If you’ve ever spent a week in a Gulf Shores vacation rental, you know how the mornings tend to go. Someone’s making coffee, the kids are still waking up, and breakfast is usually something simple in the kitchen before everyone heads to the beach. But every trip has that one morning... You know the one we're talking about. Maybe it's the end of the trip where you're loading the car, cleaning out the fridge, and heading into town to grab breakfast before hitting the road. Or maybe you’ve just had enough dishes for one week and want someone else to do the cooking. Whatever the reason, it helps to know where to go.
Gulf Shores, AL, has plenty of spots where you can sit down, relax, and enjoy a good meal before the day gets going. Some are longtime local staples, while others have that just-right balance of home cooking meets beach-town flair, and all of them are easy to get to from your vacation rental.
In this guide, we'll cover some of the most-loved breakfast places in Gulf Shores, complete with hours, addresses, menu recommendations, and average cost, so you can decide which ones are worth visiting during your stay.
Breakfast Places in Gulf Shores, AL
While this certainly isn’t a list of every spot in town, these top restaurants are definitely serving up the best breakfast in Gulf Shores.
Sunliner Diner
If you’re traveling with kids, or just love a little nostalgia, Sunliner Diner is a fun choice. Styled like a 1950s diner, complete with chrome booths and vintage cars parked out front, it’s as much an experience as it is a meal. The breakfast menu leans hearty, with everything from country fried steak and eggs to pancake stacks topped with syrup and whipped cream. There’s plenty of variety for picky eaters, and the milkshakes are popular no matter what time of day it is.
- Address: 100 E 2nd Ave, Gulf Shores, AL
- Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM daily, Sunday – Thursday. Extended to 10 PM Friday and Saturday
- Average Cost: $$
- Menu
- See Pictures: Facebook | Instagram
- Recommended Item: Chicken & Waffles or Sunrise Biscuit and Gravy
The Ugly Diner
Despite the name, there’s nothing unappetizing about this place. The Ugly Diner serves up solid, down-home breakfast without any fuss. It’s the kind of spot that stays busy with locals who know what’s good. Think biscuits and gravy, cheesy hash browns, and big breakfast plates with eggs and your choice of meat. It’s casual, quick, and reliably good.
- Address: 2200 E 2nd St, Gulf Shores, AL
- Hours: 7 AM – 2 PM daily
- Average Cost: $
- Menu
- See Pictures: Yelp
- Recommended Item: Country Fried Steak with Eggs
Kitty’s Kafe
Located in the Pelican Place shopping center, Kitty’s Kafe is a longtime staple for both locals and visitors. The space is casual and unpretentious, and the menu covers all the breakfast bases. You’ll find everything from omelets and pancakes to Southern classics like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits. Service is friendly, and it’s usually easy to get seated quickly, even on weekends.
- Address: 3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
- Hours: 7 AM – 2 PM Monday – Saturday. Closed Sunday.
- Average Cost: $
- Menu
- See Pictures: Facebook | Kitty’s Kafe Gallery
- Recommended Item: Kountry Breakfast with your choice of a pork chop, country fried or hamburger steak, two eggs, grits or potatoes, and a biscuit and gravy, all for under $15!
Duck’s Diner
With two locations, the original in Orange Beach and a new spot in Gulf Shores, Duck’s Diner has made a name for itself as one of the best breakfast spots in the area. In fact, it’s even won the “Gulf Coast Media People’s Choice Best Breakfast Award” TEN times! Stop by either location and try their fare when you visit. You won't regret it.
- Address: 120 E Ft. Morgan Road, Gulf Shores, AL | 4560 Easy St., Orange Beach, AL
- Hours: 7 AM – 1:15 PM daily at both locations
- Average Cost: $$
- Menu
- See Pictures: Facebook
- Recommended Item: Creole Omelet with Gulf shrimp and house-made creole sauce
Brick & Spoon
If you’re in the mood for something a little more elevated, Brick & Spoon serves up a creative brunch menu with plenty of Gulf Coast flair. Known for its build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and generously portioned dishes, this spot leans a bit upscale without feeling too formal. Bananas in Pajamas (crispy banana eggrolls with Foster sauce) and the Crab Cake Benny are standouts, and there’s a nice balance of sweet and savory options. It’s a good pick for the final breakfast of your trip, or for celebrating a special morning out.
