Gulf Shores Vacation and Activities

Apr 23 2018

Top 3 Tips for a Gulf Shores Pet-Friendly Rentals

If you’re one of the 15 million Americans who likes to travel with your fur child, add a dog-friendly vacation in Gulf Shores AL to your list of things to do, love and do again. For many dog-loving families, traveling with Fido in tow is the norm. However, the truth is, a pet-friendly vacation isn’t always easy to plan. It takes careful research and planning to decide if a destination is woof worthy. With that in mind, check out these three pointers for planning the perfect stay in one of our Gulf Shores pet-friendly house rentals.

Make a List of Gulf Shores Dog-friendly Attractions

There’s more to bringing your pooch on vacation than leaving them cooped up inside. In a good, dog-friendly destination, there are plenty of pet-loving attractions that are fun for the whole family. Some of our favorite Gulf Shores AL dog-friendly vacation attractions include:

- Historic Fort Morgan. Take a step back in time at this Civil War-era fort. Your pooch will enjoy the fresh air and salty breezes. There’s plenty of room to roam, but your pup must be on a leash. Explore barracks and imagine military life in the 1800s. Re-enactments and living history tours are held throughout the year. Fort Morgan guards the entrance to Mobile Bay, which means it’s surrounded by beaches. On the Mobile Bay side of the Fort, the area between old Fort Morgan pier and Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a dog-friendly beach.
- Orange Beach Waterfront Park. When you want to beach it with your pooch, head to Orange Beach Waterfront Park. This small stretch of sandy beach on the banks of Wolf Bay is pet friendly. There is also a 400-foot-long fishing pier, covered pavilions, restrooms and an outdoor shower to spray off the two-legged AND four-legged family members. If you enjoy kayaking or standup paddle boarding, bring your boats and boards to the park, too. The water is calm and perfect for paddling. Give Fido a spot on a kayak or SUP and paddle out for an afternoon of fun.

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. If you’re a dog lover, chances are you’re an outdoor lover, too. Bike or hike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. This dog-friendly attraction consists of 25 miles of paved trails and boardwalks, running from Orange Beach through the Gulf State Park. New to the trail system are wooden boardwalks taking you into areas not possible to explore before, as well as pedestrian sky bridges.
Tiki’s Mini Golf. “Tee off” for a day of family fun with Fido at Tiki’s Mini Golf in Gulf Shores. Tiki’s allows well-behaved pups on leashes. Tiki’s is home to Gulf Shores’ $5 all-you-can-play miniature golf. The 18-hole course is shaded by majestic oak trees so your fur child will stay a little cooler during the summer months.
The Beach! There are some rules to follow to get you in-the-know on the do’s and don’ts of Gulf Shores dog-friendly beaches. Dogs are not permitted on the public beaches in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach. However, for those vacationing in a pet-friendly Fort Morgan rental, there are plenty of white-sand beaches for your pooch to play. The Fort Morgan community is just a short drive from downtown Gulf Shores and is a popular spot for those who embark on a beach vacation with their dog.

Research Dog-friendly Restaurants

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to more than 13 pet-friendly restaurants, and there’s cuisine to please any palate. From beachside dives like the Flora-Bama Yacht Club to more refined experiences like Villaggio Grille at The Wharf, you can take your pick of pooch-pleasing dining options, including the following:

Pirate’s Cove Marina & Restaurant. You likely won’t find a more dog-friendly restaurant or beach than Pirate’s Cove in Josephine, AL. It’s a short boat ride from Orange Beach or a slightly longer car ride, but if you love a great beachside dive where your pup can play in the water sans leash, Pirate’s Cove is your spot. Plan to spend the day at Pirate’s Cove. Bring plenty of sunscreen, beach chairs and an appetite. Pirate’s Cove is packed with dog-loving locals, great burgers and one of the best bushwackers on the beach.
Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar. The owners at Cosmo’s love dogs so much they named their restaurant after their family dog. Cosmo’s is a local’s favorite for unique entrees, including hand-cut steaks, local seafood and even sushi. The chef’s Banana Leaf Wrapped Fish is even on the list of “100 Things to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.” The casual outdoor deck is the perfect spot to have a cocktail with friends and your fur child.
The Gulf. Built from shipping containers, this unique restaurant offers some of the best views of Alabama Point. It’s a great spot to watch the boats come and go. A large sand area offers ample space for you and your pooch.
The Southern Grind Coffee House. This coastal chic coffee house has a great spot for Fido on the patio. There are also water bowls available. The Southern Grind earns top marks with us for great breakfast and lunch eats, as well as gelato and coffee drinks during a dog-friendly vacation.

