Gulf Shores Vacation and Activities

Jun 02 2017

Our Guide to Waterville USA

Since opening, Waterville USA in the heart of Gulf Shores has become one of the premier entertainment destinations for families vacationing along the Alabama Gulf Coast. From the start of the season in late May to the end of the season in mid-August, Waterville is a favorite for those looking to break from the pristine beaches for a change. So, what’s there to do at Waterville? Well, there’s the water—bucket loads of it! This may be the best place to spend a day when you cannot get into the Gulf water.

Attractions & Things to Do at Waterville USA

One of the coolest attractions is the Flowrider, especially if you like hanging ten. The Flowrider creates a continuous wave over a base of soft foam. You will be able to practice all your tricks on a perfect wave with no fear of falling or injury.

If you’re a thrill seeker, then you’ll want to get in line for Great White, a world-class one, two, and three passenger tubing adventure through the jaws of the Great White Shark, a tunnel, a waterfall, and then a quick drop to the lagoon below. This ride is the Gulf Coast’s most awesome tube ride.

And if that isn’t fun enough, then really get your heart going on the Screamin’ Demon. Yeah, it’s that scary—and thrilling! What is it? It’s a water slide not for the faint of heart! Drop almost 60 feet in a flash on Waterville’s white-knuckle scream machine. This high-speed body slide is a must for thrill seekers.

But not all the attractions at Waterville USA might make you skip lunch; there’s plenty of relaxing water-centric attractions like Shrimp Boat Village—a waterworks attraction and the ultimate water playground. This water wonderland has something around every corner. Three stories of sprays, geysers, net crawls, slides, water cannons, and dumping buckets abound on this amazing attraction. Turn the handles and soak a friend or family member on Waterville’s interactive water playground. Shrimp Boat Village is fun for the whole family and must be experienced firsthand, but beware of the giant shrimp bucket dump!

There’s also Rainbow Falls, Crystal Waters River, North Shore Wave Pool, Gold Rush, and much more, with plenty of things to do for the really little ones. And when it comes time for some grub, Waterville’s got a great snack and lunch bar. Want to just get some rays? Then relax on a lounge chair and let your troubles float away!

Last but not least, Waterville USA is home to the Cannonball Run, a wooden rollercoaster that hits 50 MPH. Feel the thrill of zero-gravity and pure speed with family and friends on the Gulf Coast’s fastest wooden coaster, day or night. This is definitely one of the Gulf Coast’s coolest attractions and a must ride for sure.

Plan Your Waterville USA Getaway with Harris Vacation Rentals

Looking for the most family-friendly attraction in Gulf Shores? It’s Waterville USA, and it’s nearby your very own Gulf Shores vacation rental from Harris Vacation Rentals. Book today and take your family on a wet and wild vacation! Browse through our condo rentals as well as our deals.

May 02 2017

Enjoy Fantastic Gulf Shores Live Music in a Beautiful Tropical Locale

Nothing pairs better with a relaxing getaway in a gorgeous Gulf Coast setting than awesome Gulf Shores live music music played by talented local artists. One of the best parts of visiting Gulf Shores is the city’s abundance of laid-back bars and music hotspots. See some of the greatest up-and-coming musicians around for yourself firsthand at the neat places we’ve listed out below!

The Wharf Amphitheater

Perhaps the most obvious choice to start off this list would be the Wharf Amphitheater. As the number one destination for live concerts performed by the biggest names in music, the Wharf Amphitheater is a popular choice for concert-goers who love that arena-style musical experience, housing just under ten thousand seats.

Flora-Bama

Even though Flora-Bama straddles the state line between Florida and Alabama and is technically situated across the state line, this carefree and fun bar is the area’s classic roadhouse and home to a number of small stages that are frequented by local musicians on nearly a nightly basis.

Live Bait

A two-part restaurant and club, Live Bait offers a good selection of live music that samples from older music to newer top-40 radio hits. The schedule for live music is seasonal, so you’ll want to call ahead and make sure that they’ve got someone lined up to play before heading over if you’re visiting during the off-season.

Gulf Shores Live Music At Lulu’s

No list of Gulf Shores live music would be complete without mentioning Lulu’s! A popular spot for both visiting and local musicians, Lulu’s is dedicated to its favorite performers, such as Alabama native and past winner of the reality singing competition show American Idol Taylor Hicks. Lulu’s is also known for having delicious food, so be sure to grab a bite while you’re here!

The Hangout

Rounding off our list is The Hangout. A cool bar with inside and outdoor seating and a perfect location right on the beach, The Hangout literally built its reputation on its live music offerings. In fact, they’re so well-known for it, they even host an annual music festival each May! Kick back and unwind with some great tunes, good beer, and a sunset view of the Gulf of Mexico.

