Gulf State Park Pavillion — Attraction in Gulf Shores

Rather than post about the lovely scenery, I thought I would take the time and explain our experience. Mostly for those of you who overly prepare for trips and want every single detail before setting out. First, I would like to say that this beach is a state park and does not have the same ordinances that a lot of the city beaches have. That means that pretty much anything equipment wise (large pop up tents come to mind) is allowed on the beach. This was an advantage for us as we brought a 9 foot diameter umbrella that would not be permitted elsewhere. When you approach the parking lot from the west there are two entrances. Currently, the first entrance with the turn lane is closed. Use the second entrance and follow the sign pointing to the right to approach a small building. Parking for the day is currently priced at $5. The parking lot is very large and you should be able to find a parking spot within a couple of minutes, especially if you arrive in the morning. The first things to take note of are the three walkways leading to the beach, and the large pavilion with the restrooms. I would recommend parking halfway between the first walkway on your left and the pavilion. This will make it easier to move your stuff to the beach, as well as give you easy access to the restrooms to change when you’re finished. Most people will use the middle or right walkway to access the beach, and I would recommend using the left one and walk a little farther left along the beach than you would like. This will give the maximum amount of separation between you and other beach goers. Whenever you’re finished for the day the showers are located in the restrooms and along the middle walkway. The restroom/pavilion area also sells food and drinks if you need them. Peak time seemed to be...

Nice location for the family to get a tan line and those toes in the sand. Plenty of parking for either access point to get to the Sugar Sand beaches of AL. This location uses an automated pay-for-parking meter so get that receipt to avoid problems. There is a HUGE pavilion for use when the sun gets a bit much for people. The restrooms are public use with showers to boot. I didn't visit the snack bar but there is one for use if you don't want to pack in a cooler. Please remember to monitor the surf/water conditions and know where the Life Guard stations are located. Please pick up plastic items and trash as AL wants to keep our beaches clean and welcoming!! Have an awesome time leaving your foot prints...

This morning my nephew lost his footing while at the outdoor rinsing area and a nail sticking about an inch out of the boardwalk ended up giving him a huge gash in the heel of his foot so bad that he ended up needing 7 stitches. May not seem like a lot but for a 6 year old it was the worst! We did tell the attendant on duty what had happened and he apologized and said it would be fixed! I thought I would share the experience so that you all would be mindful of the nails as they can cause some serious pain! Despite the bad experience this morning I will return to this pavilion every time I visit Gulf Shores because the facility is kept clean and it’s a short walking distance...