Are you looking for a sustainable getaway in Alabama? The Lodge at Gulf State Park along Alabama’s beaches will give you just that!
There’s really no better place to stay in Gulf Shores than The Lodge at Gulf State Park—and for good reason. This isn’t just any beachfront hotel; it’s the hallmark of resilience, sustainability and smart design.
First opening its doors in 1974, The Lodge became a community events hub until it was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Rather than simply rebuilding, the new Lodge was designed and reimagined with sustainability at its core. The result? A spectacular coastal retreat that actively enhances the surrounding habitat with eco-conscious features.
From energy-efficient architecture to conservation initiatives that protect local wildlife, every detail has been carefully considered. The Lodge at Gulf State Park pledges a stay in Alabama that’s as responsible as it is relaxing. Get ready to soak up the Gulf Coast sunshine, explore the park’s extensive trail network and enjoy locally sourced dining.
The Lodge at Gulf State Park
sustainability in Gulf State Park
In 2018, Gulf State Park underwent a major transformation with the Gulf State Park Restoration Project, a $140 million initiative funded partly by BP settlement funds from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
The project emphasised sustainable tourism with eco-friendly infrastructure, including the Gulf State Park Lodge, an environmentally conscious hotel designed to minimise its environmental impact while providing modern amenities.
This essential funding has supported the restoration of shoreline habitats and dunes that also prevent coastal erosion and the expansion of 28-mile trail networks for cycling and hiking. The enhancement project aimed to boost the local economy by creating new jobs and business opportunities within the community. Additionally, the LEED-certified Learning Campus serves as a hub for environmental education, promoting sustainability and responsible tourism.
Transforming Gulf State Park into a hub for education, research, and eco-savvy tourism sets a blueprint for bringing in profits while protecting the ecosystem. The 22 State Parks in Alabama all rely on self-generated funds for operation and maintenance, making the Gulf State Park’s sustainability model both innovative and vital to their existence.
The Lodge at Gulf State Park operates under the Hilton brand for marketing and reservations but the property is managed by Valor Hospitality whose mission is to be a leading hospitality company in sustainability.
Protected dunes in front of The Lodge
Review of The Lodge at Gulf State Park
I’ve explored the sustainability efforts of Gulf State Park as a whole, but now let’s focus on The Lodge. If you’re looking for accommodation in Gulf Shores, why not stay right on the beach and directly contribute to the preservation of Alabama’s 22 State Parks?
Sustainability at The Lodge
The Lodge at Gulf State Park is more than just a place to stay—it’s a model for sustainable tourism along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Designed with environmental conservation in mind, the Lodge has earned prestigious certifications, including LEED© Gold, SITES© Platinum and FORTIFIED Commercial™, highlighting its commitment to responsible development. From the ground up, sustainability has been a priority, by part-building with recycled materials and recycling construction materials to divert from landfills.
Energy efficiency is a top priority in the Lodge’s design and daily operations. Guest rooms are equipped with automated sensors that turn off air conditioning when balcony doors or windows are left open, helping to prevent unnecessary energy waste.
The use of LED lighting with motion sensors further reduces consumption, and whilst the beach is kept dark, there is turtle-friendly lighting on walkways. The orientation of the buildings takes advantage of natural Gulf wind, incorporating passive cooling techniques to minimise reliance on air conditioning. Wooden screens also help filter sunlight, keeping indoor spaces comfortable while lowering energy demands.
Water conservation is another key pillar of the Lodge’s sustainability efforts. The HVAC system is designed to capture condensation, which is then repurposed to refill the swimming pool, significantly reducing water waste. In addition, a functional wetland naturally filters and absorbs stormwater runoff from rooftops and paved surfaces, easing pressure on municipal drainage systems. This innovative approach conserves water and supports local ecosystems by mimicking natural hydrological processes.
Beyond the buildings themselves, the Lodge prioritises environmentally friendly infrastructure throughout the property. The permeable car park allows rainwater to percolate into the ground rather than contributing to surface runoff. This helps replenish groundwater while preventing erosion and flooding.
