If you’ve ever been to the Alabama Gulf Coast in the thick of summer, you know it’s about as busy as a fire ant hill after a good kick. And if you’ve visited during winter, bless your heart, you might’ve been dodging retirees zipping around on golf carts, soaking up the southern sunshine in an attempt to escape the snow up north. But let me let you in on a little secret—April. This sweet spot between the snowbirds heading home and the summer crowds rolling in is hands-down one of the best times to visit Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and Foley.

Weather So Fine, You’ll Want to Bottle It Up

April along the Alabama Gulf Coast is like a tall glass of sweet tea on a front porch swing—just right. Gone is the lingering winter chill, but summer’s sweltering heat hasn’t yet reared its head. Highs hover in the mid-70s to low 80s, and the humidity is as tame as it’s gonna get down here. Mornings are crisp, afternoons are warm, and evenings call for a light sweater and a sunset stroll along the shore. It’s the kind of weather that makes you want to sit a spell and stay awhile.

Beaches Without the Blanket of Tourists

If you’ve ever tried to claim a spot on the sand in July, you know it can feel like playing a game of musical chairs—only with beach towels. But in April? You’ll have plenty of room to stretch out, build a sandcastle, or just let the Gulf breeze work its magic. The water is warming up, perfect for dipping your toes or taking a leisurely swim, and the sugar–white sand is as soft as ever. Whether you prefer the action of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach or the quiet retreat of Fort Morgan, you won’t be fighting for elbow room.

Seafood So Fresh It Practically Jumps on Your Plate

Down here, we don’t just eat seafood—we celebrate it. And April is prime time for some of the best the Gulf has to offer. It’s the kickoff for blue crab season, and you better believe local restaurants are serving up soft-shell crab sandwiches that’ll make you weak in the knees. Shrimp is fresh, oysters are plentiful, and you might even catch the tail end of crawfish season if you’re lucky. Places like The Tin Top in Bon Secour, Sea-N-Suds in Gulf Shores, and Doc’s in Orange Beach are serving up platters piled high with the kind of seafood that makes you wanna slap your mama (but don’t, she raised you better than that).

Hidden Gems Locals Love in April

April isn’t just about the beaches—it’s the time of year when the Alabama Gulf Coast shines with local charm. Head a little inland to Foley, where you can stroll through the scenic paths of Graham Creek Nature Preserve or explore the shops and restaurants at OWA. With fewer tourists around, you can take your time enjoying the local boutiques, art galleries, and mom-and-pop spots that make this area special.

If you’re up for a little adventure, take a ferry ride from Fort Morgan to Dauphin Island. The ride itself is worth it, with dolphins often playing in the wake. Once you arrive, the laid-back island vibe will have you feeling like you’ve stumbled into another world. And if you’re a history buff, don’t miss Fort Morgan itself—a historic site that’s as fascinating as it is beautiful.

April Events Worth the Trip

Spring along the Gulf Coast means festival season, and if you love a good excuse to eat, dance, and soak up local culture, you’re in luck. The Interstate Mullet Toss at the end of April is one of the wildest, most beloved traditions around. Held at the Flora-Bama from April 25-27 this year, the event is exactly what it sounds like—folks tossing mullets (the fish, not the haircut) across the Florida-Alabama state line for bragging rights and a good cause. It’s as Southern as it gets.

For something a little more low-key, check out the Bama Coast Cruisin’ event in Orange Beach. Classic cars, hot rods, and custom builds take over The Wharf, creating a stunning showcase of automotive history right by the water. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love a good stroll through some nostalgia, it’s a sight to see.

Laid-Back Vibes, Southern Hospitality, and Room to Breathe

Maybe the best part about visiting in April is the way it just feels—easygoing, relaxed, like a slow Sunday afternoon. There’s no need to rush, no long lines to wait in, no fighting for a table at your favorite seafood joint. You can take your time, chat with the locals, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the coast without the hustle and bustle that summer brings.

So if you’ve been dreaming of a coastal escape where you can soak up the sun, savor the freshest seafood, and truly unwind, April is calling your name. And when it’s time to find the perfect beach house or condo, let Beachball Properties help you settle in. Whether you’re after a cozy retreat or a spacious spot for the whole family, they’ve got just the place to make your spring getaway as sweet as a slice of pecan pie.

Come Have a Ball at the Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson