Beachfront Bliss: 3 Upscale Alabama Retreats On The Gulf of Mexico That Will Surpass Your Expectations

With its sugar-white sand beaches and expansive coastline on the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama remains a true hidden gem in the world of luxury travel.

Among its treasures are three upscale retreats that redefine beachfront getaways, promising an unforgettable experience of stylish comfort, exclusivity, and sophisticated seclusion.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park: In Harmony with Nature

Nestled within the pristine landscapes of Gulf State Park, The Lodge is more than just a hotel; it’s an eco-conscious retreat that blends luxury with nature.

The design of this Hilton brand hotel is unique, shining a light on the natural beauty of Alabama’s coast. Rooms and Suites offer Gulf or Park views, many of them with private balconies. Families can even choose accommodations with bunk beds to keep everyone in one room.

Every detail of The Lodge was designed to connect guests with nature, and to create bonds among those who are enjoying the Alabama coast together. This resort is a leader in sustainable tourism, enhancing the positive experience of their guests while protecting the local environment.

The Lodge is located adjacent to the Gulf State Park Fishing and Educational Pier, with central Gulf Shores located only two miles away. If you  prefer natural, sustainable beauty and comfort over a typical crowded beach, this well-appointed resort is for you.

ABOUT THE LODGE

The minute you walk into the expansive lobby, you’ll be able to see why this hotel is a favorite among those who love water views. You can start to unwind even while you’re checking in, because the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico lies just beyond the floor-to-ceiling glass windows of the elegant lobby.

Another enjoyable feature of The Lodge is the many outdoor terraces overlooking the Gulf. Welcoming rocking chairs and lounges provide numerous places to sit back and relax.

There is also a gas fire pit that can be lit after an early morning or evening walk on the beach in the off season. You can enjoy a morning cup of coffee or a glass of wine by this cozy spot overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park has 350 guests rooms and more than 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. 

THINGS TO DO

If 2.5 miles of expansive, white-sand beach aren’t enough, The Lodge at Gulf State Park offers an Infinity pool with lounge chairs and hammocks to soak up the sun.

You can also play games like ping-pong, Giant Jinga, or cornhole, or simply lounge while sipping a cocktail from the poolside bar.

If you just want to sit and stare at the sparkling water you can, but this eco-friendly resort is part of the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park that boasts 28 miles of trails and a freshwater fishing lake.

You can explore while geocaching, take a guided nature walk, or relax while the kids enjoy one of several playgrounds. If you enjoy bird-watching, don’t forget your binoculars.

A 900-acre fishing lake offers plentiful opportunities for those who enjoy that sport, or you can grab a rental bike and explore the natural beauty of the state park.

The hotel also has a nature center, outdoor classroom and interpretive center.

For more outdoor fun, you can stop at Coastal Segway Adventures for bike, kayak, and paddleboard rentals and tours. Or you can take a 30-minute drive and explore the Fort Morgan State Historic Site for the day. They have a beach and picnic area.

THE DINING EXPERIENCE

Dining at The Lodge is an experience in itself, with locally sourced ingredients that tell the story of the region’s culinary heritage. There plenty of choices for dining at the Lodge at Gulf State Park, from coffee and snacks, to buffets and full meals.

• Foodcraft features hand-cut steaks, local oysters and coast favorites, along with stunning views.
• The Perch Bar and Terrace boasts small plates and appetizers overlooking the Gulf Coast.
• Roasted Oak Coffee and Wine Bar is a located in the main lobby and offers locally crafted coffees, infused teas, house-baked breakfast goods and light lunch offerings. In the evening, it transforms into a wine bar featuring wines, craft beers and lite bites. Conveniently located so you can grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and walk a few steps out to the chairs to enjoy a sunrise or sunset.
• The Dragonfly Pool Bar & Grill is open seasonally, serving poolside favorite and beverages.
• Woodside: Enjoy a meal in the main dining room, on the screened porch, or outside under the shade of a tree, in this restaurant located in Gulf State Park (not onsite). Good food, music and backyard fun.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel

(251) 540-4000
21196 East Beach Blvd.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Elevated Elegance at Turquoise Place by Spectrum Resorts

If there is a true glittering jewel in Orange Beach, AL, it is the Turquoise Place by Spectrum Resorts, where “opulence meets the ocean.” This exclusive resort towering over the Gulf’s beautiful waters offers accommodations that are refined, relaxing—and comfortable!

Picture oversized condos with plush furnishings and high-end appliances, topped off with a balcony hot tub view that is stunning. You will wonder why you never visited Alabama beaches before!