CHECK AVAILABILITY OF THE LODGE AT GULF STATE PARK
The Lobby at The Lodge
Entering the huge open lobby area with sunlight beaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating Alabama-made furniture crafted from reclaimed materials, creating a warm, eclectic feel. The walls serve as a carefully curated gallery showcasing Alabama artists, highlighted by the striking fibreglass relief named “Turtle Tracks” by April Hopkins and Zach DePolo.
The gift shop selling eco-friendly wares is tucked behind the reception, and the Roasted Oak is on hand to serve lattes with local-inspired names such as Beach Mouse and Yellowhammer. The recycling bins and lobby signage showcase its impressive portfolio of sustainability certifications, reflecting its commitment to preserving the coastal environment and ensuring a positive ecological impact.
The lobby at The Lodge
Facilities at The Lodge
The Lodge at Gulf State Park offers a fantastic range of facilities designed for relaxation and recreation. Guests can take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool with exquisite ocean views, stay active in the fully equipped gym and enjoy fresh, locally sourced cuisine at the Lodge’s on-site restaurants. However, the true highlight of a stay at The Lodge is the Gulf State Park itself, a vast natural playground waiting to be explored.
Swimming pool at sunset
Rooms at The Lodge
The Lodge features 350 guest rooms, and I was fortunate to have a beach view, where the ever-changing skies over the Gulf of Mexico provided a stunning backdrop. From subtle sunrises to blue skies, blushing sunsets to starry nights, every moment was a joy to take in from the balcony.
While the rooms had a simple décor, the beds were incredibly comfortable—like sleeping on clouds. Thoughtful sustainability touches included separate recycling bins lined with biodegradable bags and BeeKind refillable toiletries, with moisturiser available in paper packaging.
Eating at The Lodge
Sustainability is central to dining at The Lodge, with initiatives like the Zero Single-Serve Initiative to reduce waste and local sourcing to support Gulf fisheries. The restaurants also help control invasive species through responsible fish harvesting.
The Bycatch Seafood Program ensures unintentional catches don’t go to waste, while partnerships with the Sustainable Seafood Organisation and Gulf Seafood Foundation reinforce their commitment to eco-friendly dining.
There are five dining options at Gulf State Park, and during my visit, I had the pleasure of starting the day at Foodcraft and finishing with a refined meal at The Perch. Other options include Woodside, set amongst the trails, Roasted Oak for takeaway coffee and treats in the lobby, and the poolside Dragonfly Bar + Grill for casual bites and drinks.
Perch Restaurant
The Perch at Gulf State Park promises a relaxed dining experience where the elegant menu sings with local ingredients. With a focus on seasonal and sustainable sourcing, The Perch crafts dishes that highlight the flavours of the region, from expertly prepared seafood to creative Southern-inspired plates. Crimson Bay Oysters in the Seafood Tower are the main draw but try imaginative mains such as seared Gulf grouper with roasted red pepper succotash or pecan smoked chicken.
My visit happened to coincide with an unseasonably cold spell, so the balcony firepit was roaring, perfectly complementing a fiery sunset. I can only imagine how magical it must be to enjoy dinner or a delicious cocktail here, with the usual warm coastal breeze and stupendous views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Crimson Bay Oysters at Perch Restaurant
Foodcraft
Foodcraft at Gulf State Park is a casual dining spot located beneath The Perch, with equally stunning beachfront views. With locally inspired menus, it’s a great choice for a tasty breakfast, laid-back lunch, or dinner while sunset paints the sky.
The Lodge Breakfast Buffet features Southern specialities like grits, applewood bacon, buttermilk biscuits with peppered gravy, and even a sunrise mimosa to kick-start your day. The lunch and dinner menu highlights local produce, bringing authentic Southern dishes to life.
Tri-Tip Steak and Eggs for breakfast at Foodcraft
Alternative Accommodation at Gulf State Park
For those looking to stay within Gulf State Park but seeking an alternative to The Lodge, a variety of accommodation options cater to different travel styles, all of which ensure a stay that’s close to nature.
The Gulf State Park Campground and RV Park are perfect for nature lovers, offering over 500 full-hookup sites with modern amenities, including bathhouses, laundry facilities, and access to hiking and biking trails.
Eagle Cottages provide a rustic and comfortable stay along Lake Shelby, complete with screened porches and easy access to the park’s waterways.
The Cabins at Gulf State Park offer lakeside and woods-surrounded options, ideal for those wanting a peaceful escape with modern comforts.
For group travelers, The Bunkerhouse is a great choice, featuring dorm-style lodging designed for families, school trips, or adventure groups looking to explore the park together.
Eagle Cottages at Gulf State Park
Activities In Gulf State Park
Take a Class at The Learning Center
The Learning Campus at Gulf State Park has a brilliant lineup of educational and enjoyableclasses, providing hands-on experiences that connect visitors with the local environment. We could choose from organic gardening and composting, turtle talks, river biodiversity, or guided hikes and bike rides. These programs are designed to be engaging and informative for anyone—tourist or local—looking to deepen their appreciation of the Gulf Coast’s natural wonders.
For my class-based activity, I chose “Sea Salt Bath Bombs,” from the eco-art mini-series, which turned out to be both a science lesson and a creative workshop. The session began with an introduction to the physical properties of salt, where it comes from, and sustainable methods of sea salt extraction. Then came the hands-on part—making our own natural bath bombs using locally sourced ingredients. It was a fun and interactive way to learn about sustainability while crafting an eco-conscious souvenir.
Explore the Trails
The award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail winds through 28 miles of diverse landscapes, showcasing nine distinct ecosystems across 6,150 acres of Gulf State Park. From Live Oaks draped in Spanish Moss to the scenic Gulf Oak Ridge Trail and the tranquil shores of Lake Shelby, it’s easy to see why USA Today named this breathtaking trail the Best Recreational Trail in the country in both 2023 and 2024.
It may sound cliché, but spending time in nature truly nourishes the soul. Take an unhurried stroll or a brisk hike along the trails, explore at your own pace and focus on what fascinates you most. As a keen wildlife photographer, it takes me longer to get around to wait for the wildlife moments making my day unforgettable. I did linger in hopes of spotting Lefty, the park’s resident alligator but luck wasn’t on my side.
How to you get around the Gulf State Park
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is designed to be accessible to all, with smooth paths and gentle slopes that accommodate wheelchairs easily and hikers of any level. Plus, with certain sections closed to vehicles, you can fully immerse yourself in nature without the distraction of traffic.
To cover more ground, I highly recommend hopping on a bike. To make exploration even easier, Gulf State Park offers a Free Bike Share Program—and yes, you heard that right—it’s completely FREE! With bike stations located throughout the park and at The Lodge, you can borrow a bike for up to three hours at no cost. It just involves downloading the Bloom app on your phone, creating an account, scanning the QR code on the bike you want to use and the app unlocks it. And off you go!!
To gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystem, I joined a Guided Bike Ride at the Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead. Led by Cory, a naturalist from The Learning Campus at Gulf State Park, the tour flowed with facts about the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, including the effects of invasive plant species and how prescribed burning helps maintain the park’s ecological balance.
Birdwatching in Gulf State Park
With its nine distinct ecosystems, including wetlands, pine forests, dunes, and freshwater lakes, Gulf State Park provides ideal habitats for both resident and migratory birds throughout the year. Ospreys, Great Blue Herons, and Belted Kingfishers are commonly seen near Lake Shelby, while Red-Bellied Woodpeckers and Eastern Bluebirds thrive along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. During spring and fall migrations, the park becomes an essential stopover for warblers, flycatchers, and other songbirds.
Visiting in January during an unexpected cold snap, I figured many birds had already flown south to the warmer climes of Mexico. However, I was still far from disappointed, as I had the opportunity to admire a Bald Eagle guarding their nest, observe Red-Bellied Woodpeckers at work, see Ospreys circling, and watch Black Scoters diving. These sightings left me in awe of the Gulf State Park’s wildlife.
