If you need a little sand and sun, look no further than Alabama’s Gulf Coast for your next beach vacation. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, two picturesque coastal towns, have all the sand and sun you could ask for. In addition to the beach, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have plenty to do. Before you plan your trip, check out our tips for visiting Alabama beaches.
Things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Two of Alabama’s most popular beach towns, Gulf and Orange Beach, are virtually synonymous with each other. With over 32 miles of beachfront space, there’s a place for everyone on the beach. Beyond just enjoying the sand and sun, the things to do in Gulf Shores should definitely be added to your to-do list.
1. Water sports
More active vacationers will enjoy the opportunity to get active in the stunning Gulf waters. From kayaking to parasailing and even diving, you’ll never run out of options to choose which water sport to participate in.
2. Hiking or biking
Gulf Shores is home to Gulf State Park.connect From Gulf Shores to Orange Beach Traverse 26 trails spread over the park’s 28 miles. These trails allow visitors to experience nature by bike or on foot, as well as Alabama’s diverse ecosystems.
3. Dolphin Cruise
Dolphin cruises are popular because they offer unique views of exciting species without getting wet. Many cruises offer food and beverage options. Some even have a pirate theme. Advance reservations are highly recommended as these cruises have limited capacity.
4. Visit Historic Fort Morgan
Fort Morgan has protected Mobile Bay since 1834. He served in four wars, including the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II. The fort features a “living history” program and personal belongings of soldiers who served at the fort.
5. Go to the wharf
The Wharf is located in Orange Beach and with so many activities available, it’s a great destination for families and groups. The iconic Ferris wheel offers sweeping views of the city, which looks stunning at dusk. Other activities include a movie theater, ax throwing, and an escape room.
6. Build a sandcastle
Ever wanted to build a professional sandcastle? Now you can! sandcastle college No matter where you are in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, we will come to you and teach you how to build incredible sandcastles! All classes are private and we provide all the equipment you need .
7. Golf on award-winning courses
Alabama’s Gulf Coast has some great trails. Designed by golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jerry Pate and Earl Stone, these courses are ideal for perfecting your swing.
8. Go to the Mini Golf Course
Or take the family to one of the area’s many mini-golf courses. Tiki’s Mini-Golf offers $5 games and bike rentals. If pirates are faster, check out the pirate island treasures. For indoor fun, try Jurassic Golf and play with glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs.
9. Fish for dinner
Fishermen of all skill can cast a line into the bay. Look for more in the spring, as bluefish, cedar and pompano are more prominent at that time of year. After your fishing adventure, cook up your catch at restaurants like Fresh Off the Boat and Sassy Bass Amazing’ Grill!
10. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
home to about 200 different species, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo He was the star of Animal Planet’s 2006 documentary The Little Zoo That Could. Just six miles (6 miles) from the beach, you can see many exotic animals, participate in educational activities, or stroll through the zoo at your leisure.
11. Segway sightseeing
Coastal Segway Adventures offers a unique way to see the nature and wildlife of Gulf State Parks. Your 2-hour guided tour begins with an instruction on how to ride a Segway, then descends the Hugh S. Branion Backcountry Trail to see eagles, foxes, butterflies, and even alligators.
12. Take a tour with Hammocktime Tiki Tours
Enjoy a 2- to 4-hour tour of Orange Beach by boat. Rest in a hammock onboard or get into the water during the tour’s planned stops. There is a toilet on board, and you can bring your own drinks!
13. Learn about iconic bushwhackers
The Surfside Shuttle is a great way to sample the famous Bushwhacker drink served at many of the Gulf Coast’s bars and restaurants. Bushwhacker is an alcoholic beverage similar to Mudslide, and there’s a lot of debate about who drinks it best in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
14. Large Tropic Falls
If you’re only a short drive to Foley, Alabama, you’ll have a theme park and a water park in one place. OWA, which means “big water” in Muskogee Creek, has an indoor water park, Tropic Falls and more than 20 theme park rides and attractions.
15. Eat Your Heart Out
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have many great restaurants to visit. Family-friendly restaurants include Lulu’s Gulf Shores, The Hangout, The Gulf, Gulf Shores and Tacky Jacks in Orange Beach.
For a more ‘grown-up’ feel, try Perdido Beach Resort, Bar 45, The Beach Club Kitchen and Cocktails, and Voyager’s at Cobalt The Restaurant.
This list is not exhaustive, but we hope it gives you some ideas of fun things to do in Gulf Shores on your next trip.
This article was written and distributed by Wealth of Geeks.
Sarah is a professional travel writer, on the road with sara, a travel website focused on family experiences in the travel sector. She created her website as a resource for families who want to maximize their vacation together. In addition to managing her own site, Sarah is also a freelance writer for Insider, Condé Nast Her Traveler, YahooLife, MSN, Wealth of Geeks and other outlets.
