Sandy and picturesque Gulf Shores, under an hour’s drive from the Florida Panhandle border, is custom made for families looking for fun activities, couples seeking a romantic getaway, anglers angling to get out on the water, and beachgoers longing for the warm, calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a great place to rediscover Alabama and bask in pleasant southern temperatures. Along with plenty of activities, visitors can enjoy some of the region’s best southern dishes. Here are 10 fun things to do in Gulf Shores.
10 Search For Seashells
The Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area is perfect for those who love to search for seashells. Alabama Point, located within the Gulf State Park Beach, is particularly known for its abundance of shells. Seekers will find clam, oyster, and mussel shells, plus sand dollars, moon snails, and angel wings, among others, to bring home as souvenirs. Explore along the water’s edge at low tide.
9 Go Fishing
In addition to popular shellfish like shrimp and lobster, anglers in Gulf Shores will find king mackerel and Spanish mackerel, red snapper, grouper, and others depending on the season. Fishermen can go out with one of the many charter boats available, or fish right off the beach or off of a pier. Some restaurants in the town will even prepare a fisherman’s fresh catch.
8 Watch The Sunset
Romantics will want to head to the Gulf State Park fishing pier where they can take in the panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico and watch the sun slowly slip below the horizon. Waterfront restaurants also offer great views of the sunset, or visitors can view the colorful event from the beach then head to dinner afterward.
7 Try Parasailing
Adventure seekers can take wing over the blue-green Gulf of Mexico with a parasailing activity offered by several local companies in Gulf Shores. Get great views of the water, the sandy coastline and, for those especially lucky visitors, some marine life in the water below. Trips usually last a half-hour and will cost roughly $40 per person.
6 Look For Wildlife
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is the place to go for those looking to see area wildlife. It’s a coastal barrier habitat and home to several turtle species, like green, loggerhead and Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles. The region also is a major stopover habitat for migratory birds in spring and fall. Visitors can explore the native flora and fauna, and find a quiet space to commune with nature.
5 Explore By Kayak
Several locations in Gulf Shores are popular with kayakers, even beginner kayakers, since the waters are calm. Little Lagoon is a 10-mile stretch of open water that is perfect for kayaking, thanks to its sandy bottom, for those who want to dip in, and for its wide variety of birds that can be spotted. Another popular site, Cotton Bayou, is in nearby Orange Beach, one of the top 10 beaches in Alabama, and features local wildlife, including dolphins. Waterfront eateries will tempt kayakers to take a break and grab a bite.
4 Sample Local Cuisine
On the Gulf Coast, seafood is traditionally the main event. The region is known for its famous southern dishes featuring shrimp, crab, oysters and fish, but there’s more to enjoy, like southern barbecue dishes like ribs, chicken and beef, and the area is known for its southern-style cheesecakes as well. Chefs in the South know how to make great burgers, too, and the Gulf Shores area has many restaurants to choose from.
3 Take In The Ocean Views
One of the most expansive and undeveloped beaches, at 3 miles long, is found at the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion and is one of the top spots for great water views. The pavilion offers amenities to visitors, including air-conditioned restrooms, picnic areas, a snack bar, and fireplaces. RVs are welcome, and the pavilion is known as a great spot for wedding photos.
2 Spend A Day At The Zoo
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is one of the top family attractions in Gulf Shores. It’s home to about 200 species, 31 sub-species, and 8 endangered species. There’s a petting zoo for youngsters plus many exotic animal exhibits spread over 25 acres. Visitors will hear peacocks’ distinctive calls as they wander through the zoo, which offers picnic areas and a restaurant.
1 Have Fun At The Wharf
The Wharf is a must-visit attraction in the Gulf Shores area, especially for families. Visitors can take a ride on the Ferris wheel - one of the most memorable things to do in the town - see laser light shows, play games at the arcade, experience virtual reality at the Outer Limits VR site, take a train ride on The Wharf Express, book a dolphin cruise, shop at a wide variety of stores and enjoy meals at one of the many eateries. The Wharf also is home to a theater and the popular Cool Shots Selfie Museum.