Bushwhackers & Beach Days:

If there’s one frozen drink that perfectly captures the laid-back, sun-soaked vibe of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, it’s the legendary bushwhacker. Creamy, chocolatey, coconutty — and deceptively strong — this coastal cocktail has become a must-sip tradition for locals and vacationers alike.

A Little Bushwhacker Backstory

Though the original bushwhacker was technically born in the Virgin Islands, it’s the Alabama Gulf Coast that has truly embraced the drink and made it its own. Around here, it’s more than just a cocktail — it’s a beach day essential, served up in plastic cups and always best enjoyed with your toes in the sand.

Over the years, the bushwhacker has become a beloved part of the coastal culture in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Equal parts dessert and adult indulgence, it’s a frosty blend of rum, coffee liqueur, coconut cream, milk or ice cream, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Some spots get creative with extra flavors, toppings, or secret ingredients — but the vibe is always the same: smooth, strong, and totally beach-worthy.

Our Favorite Spots to Sip One

Want to try a bushwhacker while you're here? These local favorites serve up some of the best versions around:

 Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar

 Okay, yes, it straddles the Florida line — but it’s technically part Orange Beach and absolutely iconic. Their bushwhacker is strong, classic, and famous for a reason. Pro tip: pace yourself.

Avenue Pub – Orange Beach

Tucked away on Terry Cove, this waterfront gem is a local favorite for laid-back vibes, creative cocktails, and a killer bushwhacker. Their outdoor deck is perfect for sipping and sunset-watching.

 The Gulf – Orange Beach

Made from shipping containers and overlooking the pass, The Gulf is super chill with a modern coastal aesthetic. Their bushwhackers are icy, well-blended, and come with an unbeatable view.

More Than a Drink — It’s a Coastal Tradition

 Whether you’re sipping one under a beach umbrella, watching boats drift by, or enjoying it after a long day in the sun, a bushwhacker feels like a celebration. It’s part of the rhythm of the Gulf — a little indulgent, a little nostalgic, and totally unforgettable.

So next time you’re in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, skip the piña colada and order a bushwhacker instead. It’s our unofficial coastal cocktail, and we think you’ll love it as much as we do.

Published by Allisha Resmondo
Tuesday, April 29, 2025