Harris Vacations Staff Writer | November 25, 2024
It’s no secret that the words “summer” and “vacation” go together like peanut butter and jelly, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t embark on a getaway during the cooler months.
On the Alabama Gulf Coast, plenty of snowbirds visit our area during the winter months to escape the cold weather and enjoy lower seasonal rates. There are fewer crowds at this time of year, too, so you’ll have your pick of the best vacation rentals.
No matter what time of year you visit the Gulf Shores area, you’re in for unforgettable times throughout Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach. Keep reading to discover some of the many fun things to do during the offseason in Gulf Shores!
Most people prefer to keep their settings in a temperature range between 68° and 74°. Would you believe that’s just what you will get during the months with cooler weather in Alabama?
The average temperatures in September have highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s, with October and November bringing lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s. All you need is a light jacket!
Some people enjoy playing golf in warm weather, but some players prefer a refreshing breeze. If that’s your style, tee off during the offseason in Gulf Shores at one of the award-winning local golf courses. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, play a game of mini-golf instead!
The winter climate is an excellent time for outdoor activities without the intense sun heating things up too much, and boating is a great way to take advantage of the comfortable climate.
Alabama’s beaches have breathtaking sunsets during fall and winter, making being on the water one of our favorite things to do in Gulf Shores during the offseason. For an extra dose of adventure, hop in a kayak and be at one with the calm Gulf of Mexico waters as you watch the skies turn pink and orange overhead.
Explore Gulf State Park in style and try out a Segway tour. This is a unique way to explore the park and discover all the ecosystems that make up the area. Your friendly and knowledgeable tour guide will provide you with all sorts of fun and historical facts.
When the temperatures drop, what better way to warm up than by dancing to live music? There are dozens of awesome live music bars in and around Gulf Shores, but these are a few of our favorites:
Fall is one of the prime birdwatching seasons here on the coast as migratory birds stop to rest. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is an area of outstanding natural beauty and just one of several area parks that are part of the Alabama Birding Trail and offer fully accessible, meandering trails through various coastal habitats.
The Wharf is a year-round destination offering fun for the whole family. Whether you want to spend a few hours shopping, grab a bite to eat, or fly high on the Ferris Wheel, you’ll find all that and more right here. During the winter, The Wharf also plays host to an ice skating rink where you can show off your skills (or sip hot cocoa and watch others skate instead).
Of course, the beach is a prime spot to be during the summertime, but you can also enjoy fabulous beach days in Gulf Shores during the fall and winter seasons.
You might not be able to lie out on our powdery white sand, but you can still enjoy a beach vacation — just with a cozy twist! Set up camp in the sugar-white sand and breathe in the salty air. The offseason is the best time to play a game of volleyball or cornhole.
Serious anglers and novice fishers alike love fishing in the Gulf! Fishing is fantastic here year-round, and there’s a wide variety of places to get your catch of the day.
Grab your gear (and license), walk out onto the beach in front of your rental, and set up your beach chair and cooler. You’ll be reeling in pompano, redfish, ladyfish, and flounder out of the surf in no time! Or, you can head out on a guided deep-sea fishing excursion!
The vibrant city of Mobile is just a couple of hours away and makes a great day trip from Gulf Shores.
Mobile is the original home of Mardi Gras, and a trip to the Mobile Carnival Museum will allow you to see original costumes and even dress up as royalty for a fun selfie opportunity. If history is more of interest to your group, visit Colonial Forte Conde instead to see the original entry point to the city.
The offseason is one of the best times to attend Gulf Shores’ most anticipated events. The Annual Shrimp Festival takes place in October, and the Annual Oyster Cook-Off & Craft Beer Weekend at The Hangout is in November. December is filled with all sorts of Christmas holiday events for the whole family (you might even get a chance to meet Santa!), plus huge New Year celebrations to see in January with a bang.
This 25-acre facility is a spacious facility where you’ll have the chance to see 118 of nature’s most majestic creatures up close. Head to the giraffe feeding station to give these friendly giants their lunch, or catch an interactive animal show.
The zoo is also home to 22 critically endangered species and the cost of your ticket helps take care of these critters, so buying one can be your good deed for the day!
When you’re visiting Gulf Shores during the offseason, Harris Vacations offers the best vacation rentals. All our condos and beachfront house rentals range in size, shape, and cost, so it’s easy to find the perfect property for you. Whether you’re looking for a home with an elevator, covered deck, game room, beach access, private pool, or hot tub — we’ve got you covered!
Browse our properties and start planning your offseason escape today!
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