Perfect Gulf Shores Pet-Friendly Rentals

Finding Gulf Shores pet-friendly vacation rentals may seem like finding a needle in a haystack. However, it only takes finding the right vacation rental management company. Harris Vacation Rentals Management offers the largest selection of dog-friendly rentals on Alabama beaches. You’ll want to book early to ensure you get the accommodations that best meet your needs. Browse the entire selection of dog-friendly vacation rentals on the website. For a sampling, keep reading.

- Sunset Tides. This two-bedroom Fort Morgan condo at The Dunes features an oversized balcony with Gulf views.

Lemon Drop. Lemon Drop is a four-bedroom Fort Morgan beach house in the beachside Morgantown community. This house offers spacious decks and screened porches and is just a short walk to the beach.
Dock of the Bay. Your fur child will have plenty of grassy areas to run and play at Dock of the Bay. This four-bedroom beach house is located on Wolf Bay in Orange Beach and features a fishing pier.
Blue Parrot #3 and Blue Parrot #7. This Gulf Shores duplex is the perfect spot for large families who want to be close, but still have their own space. Each beachfront duplex offers five bedrooms and a shared swimming pool.

Planning a dog-friendly vacation doesn’t have to be stressful. Following these tips can help you enjoy a hassle-free experience. We do have one, last tip. Remember to call the attractions and restaurants prior to your arrival to ensure they are still pup friendly and the establishment’s rules haven’t changed.

Follow us on Facebook and share your favorite pooch photos with us from your Alabama beaches vacation in our pet friendly oceanfront rentals gulf shores AL.

Apr 15 2018

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.

Mar 05 2018

The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach

When you fur child is just as much a part of the family as the two-legged members, it’s tough to leave them behind on vacation. Luckily, when you book a Gulf Shores or Orange Beach vacation, you’ve got options. From pet-friendly attractions to beach houses and even dog-friendly restaurants, you can plan an entire vacation with your pup in mind.

One of our favorite places to start our planning is food! Alabama beaches are packed with great restaurants, and the fact that many are pet friendly is a big plus when you’re a dog-loving family. These top spots will have you licking your chops for more when your pup tags along on vacation in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Make plans to visit some of our favorite Gulf Shores dog-friendly restaurants on Alabama beaches.

Orange Beach Dog-Friendly Restaurants: The Gulf

The Gulf in Orange Beach takes the coastal chic factor up a notch. This open-air restaurant is coastal living at its best, especially when you can bring your fur child along. All seating is outdoors and all music is played on vinyl records.

Relax on comfortable lounge furniture with waterfront views of Alabama Point. Watch the charter fishing boats come and go. If you’re lucky, you may even see the Navy’s precision flight team, the Blue Angels, fly overhead on Sunday afternoons during the summer! A visit to The Gulf is a unique experience, not only for you, but for Fido, as well. The Gulf is also THE place to get a burger at the beach! All natural beef smothered in house-made garlic aioli and topped with cheese and crispy bacon might just make you visit The Gulf more than once during your vacation!

What makes The Gulf a great stop on your dog-friendly vacation agenda? With all seating outdoors, your pooch can go anywhere you go. Dogs also love laying in the cool sand on The Gulf’s beach area.

Where to Stay Near The Gulf

Just a short drive from The Gulf is United We Sand at the Cottages at Romeo Beach. This two-bedroom beach cottage welcomes you and your pup. You’ll feel like you’re in a tropical oasis with plenty of room to spread out.

Gulf Shores Dog Friendly Restaurants: The Royal Oyster in Gulf Shores

Looks can be deceiving. At first appearances, you may not even notice The Royal Oyster. It sits in an unassuming little blue building just off of Highway 59 on a lagoon inlet in Gulf Shores. This small restaurant is known for its melt-in-your-mouth oysters, Shell Bank Selects. These oysters are harvested a few miles down the road in Fort Morgan, and owner, Marissa, routinely goes out to tend the oysters with her friends at the oyster farm. In fact, Marissa is growing the restaurant’s own variety of oysters with the help of the purveyors at Shell Bank Selects. It’s a whole new take on farm-to-table dining!

You can order up your oysters raw and on the half shell or one of several preparations. Can’t decide? Order a flight and try them all! If you’re not an oyster fan, don’t let the name of this dog-friendly restaurant confuse you. There are plenty of other selections, including pastas, burgers and fresh seafood. You can’t visit The Royal Oyster without sipping on one of the bartender’s signature craft cocktails. They’re always mixing up something new and refreshing!

What makes The Royal Oyster a perfect stop for you and your pooch and one of the top dog-friendly restaurants in Gulf Shores? The uber-casual outdoor dining area is a good place to start. Pull up a stool to an outdoor high top and enjoy waterfront views. These dog-loving restaurateurs will even give Fido a bowl of water on those hot days. The Royal Oyster’s laidback vibe is a great spot for talking with the locals and enjoying a casual lunch or dinner with your fur child.

Where to Stay Near The Royal Oyster

Park your paws at the Blue Parrot # 3 or Blue Parrot #7 in Gulf Shores. These dog-friendly beach houses have everything you and your pooch need, including a pool and direct Gulf-front views! At the Blue Parrot, you’re just a short drive from The Royal Oyster and other pet-friendly Gulf Shores restaurants. Both beach houses offer five bedrooms with rooms to accommodate 16 guests.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants: Flora-Bama Yacht Club and Flora-Bama Ole River Grill

These sister restaurants make more than just pups feel welcomed. Located across the road from the legendary roadhouse, the Flora-Bama Lounge, these two restaurants are not only pet friendly, but boat friendly, as well! Have boat, will travel? You’re in luck! Cruise down Ole River with Fido at the bow and dock your boat at the Flora-Bama Marina or beach it on the sand.

If laid back is what you’re looking for, you may not find a more ideal spot than the Flora-Bama Yacht Club. These dog-loving folks know how to relax! With a bushwacker in hand, find a spot at a picnic table and listen to beach tunes flow from the speakers or from a live band. Don’t let the name fool you. The Flora-Bama Yacht Club welcomes you as you are – flip flops, swimsuit cover up, sandy dog and all. Your must-order item? Feast on a platter of Bacon & BBQ Fire-Roasted Oysters. Trust us, you’ll be happy you did. You also won’t find a better rib-eye on the island. Order up a medium hand-cut certified Angus Beef Ribeye, and we won’t tell if you pass Fido a few bites.

Located next door is the Flora-Bama Ole River Grill. Find a spot on the deck to perch your pup and enjoy views of boats idling by. Chef Jon Gibson is known for his unique creations, including Fried Mac & Cheese and Big Earl’s Shrimp & Grits that you’ll want to write home about. There’s a story behind the Fried Mac & Cheese, and if you have the pleasure of visiting with Chef Jon he may just tell it to you. We don’t give spoilers though!

What makes the Flora-Bama Yacht Club and Flora-Bama Ole River Grill pup worthy? One word – beach! You’re located right on the banks of Ole River and there’s plenty of white sand and clear water for cooling off at these two dog-friendly restaurants.

Where to Stay Near Flora-Bama

Dock of the Bay located on Wolf Bay in Orange Beach may just be a doggie paradise. There’s plenty of outdoor space for your pooch to run and play at this four-bedroom beach house. This house offers a fishing pier, so bring your boat and motor over to Flora-Bama Yacht Club or Flora-Bama Ole River Grill. You’re just a short ride away by boat.

There are plenty more dog-friendly restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, but these are our tried and true favorites. Now that you’re ready to feast with your fur child, book your pet-friendly vacation rental. Harris Vacation Rentals Management offers more than 40 pet-friendly rentals on Alabama beaches. We’re paws-itive you’ll find a Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan vacation rental that’s perfect for every member of your family.

For more pet-friendly vacation planning tips, read The Greatest Pet-Friendly Activities in Gulf Shores.

Jul 25 2017

5 Relaxing Activities in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is the perfect quiet beach town to relax in. And if you do want to go out and see the city, you can still relax while doing it! Try some of these relaxing activities in Gulf Shores Alabama:

Tread the Grounds of Fort Morgan

Although it’s a half-hour drive west from Orange Beach, Fort Morgan keeps getting visitors from all over Baldwin County. Far from the military pomp of its heyday, today the quiet grounds let visitors come in and guide themselves around the area, exploring the quiet Fort and letting history play out in their mind’s eye. Bring along a picnic and enjoy the sound of the nearby waves while you eat.

