Let’s discover a hidden gem in the Gulf Coast that is an ideal place to escape the busy city and to Southern Living.
It’s no other than Coden, Alabama!
Their friendly locals can immediately make you feel welcome despite their small community.
But it only means that most people in the town have a tight-knit community to make you feel at home.
With its picturesque scenery, delicious Seafood, and vibrant culture, you can have a busy schedule ahead.
There’s always something to do for everyone!
So grab your sunglasses and get ready to experience a laid-back lifestyle here at Coden, Alabama.
Introduction to Coden, AL
Coden, Alabama, is all about Seafood, history, and nature, the formula for a perfect vacation.
Located in Mobile County, Coden is a peninsula that separates the Gulf of Mexico.
Unsurprisingly, the town is also a coastal fishing village because of its rich resources.
Fishing and Seafood are Coden’s heart and soul, which means they have the best seafood quality in the area.
But Coden is not just about food. It has a good share of history and nature to explore, too.
So, Coden is the spot if you’re looking for a laid-back coastal town.
History of Coden, AL
The cozy town of Coden, AL, is about 20 miles southwest of Mobile, a little near the Alabama-Mississippi border.
Some believe the town gets its name from Bayou Coden, the bayou where you can find the city.
Bayou Coden is the English phrase of the original French word “Coq d’Inde.”
It was a famous resort destination in the early 1900s, with Rolston Hotel attracting guests worldwide.
However, a fire and hurricane destroyed it, which caused the community to fall hard in the economy.
These days, the area still draws visitors for its peaceful vibe and laid-back lifestyle.
Attractions and Activities near Coden, AL
Coden, AL, is an excellent spot for people who love history and nature, as there are a lot of historic homes and luscious greens in town:
Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a paradise for all beautiful and blooming flowers in Mobile County, Alabama.
It is a 65-acre garden with a historic home built by Walter Bellingrath, one of the Southeast’s first Coca-Cola bottlers.
You can visit their two miles of pathways throughout the garden with a self-guided walking tour.
You can witness beautiful flowers, like chrysanthemums, azaleas, tulips, and more, bloom in certain seasons.
Some events feature magic Christmas lights and cascading chrysanthemums around the garden.
Visit: 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd, Theodore, AL 36582
Call: 251-973-2217
Portersville Bay
Portersville Bay is a stunning natural Bay surrounded by Coden and San Souci Beach.
It is a 470-acre breathtaking view of coastal marsh, maritime forest, and Flatwoods home to different plants and animals.
It is the perfect spot to visit if you are a birdwatcher or a wildlife enthusiast.
Portersville Bay is under a nature preserve, which protects valuable tidal marshes in Alabama.
You can enjoy the peaceful surroundings by hiking and walking along its scenic trails.
Visit: Coden Belt Road South, Coden, AL 36523
Cedar Point Pier
If you are a fishing enthusiast looking for a spot to cast your line, Cedar Point Pier is here for your big catches.
This place is a local favorite, so if you are a visitor, you can be assured that this gem is perfect for your hobby.
The pier underwent renovation so you can fish safely and enjoy your catch for dinner.
Whether you are a pro or a newbie, pack up your tackle box and have a great reeling in big ones.
Visit: 18250 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Coden, AL 36523
Call: 251-574-7275
Anna’s Seafood
Anna’s Seafood is a family-owned business that sells fresh and delicious oysters with a rich fishing history.
Its founder came from a long line of fishermen, and their family was one of the first to start an oyster business in the area.
You can find high-quality oysters fresh or frozen, shell or shucked, and in different sizes so that you can take them home.
They also sell other seafood products like fish from the Gulf of Mexico, so you know it is fresh.
Visit: 14540 Tabb St, Coden, AL 36523
Call: 251-824-4031
Rolston Park
Rolston Park is a hidden gem in Coden, AL, where you can find playground equipment and covered pavilions for the family.
You can also find a fishing pier to cast your line or sit down and enjoy the pretty view of the Gulf of Mexico.
Take a stroll on the winding sidewalks to enjoy the summer air and sunshine as you explore the sights and sounds of nature.
Visit: 7880 Coden Belt, Coden, AL 36523
Restaurants near Coden, AL
What’s a better way to get to know a place than tasting its unique and authentic flavors, like these Southern specials:
Catalina Restaurant
Catalina Restaurant is where you can get fresh, delicious, and large portions of seafood.
They have the Southern charm that makes you feel right at home thanks to the casual and fun atmosphere of the restaurant.
You can choose from their menu, which offers classic seafood favorites to mouth-watering specials.
If you prefer eating al fresco, they have outdoor seating so you can enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.
So visit Catalina Restaurant, where the food is finger-lickin’, the service is outstanding, and the atmosphere is warm.
Visit: 14060 S Wintzell Ave, Bayou La Batre, AL
Call: 251-824-1120
Captain Frank’s Smoke Shack
Foodies! Gather here at the award-winning Captain Frank’s Smoke Shack, where you can get some of the best food in the area.