Red-Bellied Woodpecker 
Bald Eagle
Walk along Gulf State Park Pier
The Gulf State Park Pier has faced its fair share of challenges since its original 825-foot structure was built in 1968. After being destroyed by Hurricane Frederic in 1979 and later by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, it was rebuilt to be stronger than ever; only to sustain damage again from Hurricane Sally in 2020. Today, it stands as the longest fishing pier on the Gulf Coast, designed to endure the elements.
More than just a fishing spot, the pier serves as an educational hub, with interpretive panels detailing marine conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and local wildlife. Anglers can cast a line for redfish, pompano, and Spanish mackerel, while nature lovers can enjoy dolphin watching, birding, or simply taking in the sweeping Gulf views.
Gulf State Park Pier
Things To Do In Alabama Beaches
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a pristine sanctuary of 7,000 acres on Alabama’s Gulf Coast protecting critical habitats for migratory birds, sea turtles, and the endangered Alabama beach mouse. It is home to Piping Plovers, Black Skimmers, and Least Terns, as well as the occasional Bald Eagle soaring overhead. Strolling along the beaches or exploring the marshes, you might also spot Roseate Spoonbills wading in the shallows.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge opens daily dawn-dusk | LOCATION
Live Music at Flora Bama’s
A visit to Flora-Bama is more than just a night out; it’s a beachfront institution and a rite of passage for anyone visiting Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Established in 1964 by the Tampary family, it began as a small watering hole and has since grown into an iconic live music venue, featuring daily performances, 365 days a year, from country, rock, blues, and beach tunes across multiple stages.
Inside, the atmosphere is exuberant. Bras dangle from washing lines above the dance floor, US flags wave and memorabilia-packed walls tell stories of decades of good times. Sitting on the Alabama-Florida border, Flora-Bama is legendary along the Gulf Coast and guarantees a night to remember—especially if you order a Bushwacker!
Flora-Bama opens daily from 9.30am to 2.30am | LOCATION | READ REVIEWS
Eat Seafood at DeSoto’s
For a true taste of the Gulf, DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen is a must-visit. Known for its Southern hospitality, this family-run restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis owing to its popularity (especially in the snowbird season).
DeSotos has been serving up fresh, flavoursome seafood for over two decades. The menu highlights the best of the local catch from fried flounder, blackened catfish, and Royal Red shrimp, or check out their famous seafood platters. Beyond its seafood specialities, they offer a range of comforting Southern classics, from fried green tomatoes to aromatic seafood gumbo.
DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen opens daily for lunch and dinner | LOCATION | READ REVIEWS
Royal Red Shrimps
Take An Eco Tour
While I didn’t have time to experience them myself, you may want to consider taking an eco-tour in Gulf Shores, with options like;
- Orange Beach Dolphin Eco-Tour, where you’ll get up close to a local pod, learn their names, observe their behaviours and discover more about the ecosystem and wildlife from your knowledgeable captain.
- Orange Beach Sunset Sailing Cruise onboard a catamaran, capturing coastal views and spotting local wildlife like ospreys, bald eagles, and herons as the sun sets over the Gulf.
- Navy Cove Oyster Farm Tour, a family-run operation, helps visitors learn about the ecology and geology of Mobile Bay and the sustainable aquaculture techniques used to raise oysters.
Give-back Initiatives
Gulf Shores offers plenty of volunteering opportunities for locals, including Alabama’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program, which requires some training. For visitors looking to participate in regenerative tourism and help protect the coast’s natural beauty, organisations like Eco Clean Marine and Alabama Coastal Cleanup provide opportunities to get involved—just check their schedules for upcoming events.
Beach sunrise in Gulf State Park
Thank you to Alabama Travel, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism and The Lodge at Gulf State Park for supporting me in my mission to promote sustainable initiatives in the travel space. All opinions are my own.
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