7 things you might not know about an iconic Alabama beach bar that just turned 70
From bushwackers to sunset views, this beloved Alabama beach bar has kept the crowds coming for decades.
Chloe Mitchell 
Get your party gear ready! A true Alabama landmark is celebrating a massive milestone, reaching 70 years of serving up good vibes and even better food along the Gulf Coast.
The legendary Pink Pony Pub in Gulf Shores officially toasted seven decades of business on May 6. To celebrate this historic run, 205focus.com is diving into the history and quirks that make this beachside staple a must-visit destination.
From the story behind its iconic name to where its famed bushwacker stands against the competition, here are seven things you might not know about the Pink Pony Pub.
1. A Family Affair
The Pink Pony Pub got its start in the 1950s as part of the Calloway family’s Seahorse Cottages. Bruce Mernik later purchased the cottages, remodeled the space, and launched the pub in 1956.
2. Humble Beginnings
When the pub first opened its doors, Gulf Shores was a much quieter place. According to the Tuscaloosa News, the town boasted a population of only 120 residents at the time.
3. The Story Behind the Name
The branding of the pub is a direct homage to its roots. Bruce’s mother, Marybelle Mernik, chose the name as a tribute to the original Seahorse brand.
4. Hurricane Resilience
The original iteration of the pub was lost in 1979 when Hurricane Frederic battered the coast, taking the old wooden pier with it. Rebuilt with concrete, the structure has stood firm against the elements for decades since.
5. Southern Recognition
The pub remains a top-tier destination, earning a spot in Southern Living’s top 10 list for the South’s Best Beach Bars last year.
The publication praised its "eye-catching bubblegum-pink exterior" and famous pony mural, noting that the spot offers more than just a drink—with a menu featuring everything from fresh crab claws to steaks.
6. The Best Bushwacker in Town
While the bushwacker—a creamy blend of Coconut rum, Irish cream, and vanilla—is a staple across the Gulf, the Pink Pony Pub version holds a special distinction. It earned the top spot in a Mobile Bay Magazine roundup that tested more than 20 local restaurants.
7. Sunset Views
Positioned just feet from the water, it is widely considered one of the premier spots to watch the sunset. The pub even features a live countdown clock for sunset on its website, a daily reminder to get your seat early for the best view in Gulf Shores.