Harris Vacation Rentals – Your Guides to the Best of Gulf Shores

Contact our reservations team to learn more about these live music hotspots and other cool attractions and activities that you’ll find in Gulf Shores when you reserve your stay in one of the luxurious vacation rental properties that Harris Vacation Rentals has to offer today! Check out our cottage and condo rentals too and our special deals!

Apr 19 2017

Welcome to Paradise – Gulf Shores Beach Things To Do

Spring officially ushers in the high tourist season along the Alabama Gulf Coast – and Alabama’s very own Pleasure Island. By early May, the island will be teeming with vacationers. It’s likely you’ll require more than a week to see all the attractions, eateries, bars, and things to do and events in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, but if a week is all you have, that’s ample time to hit all the Gulf Shores beach things to do.

Eat and Drink – Gulf Shores Beach Things To Do

When it comes to beach grub, there’s the iconic establishments like Bubba’s, Lulu’s at Homeport, Tin Top, Tacky Jacks, The Hangout, Mikee’s, Sea ‘N Suds, DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen, Doc’s Seafood Shack, and of course, the infamous Flora-Bama. But there are some off-the-beaten path restaurants like Anchor, Flippers, Our Cigar Bar, Coastal Kitchen, O’Choppers, Snappers Lounge, Barefoot Island, and Our Cigar Bar, just to name a few. When it comes to imbibing in a bushwhacker or cocktail with an umbrella, there are dozens of juke joints, honky-tonks, and thatched, pool-side tiki bars to get your drink on. Cheers!

Family Fun On the Cheap

Got a condominium full of little ones? Pleasure Island offers things to do away from the beach like Waterville U.S.A., The Track, Adventure Island, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, The Hangout and much more. If you’re on a budget, there’s plenty to do on the cheap with the kids like Waterfront Park, Gulf State Park Pier, Fountain of Youth at Lulu’s and, naturally, the beach! Yeah, we got beaches—dozens of miles of powdery, snow-white sand. From West Beach to Gulf Shores to Cotton Bayou and Perdido Pass in Orange Beach, it’s endless beach as far as the eye can see.

Events and Festivals

April and May also means the shoulder season, which means festivals like the Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party. What’s that? Glad you asked. It’s an intimate beach bash for three days at the Flora-Bama Lounge and Package along with tens of thousands of folks from across the country gathered for one of the most popular Gulf Shores beach things to do: to toss a lifeless mullet from Florida into Alabama and to party in paradise.

Like classic Southern muscle cars? In late April, The Wharf holds its annual Bama Coast Cruise. In May is The Hangout Fest, a three-day music fest held right on Gulf Shores Public Beach, featuring a variety of live music from Friday to Sunday night. Got wine? The Orange Beach Wine Fest in mid-May offers a plethora of crushed grapes at Caribe the Resort, while the Hot Air Balloon Festival in neighboring Foley in early May gives tourists a bird’s-eye-view of Baldwin County.

Where Do I Stay?

Lodging options run the gamut from small beach cottages to plush beachfront homes to cozy condos and swanky penthouses. Depending on your lodging budget and needs, the Alabama Gulf Coast offers all kinds of price points. Whether you’re looking for lodging for a romantic getaway for two or a large home for a family reunion or a baseball team, the area can accommodate your needs. But keep in mind, rates don’t dip in the high season.

Your Perfect Spot in the Sand

The beautiful beach communities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are no longer a secret, and with good reason. The beaches are some of the most pristine and stunning in the country, while the culinary and entertainment landscape captures the best of the Deep South. So, come on down, y’all. What are you waiting for? The Alabama Gulf Coast is waiting for you.

Feb 13 2017

Gulf Shores Activities for the Fitness Enthusiast

Everyone dreams of escaping to a tropical paradise like Gulf Shores, Alabama, but how many people actually plan out what they’re going to do before they get there? Whether you’re the type of person who plans ahead or the type who likes to “go with the flow,” chances are good that you’ll want to do something fun and active at least once during your vacation.

A healthier you is a happier you, and nothing inspires confidence on the beach like keeping your body toned. With that in mind, we present to you our handpicked list of some of the best fitness-related activities to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama during your stay!

The 5 Best Fitness Activities To Do In Gulf Shores Alabama

Below, we’ve put together a list of a handful of fun and exciting activities to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama to keep in shape and not let your vacation derail your fitness routine. We hope that you enjoy these suggested activities as much as we do!

1. Hike or Run Along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

One of the most extensive networks of paved trails in not only Gulf Shores but the entire United States, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is the perfect place to get your run on while exploring and sightseeing around Gulf Shores. Several trails are even pet-friendly, meaning your dog can join in on the fun!

