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As Florida hotels begin to fill up for March and April as Spring Breakers prepare to flock the Sunshine State’s Caribbean-like shores, Alabama makes for a great alternative with Gulf Shores leading the way.

With the popular beach town’s airport now beginning to offer commercial flights for the first time ever, it’s expected many travelers will take advantage to avoid Florida’s crowds, but this will surely create more crowds here as well.

The good news is Alabama’s coastline is among the most underrated in the nation with other idyllic hideaways such as Orange Beach and Fairhope hidden in plain sight.

Venturing a little deeper on the flip side of Mobile Bay lies a gleaming white-sand island, undoubtedly Alabama’s top hidden gem for your next beach vacation.

Alabama‘s ‘Sunset Capital’

The barrier island of Dauphin Island, not to be confused with how my niece pronounces “dolphin”, lies a few miles south of Mobile Bay along the Gulf of…America?

This scenic spot consists mostly of locals who wave goodbye to the hordes of vacationers in Gulf Shores in favor of this secret slice of paradise lined with bright white sand beaches along crystal blue waters crashing ashore.

According to Southern Living, Dauphin Island is the ‘Sunset Capital’ of Alabama. Whether it be lounging along Dauphin Island Public Beach, mingling with locals at the Dauphin Marina, or booking a boat tour, one thing you can’t miss is witnessing this cozy town of 2,000 residents illuminate orange come sundown.

The island reaches peak levels of visitors during summer, so spring is an excellent time to visit with splendid temps between 68 – 81 °F from March to May.

Wide-Open Beaches & Waterfront Cottages

Given how Dauphin Island is a beautiful well-kept secret, the results are wide open spaces from the “action” of town to the far-end West End Beach, where visitors will find bright white sugary sand.

Just south of the island is yet another remote retreat, Pelican Peninsula, holding a near-perfect 4.8 Google rating, where one recent visitor hinted, “A must visit early in the morning is the best”.

But the most popular of the island is the aforementioned Dauphin Island Public Beach and the easiest to reach.

The town’s often overlooked parks shouldn’t be missed either, whether it’s the staggering oak trees of Cadillac Square or tranquil kayaking explorations of Aloe Bay.

While you may find towering ritzy condos in Gulf Shores, Dauphin Island is more about down-home charm with plentiful cozy stays along the beach.

You’ll find numerous cottages and bed & breakfasts along the Gulf, such as Whale of a Tale, Inn at Dauphin Island, and Dauphin Island Harbor House.

The food scene is nothing to sleep on either with incredible seafood selections anchoring extensive menus — all authentic Mom n’ Pop style eateries like Pirate’s Bar & Grill; no eyesore chains in sight.

Dauphin Island’s Fascinating Historical Attractions

The South comes with the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to its deeply-rooted history.

Yes, some areas proudly boast Rebel Flags, while other delightful towns couldn’t be more welcoming, and that’s the category Dauphin Island belongs.

People couldn’t be more welcoming and seem to truly love their hidden beach town and proudly showcase some fascinating historical attractions ranging from archaeological sites to significant Civil War sites.

Fort Gaines is open to the public and offers sweeping views of the bay and Gulf. Guests can book an insightful tour of the well-preserved grounds of one of the most important sites of the Battle of Mobile Bay, where you can still see original cannons, tunnels, living quarters, and various remnants housed in the museum.

Another cool spot and unlike any other in the region is Indian Shell Mound Park. This archaeological site is home to prehistoric shell mounds, ancient trees, and some of the best hikes of Dauphin Island.

This indigenous site served Native communities centuries ago and still holds up today with leftover mounds of oyster shells to get a glimpse into the past of former ways of life.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Travelers are fickle. At one moment, we’re in search of winter sun, and the next we’re totally cool packing extra layers as long as we can witness Northern Lights, indulge in Christmas market delights, or hit the slopes in a magical mountain town.

