15 Top-Rated Resorts in Alabama

Author Anietra Hamper traveled around Alabama, from the cities to the shorelines, experiencing some of the best accommodations in the state.

The resort options in Alabama complement the experiential diversity found throughout the state. From historic sites and golf courses to the beach scene along the Gulf Coast, Alabama serves up the kind of luxury accented with good ol’ Southern charm that makes for a vacation you will never forget.

Eight of Alabama’s resorts sit along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, with more than 26 courses and 468 holes of championship golf. Other Alabama resorts make the white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast their backyard. Some resorts offer rustic luxury and tucked-away seclusion in the middle of the urban scene.

For ideas on the best place to stay, see our list of the top resorts in Alabama.

1. The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection

It is tough to beat the combination of the beach with world-class golf and the deep Southern roots of The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa near Mobile. The resort was built in 1847 attracting famous guests over the years like Margaret Thatcher, Dolly Parton, and NFL players. It is also a member of the Historic Hotels of America.

Overlooking Mobile Bay, The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa is on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. It has two golf courses and offers private lessons and clinics.

It does not take much convincing to indulge in a massage or facial at the 20,000-square-foot spa, play a game on one of the 10 tennis courts, or learn how to make a gourmet meal in a cooking class with the resort’s chef.

Guest rooms and suites have views of Mobile Bay or the marina, and many have private balconies. Choose from varieties of restaurants and food-to-go, whether it’s a burger or fine dining.

During your stay, make a point to head to the hotel lobby before 4pm each day to watch the firing of the cannon to honor those who passed in this historic district. Before nightfall take a walk on the Boardwalk for stunning views at Julep Point.

Address: One Grand Blvd., Point Clear, Alabama

2. Perdido Beach Resort

Accommodation: Perdido Beach Resort

Few morning experiences can compare to the salty ocean breeze blowing into your Perdido Beach Resort room and the sound of seagulls gearing up for the day. The resort is located on the Gulf Coast in Orange Beach, with a private white-sand beachfront, so it is never very crowded.

The guest rooms and larger suites with one or two bedrooms have a range of floor plans. Club Level suites come with extra amenities like club lounge access with breakfast included and Gulf views from the balcony.

This family-friendly resort is also popular with couples who want beachfront access and all of the typical amenities of a resort, like fine dining.

There are four restaurants on the grounds. If you are craving pizza the Perdido Beach Pizza Company offers some of the best slices on the island. Latitude 30, which is open for breakfast and dinner, focuses on reimagined American classics. The family-friendly restaurant does a range of soups, salads, and sandwiches, as well as entrees like grilled chicken pasta alfredo or steak and fries.

Besides walking the soft sand of the beach, water sports and excursions like dolphin cruises and sunset cruises are popular and easy to arrange through the resort concierge. The lagoon-style pool often has live entertainment, so you can relax in the hot tub while enjoying local music.

If you’re an early riser, you can watch many of the local blue herons early in the morning by the coastline.

Address: 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, Alabama

3. Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

Accommodation: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

If you’re an avid golfer, you will want to see one of the longest golf courses in the world at the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. Located in Birmingham, the par-72 course is 8,191 yards long and one of the most sought-after courses in the world.

Even if you are not an expert golfer, lessons are available, as well as a driving range to hone your skills while visiting.

The grand resort has rooms and suites that overlook the long fairways and rolling landscape. There are even indoor and outdoor saltwater pools with waterfalls and comfortable chairs to spend an afternoon. If you need a bit of pampering, you can book a day at the full-service Spa at Ross Bridge.

The resort features a number of different dining options. Check out The Clubhouse Restaurant for its classic American favorites, including excellent burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. Brock’s Restaurant does a large daily breakfast buffet for an extra fee.

During your stay, head into downtown Birmingham to experience the local food scene or enjoy one of the attractions, like Red Mountain Park, the Birmingham Zoo, or the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.

Address: 4000 Grand Avenue, Birmingham, Alabama

4. The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa

Accommodation: The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa

For a historic Southern experience with the feel of a boutique property and luxury amenities, The Battle House Renaissance Hotel & Spa checks all the boxes. The hotel is located in downtown Mobile, so you are close to city attractions like the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park and historic districts, as well as restaurants.

