Eat Royal Red Shrimp
Royal reds are deep-water Gulf shrimp hauled from a thousand feet down, and they don’t taste like the shrimp you know — they’re sweet, rich, and almost lobster-like, to the point that first-timers accuse the kitchen of pulling a switch. They’re a Gulf Coast specialty you rarely see far from the water because they’re best absurdly fresh.
| Cost | market price |
|---|---|
| Time needed | a meal |
| Best season | best when the boats are running |
| Where | Gulf Coast · South Alabama |
Common questions
When's the best time to visit Gulf Shores & Bon Secour?
Best season: best when the boats are running.
How much does it cost?
market price. Prices drift — confirm before you go.
How long should I plan for?
Plan for about a meal.
Is it actually worth the trip?
Our rating: Worth the drive. Shrimp that taste like lobster and that most of the country has never heard of. Alabama's best-kept seafood secret.
One of 120 in Kick the Bucket List: Alabama
The full book is 120 checkable picks like this one — with a Bucket Rating on every entry telling you what's worth the drive and what to skip. A keepsake you fill in and score.
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Non-negotiableVerified 2026-07. Prices and hours change — confirm before you drive. Something wrong? Tell us.