Iceland may not tick off the latter as a ski destination, but it’s long been both mystical and mysterious to travelers worldwide, especially with easier connectivity over the last decade.

As such, more and more travelers couldn’t stifle their wanderlust impulses anymore, ultimately flocking to Iceland’s stunning waterfalls and famous Blue Lagoon and exploring the charming, vibrant streets of Reykjavik.

I had a blast the first time I visited Iceland, and I still consider this wondrous island to be my favorite country.

On my second trip, though…ehh, let’s just say the magic was lost when sharing space at waterfalls and black sand beaches as if I was a fish swimming upstream against a current of selfie sticks.

The good news is there’s a perfect alternative. Just as captivating with similar culture, otherworldly landscapes, and yes, unpredictable weather (so be ready), lies Europe’s lesser-known Faroe Islands, just highlighted by Yardbarker as a 2025 must-visit.

Europe’s Best Alternative To Iceland

The Faroe Islands boast all the same charm you find in Iceland except for a few quirks like Reykajvik’s museum dedicated to the male anatomy.

But, like Iceland, there are some shared quirks too, such as folklore legends of hidden elves living within society and endless streets with unpronounceable names like Tinghúsvegur.

As for similar attractions, expect to find unimaginably beautiful waterfalls like Múlafossur, rolling landscapes reminiscent of a Lord of the Rings film, hobbit-like homes, and yes, you can even get up close and personal with miniature horses.

One notable missing piece in comparison to Iceland is the famous Blue Lagoon, but as a visitor myself, I’d say you can skip it in favor of Iceland’s new hotspot Akureyri, where spas’ entry fees are slashed in half.

The Faroes don’t have any geothermal spas, but you can check out Varmakelda, known as “The Healing Spring,” which is said to ‘increase love and passion’ if you’re into that woo-woo stuff.

Some other notable plusses for The Faroes are:

• Saksun has black sand beaches similar to Iceland’s Vik
• There’s no ‘Ring Road’ like Iceland, but there’s an impressive Eysturoy Tunnel to connect islands
• For cheap eats, try a Faroese ‘French-style ‘hot dog, comparable to Iceland’s gas station staple
• Deeply-rooted Viking heritage; check out The Faroe Islands National Museum ($11 admission)
• The capital Torshavn; a spitting image of Reykjavik’s multi-colored rows of delightful streets

Reaching The Faroes & Where To Stay

The Faroe Islands might be blushing brighter than their vibrant, postcard-worthy red townscape.

Following Iceland’s footsteps, their flagship carrier Atlantic Airways launched the first-ever direct flight to the States in 2023, but has since been discontinued due to lack of interest.

One could argue serving New York’s lesser-known New York Stewart International Airport was a mistake, but the historic route never took off like Iceland’s Play Airlines.

The good news is there are still a variety of ways to reach The Faroes, including Atlantic Airways, with popular connecting hubs such as London, Paris, Barcelona, and yes, even Reykjavik, to double dip in similar destinations.

The Faroe Islands welcomed their first name-brand hotels in 2020, so you can use your points at Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands or opt for a more authentic feel, such as the aforementioned hobbit-like homes.

If I’m not cashing in Hilton points, I’d choose The View in Bøur, with astounding waterfront views in traditional sod-roofed houses.

The Faroes’ Stunning Coastal Villages

Torshavn makes a great base, just like Reykjavik would in Iceland, but paying a visit to the Faroes’ tiny villages might be the highlight of your trip.

Anyone who’s done deep research on where to go in the Faroes has to have Gjógv at the top of their list.

Named after a 200-meter-long sea-filled gorge, this blip on the map packs a punch with natural beauty as one of the best photo-worthy spots of Denmark’s autonomous nation.

Next would be Nólsoy, an island of its own just a half-hour ferry ride from Torshavn, beholding epic mountain views.

Mykines (open late spring through summer) is home to a fruitful Puffin population, a popular sightseeing excursion both here and in Iceland.

