If you have ever tried to wrangle kids, coordinate outfits, and convince your husband to just smile like a normal person, you already know holiday card photos are not for the faint of heart. Bless it. But here on the Alabama Gulf Coast, we have a little secret. It is a whole lot easier to look like a picture-perfect family when your backdrop is pure coastal magic.

Whether you are aiming for classic, coastal, or just hoping for one where nobody blinks, we are highlighting the best photo spots for holiday cards in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan.

Sea Oats and Sunset: The Gulf Coast’s Most Iconic Holiday Card Look

There is something special about the way the sunlight hits the dunes this time of year. The golden sea oats sway, the sky melts into shades of coral and lavender, and for a split second your whole crew looks like they belong on the cover of Southern Living. Coastal Christmas at its finest.

Why it works
The natural colors pair beautifully with everything from festive reds to beachy neutrals. Winter sunsets hit earlier and softer, which means no need to keep little ones up past bedtime to catch that dreamy glow.

Best access points
Alabama Point East in Orange Beach
Cotton Bayou Beach Access (easy parking and gentle scenery)
Gulf Shores Public Beach (classic for families)

Pro tip: Bring a plaid throw or blanket. It adds texture, Southern charm, and doubles as an emergency bribery tool for chilly kiddos.

Gulf State Park Pier: A Coastal Classic with Holiday Flair

If the sea oats are soft and dreamy, the Gulf State Park Pier brings the drama. The long wooden planks, turquoise water, and wide horizon make it a coastal backdrop that never tries too hard yet always delivers.

Late fall and early winter bring soft, even lighting perfect for capturing great photos. No harsh sun, fewer crowds, and plenty of room to grab that perfect family shot.

Why it works
Clean lines
Coastal architecture
Bright natural lighting
A backdrop that feels polished and timeless

Christmas at The Wharf: Holiday Cheer Without the Frostbite

If your idea of holiday photos includes twinkling lights, peppermint colored décor, and the charm of a small-town Christmas movie, The Wharf in Orange Beach is your spot.

Each year, The Wharf transforms into a festive wonderland with Christmas trees, oversized ornaments, a giant lighted archway, and glowing displays perfect for evening photos. And unlike colder areas, you likely will not be shivering your way through the session.

Why it works
Festive without feeling overdone
Plenty of colorful backgrounds

Extra fun: Grab dinner at Ginny Lane, then stroll over to the lights. If timing is right, you may catch the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience, guaranteed to delight the kids while you adjust bows and straighten collars.

Marina Backdrops: Boats, Boardwalks, and Coastal Style

If you want a holiday card that quietly whispers, we live on the coast and it shows, a marina backdrop is perfect.

Orange Beach and Gulf Shores offer picturesque marinas with boats, smooth boardwalks, and sparkling water that reflects light beautifully.

Top picks
The Wharf Marina (refined coastal style)
SanRoc Cay Marina (shops and lights add charm)
Fort Morgan Marina (quiet, rustic coastal feel)

Why it works
Bright clean lines
Reflective water
A timeless coastal look

Styling tip: Navy, white, gold, and red look stunning here for an elevated holiday palette.

Bonus Spots Beachballers Love

Gulf State Park Trails
Perfect for nature loving families with boardwalks, tall pines, and lake views.

Perdido Pass
Boats, rocks, blue water, and dramatic skies all in one location.

Fort Morgan Historic Site
Brick archways and stone corridors for an unexpected, old world holiday look.

What to Wear for Your Gulf Coast Holiday Photos

Down here, we do not just take photos. We coordinate outfits like it is a competitive sport. And because every winning team needs a good game plan, here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect looks.

Skip heavy fabrics
Since our winter days can swing from breezy to balmy, lightweight sweaters, cotton, and linen blends tend to work well.

Neutrals with pops of color
Cream, camel, white, or denim paired with touches of crimson, green, or metallics will look polished.

Barefoot is acceptable
It fits the coastal vibe perfectly.

Coordinate instead of matching
A shared palette keeps the look cohesive without being too matchy matchy.

Coastal Cheer Starts Here

Remember, the best photos are rarely perfect. Someone will squint, someone will wiggle, and someone will deliver a dramatic side eye. Down here we call that real life, and honestly, that is the good stuff.

So, if the Alabama Gulf Coast feels like your happy place or the photo backdrop you have been dreaming of, BEACHBALL PROPERTIES has the perfect spot for you. With beautiful vacation rentals in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan, your holiday photo getaway or cozy beach escape is sure to sparkle with memories you will treasure.

Come Have A Ball At The Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson