Bon Secour, Alabama Beyond the Beach: Exploring the Hidden Gems of AL Coastline

Are you looking to discover something beyond Alabama’s coastline for your next trip?

Bon Secour, Alabama, can be your next beach destination as this charming town offers Southern hospitality and fun adventure. 

Exploring The Hidden Gems Of Bon Secour, Alabama.

This community has a rich history, fresh seafood, and outdoor fun, the best combination for a memorable vacation. 

Whether you enjoy soaking up on the beach or watching the beautiful nature, they’ll make you feel at home. 

So pack your bags and head down to Bon Secour to discover the hidden gem of the Alabama Coastline.


Introduction to Bon Secour, AL

Take a little trip down the charming community of Bon Secour, where you can find a beautiful coastline.

You can find this lovely town in Baldwin County that started as a fishing village back in the 19th century.

But their fishing game is still strong as they offer the freshest and tastiest seafood in the area. 

It is easy to get there as there are various landmarks and businesses that you can use as guides.

Their timezone is also Central Daylight Time, but you wouldn’t mind the time zones when you wake up to views like River Park, Oyster Bay, and more. 


Origin of Bon Secour, AL

Bon Secour got its name from Jacques Cook, who named it after the Cathedral de Bon Secours in Montreal, Quebec.

It became a permanent settlement area for residents in 1793 before the Baltic Germans settled next. 

They built a church called St. Peter’s near the Bon Secour River, which became a landmark for fishermen in the area. 

The town changed hands many times during the French, British, and Spanish areas, but Spain took possession of the whole area in 1783.

After the Florida Purchase, the United States regained the land and became part of its territory. 

Today, Bon Secour is a peaceful village with houses over 100 years old, making it a town rich in history.


Attractions and Activities near Bon Secour

There are plenty of attractions and activities near Bon Secour to keep you busy, like the sugar white beaches, unique wildlife, and historical landmarks.

Swift-Coles Historic Home

Welcome to the Swift-Coles Historic Home, where history comes alive as you enter the beautiful property.

This house is the perfect place to immerse in the past, as it was a property built by a local fisherman in 1882.

It is also a popular destination if you want to visit a historical piece of the town, but you can also book it as a venue for special events.

Imagine tying the knot under the multiple live oaks around the setting with the beautiful house in the background. 

Visit: 17424 Swift Coles Ln, Bon Secour, AL 36511

Call: 251-949-5550


Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for specific animals and plants you can only find in Alabama, particularly in Bon Secour.

Experience the undisturbed natural habitat of these species, where you can stroll around the peaceful and serene environment. 

Bon Secour means “safe harbor” in French, which fits the wildlife refuge as it provides a home for flora and fauna. 

With the surrounding areas becoming developed, this oasis is the perfect place for wildlife to thrive without being harmed.

Visit: 12295 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Call: 251-540-7720

Alabama has some great museums; discover them here.


Restaurants near Bon Secour

You can explore various options, from casual to fine dining, that usually offers fresh seafood at the waterfront.

The Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar

The Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a hidden gem in Baldwin County where you can enjoy delicious food with Southern coastal flair.

This casual restaurant doesn’t require dressing up, so grab a bite in your most comfortable clothes.

They pride themselves in serving the freshest and highest quality local foods like large oysters and classic fried green tomatoes. 

You can also try their exceptional appetizers to kick off your meal and pair them with their tasty liquor selection, like wine or cocktails. 

They have juicy steaks and fresh seafood that you can enjoy on their outdoor patio if you want something fancy. 

The highlight of this restaurant is its oyster bar, where you can enjoy your food and the beautiful Bon Secour River

Visit: 6232 Bon Secour Hwy, Bon Secour, AL 36511

Call: 251-949-5086


The Galley

Dine in the cozy country pub that The Galley, where they serve great food and cold drinks in a friendly atmosphere. 

Their location beside the Bon Secour River gives it a perfect backdrop for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience. 

Their food has a Southern flair that you can mainly find in their burgers, salads, sandwiches, and seafood dishes. 

You can’t also miss out on their shrimp, fries, onion rings, and homemade mac and cheese, all cooked to perfection. 

So, to kick back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal in Bon Secour, come down to this country pub by the river.

You may need more of their food and service as they take pride in providing the best dining experience.

Visit: 18546 Co Rd 10, Foley, AL 36535

Call: 251-949-5537

Alabama has some of the best noodle restaurants.


Places to Stay near Bon Secour

Places to Stay near Bon Secour

There are several places to stay at Bon Secour, like bed and breakfasts, hotels, and more, to keep you comfortable during the trip.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel

Welcome to the eco-friendly resort on the stunning coastline of Gulf State Park: The Lodge, a Hilton Hotel

It has 28 miles of trails and a freshwater fishing lake where you can explore different outdoor adventures right on your doorstep.

You can easily access it from Gulf State Pier and Central Gulf Shores to experience outdoor activities like biking and sightseeing. 

After a fun adventure, you can relax in the hotel’s infinity pool that faces the coast or work up a sweat in their fitness center. 

Visit: 21196 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Call:  251-540-4000


Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores, an IHG Hotel

Are you looking for the perfect place to stay during your Bon Secour trip?

Then look no further because Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores, an IHG Hotel, is here. 

This hotel offers a spacious and comfortable room with all the amenities for a relaxing and comfortable stay. 

Enjoy their complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, onsite laundry facilities, and more during your stay.

You can easily access the Gulf of Mexico beaches from their location and shopping and dining options.

There are also popular destinations like OWA Amusement Park and Waterville, USA that everyone in the family can enjoy.

Visit: 3947 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Call: 251-277-4343

Downtown Alabama has some great hotels.


Community in Bon Secour

Bon Secour is a tight-knit Baldwin County community rich in history, cultural heritage, and a strong fishing industry.

Population

Bon Secour may be a small town, but it is full of character.

With a population of more than 2,000, this community has a diverse mix of residents like white, African American, American Indian, Hispanic, and Asian

Income

The average household income in Bon Secour is $21,000 per year, which is lower than the national and Alabama median.

Event

The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival in the nearby Foley is a free event offering fun family activities. 

This annual celebration has something for everyone, from arts and crafts to food.

However, the balloons are only visible during dawn and dusk if the weather and wind permit.

You will most definitely love Haunted Houses in Alabama, adventure.


Final Thoughts on Bon Secour, Alabama

Well, folks, that’s a wrap from the beautiful Bon Secour in Alabama. 

This charming little town is a must-visit if you want to experience a tranquil oasis away from the hustle and bustle. 

With a casual and relaxing vibe, you can feel at ease when you arrive.

But despite being relaxing, there are tons of active outdoor activities waiting for you, like fishing, swimming, and hiking.

Don’t forget about the food!

Bon Secour has some delicious eats, from fresh seafood to classic Southern dishes. 

So what are you waiting for?

Plan your family vacation or weekend getaway in Bon Secour. 

You won’t regret it!


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Vacation in Pascagoula, Ms.

Unique Mobile Bay Oyster Trail.

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