For the adventurous, the coastal village of Tjørnuvík is known as a surfer’s paradise. Pack a wetsuit!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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Now that the hassle of Thanksgiving and Black Friday have died down, winter plans are in full force.

As your electric bill continues to spike as you put your heater to good use, a better way to splurge is to book a sunny getaway.

How about an often-overlooked Texas coastal city with easy flight options, 70-degree beach days, and 100 miles of shorelines?

While many travelers flock to Florida as their beach destination of choice, you can experience fewer crowds and cheaper stays in one of the South’s most underrated escapes.

Corpus Christi is a vibrant city with a fascinating history ranging from pop icon tragedies to military might.

Better yet, the coast is a never-ending playground for all things beach-related: lounging, fishing, camping, you name it, or simply bringing the whole crew along for a warm winter vacation.

Corpus Christi‘s Surprising Urban Treasures

If you’ve never visited Corpus Christi, you may be surprised to find a towering skyline and revamped downtown district.

Those who’ve never paid a visit have probably heard of Corpus, but it’s often discussed as a small town.

That’s not the case. Over 300,000 people call this underrated beach haven home with 3 major airlines serving Corpus Christi International Airport.

Multiple downtown hotels have been given new life as well as a laundry list of new businesses slated to open.

No longer is downtown Corpus an urban ghost town; there’s plenty to see and do. Of course, you can’t explore downtown without taking a nice stroll along the 1.5 mile long ‘Seawall‘ lining Shoreline Blvd.

While downtown doesn’t boast the region’s nicest beach, it’s a great starting point at the very least. Overlooking Corpus Christi Bay, you can’t help but notice numerous Navy ships, which may pique your interest in touring the U.S.S. Lexington Museum ($20.95 admission).

This captivating ship is just scratching the surface of Corpus’ attractions as you can also visit:

• The Art Museum of South Texas
• Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
• South Texas Botanical Gardens
• Tejano Civil Rights Museum

Most notably, however, would be the Selena Museum, a tribute to the life of Corpus Christi’s very own Selena, a world-famous pop star tragically killed in her hometown in 1995.

Budget Travel Tip: Check out Corpus Christi’s recently updated list of ‘15 Free Things To Do‘.

100 Miles Of Shores

If you’re trying to narrow down your vacation options, let this be a selling point – 100 miles of shores.

Some more remote and spacious than others, there’s no question you’ll find a beach that matches your vibe.

If you drive to Corpus or rent a car, there are multiple beaches allowing vehicles with a permit. One of many reasons why both Mustang Island State Park ($7 admission) and Padre Island National Seashore ($10 admission) are the most popular beach getaways around here.

One that’s a sleeper, however, is JP Luby Beach – home to soft white sand, great surfing conditions, and evening campfires.

Although, a secret beach town beloved by Texans statewide is nearby Rockport. Offering a mix of small-town charm, historical sites, and idyllic coastlines, booking a Gulfside vacation rental here is never a bad idea.

Great Food And Affordable Stays

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and you’ll quickly see why when you dine out. It

It’s no different in Corpus, except the Texas-sized portions you’ll find are more of the seafood variety than quintessential barbecue and Mexican food.

Not to mention Texas’ favorite burger chain, Whataburger, which started right here in Corpus. There’s even a replica of the original storefront you can snap a selfie with.

As great (and humungous) as their burgers may be, my favorite eatery to pig out is Fajitaville.

Just as it sounds, order fajitas beachside at what’s essentially the ‘Fajita’ version of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville (but there are no ties).

And after you delight your tastebuds in Corpus’ delicious food scene, you’ll need a place to relax and recharge.

According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 5 hotels in Corpus Christi this winter: (ranked by value):

1. Omni Corpus Christi Hotel (my favorite!)
2. Hyatt Place Corpus Christi
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton Corpus Christi
4. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Corpus Christi
5. Hotel De Ville

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.