flavors like Strawberry Shortcake and Cherry Limeade that hit the spot on a hot day.

More Scoops to Love

Of course, these aren’t the only sweet spots worth visiting. From the classic charm of Scoops and Del’s, to fun family favorites like TCBY, Pelican Scoops, and Pete’s Island Ice Cream & Treats, there’s no shortage of ways to cool off. Treat yourself to the indulgent shakes at Milkshake Mommas, sample small-batch treats at Gage’s, or dive into nostalgic favorites at Cowbell Creamery and Kilwin’s. Don’t miss Chocolate Corner either — it’s a little slice of dessert heaven tucked into paradise.

Why Gulf Coast Ice Cream Just Hits Different

There’s something magical about enjoying a cone with the salty breeze in your hair and sand still on your feet. Here, ice cream isn’t just dessert — it’s part of the experience. A sweet pause in the day where families gather, stories are swapped, and the good stuff in life is celebrated.

Many of our favorite spots are family-owned, serving up scoops with a smile and a side of Southern charm. Around here, every cone comes with a little extra hospitality.

Local Tips for Your Ice Cream Crawl

• Go for sunset scoops: The crowds fade, the skies glow, and dessert just hits different.
• Pack a chair or blanket: If seating’s limited, find a nearby spot to kick back and enjoy your scoop with a view — whether it’s waves rolling in or the sun setting over the water.
• Split a treat: Share a giant shake or order a few flavors to sample — it’s half the mess and double the fun.
• Try something new: Key lime, coconut, even sweet tea sherbet… step out of your vanilla comfort zone.

Stay Sweet with Beachball Properties

At BEACHBALL PROPERTIES, we know a perfect Gulf Coast getaway isn’t complete without cozy rentals, ocean views, and plenty of sweet adventures. Whether you’re staying in Perdido Key, Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, or Fort Morgan, we’ve got just the spot to rest your sun-kissed feet after a day of ice cream tasting and beach fun.

So, Beachballers, loosen those belts and dive in. We can’t wait to hear about your favorite scoops, your go-to flavors, and the memories you make — one cone at a time.

Because here on the Gulf Coast, every day should end with a little sweetness.

Come Have A Ball At The Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson