Orange Beach’s First Beachfront Rooftop Lounge Coming to AC Hotel
Alabama’s Gulf Coast has long been known for its iconic beachfront spots — the Flora-Bama, The Hangout, Pink Pony Pub, and newer favorites like Coastal Orange Beach and The Gulf. What it has never had, until now, is a true rooftop lounge overlooking the sugar-white sand and emerald water.
That is about to change.
The AC Hotel Orange Beach, a six-story, 100-room Marriott property planned for 23370 Perdido Beach Boulevard, will feature a 3,500-square-foot rooftop lounge when it opens in the second quarter of 2028. The lounge will be open to both hotel guests and the public — making it the first of its kind on Alabama’s beachfront.
Zach Hoyt, president of Gulf Shores-based A&R Development, described the rooftop space as “an experience that doesn’t exist anywhere in the market today.” The venue is designed more as an upscale lounge than a traditional bar. It will connect to eight of the hotel’s guest rooms, hold a maximum of 100 people, and feature primarily indoor seating with a smaller outdoor patio. Music will stay inside, with no plans for loud bands. The outdoor patio is expected to close around 10 p.m., and the lounge itself around 11 p.m.
Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon has expressed support for the concept, noting that neighboring property owners are comfortable with the plans and that the lounge will not become a noisy late-night venue.
“It won’t affect anyone negatively to open it up for the public. It’s a nice place to go on a Friday or Saturday night. No loud music or bands.”
— Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon
The project also replaces a long-standing beachfront eyesore. The former Romar Beach Baptist Church site was heavily damaged by Hurricane Sally in 2020 and had remained vacant. The new AC Hotel will be the first ground-up Marriott hotel built along the Alabama beachfront.
Beth Gendler, president and CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, welcomed the addition:
“Anytime something new comes to our community, we are excited, whether it’s a new lodging option, dining experience or attraction. Not only does it bring new options for our visitors, but more employment opportunities to boost the local economy from both sides.”
Hotel demand along the coast remains strong. In recent spring months, hotel occupancy averaged 74–77 percent, well ahead of vacation rental occupancy. New elevated experiences like this rooftop lounge help keep the destination competitive and appealing to both leisure travelers and those seeking something a little more refined.
What This Means for the Market
Projects like the AC Hotel signal continued confidence in Orange Beach. Replacing underutilized or damaged properties with quality lodging and unique amenities supports property values, increases visitor spending, and adds jobs. For homeowners and investors, it is another sign that the area continues to attract thoughtful development that enhances the overall coastal experience.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with an opening targeted for the second quarter of 2028. When it does, visitors will finally be able to enjoy a rooftop sunset over the Gulf of America, something Alabama’s beaches have never offered before.
We’re excited to watch this project take shape and look forward to the elevated experiences it will bring to Orange Beach.
Posted by Lorraine Gatti onEnjoy this blog post? Click here to subscribe for updates
Leave A Comment