The recipe for a perfect vacation is pretty simple. Deceptively so, actually. All you need is some sun, a cocktail or two, and a whole bunch of white sand shoreline. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama have all of this (and more) in spades. Start off planning your trip by acquiring a basic knowledge of the best beaches and the best Gulfside bars... since that's where you'll probably be spending most of your time, realistically. Build the foundation of a perfect beach trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach with this handy guide to the sunniest stretches of sand and the most unforgettable beachside bars!

The Beaches

Once you've found your perfect beach and your ideal Gulf-side bar, you'll always have a dream destination to come back to. Sunny, lazy days spent basking in the white sand and warm water of the Gulf--and breezy, balmy nights spent in the lively atmospheres of bars serving up live music and cold drinks--make for perfect memories to get you through to your next vacation.