The guest rooms and suites are spacious and decorated with Southern-style décor. The full-service spa is where you can spend a day with a package of relaxation, including customized facials, and get pampered at the salon before a night out on the town.

One of the unique features of the resort is the rooftop fitness center and pool with a panoramic view of the city.

There are also a few different dining options. Check out the Royal Street Tavern for live piano music and a menu of shared plates. The Trellis Room is one of the popular options on-site serving made-from-scratch Italian dishes.

Address: 26 North Royal Street, Mobile, Alabama

5. Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, Autograph Collection

Accommodation: Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, Autograph Collection

The Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook is a luxury boutique hotel that has a feel of seclusion, but you are only steps away from all the attractions in Birmingham. Every element of the resort has a touch of elegance, from the marble bathrooms and the décor of the full-service Poseidon Spa to the outdoor swimming pool.

Take part in a cooking class at the Habitat Cooking School or just enjoy the fine dining that focuses on farm-to-table specialties using locally sourced, seasonal food. For an added treat and a spectacular view of the grounds, you can dine at the rooftop restaurant and terrace.

The hotel features a unique art gallery known as the Kessler Collection with works from both international and local artists. It is worth allowing time just to grab a cup of coffee and stroll around the property, where you can experience the outdoor sculpture garden.

Address: 2655 Lane Park Road, Birmingham, Alabama

6. Turquoise Place

Accommodation: Turquoise Place

It is nearly impossible to miss Turquoise Place along the Orange Beach, Alabama coastline. This towering glass resort, flushed in a hue of turquoise, is as elegant in appearance as it is in accommodations. Panoramic views of the coast, condominium lodging, and private balconies are just the beginning of the Turquoise Place experience.

This resort is ideal for families looking for week-long oceanfront accommodations. Most of the units sleep six to 14 people and have multiple bedrooms, making it perfect for different groups or family units traveling together.

The resort’s concierge service can plan excursions, from sunset and dolphin cruises to water sports like fishing. The resort also offers poolside cabanas that face the Gulf, and beach chair and umbrella rentals.

If you do not feel like going out for dinner, no problem, just pick up some cookout fare and grill out on your private balcony while you watch the sunset on the beach. Then relax in your private balcony hot tub.

Address: 26302 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, Alabama

7. Island House Hotel Orange Beach – a DoubleTree by Hilton

Accommodation: Island House Hotel Orange Beach – a DoubleTree by Hilton

Sitting right on the Gulf of Mexico, the Island House Hotel Orange Beach makes going to the beach easy. Guest rooms have balconies, so you don’t miss the epic Gulf Coast sunrises and sunsets, but there are different amenities available. For a special getaway, you can book a penthouse room that gives you additional space and the ultimate in luxury.

There is a restaurant on-site that serves American fare and a coffee shop that is always open. Though you are just steps from the beach, where you will likely spend a lot of your time, the resort also features an outdoor pool and fitness center. If you are looking for some active outdoor experiences, you can book a local boating or fishing excursion.

Gulf State Park is only a few miles away, which is a nice day option close to the resort to experience the outdoor activities there and see some of the local wildlife.

Address: 26650 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, Alabama

8. Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National

Accommodation: Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National

The Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National overlooks the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Opelika, Alabama. The resort sits in the countryside, with stunning landscape views of Lake Saugahatchee. Many guests come here for the golf and to experience the Grand National Golf Club located next door.

There are three golf courses, along with putting greens and a driving range. The resort décor is regionally inspired and includes works commissioned by local artists.

Whether you choose to relax on the balcony of your room, enjoy the luxurious indoor and outdoor pools, hit one of the tennis courts, or work in a spa treatment, there is no shortage of ways to wind down at the resort.

During your stay, take a stroll into the quaint and historic city of Opelika to visit some of the local boutiques along Main Street.

Address: 3700 Robert Trent Jones Trail, Opelika, Alabama

9. Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa

Accommodation: Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa

In the heart of the Muscle Shoals region of Alabama is the grand Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. This luxury upscale hotel is decorated throughout with authentic music memorabilia, and showcases the deep roots here of musicians like Otis Redding, Percy Sledge, and Aretha Franklin.

All the rooms and suites either have a private balcony or patio where you can enjoy breakfast delivered, or you can head downstairs to the buffet to sample local specialties, like chocolate gravy over your biscuits.

The full-service spa and the indoor and outdoor pools are popular amenities for guests in between visits to local attractions like the FAME recording studio.

For a special treat, have a gourmet dinner at the revolving 360 Grille, located on top of the Renaissance Tower, with stunning sunset views over the city and Wilson Lake.

Address: 10 Hightower Place, Florence, Alabama

10. Pursell Farms

Accommodation: Pursell Farms

For authentic Southern hospitality, you cannot beat Pursell Farms. It gives you a unique combination of all-out luxury and the historic flavor of the south. Located in Sylacauga, the rolling farmland is picturesque and ideal for a challenging round of golf on the Farmlinks course.

The resort accommodations are luxury cabins that represent Southern architecture all the way down to the rocking chairs on the porch. The Spring House Spa is full-service, so you can relax with a hot stone massage after a long morning walk on the spacious property.

While the resort has every touch of luxury, its charm comes from the family feel of the accommodations and staff. Be sure to enjoy the gourmet, farm-to-table meals created by the resort chef using fresh seasonal ingredients.

Address: 386 Talladega Springs Road, Sylacauga, Alabama

11. Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel

Accommodation: Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel

Connected by a skywalk to the Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center in Mobile’s downtown business and entertainment district, the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel offers a four-star-resort experience. The trendy property blends Southern charm with a modern ambience, and has views of Mobile Bay.

Choose from a range of rooms and suites. All are spacious and contemporary with a designer vibe. Go all out and book the presidential suite, which has multiple rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and amenities like an in-room pool table.

Amenities here include a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, a sauna, and a fitness center. Guests can also book a round of championship golf at one of the two courses on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail that are not far from the hotel.

12. The Westin Huntsville

Accommodation: The Westin Huntsville

The Westin Huntsville is the most luxe hotel in the city. Connected to the Bridge Street Town Centre and located in the Cummings Research Park, the AAA four-diamond property has a central location for exploring Huntsville. It is also less than three miles from the US Space and Rocket Center.

Rooms and suites are cozy and modern with contemporary art, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sitting areas with a comfy couch and workspace. Suites add even more space. If you are traveling with a dog, the Westin is pet friendly.

The brand puts an emphasis on health, and you’ll find a 24-hour fitness studio with top-of-the-line equipment. There is also a seasonal outdoor pool and a year-round indoor pool, a restaurant serving American fare, and a café on-site. Parking is free, and the front desk is open 24 hours.

13. Caribe Resort

Accommodation: Caribe Resort

If you are looking for a room with a view, just about every view is perfect from the rooms at the Caribe Resort on Orange Beach. You start every day with a wake-up call from the ocean outside.

Besides luxury and spacious rooms and suites, the resort features a lazy river, private beach trolley service, tennis and bocce ball courts, tiered outdoor pools, and putting greens.

This large resort caters to both families and honeymooners with a range of activity options that suit each kind of vacation, including zero-entry kiddie pools and hot tubs.

Cobalt Restaurant next to the resort features some of the best seafood you will find in Orange Beach with incredible sunset views from beneath the Perdido Bay Bridge.

Address: 28103 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach Alabama

14. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center

Accommodation: Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center

The artistically decorated Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa is a luxurious way to experience Alabama’s state capital. You can stay on the property and retreat to the spa for a day of pampering, or order room service and admire the perfect views of downtown from the grand windows in your guest room.

Take a walk outside your door to experience local attractions like Civil Rights sites, performing arts venues, and homemade Southern-style cooking at local restaurants.

Return in the evening to enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool or relax in the hot tub.

Address: 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, Alabama

15. Chesnut Bay Resort

Accommodation: Chesnut Bay Resort

The Chesnut Bay Resort in Leesburg is a different kind of upscale getaway in Alabama. Instead of a grand resort, guests stay in luxury lakefront homes on the fringe of Weiss Lake. Homes range from two to six bedrooms, surrounded by woods and modern amenities.

On-site activities are steps from your door and include swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnics. The resort also has two swimming pools for a comfortable day in the sun. The accommodations are suitable for families and family reunions or couples looking for a romantic getaway.

Stop by the Chesnut Bay Outfitters general store and welcome center upon arrival to stock up on snacks and get insider tips about the property and activities.

Address: 4480 County Road 44, Leesburg, Alabama

Map of Resorts in Alabama