NEW: Gulf State Park Pier now open to the public after hurricane damage repairs

The wait is over. After nine months of repair and renovations, the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier is open again for anglers and visitors alike.

Keep reading for the details on the new + improved pier.

9 months in the making

Officials closed the pier back in November of 2023 to do some heavy repairs to the pier after Hurricane Sally wiped out 200-some feet of the pier in 2020. Devastatingly, Sally’s destruction of the pier came weeks before it was set to unveil renovations.

The $13.6M project has been on the to-do list of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) since 2020 but took a while to secure permits and funding for the project.

Now the pier has officially reopened and unveiled those 2020 renovations and the newer 2024 upgrades, too. Also open—the restaurant, ByWater Beachside Beach Bar & Grill, located on the pier.

Visit for yourself

Address: 20800 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

The pier isn’t free to visit. Here’s a look at the admission pricing:

Sightseeing (day passes)

• Adult – $2
• Veteran – Free
• Children under 12 years – Free
• Gulf State Park Campground/Lodge Guests – Free 

Fishing (day passes)

• Adult – $9
• Veteran – $6
• Campground/Lodge Guest – $6
• Children under 12 years – Free

You can also purchase weekly, monthly and annual fishing passes. All anglers must have a saltwater fishing license to cast their line.

Planning a trip to Gulf Shores? Check out our latest stories on the beach town:

• Your ultimate fishing guide on Alabama’s beaches—snapper season + more
• 4 reasons to hit Alabama’s Beaches this Fall
• WorldAtlas says this Alabama downtown is one of the best on the coast

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