10 Best Gulf Coast Beaches Across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida

"Clearwater Beach, one of the most family-friendly beaches in Florida, offers plenty to do on impeccably soft white sand. When you're done relaxing, you can spot dolphins on a Jet Ski tour or get a behind-the-glass look at sea life at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. With plenty of resorts and hotels for all budgets, Clearwater is also a great base for exploring quieter Gulf Coast beaches like Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island state parks."

"Orange Beach, Alabama is a subtropical vacation destination with that quintessential Gulf Coast look: a long strip of white quartz sand and aquamarine waters. Popular with families, Orange Beach has plenty to do and see. The water sports hub is perfect for Jet Skiing, kayaking, and sailing. You can also swim and dive beneath its glassy waters and spot playful dolphins during a sunset cruise."

The Gulf of Mexico coastline spans five U.S. states: Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, attracting millions of travelers annually to their beaches. Clearwater Beach in Florida features soft white sand, dolphin tours, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, with nearby barrier islands offering additional pristine beaches and state parks. The area provides diverse dining options from casual seafood to upscale steakhouses and entertainment venues. Orange Beach, Alabama presents a subtropical destination with white quartz sand and aquamarine waters, offering water sports including Jet Skiing, kayaking, and sailing. Visitors can enjoy dolphin-watching sunset cruises, explore cypress swamps via the Back Bay Blueway, and access multiple hiking trails through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system.

Read at Travel + Leisure