10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Gulf Shores

The Wharf is so much more than a mere shopping destination. A short drive from downtown Gulf Shores, the waterfront spot offers shopping from a mixture of both local and national brands, as well as a plethora of dining options (and drinks to go, so you can sip while you window shop).

Beyond the shopping , you can check out a show at The Wharf’s amphitheatre or take an after-dark ride on the Wharf’s Ferris wheel. Keep your eyes on the destination’s event calendar; they always have something fun up their sleeves, whether it’s an ‘80s-themed costume event or wintertime shopping specials.

SanRoc Cay Marina is a good pick for those who want to get in a little shopping during their Gulf Shores trip, but who aren’t quite ready to leave the sunshine behind and head indoors just yet. The open-air shopping spot is like a miniature community filled with adorable boutiques, fine dining, and opportunities to relax by the water.

From swimwear to jewellery, shoes to culinary items, there’s a good mix of products and gifts among the handful of boutiques. When you’re finished shopping, grab a seat in the courtyard for a spell, or book a treatment at the marina’s salon and spa.

The Oyster House Boardwalk has the Oyster House anchoring it, which is a longstanding restaurant serving up fresh seafood. But walk beyond this Gulf Shores institution and you’ll find a waterfront shopping centre that’s served the community and visitors for decades.

Shop for souvenirs, womenswear, jewellery, spirits and more. Don’t miss the opportunity to take photos at the cut-out photo ops scattered throughout the space, as well as your chance to feed the resident fish.

Pelican Place at Craft Farms sits just 4 miles from the beach, making it a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of Gulf Shores’ more popular spots. When you need air conditioning and a little retail therapy, this is an excellent choice. Pelican Place’s more recognisable shops include Books-A-Million and Target, but there’s also a cinema, boutiques, and gift shops, all surrounding a central courtyard.

When you’re done shopping, a handful of eateries serve up a range of cuisines, from Japanese to Italian, offering a chance to refuel.

Tanger Outlets is the place to go if you’re looking for a great deal. The huge outdoor mall features outlets from high-end brands and designer labels, where you can find normally high-priced items at just a fraction of the cost. From Nike to Kate Spade, Ralph Lauren to Reebok, notable brand names abound.

With dozens of stores to peruse, you could easily spend an entire day (or longer) shopping here. When you visit, be sure to stop by the Shopper Services office to pick up a complimentary book of coupons for extra savings.

OWA is a shopping and entertainment neighbourhood of sorts that channels the vibe of the South’s most cherished downtown districts. Old-timey light posts and charming architecture set the mood as you stroll the pedestrian-only streets.

There’s something for every traveller here, whether you’re looking for a great bite to eat (think southern-style and American restaurants), family entertainment (there’s an amusement park on-site), or, of course, shopping. Souvenir shops, candy stores, women’s clothing boutiques and wine shops are just the start of the retail options you’ll find at OWA.

Souvenir City is the place to go if it’s kitschy souvenirs you crave. You’ll find thousands of items here; whatever you collect from your travels – postcards, magnets, snow globes, T-shirts and beyond – you can find it here.

The family-owned business is difficult to miss. It’s the shop with a giant shark out front (and yes, you’ll have the fun photo op of walking through the shark’s mouth to get inside the store). In business since 1956, Souvenir City has a long history of sending travellers away with exactly the right memento.

Blalock Seafood and Specialty Market is where you can find your next meal in Gulf Shores. Home rentals are a popular accommodations choice in Gulf Shores and, as such, travellers staying in the area often end up cooking their own meals. And when you’re in such a seafood hub as Gulf Shores, right on the Gulf of Mexico, cooking up your own fresh fish is a bit of a local requirement.

The market has been providing the area with fresh fish, seafood, and shrimp for more than a decade. Not up to prepping your own seafood? The market has you covered with ready-made items, like its famous shrimp bisque and smoked tuna dip.

Island Outfitters is a shop in Gulf Shores owned by a local family that can trace its roots back to the founding of the city. You know you’re well cared for when you stop by for all your beach needs. The long-standing institution is the place to go for beachwear, souvenirs, water sports goods and more. They even have home decor; in case you want to incorporate a little taste of the beach lifestyle into your own abode.

The shop is the place to go if you’re looking to rent a bicycle, either hourly, daily, or weekly, to see the surrounding area and its beaches in style.

Head to Chocolate Corner for a sweet treat while in Gulf Shores. The longstanding chocolate and sweets shop specialises in famous pecan caramel paws, but also offers other homemade chocolates, gourmet truffles, mini key lime pies, speciality barks, pralines, and real butter fudge – and that just scratches the surface.

If it’s sugary goodness you crave, you’re in the right place. Grab a bite to savour on the spot or pick out a gift box to take home (or do both).