The beautiful coastal city of Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a top destination for beachgoers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. With its sugar-white sand beaches, emerald-green waters, and abundant wildlife, Gulf Shores offers something for everyone. Here are the top 9 things to do in Gulf Shores in 2024:
1. Relax on the Pristine Beaches
Gulf Shores is renowned for its stunning beaches, which stretch for miles along the Gulf of Mexico. The soft, white sand is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or taking a leisurely walk along the shore. The clear, warm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or fishing. And with plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, you can relax and enjoy the day without any worries.
2. Visit the Gulf State Park
The Gulf State Park is a 6,150-acre coastal paradise that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. The park features two miles of pristine beaches, as well as hiking trails, biking trails, and a fishing pier. There’s also a nature center, a butterfly garden, and a splash park for kids. And if you’re looking for a place to camp, the park has over 475 campsites available.
3. Explore the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a 7,000-acre coastal ecosystem that is home to a variety of plants and animals. The refuge includes beaches, dunes, marshes, and forests, and it provides habitat for over 300 species of birds. Visitors can explore the refuge on foot, by bike, or by boat, and there are several hiking trails and observation platforms throughout the park.
4. Visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is home to the USS Alabama, a retired battleship that served in World War II and the Korean War. The park also includes other military exhibits, such as tanks, planes, and helicopters. Visitors can tour the battleship, learn about its history, and experience what it was like to serve on board a warship.
5. Go Fishing
Gulf Shores is a great place to go fishing, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler. The area is home to a variety of fish species, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and snapper. You can fish from the beach, from a pier, or from a boat. And if you’re looking for a challenge, you can try your luck at deep-sea fishing.
6. Take a Dolphin Cruise
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Gulf Shores is to take a dolphin cruise. These cruises offer a chance to see dolphins up close, as well as other marine life such as sea turtles and birds. Cruises typically last for about two hours, and they depart from several different marinas in Gulf Shores.
7. Visit the Fort Morgan Historic Site
The Fort Morgan Historic Site is a former military fort that played a role in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. The fort has been restored to its original condition, and visitors can explore the fort’s barracks, gun emplacements, and other buildings. The site also includes a museum that tells the story of the fort’s history.
8. Go Shopping
Gulf Shores has a variety of shopping options, from souvenir shops to boutiques to art galleries. You can find everything from beachwear to jewelry to home décor. And if you’re looking for a unique gift, be sure to check out the local arts and crafts market.
9. Enjoy the Nightlife
Gulf Shores has a lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can listen to live music, dance the night away, or simply relax and have a drink with friends. And if you’re looking for a nightcap, be sure to try one of the local breweries.
Local Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, Best Hotels and Conclusion
Gulf Shores has a friendly and welcoming culture, and the locals are proud of their hometown. The city is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with several art galleries, live music venues, and theater companies.
The best months to visit Gulf Shores are April through October, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the city is also a popular destination during the winter months, when the temperatures are milder than in other parts of the country.
Gulf Shores is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The city is located on Interstate 10, and it is also served by the Gulf Shores International Airport. Amtrak also provides train service to Gulf Shores.
Gulf Shores has a variety of local food options, including fresh seafood, barbecue, and Cajun cuisine. There are also several restaurants that serve international cuisine.
Gulf Shores has a variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the most popular hotels include the Hampton Inn Gulf Shores, the Holiday Inn Express Gulf Shores, and the Hilton Garden Inn Gulf Shores.
Gulf Shores is a great place to visit for a relaxing beach vacation, a fun-filled family getaway, or a romantic weekend escape. With its beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and rich history, Gulf Shores has something to offer everyone.
