Gulf Shores Vacation: What You Need to Know

In addition to the beautiful 32-mile stretch of powder-white beaches and the undeniable fresh seafood options, Gulf Shores has much to offer guests looking for a beach retreat. The subtropical climate and multitude of outdoor Gulf Shores activities make Gulf Shores one of the most popular vacation destinations in the southeast. With activities geared for all ages, sometimes the hardest decision is what to do first. Alabama beaches are an easy choice with fun events, great Gulf Shores rentals, dining and much more. But, before you start planning, here are a few things you need to know about a Gulf Shores vacation.

Gulf Shores Vacation Discounts

Both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have Welcome Centers offering valuable information on restaurants, shopping, Gulf Shores attractions and entertainment. The knowledgeable staff is always willing to help and share tips on making the most of your Alabama beach vacation. Whether you’re looking for an Orange Beach fishing charter, a round of golf, a souvenir shop or a Gulf Shores restaurant, there are resources available to help you make a decision. At the Welcome Centers, you’ll find plenty of coupons and discounts, and even a beach map to make planning easy.

The natural settings and the beautiful turquoise waters draws crowds from all over the world. For visitors on a budget looking for a discount on attractions, dining and even grocery shopping, request a Free Tourist Book online for additional coupons and discounts. Don’t miss out on great deals and valuable beach information.Rouses offers printable coupons so grocery shopping doesn’t have to be stressful, and the money you save can be spent on memorable experiences like watersports at Chute ‘Em Up Parasail, dining waterfront at Cobalt, The Restaurant or tickets to the waterpark at Waterville USA.

Clean Gulf Shores Beaches

Alabama beaches are a popular vacation destination for many reasons, including its sugar-white sand. The beaches are impeccably clean considering there are more than five million visitors a year to the Alabama Gulf Coast. Thanks to the Leave Only Footprints initiative, they will stay that way for years to come. Visitors are encouraged to bring everything you may need for a day, weekend or week at the beach, but the ordinance requires everything be removed within one hour after sunset each night or it will be disposed of by beach crews.

Not only does this keep the beaches free of trash and debris for your own enjoyment, but helps protect nesting sea turtles, as well. Each year, hundreds of endangered sea turtles make their way to Alabama’s beaches between May and October to lay their eggs. When trash or beach gear is in their way, they turn and head back to the water without laying their eggs.

Make your beach trip easy by using a wheeled cart to transport your gear, and be an active participate in the Leave Only Footprints initiative.

Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals

With so many choices, choosing vacation rental accommodations can be overwhelming. However, there are great Gulf Shores rentals available directly on the beach, on the bay and even on Little Lagoon. Whether you’re looking for dog-friendly accommodations, rentals in specific areas or something for large groups, Harris Vacation Rentals Management makes searching for your perfect spot in the sand effortless. With vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your vacation needs and budget. Avoid the extra VRBO or HomeAway fees, and book your Gulf Shores Alabama vacation directly for added savings and personal service. Keep those extra dollars in your pocket to use for attractions, dining and just enjoying your beach getaway.

For more “what you need to know” information, find out about the newest beach attractions in Four New Beach Attractions on Alabama Beaches. Learn about the latest improvements to make Gulf Shores beaches accessible to all, especially wheelchair travels in Wheelchair Travelers Now Have Easy Beach Access.