When October drifts in, Alabama’s beaches trade their summer shine for autumn magic, and the breeze off the Gulf takes on a playful, mysterious edge. This is the season when ghost stories mingle with the scent of saltwater, and costumes pair perfectly with flip flops. Whether you are hunting for local legends, savoring family friendly treats, or showing off your most creative disguise, the Alabama Gulf Coast serves up a Halloween experience like no other. From Orange Beach to Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan, there is a full lineup of spooky happenings and festive events waiting to make your coastal October unforgettable. Let’s jump in and take a peek at some of the cheerful chills and sweet thrills happening all along the coast.

Family-Friendly Frights

Halloween on the Gulf Coast is more about giggles than gasps, making it perfect for kids (and kids at heart) who prefer treats over tricks. From costumed critters at the zoo to hayrides through charming downtown streets, there are plenty of ways to soak up the season and keep young revelers smiling all night. If you are wrangling little goblins, you will find no shortage of sweet (not scary) events. Check out these favorite Gulf Coast happenings that promise plenty of festive fun.

• Boo at the Zoo (Oct 19, 25 & 26)
  The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo becomes a not-too-spooky wonderland with trick-or-treat stations, carnival games, and animal encounters. Costumes encouraged!
• Foley’s Hometown Halloween (Oct 31)
  Enjoy candy stops, hayrides, and live entertainment in Foley’s quaint downtown. A great pick for families who want a simple stroll and plenty of photo ops.
• Halloween 4-D Movie Nights at The Wharf (Oct 19 & 26)
  Watch seasonal favorites in 4-D, complete with seat rumbles and special effects that put you right in the middle of the action.

Ghoulish Fun for Everyone

Halloween along the Alabama Gulf Coast is not just for the kids. From lively races to starlit campouts, there are plenty of ways for grown-ups and families alike to celebrate the season. Whether you want to break a sweat in costume, toast marshmallows by a crackling fire, or dance the night away at a legendary beachside bash, these events promise plenty of coastal charm and spooky fun for every age group.

• Haunted Hustle 5K & Witches on Wheels (Oct 26)
  Lace up for a festive run or roll through Gulf Shores in costume, then celebrate at the lively post-race party. Fun for participants of all ages.
• Ghouls on the Gulf Beach Campout (Oct 25–26)
  Pitch a tent at Gulf State Park and enjoy bonfires, s’mores, and friendly frights under the stars. Families and groups are welcome.
• Flora Bama’s Halloween Bash (Oct 31)
  For those 21 and up, this legendary party features a costume contest, live music, and good times that last well past midnight.

Legends and Lore on the Coast

Long before trick or treat buckets lined the beach, the Alabama coast held stories that made even seasoned sailors glance over their shoulders. Some say the past never truly lets go here, tangled in sea grass and drifting through the trees.

The Ghosts of Fort Morgan
Fort Morgan’s brick walls have stood guard since the early 1800s, surviving hurricanes, sieges, and more than one skirmish. By day, visitors admire sweeping views of Mobile Bay. By night, a hush settles in, and some say shadows step out of history: clinking boot heels on stone corridors, murmured orders from soldiers who never left, or the faint cry of a young woman said to have met a tragic fate on the grounds. A moonlit stroll through its tunnels feels like walking through a chapter the past refused to close.

Perdido Bay’s Pirate Secrets
To the east, Perdido Bay whispers of daring spirits and buried gold. Legend tells of buccaneers who used the winding inlets to hide loot from Spanish galleons. After storms, beachcombers still report finding the occasional weathered coin or relic half buried in the sand. Some claim a lone figure keeps watch over the shoreline, lantern glowing faintly in the mist, guarding treasure that may or may not exist. Whether you believe the tale or not, it adds a little thrill to a sunset walk along the bay.

Other Coastal Whispers
Stories don’t stop there. Fishermen swap accounts of eerie lights off the Fort Morgan peninsula, and kayakers say they’ve felt unexplained chills paddling near Bon Secour Bay at dusk. Even if you chalk it up to sea fog and imagination, there’s no denying that our beaches come with a side of intrigue when the sun goes down.

Haunted Hops and History Stops

Ready to test those tales for yourself? The Gulf Coast offers guided adventures that bring local lore to life:

• Haunted History Ghost Walking Tour
  Explore the streets of Foley after dark with storytellers who share eerie legends and historic happenings. For more information, check the schedule through Foley Walking Tours.
• Southern Ghost Girls at the Swift Coles Historic Home
  Step into a candlelit paranormal investigation inside this beautifully preserved 19th century mansion. For dates and details, search for “Southern Ghost Girls Haunted Swift Coles House.”

A Boo-tiful Gulf Coast Getaway

No matter how you choose to celebrate, there is something magical about pairing Halloween with a salty breeze. After a night filled with frights or lighthearted fun, you will want a cozy place to unwind, and BEACHBALL PROPERTIES has just the spot. From charming cottages in Fort Morgan to roomy condos in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, there is a retreat for every style. Whether you are planning a weekend with the kids, a couple’s ghost tour, or a costume clad escape with friends, our vacation rentals are the perfect home base.

Bring along your costume and a taste for adventure and let the Gulf Coast make your Halloween unforgettable.

Come Have A Ball At The Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson