Which Gulf Coast state has the best beaches? (hotels, shop)

[Borntoolate85]

In response to the East Coast beaches thread along with the fact that my family will be vacationing in this area in June, I want you to post your thoughts about the beaches of the Gulf Coast. Consider in the following order:

-Quality of beaches
-Attractions
-Shopping
-Dining
-Hotels
-Nightlife

[allenk893]

It's quite obvious the answer is Florida. No comparison anywhere in the country. From the panhandle to the east and not to mention the carribbean islands right next door. Why is this even a question?

[HtownLove]

Originally Posted by allenk893

It's quite obvious the answer is Florida. No comparison anywhere in the country. From the panhandle to the east and not to mention the carribbean islands right next door. Why is this even a question?

The Caribbean islands are not on the Gulf side though, they are on the Caribbean Sea side

[allenk893]

Originally Posted by HtownLove

The Caribbean islands are not on the Gulf side though, they are on the Caribbean Sea side

Hence the reason I said carribbean. I was simply pointing out we have several islands next door to us. People on the gulf can drive out to the east and then take a plane to the islands.

[Chicago60614]

I've found they generally get better as you go from west to east. Less browness and muddy water.

[HtownLove]

Originally Posted by Chicago60614

I've found they generally get better as you go from west to east. Less browness and muddy water.

yeah, The Mississippi pumps out quite a lot of silt that travels for miles and miles

[kidphilly]

Why is this only the Panhandle of Florida - the best Gulf coast beaches are on the west coast of Florida not on the panhandle

[HtownLove]

Originally Posted by kidphilly

Why is this only the Panhandle of Florida - the best Gulf coast beaches are on the west coast of Florida not on the panhandle

Nowadays they stop the Gulf Coast at Tallahassee. They no longer consider the Western edge of Florida the Gulf Coast I guess.

[WestbankNOLA]

In order:
1. Florida
2. Alabama
3. Mississippi
4. Texas.
5. Louisiana

The farther you get from New Orleans in either direction the better they get. Thank the Mississippi River and BP.

[annie_himself]

Seriously, why is this even a question? Florida walks all over the other states. Mississippi and Alabama have, what, 60 miles of shores?! Louisiana is mostly marsh and wetlands and then there's Galveston...