Alabama Point East Perdido Pass - green trees on mountain during daytime
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Alabama Point East Perdido Pass

4.7
·194 reviews·Orange Beach, United States

Scenic beach with calm bay waters, iconic jetties, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for families and photographers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, great for sunrise

CrowdLow
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Alabama Point East Perdido Pass - green trees on mountain during daytime

Alabama Point East Perdido Pass

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, great for sunrise

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scenic beach with calm bay waters, iconic jetties, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for families and photographers.

4.7
(194 reviews)

"Our favorite location when we visit. You can walk to one side and be at the ocean and the other side you're in the bay."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Beach Flags Daily

Red flags mean rip currents, purple flags mean marine life. Always swim with caution. :warning:

Capture the Jetties

The jetties are perfect for photos, especially at sunrise and sunset. :camera:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Perdido Pass Jetties

Perdido Pass Jetties

East end of Alabama Point

Iconic jetties perfect for stunning photos, especially at sunrise and sunset. A popular spot for fishing and watching boats.

Calm Bay Waters

Calm Bay Waters

Bay side of Alabama Point

Ideal for families with small children or those seeking gentler waves. Offers a peaceful alternative to the ocean side.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife Viewing

Along the shoreline and jetties

Excellent opportunities for bird watching, spotting dolphins, and finding unique shells. A natural haven for marine and avian life.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Beach Conditions

Always check the beach flag system before swimming. Red flags mean high hazard for rip currents, and purple flags warn of marine life like jellyfish. Stay informed to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach day.

Parking and Amenities

Paid parking is available via meter. The area offers convenient amenities like clean restrooms, showers for rinsing off sand, and shaded picnic areas, making it a comfortable spot for a full day of enjoyment.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, great for sunrise
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Beautiful sunsets, stargazing
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Less crowded than weekends
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Alabama Point East-A Gulf State Park beach area, Orange Beach, Alabama January 21, 2024 #orangebeach #gulfstatepark #beachvibes #alabamabeaches #alabamagulfcoast
@gulfcoastjourneys
306 likes • 20.5K views

Check Beach Flags Daily

Red flags mean rip currents, purple flags mean marine life. Always swim with caution. :warning:

Capture the Jetties

The jetties are perfect for photos, especially at sunrise and sunset. :camera:

Current beach conditions in Orange Beach, Al. Purple flag means watch out for marine life 🪼. Red flag means high hazard for rip currents. White flag means leave only your footprints when you leave the beach. #orangebeachalabama #orangebeach #ripcurrentsafety #Alabamapoint #gulfofamerica
@rus.t829
243 likes • 30.1K views
No beach is complete without a jetty to take pictures of. 💁🏻 #vscocam #orangebeach
theappdude17
206 likes • 0 views

Family-Friendly Bay Side

The bay side offers calmer waters, great for toddlers and those avoiding big waves. :baby:

Pack for Comfort

Bring chairs, umbrellas, and snacks for a full day of beach enjoyment. :beach_umbrella:

Sunset is our favorite color. 🌅 Who has plans to come hang at the beach this weekend? 😎 #gulfshores #orangebeach #gulfshoresal #orangebeachal #perdidopasssunset #sunset #thepointatperdidobeach #beachbum #beachsunset #summer #coast360 #alabamagulfcoast #perdidokeyflorida #perdidokey
coast_360
41 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Beach Flags Daily

Red flags mean rip currents, purple flags mean marine life. Always swim with caution. :warning:

Capture the Jetties

The jetties are perfect for photos, especially at sunrise and sunset. :camera:

Family-Friendly Bay Side

The bay side offers calmer waters, great for toddlers and those avoiding big waves. :baby:

Pack for Comfort

Bring chairs, umbrellas, and snacks for a full day of beach enjoyment. :beach_umbrella:

Enjoy the Sunset

Perdido Pass sunsets are spectacular. A must-see for any visitor. :sunset:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(194 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Alabama Point East for its beautiful scenery and family-friendly atmosphere, particularly the calmer bay side. The amenities like clean restrooms and shaded picnic areas are a big plus. While parking has a fee and swimming can be hazardous on red flag days, the overall experience is highly positive, with many returning visitors.

"Our favorite location when we visit. You can walk to one side and be at the ocean and the other side you're in the bay which is nice if you have small kids or hate being beaten by waves. You can also get by the bridge and not get sunburnt because there is coverage. We enjoy this location a lot!"