ABOUT TURQUOISE PLACE

The Turquoise Place boasts more than 200 oversized condos that overlook the Gulf of Mexico. Each one offers private balcony hot tubs, outdoor kitchens and upscale furnishings.

The condos range in size from three to five bedrooms and are located in two high-rise towers. Each unit includes an expansive living spaces (starting at 2,500 square feet) that is designed to provide an unrivaled sense of luxury. 

For instance, guests can enjoy a Sub-zero refrigerator, Wolf range, oven, and microwave. They also feature a full-size washer and dryer and a starter supply of toiletries.

The perks at The Turquoise place rivals the finest luxury hotels, starting with the security of being in a gated resort. 

One of the greatest conveniences for staying at the Turquoise Place is that, once you check in, you can leave your wallet and room key behind. Onsite dining and shopping purchases, as well as unlocking your door, can all be done by using your Spectrum Wristband. It even opens the guard gate to this private and secure community.

The only negative aspect of the Turquoise Place is that once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave… and you don’t have to. From a poolside bar and grill to plentiful activities for the kids, you can park your car and consider yourself home.

THINGS TO DO

As if the outdoor and indoor pools aren’t enough, the Turquoise Place also has a 450-foot lazy river. (A special touch is the underwater speakers in the indoor pools).

This resort also features:

• A 300-foot water slide (new in 2024)
• Splash Pad for kids (new in 2024)
• Putting Green (new in 2024)
• Tennis Courts
• Pickleball
• Life-sized games from chess to checkers and even cornhole.
• Fitness Center
• Kids Playground

A Sauna and steam room are also available at this high-end resort.

Pro Tip: There is an added incentive to book directly with Spectrum Resorts because they provide premium perks that are not available when booking with other vacation rental management agencies. Enjoy complimentary daily breakfast (seasonal) and access to the Spectrum Club Lounge. Booking direct also gives guests 10% off on dining purchases at the poolside bar and grill.

Turquoise Place by Spectrum
Guest Services: 866-348-9112
26350 Perdido Beach Boulevard
Orange Beach, Alabama 36561

The Beach Club Resort and Spa by Spectrum Resorts: A Family Paradise Redefined

The Beach Club stands as a pinnacle of family-friendly luxury, where every aspect of the resort is crafted to create unforgettable memories. As a testament to their hospitality, they have been rated a Top 10 U.S. Family Beach Resort since 2016. 

The accommodations at The Beach Club range from cozy lakeside cottages to sprawling upscale beachfront condos. They all offer a home away from home that is elegant, welcoming… and relaxing.

This private resort is located on 86 secure acres that includes lush walking trails and bountiful nearby attractions. You can rent a bike, stay in shape at their fitness center, or enjoy their sauna and steam rooms.

Whether you want to take part in seasonal watersports, gather with the family around an evening bonfire, or get some exercise on its eight Rubico tennis courts, The Beach Club Resort has you covered.

ABOUT THE BEACH CLUB

A highlight of this luxurious resort is its beach. Not only does the private beach span five football fields, but priority chair rentals and evening beach bonfires add to the fun.

The Spa and Salon: With the motto of “Walk In, Foat Out,” the full-service spa promises an experience that restores and rejuvenates. From facials to massages, and from manicures to a new beach haircut, the spa at The Beach Club offers a comprehensive suite of treatments designed to pamper and indulge.

THINGS TO DO

 About the only thing you won’t find at The Beach Club is time to be bored! Their activity calendar is packed with activities for all ages. Crafts, games, trivia nights and dancing, to name a few.

The resort also features:

• Five outdoor pools
• One indoor pool
• Exclusive clubhouse with game room
• Eight tennis courts and tennis pro Shop
• Playground
• Village Arcade and Billiards
• HD Golf Simulator

DINING

Onsite Dining: You won’t go hungry at The Beach Club with five onsite dining options that include everything from fresh local seafood to hand-dipped ice cream.

Visit The Village Mercantile and Creamery to shop beach fashions or satisfy your sweet tooth and catch a game at The Village Hideaway sports bar and grill.

There is an added incentive to book direct with Spectrum Resorts because they provide premium perks that are not available when booking with other vacation rental management companies.

THE BEACH CLUB AND RESORT
Contact: 855-203-1514
925 Beach Club Trail
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Conclusion: A Luxurious Escape Awaits In Alabama

Alabama’s Gulf Coast, with its hidden luxury retreats and serene, calming landscape, offers a unique escape into a world where beachfront bliss is redefined.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, Turquoise Place and The Beach Club by Spectrum Resorts each offer a distinct flavor of luxury, catering to those who seek an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.