They serve delicious BBQ in large portions so you can fill your stomach to the brim without breaking the bank.
If you want a complete dining experience, pair your BBQ with the perfect sides like coleslaw and salad.
They also serve some mean gumbo with the suitable Seafood, sausage, and flavor mix.
You can soak up the local atmosphere by grabbing a seat outside and enjoying the Southern breeze.
Visit: 13876 S Wintzell Ave, Bayou La Batre, AL 36509
Call: 251-824-1749
Kains Mexican Grill
It’s great to find a restaurant that serves delicious food and goes above and beyond in service.
This restaurant has all of that covered!
Kains Mexican Grill offers delicious Mexican food with a Mexican street vibe that relaxes your dining experience.
Their salsa is a hit, so you have to look forward to ordering it with their bestsellers like tacos, burritos, and more!
Visit: 13350 N, Wintzell Ave, Bayou La Batre, AL 36509
Call: 251-824-1442
Places to Stay at Coden, AL
The accommodations at Coden, AL, have easy access to the best spots in Alabama, especially Mobile and Dauphin Island.
Dockside RV Resort
Dockside RV Resort is your new spot to park your home on wheels with its 55 spacious spots campground.
It offers a serene escape from the busy city life with spectacular views of plants and animals.
You can access fun like volleyball, swimming pool, hot tub, fishing, and boating.
Their 650-foot-long pier is perfect for casting a line or relaxing on your chair while watching the sunset.
The location is also a short drive from Dauphin Island, Mobile, and Bayou La Batre so that you can explore more.
Visit: 14834 Niolon Ln, Coden, AL 36523
Call: 251-442-1767
Bay Palms RV Resort
Bay Palms RV Resort is a family-friendly RV facility that provides a safe, fun, and enjoyable site for everyone in the family.
Whether you want to stay for a few days or a year, you can experience new adventures on their site and in Coden, AL.
You can find Bay Palms near the beach to quickly dip your toes in the sand, feel the summer air, and listen to the waves.
If you want to stay at the park, they also offer an RV park with the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
Visit: 15440 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Coden, AL 36523
Call: 251-873-4700
Bayou Inn & Suites
Bayou Inn and Suites is the perfect place for travelers who want comfort and convenience in one place.
This 2-story building has spacious rooms with Wi-Fi, a TV with cable channels, and a few appliances.
If you want extra luxury, you can upgrade your room to have access to whirlpool tubs and balconies.
The hotel also offers continental breakfast and free parking, so you can bring your car and drive around Coden.
Visit: 13155 N, Wintzell Ave, Bayou La Batre, AL
Call: 251-824-2020
Bayou La Batre Stilted House
Welcome to Bayou La Batre Stilted House, your ultimate travel accommodation if you want a slower-paced lifestyle in Coden.
Nestled directly on Snake Bayou, this house offers a 3-bedroom and 2-bathroom rental near Portersville Bay.
Boating and fishing enthusiasts can easily access the Gulf to score the best catches.
You can also drive to Dauphin Island to experience the area’s beach life and natural beauty.
The stilted house offers plenty of space to relax and unwind, like a fully-equipped kitchen or a deck overlooking the bayou.
There is also an outdoor entertainment space where you can grill, lounge, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
The house is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along and have a great time with the family.
Visit: Snake Bayou, Bayou La Batre, AL
Mon Louis Island River Cottage
Enjoy a quiet and private time at Mon Louis Island River Cottage, where you can have the whole place and unwind however you like.
Take leisurely walks or bring your boat to tour the beautiful Fowl River, where you can find cows and their adorable babies.
The place also has complete furnishings, so you can bring yourself and clothes before starting a vacation lockdown.
Enjoy coffee outside while listening to birds or try water activities on the dock and river.
Although the place seems secluded, it is near the beaches so that you can enjoy the sand and surf.
Visit: 14650 Commodore Ave, Coden, AL
Community in Coden, AL
Don’t let the small size of this town fool you, as they offer a decent livelihood and peaceful community for everyone.
Population
Coden is a small town in Alabama with a population of more than 2,000, with only 60 people per square mile.
Despite being a small place, you can find different activities to make your stay here entertaining.
There may not be big parties, but you have a peaceful community with birds chirping and stars shining.
Economy
The average income in Coden is approximately $26,000, which is not a lot but is on par with the national average.
The economy in Coden is more than enough for this little town with beautiful scenery and a peaceful community.
Discover posts delving into Alabama’s rich history, sites, activities, and attractions for a comprehensive exploration:
Wrapping Up Coden, Alabama
If you visit Coden, Alabama, you will experience the Southern lifestyle and witness breathtaking scenery.
From the lush greenery to the majestic waters, you can find something that makes this town charming and memorable.
Stop by a local restaurant, eat delicious Southern cuisine, meet friendly locals, and do outdoor activities.
There’s always something for everyone here at Coden, AL.
Visit Coden and see why it is a perfect vacation spot- you might even fall in love with it and call it home!