Carrie Hartley

"We loved playing on this beach. The water was calmer here even on red flag day and we were able to walk out a good ways. They had clean bathrooms, showers to rinse the sand, shaded picnic tables and boardwalks that took you right to the beach. There was even a snow cone vendor in the parking lot. The lifeguard nearby gave my husband peace of mind."

Terryn Patterson

"Great place to go day or night! Beautiful for star gazing. Dangerous to swim. Great for boating. Plenty of beautiful white sand beach 🏖 not crowded. Paid parking by meter. Fishing off the jetties."

Megan Henry

What People Like

Calm bay waters
Beautiful scenery
Good amenities

What People Dislike

Paid parking
Hazardous swimming conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Alabama Point East is located in Orange Beach, Alabama, at the eastern end of Perdido Pass. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage directing visitors to the parking areas. The address is generally considered to be near 27000 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561.

Public transportation options directly to Alabama Point East are limited. Most visitors arrive by personal vehicle. It's advisable to check local Orange Beach transit services for any available routes that might get you close to the area.

Boardwalks lead from the parking lot directly to the beach, making access convenient. These boardwalks are well-maintained and provide easy passage over the dunes.

Typically, driving directly onto the beach is not permitted at Alabama Point East. Designated parking areas are available, and boardwalks provide access to the sand.

Yes, Alabama Point East is very close to Pensacola, Florida. It's located just across the state line, making it a convenient destination for those visiting the Florida panhandle.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a paid parking fee at Alabama Point East, usually collected by meter. The fee is generally reasonable and contributes to the upkeep of the facilities. Reddit

Alabama Point East is generally accessible during daylight hours for beach activities. While there isn't a strict closing time for the beach itself, parking areas may have specific hours. It's a great spot for stargazing at night. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for entry. Parking is paid on-site, so no advance booking is necessary. Just be prepared to pay the meter fee upon arrival.

Generally, standard beach items like chairs, umbrellas, and coolers are allowed. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific local ordinances regarding glass containers or amplified music.

Yes, Alabama Point East is part of the Gulf State Park system, offering access to its beautiful beaches and amenities. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Swimming conditions can vary. While the bay side often has calmer waters suitable for families, the ocean side can experience rip currents, especially on red flag days. Always heed the beach flag warnings. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, lifeguards are typically present, providing an added layer of safety for beachgoers. Their presence offers peace of mind, especially for families. Reddit

Activities include swimming, sunbathing, fishing off the jetties, bird watching, dolphin spotting, and shell collecting. It's also a popular spot for photography. InstagramReddit

It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season. However, many visitors find it less crowded than other nearby beaches, particularly during weekdays or early mornings. Reddit

Yes, clean restrooms and outdoor showers are available for rinsing off sand, which is a great convenience after a day at the beach. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there aren't extensive dining facilities directly on the beach, you might find a snow cone vendor in the parking lot during peak season. Reddit Several restaurants are located nearby in Orange Beach. Instagram

Absolutely! There are shaded picnic tables available, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic. Remember to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

Orange Beach offers a variety of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to more upscale restaurants. 'The Point' is mentioned as a place with fried crab. Instagram

Alcohol policies can vary by location and season. It's best to check the most current local ordinances for Orange Beach regarding alcohol consumption on public beaches.

Yes, there are several grocery stores in Orange Beach where you can stock up on picnic supplies and snacks before heading to the beach.

📸 📸 Photography

The jetties at Perdido Pass are prime locations for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. The expansive beach and ocean views also offer great opportunities. Instagram+1

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. The 'golden hour' is ideal for capturing stunning beach scenes. Instagram+1

Yes, Alabama Point East is a fantastic place for wildlife photography. Keep an eye out for birds, dolphins, and other marine life. Reddit

Don't miss capturing the jetties, the boats passing through Perdido Pass, and the unique coastal landscape. The beach itself offers endless scenic possibilities. Instagram

Landscape photography, sunset/sunrise shots, wildlife photography, and casual beach portraits are all popular at Alabama Point East.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Alabama Point East is a top choice for families. The calm bay side is perfect for toddlers and young children who might be intimidated by larger waves. Reddit Lifeguards are on duty, providing an extra layer of safety. Reddit The amenities, including clean restrooms, showers, and shaded picnic areas, make a long day at the beach much more manageable. Reddit Don't forget to look for dolphins and birds – it's a great spot for wildlife spotting! Reddit

Consider bringing a small cooler with snacks and drinks, as food options directly on the beach are limited, though a snow cone vendor might be present. Reddit The paid parking is a small price to pay for the convenience and family-friendly atmosphere. It's a place where kids can safely play in the water and explore the natural surroundings.

📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers

For photographers, Alabama Point East is a goldmine, especially around Perdido Pass. The jetties offer dramatic foregrounds for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset shots. Instagram+1 The way the light hits the water and the structures creates incredible visual opportunities. The beach itself provides a vast canvas for landscape photography, and the chance to capture wildlife like dolphins adds another dimension. Reddit

Aim for the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – for the best light. Instagram+1 Evenings are also fantastic for stargazing photography due to the relatively low light pollution. Reddit The area is known for its beautiful sunsets, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to capture breathtaking coastal scenery. Don't miss the chance to photograph the boats as they pass through the Perdido Pass.

🎣 Anglers & Wildlife Enthusiasts

Alabama Point East is a prime spot for fishing off the jetties. Reddit Anglers can cast their lines and try their luck in the waters around Perdido Pass. Beyond fishing, the area is a haven for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the surf or making their way through the pass. Reddit The diverse birdlife also makes it an excellent location for birdwatching. Reddit The natural environment here offers a chance to connect with local fauna and enjoy the coastal ecosystem.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Beach Safety Flags

Safety is paramount when enjoying the Gulf Coast. Alabama Point East, like other beaches, utilizes a flag system to communicate current water conditions. Understanding these flags is crucial for a safe visit. A green flag indicates low hazard, meaning calm conditions are expected. A yellow flag signifies moderate hazard, advising caution due to potential currents or surf. A red flag is a serious warning of high hazard, indicating dangerous rip currents and strong surf, and swimming is strongly discouraged. TikTok+1 Additionally, a purple flag is often flown to alert beachgoers to the presence of hazardous marine life, such as jellyfish or stingrays. TikTok+2

It's essential to always check the flags before entering the water and to heed the advice of lifeguards. Even on days with red flags, the bay side of Alabama Point often offers calmer waters, providing a safer alternative for families with young children or those who prefer less intense waves. Reddit Remember that conditions can change rapidly, so staying aware throughout your visit is key to a safe and enjoyable experience. TikTok

Beyond the flags, be mindful of the natural environment. The Gulf of Mexico can be powerful, and rip currents are a common hazard. If you find yourself caught in a rip current, the advice is to stay calm, float, and swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to land. TikTok Lifeguards are present to assist, but prevention through awareness of the flag system and conditions is the best approach. Reddit

Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Perdido Pass

Alabama Point East Perdido Pass is a photographer's dream, offering a diverse range of scenic opportunities. The Perdido Pass jetties are a focal point, providing dramatic lines and textures that are particularly captivating during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1 Photographers can capture the rugged beauty of the rocks against the vibrant sky, or frame shots of boats navigating the pass. The interplay of light and shadow on the water and sand creates dynamic compositions. Instagram

Beyond the jetties, the expansive white sand beaches offer a classic coastal backdrop. Whether you're looking for wide-angle shots of the shoreline or intimate details of shells and footprints, the beach provides endless possibilities. The calm bay waters on one side offer a different photographic perspective, often with softer light and reflections, ideal for capturing serene moments. Reddit Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to photograph, from soaring seabirds to playful dolphins that are often spotted in the area. Reddit

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the early morning for sunrise or the late afternoon for sunset. Instagram+1 These times offer the most flattering light and often fewer crowds. Evenings are also perfect for stargazing photography, as the relatively low light pollution can reveal a stunning celestial display. Reddit Remember to bring your camera and be prepared to capture the natural beauty and unique atmosphere of Alabama Point East Perdido Pass.

Family Fun and Relaxation

Alabama Point East is a fantastic destination for families looking for a blend of fun and relaxation. The calmer bay side is a major draw for those with young children, as it provides a safer environment with gentler waves compared to the open ocean. Reddit This allows toddlers and younger kids to play and splash without the constant worry of strong surf. The presence of lifeguards further enhances the sense of security for parents. Reddit

The amenities available at Alabama Point East significantly contribute to a comfortable family outing. Clean restrooms and showers make it easy to manage sandy children and rinse off after a day of play. Shaded picnic tables offer a perfect spot for family meals, allowing everyone to refuel and relax away from the direct sun. Reddit Visitors often mention finding a snow cone vendor in the parking lot, which is always a hit with kids. Reddit

Beyond the immediate beach area, the opportunity to spot wildlife like dolphins and birds adds an educational and exciting element for children. Reddit The jetties also provide a point of interest, and watching boats come and go through Perdido Pass can be entertaining. While parking has a fee, the overall experience and the availability of these family-friendly features make Alabama Point East a highly recommended spot for a memorable family beach day. Reddit

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