Top Family-Friendly Beach Vacations on the Gulf Coast

When you’re planning a vacation with children, finding a family-friendly destination can be a challenge. However, cities along the Gulf Coast offer plenty for kids to do—both on and off the beach. From Destin, Florida to Padre Island in Texas, these towns along the Gulf of Mexico provide year-round warm weather, kid-friendly attractions, and numerous outdoor adventures appropriate for the whole family.

1. Destin, Florida

Address: 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541, USA

Phone: +1 850-837-7550

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With sand like powdered sugar and the brilliant turquoise Gulf of Mexico, Destin is a gem on the Emerald Coast. Located in the northwestern part of the state just a few miles outside of Pensacola, Destin offers a quieter vacation than the nearby college town.

This family-friendly destination is home to a range of golf courses, hotels, nature trails, and some of the best beaches in the Panhandle—without the college party atmosphere. Families can enjoy the beautiful beaches without worrying about Spring Break crowds, although there are options for adult entertainment.

The most popular stretch of beach, Henderson Beach State Park, is adjacent to the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, which offers chartered boat tours, fantastic restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for family-friendly activities.

Another exciting option for children is Big Kahuna’s waterpark, featuring raft rides, surf simulators, and thrilling pipeline slides.

2. St. George Island, Florida

Address: 1 Gulf National Sea Shore Dr, Okaloosa Island, FL 32548, USA

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Tucked into the crook of Florida’s Panhandle, the 28-mile St. George Island is known for its untouched beaches—away from most tourist destinations and sufficiently distanced from local traffic.

Being part of the renowned Gulf Islands National Seashore, the uninhabited St. George Island provides an excellent opportunity for families to escape from the hustle and bustle, although activities are primarily outdoor-oriented.

Families can choose to stay on the island itself, with cozy beach cottages available for rent or stay at one of the two local hotels or inns on St. George.

3. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama

Address: 25805 John Snook Dr, Orange Beach, AL 36561, USA

Phone: +1 251-981-8545

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With 32 miles of stunning white beaches and an abundance of outdoor activities and family attractions, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are ideal family beach vacation spots in Alabama.

Although many overlook this southern state’s beaches, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are among the highest-rated in the U.S. They are recognized as water sports hubs, making them perfect for surfing, jet skiing, and even parasailing.

Popular attractions in the area include the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum, the Wharf, and the Backcountry Trail along the sandy beaches to Gulf Shores. There are various accommodation options and camping spots available, ensuring families can stay comfortably without breaking the bank while on vacation in coastal Alabama.

4. Sanibel & Captiva Islands, Florida

Address: 455 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957-7204, USA

Phone: +1 239-472-8585

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If you’re looking for shell collecting and dolphin spotting away from popular destinations like Orlando and Miami, the Sanibel and Captiva Islands in Florida are perfect options.

Unlike amusement parks, traffic lights, or high-rise condos, here you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere featuring delightful restaurants, charming shops, and 15 miles of breathtaking beaches.

Consider enrolling your kids in the marine biology classes at the Sanibel Sea School, which offers both morning and all-day programs for kids aged 6 to 13, along with an adult program.

Alternatively, families could kayak through a mangrove swamp, savor some local ice cream, or visit the islands’ historic lighthouse at Point Ybel.

5. Padre Island, Texas

Address: 6617 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, USA

Phone: +1 956-761-4511

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Padre Island, extending off the coast of mainland Texas, holds the title of the world’s longest barrier island, offering a playground for beachgoers and sun lovers alike.

Despite its southern end featuring the bustling South Padre Island, the rest of the barrier island remains sparsely populated, providing a serene atmosphere. The central area is preserved as the Padre Island National Seashore, while North Padre offers the pristine, unbroken Texas coastal experience, which starkly contrasts the often busy scenes on South Padre.

Along with fabulous beaches, families can visit Splendid Texas’ largest waterpark, Schlitterbahn, explore Sea Turtle, Inc., tour the historic Point Isabel lighthouse, or learn about marine life at the Dolphin Research and Sea Life Nature Center.