The Hidden Beaches Road Trip That Will Show You Alabama Like Never Before

We're all familiar with Alabama's beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. However, several lesser-known beaches are located throughout the state that are also worth checking out. The best hidden beaches in Alabama are sure to leave you impressed, and you just might discover a hidden gem hiding close to your own hometown.

The total mileage for this hidden beaches road trip is 605 miles, with an estimated drive time of 11 hours and 7 minutes. For driving directions, we've provided you with this easy-to-follow interactive Google map link. This hidden beaches road trip begins in Rogersville at Joe Wheeler State Park and ends in Marion at Perry Lakes Park. Fill up your gas tank and pack a supply of sunscreen, because the best beaches in Alabama offer hours of fun in the sun and will show you the state like never before.

1. Joe Wheeler State Park - Rogersville

Joe Wheeler State Park is located in Northwest Alabama along the shores of Wheeler Lake. This 2,550-acre resort park offers camping, fishing, kayaking, boating, and swimming within its designated beach area. It's one of the best hidden beaches in Alabama if you enjoy the outdoors. Address: 4403 McLean Drive, Rogersville, AL, 35652

2. Lake Lurleen State Park - Coker

Located near Tuscaloosa, Lake Lurleen State Park covers 1,625 acres and is a great place to spend a summer day. Visitors love gathering at the park's beach area to beat the summer heat. Address: 13226 Lake Lurleen Road, Coker, AL, 35452

3. Oak Mountain State Park - Pelham

Covering nearly 10,000 acres, Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama's largest state park. It offers several amenities, including a beach and swimming area that's quite popular during the summer months. It's one of the best Alabama beaches to visit. Address: 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham, AL, 35124

4. Lake Martin

Covering approximately 44,000 acres, Lake Martin is one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S. There are several beaches located along the shores of Lake Martin that are perfect for swimming and relaxation.

5. Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve - Atmore

From canoeing and kayaking to camping and zip-lining, the Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages. This scenic reserve, which is located in Escambia County on Big Escambia Creek, also has a beach area that's popular among visitors and locals alike. It's one of the best hidden beaches in Alabama. Address: 24 Big Creek Road, Atmore, AL, 36502

6. Perry Lakes Park (Barton's Beach) - Marion

Perry Lakes Park is a 700-acre park with three oxbow swamp lakes and a hardwood forest with trails. One of the park's trails leads to a beach preserve that's situated on the Cahaba River. This beach, which is known as Barton's Beach, is an important nesting area for turtles and is one of the most serene Alabama beaches to visit.

Address: AL-175, Marion, AL, 36756

If you were to do a search for “beaches near me,” one of these beaches are sure to appear near the top of the list!

Does this sound like a road trip you'd be interested in taking? Why or why not? Have you spent time on any of these hidden beaches in Alabama? If so, we'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

If you enjoyed this visit to the best beaches in Alabama, then you'll definitely love a trip to the state's most incredible hidden attractions.

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