The BEST 3 Locations for Beach Photography in Gulf Shores, AL
Locations for beach photography in Gulf Shores, AL
Best locations for beach photography in Gulf Shores
So I’ve been thinking on this one lately and I’ve decided to do a series of my favorite places (for different topics) in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and maybe even some of my other frequently visited places like Pensacola, Mobile and New Orleans. Of course any or all of these locations would also be great for a photography session!
This list covers public beach access locations for beach photography (some paid parking) that anyone can access in Gulf Shores.
# 1: Gulf State Park Pier
The Gulf State Park Pier is the obvious go-to for anyone looking to wander the beach, pier fish in the Gulf, and take the kids for the afternoon. But did you know it is also one of the top locations for beach photography in Gulf Shores? If you ever happen to be there at sunrise or sunset, you’ll likely see several photographers meeting up with their clients for a golden hour session.
It does require paid parking (just $3 for 2 hours) but it is also one of the few public access locations with absolutely no obstructions in the dunes. That’s right, other than the pier itself and the Gulf State Park Lodge down the street, there are no beachfront buildings to hinder those gorgeous photos in the dunes that you’ve been dreaming of.
While there is tons of space to roam the beach at this spot, the only true downside to this location is the crowd at peak season. Because it is so beautiful and well-known, there can sometimes be many photography sessions happening at the same time. Photographers are required to have a permit through the Gulf State Park to do business here, so be sure to check that the photographer you choose is permitted if this is your dream location!
The Gulf State Park is also home to the Hugh S. Branson Backcountry Trail- nations top rated recreational trail. They offer free bikes and so much more, so be sure to check out the other areas of the Park as well!
# 2: West 13th Street
West 13th Street is a perfect little hidden gem of a beach access- just off of West Beach Boulevard. It’s great for those who are staying on West Beach but don’t have a direct beach access. I’ve had many clients tell me they used the same spot we took photos for their beach access for the rest of their stay!
You’ll see parking signs as you near the crosswalk from either east or west, and there are usually plenty spaces to spare. This is a free public parking area, which is rare in Gulf Shores! It does require a quick walk across the street to access the beach, but it is a well-lit crosswalk that is very family friendly.
You won’t find any large condos on the beachfront here either! Just adorable, colorful beach homes that can be a great addition to the background of your photos. But if you’d prefer wide open skies, there are options for that too! The first photo in this post was taken at sunset down by the water, so don’t worry about those views lacking either.
There aren’t many downsides to this location, but it can get a bit crowded at times. It’s nothing like the beach in front of the busy condos, but we may need to talk a little walk to find some open water space on those days.
This beach access really is the best of both worlds- definitely spend the day getting some sun and splashing in the water at one of the best locations for beach photography in Gulf Shores.
#3 Little Lagoon Pass Park
Is this the dreamiest photo or what? I absolutely love shooting sunrise sessions at Little Lagoon Pass Park.
It is a popular area for beach access, boaters, and fishing because this location connects to both Little Lagoon and the Gulf Front! That means you can get photos on a boardwalk overlooking the lagoon, in the grassy areas lining the bike path, and that you’ll never miss out on the birds when you’re at this beach.
Little Lagoon Pass Park can be very crowded during the day and into the evening so it is best to plan your sunset sessions here at off-peak-season times. Just remember you will always have the beach to yourself at sunrise! The options here for sunrise lighting both over Little Lagoon and the Gulf at certain times of the year make it one of my favorite locations for beach photography in Gulf Shores.
It’s also an amazing spot to hang out for the day if you have small children! Since a portion of this park sits on Little Lagoon, there is a smaller beach available with very calm, shallow water. Parking is $5 for up to 4 hours or $10 for
