For fall break, I loaded up my kids for a beach road trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama, and it turned out to be one of our favorite family getaways yet. We spent our days building sandcastles, searching for crabs, and checking out all the things to do in Gulf Shores with kids. Just as memorable were the meals we shared, with play areas, live music, kid-approved menus, and waterfront views. Our mealtimes were just an extension of the vacation day, and the kids could just be kids. If you’re planning your own Gulf Shores family trip, here are some of our favorite family-friendly restaurants in Gulf Shores you won’t want to miss.
We were hosted for parts of our Gulf Shores adventure, but no one had to twist our arms to tell you the truth about eating seafood by the beach or building sandcastles with the kids!
GTs on the Bay: Waterfront Dining with a Playground
In Orange Beach, GTs on the Bay is another family-friendly gem. The outdoor dining area overlooks Wolf Bay, and the views are beautiful, especially at sunset. But the real win for parents? There’s a playground right next to the giant patio. That means kids can run, climb, and play while adults enjoy their meal in peace. The menu has something for everyone, from seafood pasta and wood-fired pizzas to burgers and grilled fish. The kids’ menu includes generous portions, and the staff is friendly and patient, which every parent appreciates on vacation. If you dine indoors, there’s a huge fish pond, and the resident fish are giant! GT’s on the Bay is one of those restaurants where everyone leaves happy and full.
LuLu’s: A Gulf Shores Classic for Families
If there’s one place every family should visit in Gulf Shores, it’s LuLu’s. Created by Jimmy Buffett’s sister, Lucy Buffett, Lulu’s is more than just a place to eat; it’s a full-on family experience. Kids can play in the giant sand area while you sip a frozen drink and listen to live music. There’s a ropes course, arcade, and gift shop, all overlooking the water. The menu is full of coastal favorites like shrimp baskets, fried green tomatoes, and fish tacos, but they also have great allergy-friendly options, including gluten-free and dairy-free choices. Dining at LuLu’s feels like a vacation inside your vacation; it’s a place where no one minds if your kids are barefoot or still covered in sand.
Woodside Restaurant: Dining Inside Gulf State Park
If your family spends any time exploring Gulf State Park, plan to eat at Woodside Restaurant, located right inside the park. This casual spot combines Southern comfort food with a love for the outdoors. There’s a large porch with games like giant Jenga and giant connect four, with plenty of open space for kids to burn energy while you relax under the trees. We had a single rainy day during our visit and found ourselves enjoying an afternoon of games on the screened-in porch long after our meal was finished. The menu features classic Gulf Coast fare, including smoked chicken, burgers, shrimp and grits, as well as lighter options for lunch. We loved the relaxed vibe and friendly service. It’s one of those places that lets you enjoy a slow, easy meal surrounded by nature. Plus, the free bike share program has a stop right outside the door.
Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs: Quick, Fun, and Kid-Approved
Sometimes you need something fast and fun, and Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs hits the spot. This is a casual, family-owned place known for creative toppings and big flavors. Whether your kids like it plain or piled high with chili and cheese, there’s something for everyone here. It’s perfect for a quick lunch between beach sessions or a casual dinner before heading back to the pool. The relaxed atmosphere and picnic-style seating make it easy for wiggly kids, and it’s one of those low-stress meals every parent appreciates on vacation. Soon, they’ll have daquaris to go!
Flora-Bama Ole River Grill: Coastal Views and Big Flavor
For families looking for great food with a true Gulf Coast vibe, Flora-Bama Ole River Grill is a must. It’s located right on the Alabama-Florida line, and while the name “Flora-Bama” might make you think it’s adults-only, the Ole River Grill is completely family-friendly. The menu includes everything from burgers and seafood platters to tacos and salads. The kids’ menu is simple and satisfying, and the staff made us feel welcome even during the busy dinner rush. This spot captures that laid-back beach feel.
CoastAL Restaurant: Fresh, Family-Friendly Dining
CoastAL Restaurant is a great choice for families who want fresh seafood in a comfortable, modern setting. It’s bright, spacious, and welcoming to kids, with plenty of options that even picky eaters will love. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, grilled fish, seafood pasta, and Southern favorites with a twist. For parents, there are craft cocktails and local beers, and for kids, there’s a great kids’ menu and friendly service. Coastal manages to balance upscale flavor with a relaxed, family atmosphere, which is exactly what makes it one of the best kid-friendly restaurants in Gulf Shores. The view is gorgeous and very beach club-like.
Pink Pony Pub: A Beachfront Favorite for All Ages
It might surprise some people to see Pink Pony Pub on a family restaurant list, but during the day, it’s completely family-friendly and one of the most iconic spots in Gulf Shores. The casual beachfront setting means kids can play in the sand while you enjoy a burger, po’ boy, or plate of fried shrimp with your toes practically in the water. There’s no better view for lunch, and the vibe is classic Gulf Shores, fun, colorful, and laid-back. Families have been coming here for generations, and it’s easy to see why. By evening, it gets livelier, so daytime is the best bet for families with young kids.
Vinny’s Pizzeria at The Wharf: Pizza, Games, and Family Fun
When you’re spending an evening at The Wharf, Vinny’s Pizzeria is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. After all the shopping, mini golf, or Ferris wheel rides, pizza is the perfect way to refuel. Vinny’s serves New York-style pies with plenty of topping options, and you can grab a table indoors or outside to keep the energy going. The Wharf area is one of the most family-friendly places to spend an evening, with light shows, live music, and entertainment every night during busy seasons. A stop at Vinny’s fits right in, giving kids a familiar favorite while parents enjoy the lively atmosphere. Pizza is available by the slice, so you don’t even have to agree on the toppings, or you can order a full pizza if you’re all into the same toppings.
Sweet Treat Stop: Gelato at The Southern Grind Coffee House
If you love an after-dinner treat, The Southern Grind Coffee House at The Wharf is a must-visit. This cozy café has a welcoming coastal vibe with great coffee for parents and creamy, delicious gelato for the kids. The flavors rotate, but every one we tried was amazing. It’s also a great place to grab breakfast or a light lunch, with pastries, sandwiches, and smoothies on the menu. We stopped here after dinner at Vinny’s to stroll The Wharf with our cones in hand while watching the nightly light and music show—a perfect end to a busy family day.
Sweet Treat Stop: Bahama Buck’s Shaved Ice
Another kid favorite was Bahama Buck’s, known for its colorful, fluffy shaved ice. The bright, tropical atmosphere makes it feel like a party every time you visit. The kids had a blast picking from dozens of flavors, and yes, there are sugar-free options too. Bahama Buck’s is great for an afternoon cooldown or an evening dessert after the beach. It’s casual, quick, and guaranteed to make your kids smile, plus, parents can sneak in a sno cone or smoothie too. They have other treats on the menu, too, like dirty sodas. If you enjoy your shaved ice in the shop, there’s a great game collection available for some quality time together or to keep the kids entertained.
Where to Eat in Gulf Shores with Kids
After nearly a week of sunshine, seafood, and endless family fun, I can confidently say that dining in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is part of what makes visiting Alabama’s beaches so special. The restaurants here understand families; great food for adults, space for kids to play, and views that make every meal feel like a mini vacation. If you’re planning your own trip, be sure to check out all the things to do in Gulf Shores with kids and find the perfect place to stay, like our beachfront condo at Phoenix Gulf Shores 2 booked through Prickett Properties.
Whether you’re here for fall break, spring break, or a summer getaway, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly restaurants in Gulf Shores to make every meal a memory.
