The Gulf Coast may be known for our beaches, but around here, the sunsets are the real showstoppers. Whether you’re sipping sweet tea with sandy toes or clinking glasses over a seafood supper, golden hour on the Gulf Coast is pure magic. The skies set themselves on fire with streaks of coral, cotton candy pink, and gold so rich it’d make your grandma’s jewelry jealous.

From wide-open beaches to quiet bays and dinner spots that’ll have you ordering dessert just to linger longer, here’s your local guide to chasing sunsets all the way from Perdido Key to Fort Morgan.

So grab your camera, a cold drink, and your favorite people because golden hour is calling, and trust us, you don’t want to miss it.

1. Gulf State Park Pier – Gulf Shores, AL

Golden hour doesn’t get more iconic than this. The Gulf State Park Pier stretches 1,540 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, offering panoramic views of the sky as it melts into the sea. Bring your fishing pole or just your phone camera—either way, you’ll leave with something worth bragging about.

Pro Tip: Arrive a little early to snag a spot and watch the surfers catch the last waves of the day. Bonus points if you pack a few boiled peanuts for snacking.

2. The Gulf – Orange Beach, AL

If you like your sunsets with a side of guac and a salty breeze, The Gulf is your spot. Built from shipping containers and decked out with driftwood charm, this open-air restaurant is practically made for golden hour. With front-row seats to Perdido Pass, you’ll watch boats cruise by as the sun dips low behind them.

Order This: Start with the guacamole (trust us), then follow it up with a Gulf Margarita and whatever fresh catch is calling your name.

3. Fort Morgan Beach – Fort Morgan, AL

Tucked away at the end of a quiet stretch of road that feels like a Southern secret, Fort Morgan Beach is where time slows down. There’s less hustle, more hush. And the sunsets? Well, they speak for themselves. With the Gulf on one side and Mobile Bay on the other, it’s one of the few places where you can watch the sun kiss the water no matter which direction you’re facing.

Local Tip: Bring a chair, plenty of bug spray (not the dainty kind—trust us), and your sense of wonder. It’s not fancy, but it sure is fine.

4. The Wharf Ferris Wheel – Orange Beach, AL

Looking for a sunset with a little spin? Hop on the iconic Ferris wheel at The Wharf just before dusk and you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the coast glowing in golden hues. As you rise above the palm-lined streets and festive lights, the sky puts on a show that’ll have even the teenagers setting down their phones (well, maybe just long enough for a selfie).

Fun Add-On: After your ride, grab dinner at Mile Marker 158 Dockside or sip something cold at The Sandshaker. Then stroll the marina, browse the shops, or stick around for the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience. It’s the kind of night that ends with full hearts and full bellies.

5. Perdido Key State Park – Perdido Key, FL

Just over the Florida line, Perdido Key State Park is a slice of coastal quiet perfect for nature lovers and solitude seekers. The dunes are high, the sea oats are swaying, and the sunsets? Honey, they’re heaven-sent. It’s the kind of place where you can hear yourself think—just soft waves, salty air, and the kind of peace you can’t pack in a suitcase.

Bring Along: A lightweight blanket, a loved one, and maybe that book you keep saying you’ll read.

6. Voyagers at Perdido Beach Resort – Orange Beach, AL

If you’re in the mood for a sunset that feels a little fancy (without feeling stuffy), book a dinner reservation at Voyagers. Floor-to-ceiling windows mean you can watch the colors change across the water while you enjoy fresh-caught seafood, expertly plated. It’s upscale, it’s unforgettable, and it’s got “date night done right” written all over it.

Insider Note: Ask for a window seat. And don’t rush off—this is the kind of view that feeds your soul.

7. Little Lagoon Pass – Gulf Shores, AL

This under-the-radar gem is where the lagoon meets the Gulf, creating a stunning landscape that changes with the tides. It’s a local favorite for its calm waters and peaceful vibe, especially as the sun begins to set. Bring your pup, your paddleboard, or just your bare feet. It’s casual coastal bliss.

Best Time to Visit: Weeknights during off-season. Quiet as a church mouse and twice as peaceful.

8. Sunset Cruises – Departing from Orange Beach & Perdido Key

Okay, so it’s not one “spot” per se, but if you’ve never chased a sunset from the deck of a catamaran, you’re missing out on one of the Gulf Coast’s most dazzling delights. Local charter companies like Sail Wild Hearts and Cetacean Cruises offer evening sails that include everything from dolphin sightings to champagne toasts.

Insider Tip: Bring a light jacket—even in the summer, the breeze on the water can catch you off guard once the sun goes down.

Sunsets Hit Differently on the Gulf Coast

Maybe it’s the salty breeze, or maybe it’s that laid-back lifestyle we hold near and dear down here, but something about a Gulf Coast sunset just slows your soul in the best way. We don’t take these moments for granted, and we sure don’t want to keep them to ourselves. Whether you’re here for a season or a lifetime, the sunsets along this coast have a way of settling the soul.

It’s where stories are shared, questions get asked (some with diamonds), and everyday worries are put on pause for something bigger, brighter, and downright beautiful.

Sunset Ready? We’ve Got Your Front-Row Seat

If you’re dreaming of soft sands, salty breezes, and golden skies, we know just the place to hang your sunhat. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or just need to unwind with your toes in the sand, BEACHBALL PROPERTIES  has you covered.

From cozy condos with balcony views to beachfront homes made for memory-making, our vacation rentals in Perdido Key, Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan offer comfort, charm, and convenience—all just steps away from your next breathtaking sunset.

So come on, Beachballers! Golden hour is waiting, and the view is even sweeter when you’re here to see it.

Come Have A Ball At The Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson