If you think jerky starts and ends with beef, you're missing out on one of the fastest-growing food trends on the Gulf Coast. At Gulf Coast House of Jerky, we've been introducing visitors and locals to the wild world of exotic jerky for years — and once people take their first bite of kangaroo or python, they never look at snacking the same way again.
Whether you're visiting Orange Beach or Gulf Shores for vacation, or you're a local looking for high-protein snacks made the old-fashioned way, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about exotic jerky — what it tastes like, why it's worth trying, and where to find the best selection on Alabama's Gulf Coast.
What Makes Exotic Jerky Different From Regular Beef Jerky?
Traditional beef jerky will always be a classic, but exotic jerky offers something you can't get from conventional proteins — unique flavor profiles, leaner nutrition, and a genuine adventure in every bite. Unlike mass-produced jerky you find at gas stations, our exotic varieties are made from whole muscle cuts with no preservatives, sliced from premium lean meat rather than ground or processed into strips.
Each exotic protein brings its own distinct texture and taste. Some are milder and more approachable, while others are bold and gamey. The one thing they all have in common? You won't find them anywhere else on the Gulf Coast.
A Safari Of Flavors: Our Most Popular Exotic Proteins
Alligator Jerky
A true taste of the South. Alligator jerky surprises most first-timers with its mild, slightly sweet flavor that's often compared to chicken but with a firmer, more satisfying chew. It's lean, high in protein, and low in fat — making it one of the healthiest snack options we carry. If you're new to exotic jerky, alligator is the perfect place to start.
Kangaroo Jerky
Kangaroo jerky is one of our best sellers for good reason. It's incredibly lean — even leaner than chicken breast — with a rich, slightly gamey flavor that pairs perfectly with our black pepper seasoning. It's a favorite among fitness enthusiasts looking for a clean protein source with no preservatives.
Python Jerky
This is the one that gets people talking. Peppered python jerky has a surprisingly mild, clean taste with a texture similar to chicken. It's the ultimate conversation starter and the number one souvenir our visitors take home to shock their friends and family back home.
Ostrich Jerky
Don't let the bird classification fool you — ostrich jerky tastes more like premium beef than poultry. It's incredibly tender, rich in iron, and lower in cholesterol than most red meats. If you love the taste of beef but want something leaner and more nutritious, ostrich is your answer.
Camel Jerky
One of the most unique proteins in our entire collection, camel jerky offers a slightly sweet, subtly gamey flavor that's unlike anything else. It's been enjoyed for centuries in other parts of the world, and now you can try it right here on the Gulf Coast.
Wild Boar Jerky
For those who love bold, robust flavors, wild boar jerky delivers. It's richer and more complex than pork, with a deep, savory taste that our black pepper seasoning complements perfectly. A favorite among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Snapping Turtle Jerky
This is about as adventurous as it gets. Snapping turtle jerky is a true rarity that most people have never even heard of, let alone tried. With a unique flavor that's hard to compare to anything else, it's the ultimate pick for the most daring snackers in your group.
You can browse our full exotic jerky collection to see every variety we carry.
Beyond Land: Our Premium Fish Jerky Selection
Our fish jerky collection is another category that sets us apart from every other jerky shop in the region. We offer a range of ocean-inspired flavors that seafood lovers and jerky fans alike can't get enough of.
- Peppered Ahi Tuna and Teriyaki Ahi Tuna — rich, meaty, and packed with omega-3s
- Peppered Salmon and Teriyaki Salmon — a flavorful twist on an everyday favorite
- Lemon Pepper Swordfish — bright, zesty, and unlike any jerky you've ever tried
- Peppered Mako Shark and Sriracha Shark — bold and powerful, just like the predator itself
- Original Trout Sticks — a classic, easy-to-enjoy option for fish jerky newcomers
Classic Favorites: Beef, Buffalo & Turkey Jerky
Of course, not every visit needs to be an exotic adventure. Our traditional jerky lineup is made with the same commitment to quality — whole muscle cuts, no preservatives, and vacuum-sealed freshness.
Our beef jerky collection includes crowd favorites like Black Pepper Beef, Sweet & Spicy Beef, and Original Beef Lovers.
Our buffalo jerky is another top seller. Try the Hot Buffalo or the Teriyaki Buffalo for a leaner alternative to beef with incredible flavor.
Turkey jerky fans will love our Black Pepper Turkey and Teriyaki Turkey — perfect for lighter snacking without sacrificing taste.
South African Biltong: A Different Take On Dried Meat
If you've never tried biltong, you're in for a treat. This traditional South African dried meat is air-dried rather than smoked, resulting in a softer, more tender texture with a deeper, more concentrated beef flavor. Our Original Biltong and Droëwors are authentic preparations that biltong fans travel from all over to buy.
Plant-Based & Specialty Options
We believe everyone deserves a great jerky experience. That's why we carry Louisville Vegan Jerky for our plant-based customers, along with our unique Brown Sugar Pineapple Jerky for something completely different.
We also stock hot sauces, BBQ rubs, seasonings, Uncle Bud's Fried Peanuts, and curated gift baskets that make perfect souvenirs or gifts for the jerky lover in your life.
Visit Us In Orange Beach & Gulf Shores
Gulf Coast House of Jerky has two convenient locations to serve you. Our Orange Beach store is located at The Wharf, and our Gulf Shores location is on Gulf Shores Parkway. Both stores offer free samples so you can taste before you buy — and trust us, you'll want to try more than one.
Can't make it in person? No problem. You can shop our entire selection online at gulfcoasthouseofjerky.com and we'll ship your favorites anywhere in the United States. Many of our customers discover us on vacation and become lifelong online shoppers because they simply can't find kangaroo, python, or shark jerky anywhere else back home.
Ready to start your adventure? Browse our exotic jerky collection and find your new favorite today.