2. Challenge Yourself by Biking to Fort Morgan and Back

A fun and lengthy biking path, the paved trail along Highway 180 is ideal for people who want to soak up the gorgeous sights of the Gulf of Mexico while pushing themselves. The trail begins at Gulf State Park and goes five miles westward through Gulf Shores, ending in secluded Fort Morgan.

3. Take a Dip in the Water

Gulf Shores has a ridiculous amount of options for watersports enthusiasts. There’s always swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, but you can even take it a step further by trying your hand at kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding!

4. Run and Play with Your Dog at a Local Dog Park

Orange Beach Dog Park permits dogs to run off-leash, but Gulf Shores Dog Park and The Dog Pond at Lake Shelby do not. Gulf State Park also has a number of dog-friendly trails that require leashes, while Orange Beach Waterfront Park is a great place to walk your dog.

5. Attend One of the Popular Fitness Events in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is home to a variety of fitness events, including 5Ks, half-marathons, triathlons, and more all year long! From For a-Bama’s Beach Run/Walk for America’s Warriors in late March to the Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon in September, it’s easy to sign up for a fun fitness event during your vacation!

6. Glow Yoga in Gulf Shores

If you’re looking for an activity that offers a bit of relaxation, check on some of the Gulf Shores Glow Yoga options. It is a style of Vinyasa Yoga, that focuses on establishing synchronization of both breath and movement. During this type of yoga, a specific arc form is followed, and while classes may be challenging, they are a great option for both beginners and novices. It should also be noted that rooms are heated during this particular style of yoga! It is a great option for a beach vacation activity!

7. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Recreation Center Day/Week Passes

In the event that you’re not around the Gulf Shores area for long, there are some great day pass options available! For under ten dollars, you can spend a whole day at the Gulf Shores recreation center, getting your much needed workout in. For a day pass that includes aerobic classes, the fee is a mere $8. All other day passes are $5, and children under the age of 2 are free. If you’re in Gulf Shores for longer than a week, fear not! There are options for that as well. Not only are there weekly passes available, but there are monthly options as well. You can check online for more details on pricing! So even if you get the vacation lazies but know you have to do something, or even if you really just need to get some exercise in, there are always some great options available at Gulf Shores!

Let the Vacation Experts at Harris Vacation Rentals Help You Plan Your Tropical Escape!

Curious to learn more about what there is to do and see during your time in Gulf Shores? Our friendly reservation specialists can help! Contact our office to find out further information on the awesome attractions and activities that are waiting for you here when you book your stay in one of the incredible vacation rental properties that are available through Harris Vacation Rentals today! Check out our condo rentals today and our special deals.

Feb 06 2017

The 5 Best Things to Do During Your Visit to Alabama Gulf State Park

One of the most gorgeous places to visit in Gulf Shores, Alabama State Park has a variety of incredible sights and activities for everyone to enjoy. Below, we’ve compiled a list of just a handful of the many top spots and activities to check out in Alabama State Park. We hope that you enjoy them as much as we do and that you find this information helpful during your time in Gulf Shores!

Walk Along the Largest Paved Trail Network in the U.S.

Alabama Gulf State Park is home to the Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail, which weaves its way throughout the Gulf Shores area on a series of fantastic trails for hiking and biking. Some of the trails are even pet-friendly!

Fish on the Largest Pier in the Gulf Coast

Alabama Gulf State Park is also home to the Gulf State Pier, known as a scenic place for visitors to eat and fish ‘til their heart’s content. When you stop by, you’ll find that day licenses, equipment, and bait area all available for rent or purchase here.

Spend Some Time on Lake Shelby

This beautiful lake area has paddleboard and kayak rentals for those who want to get out on the water, as well as bike rentals and segway tours for those who want to stay on dry land. Lake Shelby also has a waterfront dog park and hosts the annual Paws in the Park event every September.

Play a Few Rounds on the Golf Course & Alabama Gulf State Park

The golf course at Alabama State Park has a great value on their playing prices. For beginners or players looking to improve their game, free lessons are also provided on the course on Thursdays. Golfers who are interested in lessons should call the pro-shop for details.

Pair Your Fun with a Dash of Education

The Nature Center at Alabama State Park has a ton of fun educational programs that nature and animal lovers of all ages will enjoy. The center also offers guided tours, and has plans to bring on an on-site marine biologist for additional sea-based educational programs.

Harris Vacation Rentals – Your Gateway to the Wonders of Gulf Shores, Alabama

For further information on Alabama State Park and other must-see attractions located all throughout the Gulf Shores area, contact our reservations team and learn more when you reserve your trip accommodations in one of the lovely vacatio n re ntal properties that Harris Vacation Rentals has to offer today!

(Photo by faungg via Flickr)

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