Ride Up the Ferris Wheel

Orange Beach’s Wharf can be a busy place—it’s home to some of the best restaurants and lots of shopping options. But when you want to take a break, head toward the Ferris Wheel, where you can literally rise above all the commotion. The leisurely ride will give you lovely views of the area, and are a perfect way to feel completely alone with someone.

Visit an Art Gallery

What’s more calming than an art gallery? We have several here to choose from, each of them offering something different thanks to the unique blending of different local artists gathered there. Some of the galleries even have art available for purchase; if you have room in the suitcase, a hung painting is a fabulous way to retain memories of your trip!

Tino’s Fine Arts and Frames is on Alabama’s Coastal Connection south of Portage Creek, the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance is on 24th Avenue between 1st and 2nd Street, and the Susan McCollough Gallery is on Cypress Bend Drive.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

This isn’t nearly as quiet a place as the others mentioned, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t relaxing! The “Little Zoo that Could” boasts an impressive array of animals for how small the city is, with over 500 animals present. Take your time and browse the exhibits at your leisure; a zoo is definitely an area where you can go at your own pace, just like the animals.

Take a Cruise on Your List of Activities in Gulf Shores Alabama

The waters of the Gulf can be very relaxing, especially when someone else is at the helm! If you want to go out on the Gulf, there are several places who’ll take you. High Pressure Charters is just one of many Orange Beach-based cruise charters. Sunset cruises, dolphin cruises, and more are perfect for relaxing and getting some stellar photos!

Have it All with Harris Vacation Rentals

And of course, sometimes there’s no better way to relax than at your beachfront home! Rent with us and have a relaxing rental all to yourself. Call us at 1-877-446-4853 to learn more about our wonderful offerings!

Jul 18 2017

Five Healthy Restaurants in Gulf Shores to Eat at Post Fourth of July

We all know the over-indulgences of sweets that happens each Halloween and Christmas, but the Fourth of July is just as bad for throwing some of us off our diets. You may be tired of fried shrimp and deep-fried food at the various restaurants in Gulf Shores. If you want to go somewhere with some more wholesome options, then check out these healthy restaurants in Gulf Shores. Keep in mind though, we love our food hearty in Gulf Shores, so you’ll have to keep your eyes off certain areas of the menus!

DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen

Are you tired of seafood places that think everything is made better with gravy or heavy cream sauces? Try DeSoto’s then—they really emphasize the natural flavor of the food, with dishes like steamed snow crab legs and flounder almodine keeping things simple and wholesome. Keep in mind that a meal here will cost $20 or more—even so, the reviewers keep coming back to this gem. This restaurants in Gulf Shores a little off the beaten path near the southern end of Gulf Shores Parkway.

The Steamer Baked Oyster Bar

Right nearby DeSoto’s is another great option: The Steamer! Their website proudly boasts that there isn’t a crumb of fried food in their restaurant. If you’re looking to get away from the trans and saturated fats that clog your arteries, then have a hearty yet healthy meal at the Steamer!

Restaurants in Gulf Shores: Sunset Cork Room

Okay, we may be stretching what counts as “healthy,” but red wine is supposed to be good for your heart right? Really, we couldn’t fail to mention this gem. Their starters are easy on the palette, from the cheese plate to the salads. This is an upscale restaurant a little higher on the price, but everything they make is packed with flavor from skill and spice, not from fats and sugars. This great spot is tucked away on 16th Ave just east of Gulf Shores Parkway.

Brick and Spoon

If you’re new to the region and haven’t tried this Southern breakfast/lunch chain before, you’re in for a treat! Their portions are huge, but the prices reasonable for the quality and fantastic service. If you’re trying to eat light, go for the grilled veggie sandwich and farmer’s market benedict. But make room for their signature bloody mary. It has veggies so its healthy right? It’s on Canal Rd just a few blocks east of The Wharf on the way to Orange Beach.

Portabella’s

Okay, so this is a little bit of a drive up into Foley, but its worth it. Portabella’s is a lovely Italian restaurant that features the staples: pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and most importantly, salads! A good salad can be hard to find in Gulf Shores, so if you want a plate of leafy greens that’ll still leave you full, you should try Portabella’s. It’s located in Foley on N. Mackenzie Street.

Cook It Up in Your Harris Vacation Rentals Vacation Home!

And if none of these options are up to your standards, then use your rental home’s kitchen to make your own healthy dishes! Call us at 1-877-446-4853 to book a fabulous Gulf Shores rental today!

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