Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Transportation Guide — Gulf Coast Travel Tips 2025
Learn the best ways to get around Orange Beach, AL. Driving tips, bike paths, golf carts, water taxis, and more make traveling the Gulf Coast easy and enjoyable.
Why Transportation Matters
Efficient travel in Orange Beach isn’t just convenient—it’s part of the experience. With beaches, restaurants, and attractions spread out, knowing your options can save time, reduce stress, and open the door to more adventures.
Whether you’re a visitor planning your dream beach vacation or a homeowner considering a rental property, understanding the area’s transportation is key to getting the most out of your Gulf Coast lifestyle.
Airports Near Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
While Orange Beach doesn’t have its own airport, there are several nearby options:
Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – About 45 minutes away; the closest major airport with plenty of flights, rental cars, and shuttle services.
Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) – Roughly 1.5 hours from Orange Beach; a good alternative with regional connections.
Gulf Shores International Airport at Jack Edwards Field (JKA) – Just 15 minutes from Orange Beach; ideal for private planes and limited commercial services.
From any of these airports, you can rent a car, book a shuttle, or grab a taxi/rideshare to reach Orange Beach with ease.
Driving Around Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
Discover how planning your transportation in Orange Beach can save time, minimize stress, and make every Gulf Coast adventure more enjoyable.
Car rentals are widely available, and driving gives you the most flexibility. Just remember: summer weekends mean more traffic, so allow extra travel time near The Wharf, Gulf State Park, and beach access points.
Many communities and resorts offer golf cart rentals—perfect for short trips to beach access points or nearby restaurants.
Golf carts: Available in many resorts and neighborhoods, golf carts make short trips to the beach, shops, or restaurants fun and hassle-free.
Bikes: With scenic trails at Gulf State Park and The Wharf, biking is a safe and enjoyable way to explore coastal views and attractions.
Scooters: Electric scooters are showing up in entertainment areas, offering a quick and exciting option for short-distance travel.
Pro Tip: Bring a reusable lock for your bike or scooter if you plan to stop and explore local shops.
Taxis in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
Prefer not to drive? Several local taxi services are available to transport you quickly and affordably.
A trusted choice in the area, offering reliable and friendly rides any time of the day or night. With 24/7 availability, you can count on Ms. Mary for safe and stress-free transportation whenever you need it.
Provides full taxi service across Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, operating 7 days a week for your convenience. Whether you need a quick ride to the beach, transportation for urgent errands, or a late-night pickup after dinner or entertainment.
Offering convenient online scheduling, quick response times, and family-friendly drivers, Coast Cab is a great option for both locals and visitors looking for efficient and hassle-free transportation around the Gulf Coast.
These local companies can even provide insider recommendations for dining and activities while you ride.
Shuttle Services in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
If you’re traveling with a group, a shuttle may be the most convenient choice.
Perfect for small or large groups, with preset excursions to shows and attractions (snacks and tickets sometimes included!).
Provides spacious coaches with WiFi, satellite TV, and restroom facilities. Limousines are also available for special nights out.
Great for weddings, corporate trips, or families who want to travel together without the hassle of multiple cars.
Ridesharing in Orange Beach
Uber and Lyft both operate in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, making them convenient for quick trips around town. Simply use the app to request a ride and get picked up at your condo, rental home, or hotel.
For short hops to restaurants, shopping, or events, ridesharing is one of the most stress-free options.
Public Transportation & Accessibility Tips
While Orange Beach doesn’t have a traditional city bus system, taxis, shuttles, rideshares, and seasonal event transportation make it easy to get around without a personal car.
Plan ahead: Review ferry and shuttle schedules before heading out.
Peak season: Expect heavier traffic on summer weekends and during festivals.
Walkable zones: The Wharf, Gulf State Park, and beachfront promenades are surprisingly easy to explore on foot.
New bike lanes: Ongoing expansions along Canal Road and Bear Point add more safe options for cyclists and golf carts.
Mix & match: Use cars, carts, water taxis, biking, and walking together to maximize convenience.
Local Highlights to Explore
The Wharf – Waterfront dining, shopping, live music, and a Ferris wheel.
Gulf State Park Trails – Rent a bike and explore 28 miles of scenic paths.
Fishing & Boating Spots – Water taxis make it easy to reach marinas and deep-sea charters.
Sunset Views – Drive, bike, or ferry to some of the best sunset points on the Alabama coast.
Even if you don’t own a property yet, you can still experience Orange Beach like a local by taking advantage of its easy transportation and endless attractions. Many visitors fall in love with the lifestyle first — and then decide it’s the perfect place to invest in a home or rental property.
Explore Orange Beach With Ease
From driving scenic coastal highways to hopping on a ferry, getting around Orange Beach is part of the adventure. Pair that with your dream Gulf Coast home, and you’ll enjoy convenience, flexibility, and style.
Imagine living just minutes from it all—whether it’s the charm of Broken Sound (24520 Broken Sound Loop, Orange Beach), the beachfront bliss of Surfside Shores (771 Surfside Drive, Gulf Shores), or the prime location of Walker Bear Point (28548 Lee Avenue, Orange Beach) and Enjoy water views, four porches, a gourmet kitchen, private suite, and resort-style amenities—all in the heart of Orange Beach at Terry Cove Harbor (4099 Harbor Road Orange Beach). Each community offers its own lifestyle, but they all share one thing: the ease of enjoying everything the Gulf Coast has to offer.
Learn more about available properties at Matt Creel Real Estate.