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When you’re cruising the Alabama Gulf Coast and exploring all that the Alabama Beaches area has to offer, there’s one icy concoction you’ll stumble upon time and time again—the Bushwacker! It’s a frosty, boozy blend of rum, coffee liqueur, crème de cacao, and ice cream (or milk). Each spot puts its own twist on it, so let’s dive into the top 7 Bushwackers in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama so you know the best places to grab this local delight while soaking in the beachy vibes.
Pink Pony Pub
Kick things off with a Gulf Shores classic! The Pink Pony Pub has been serving up beachfront fun for decades, and its Bushwacker is the perfect companion for a day in the sun. Grab a seat on their deck overlooking the water and sip on this creamy goodness while enjoying live music and the salty air. It’s the quintessential beach bar experience! Pink Pony Pub has been able to withstand multiple hurricanes and natural disasters and continues to provide a fun atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Flora-Bama
If you’re only going to try one Bushwacker on this list (though why stop at one?), make it the legendary version at Flora-Bama. Known nationwide for its beach party vibes, this spot straddles the Alabama-Florida state line and cranks out a Bushwacker that’s practically famous. It’s a rite of passage for anyone visiting the area, and with live music and a massive space to explore, you’ll find yourself hanging out here long after the last sip. Pair your trip to Flora-Bama with one of their many annual events including a Polar Bear Dip, Boozy Adult Spelling Bee, Interstate Mullet Toss & Beach party, and many more event options to make it an even more memorable experience.
Avenue Pub
Looking for a unique take on the traditional Bushwacker? Head over to Avenue Pub and try their Blonde Bushwacker! This creamy vodka-based version is smoother than most and a fun twist on the original recipe. While most Bushwackers are rum-based, Avenue Pub is serving up a vodka-based version with vanilla vodka, Frangelico, and ice cream. Add a vanilla bean 100-proof topper and sip it on their patio while watching boats drift by—because nothing says “vacation” like a waterfront view and a drink in hand.
CoastAL
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to mix your favorite dessert with a cocktail, CoastAL has you covered. Their Bushwacker Tiramisu is a sweet, indulgent spin on the classic drink, perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Pair it with some fresh seafood or their filet mignon and you’ve got yourself the perfect beachside meal. CoastAL also offers the classic Bushwacker as an adult beverage as well, but is one of the few areas in Alabama Beaches that has gotten creative and also offered this iconic beverage in dessert form.
High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas
Over at High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas, they are offering up their own unique twists on the traditional Bushwacker. While mostly known for their daiquiri and mimosa flavors and flights, High Tide is offering up four flavors of the beloved Bushwacker that you can try in a flight as well. You’ll get to experience classic, strawberry, banana, and peanut butter flavors all in one convenient flight. Don’t forget to rent a duck or swam pedal boat at High Tide as well for some fun on the water before your flights!
The Original Oyster House
The Original Oyster House is known for its amazing seafood and homemade seafood gumbo which is an old Mobile Bay recipe, the Bushwacker here pairs perfectly with a plate of fresh oysters or a giant shrimp po’boy. It’s creamy, can easily pass as a dessert with all the chocolate syrup and cherry on top, and is strong enough to remind you that you’re officially on vacation.
Cobalt
Nestled right on the water, Cobalt is where you can sip a Bushwacker while watching the sunset over the bay. Their version is refreshingly smooth, making it the perfect way to cap off a day of exploring Orange Beach especially if you take a boat cruise or adventure out on the water kayaking or parasailing. And with a beautiful waterfront location, it’s also an Instagram-worthy spot to snap a pic of your frosty treat.
Honorable Mention: Pirate’s Cove
Now, we couldn’t leave out this local gem! Pirate’s Cove is tucked away in Elberta and is a legendary dive bar that you won’t want to miss. Their Bushwacker is famous among boaters and locals alike, and it’s the perfect refreshment after a day on the water. It’s got a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path vibe, making it a must-visit for the true Bushwacker aficionado.
No matter where you go to enjoy your next or first Bushwhackers, these seven spots (plus a bonus!) are where you can enjoy a quality Bushwacker along the Alabama Beaches. Each one offers a slightly different twist on this local classic, so why not make it a mission to try them all? Cheers to sandy toes, sunshine, and Bushwackers!
Looking for places to stay in the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach area? Check out my Top 3 Places to Stay in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
