Where Are the Top 5 Restaurants in Gulf Shores With Outdoor Seating?
March 19, 2025
If you love beach vacations, we’re willing to bet you’ll want to know which restaurants in Gulf Shores have outdoor seating. After all, beautiful weather is the main reason to visit the Alabama Coast! However, deciding where to find your favorite bites isn’t always easy when balancing activities and attractions (especially with kids). But don’t worry! In true Brett/Robinson fashion, we cooked up a collection of Gulf Shores’ top establishments catering to those who can’t get enough sunshine.
Best Bar and Grill Patio – Tacky Jack’s
As a local favorite, Tacky Jacks is a must-try if you want seafood and drinks overlooking Portage Creek. The colorful decor and unassuming menu are two reasons to try it, but the awesome service and laid-back vibes bring you back. If you’re dining with kiddos, be sure to let them know about the outdoor play area.
Best Restaurant For Families – LuLu’s Gulf Shores
What can we say about LuLu’s Gulf Shores that hasn’t been said? Outdoor play area? Check. Ongoing events? Check. Live entertainment? Check. All you need to worry about is picking between the Jerk Chicken Sandwich, Fried Green Tomato BLT, or LuLu’s Famous Fish Sandwich.
Best Family-Friendly Fun With Outdoor Seating – The Hangout
The Hangout is a beloved restaurant and entertainment venue in Gulf Shores that’s popular with both residents and visitors alike. With delicious coastal cuisine, mouthwatering appetizers, and renowned specials, you can’t go wrong. The spacious outdoor seating area provides the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the beachfront vibes while dining. Be sure to try one of their signature tropical drinks from the bar menu!
Best On the Beach – Sea-n-Suds
When you’re hanging out on the pier on East Beach Boulevard and don’t want to venture too far, Sea-n-Suds has you covered. From fried favorites to glorious gumbo, their various comfort foods are the perfect way to end afternoon hunger or a long day on the water. Whether grab-and-go or chill out on the deck overlooking the gulf, you’re in for a treat.
Most Unique – Pink Pony Pub
Although the menu at Pink Pony Pub isn’t too outlandish, they have the most recognizable restaurants in Gulf Shores. And as one of the oldest eateries on the main drag, they’ve withstood the test of time and Mother Nature. So, if you’ve never had a honey-roasted turkey and bacon club or garlic parmesan spaghetti, now’s your chance!
Condo Vacation Rentals in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Whether you love burgers, tacos, or seafood, there’s probably a good spot with outdoor seating on our stretch of the coast. And with vacation rental in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach from Brett/Robinson, you’ll have easy access to the top al fresco eateries no matter where you stay. To find your next getaway spot, just visit us online, find your ideal place, and book your stay today!
FAQs:
1. What are the best restaurants in Gulf Shores with outdoor seating?
Some of the top outdoor dining spots in Gulf Shores include Tacky Jack’s, LuLu’s Gulf Shores, The Hangout, Sea-n-Suds, and Pink Pony Pub.
2. Which restaurant in Gulf Shores has the best bar and grill patio?
Tacky Jack’s is a local favorite for its relaxed atmosphere, seafood dishes, and waterfront views overlooking Portage Creek.
3. What is the best outdoor dining spot for families?
LuLu’s Gulf Shores is the top pick for families, offering an outdoor play area, live entertainment, and a kid-friendly menu.
4. Which diner offers outdoor seating in Gulf Shores?
The Hangout offers a fun nostalgic atmosphere with all-day breakfast, classic diner favorites, and signature milkshakes—all served with the option to dine outdoors just steps from the beach.
5. Where can I eat on the beach in Gulf Shores?
Sea-n-Suds offers deck seating overlooking the Gulf, serving seafood favorites like fried shrimp, gumbo, and po’boys just steps from the sand.
6. What is the most unique restaurant with outdoor seating?
The Pink Pony Pub stands out for its historic charm and beachfront views, serving casual fare like turkey and bacon clubs and garlic parmesan spaghetti.
7. Which Gulf Shores restaurant has an outdoor play area for kids?
Both LuLu’s Gulf Shores and Tacky Jack’s feature kid-friendly outdoor spaces, making them great choices for family dining.
8. Are there waterfront restaurants with outdoor seating in Gulf Shores?
Yes! Tacky Jack’s, Sea-n-Suds, and Pink Pony Pub all offer scenic waterfront views while you dine outdoors.
9. What type of food can I find at these outdoor dining spots?
From seafood and Southern comfort food to burgers and diner classics, these restaurants offer a variety of delicious options with a relaxed, open-air vibe.
10. Where can I stay in Gulf Shores for easy access to outdoor dining?
Brett/Robinson offers vacation rentals in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, providing convenient locations near top al fresco restaurants.