Like many coastal communities , tourism plays a major role in the local economy of Gulf Shores . The 2010 BP oil spill was expected to severely affect both local real estate and beach tourism . However , after a rough year , the tourism economy in Gulf Shores appears to have returned to pre-spill levels . In October 2011 , the city began a branding campaign to help it stand out from other coastal destinations in the area
2010 BP oil spill
Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Gulf Shores, Alabama