- Address: 24705 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL
- Hours: 7 AM – 2 PM daily
- Average Cost: $$$
- Menu
- See Pictures: Instagram
- Recommended Item: Anything from the brunch menu, paired with the tasso deviled eggs with fried shrimp and sriracha aioli
BuzzCatz Coffee & Sweets
This cozy spot in Orange Beach is great for a lighter breakfast or a morning treat. BuzzCatz is known for its fresh-baked pastries, fan-favorite cinnamon rolls, and rotating “quiche of the day” specials. You’ll find avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, waffles, and strong coffee, all served in a relaxed, welcoming space. Seating is limited, but the quality makes it worth the early trip.
- Address: 25689 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL
- Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM daily
- Average Cost: $
- Menu
- See Pictures: Facebook | Instagram
- Recommended Item: Egg and Cheese served on their Famous Cinnamon Roll
Lickin Good Donuts
For something fast, sweet, and made fresh daily, Lickin Good Donuts is a Gulf Shores go-to. They open early, and the line moves fast. In addition to a full lineup of donuts, they serve kolaches and breakfast sandwiches. It’s perfect if you want to grab something to-go on your way out of town or pick up a dozen to bring back to your rental for everyone.
- Address: 229 E 20th Ave #14, Gulf Shores, AL
- Hours: 5 AM – 1 PM daily
- Average Cost: $
- Menu
- See Pictures: Facebook
- Recommended Item: Conecuh Sausage Kolache
The Ruby Slipper Café
While it’s technically in Orange Beach, Ruby Slipper is a popular stop for visitors staying on the east side of Gulf Shores. Originally from New Orleans, this café is known for its creative takes on Southern brunch classics. The fluffy seasonal beignets or candied bacon bites are great shared plates to start. Follow it up with the Trifecta and get a true “taste of Ruby” with a sampling of their signature benedicts: Eggs Cochon, Chicken St. Charles, and Bayou Shrimp.
- Address: 24151 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL
- Hours: 7 AM – 2 PM Monday – Friday. Extended to 3 PM Saturday and Sunday
- Average Cost: $$
- Menu
- See Pictures: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
- Recommended Item: Eggs Benedict Trifecta or a delicious seasonal special
Plan Your Stay with Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals
Featured Property: Ola Vista
Planning where to eat is easy, finding a place big enough for your whole group is where Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals comes in. We specialize in large, family-friendly beach homes that give you the space to spread out, relax, and spend time together. Many of our properties are just a short drive from the breakfast spots on this list, and most come with full kitchens, private pools, and amenities designed for group travel. Whether you're vacationing with extended family or a big group of friends, our homes are built for gathering.
Browse our vacation rentals to find the one that fits your group best.
View All Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals
Frequently Asked Questions about Breakfast Places in Gulf Shores, AL
Are any breakfast places in Gulf Shores also open for lunch or dinner?
Yes. Several of the restaurants on this list serve more than just breakfast. Sunliner Diner, The Ruby Slipper, and Brick & Spoon all offer lunch menus, and Sunliner stays open into the evening as well.
Do any of these Gulf Shores breakfast places offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Most of these spots offer at least a few vegetarian-friendly options, such as pancakes, French toast, eggs, or avocado toast.
Do I need a reservation for breakfast places in Gulf Shores, or can I walk in?
Walk-ins are welcome at all the restaurants listed here, and most operate on a first-come, first-served basis. That said, places like Brick & Spoon and The Ruby Slipper can get busy on weekends and during peak vacation weeks, so if they offer a waitlist or call-ahead seating, it’s worth checking their websites or calling before you go.
Keep your Gulf Shores vacation planning going. Check out our list of Free Activities that come with each vacation rental!