Gulf Shores Vacation and Activities

Feb 08 2022

Discover the Best Things To Do During Nighttime in Gulf Shores

The fun never stops when you’re visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast! When the sun sets in the evening, the fun is still heating up. No matter what age group you’re with, there are plenty of fun things to do during nighttime in Gulf Shores!

For a wide array of family-friendly and adult-oriented activities in Gulf Shores, Alabama, bypass scrolling through Google to find the activities and services you may need. Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

4 Fun Things To Do During Nighttime in Gulf Shores

When you’re visiting the Gulf Coast, you can look forward to great food, live entertainment, and endless adventure. Discover the best of Gulf Shores nightlife and other awesome things to do in the evening.

1. Set Sail on a Sunset Cruise

One of the best ways to embrace the setting sun is by embarking on a sunset cruise around the emerald waters and back bays of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Choose from dolphin sightseeing cruises and sails with live music, dinner, and drinks. Some favorite local outfitters are Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises, The Fun Boats Dolphin Cruises & SeaLife Experience, and Dolphin & Sailing Tours by Cetacean Cruises.

2. Head to The Wharf

If you’re looking for an exciting place for any age group, head to The Wharf in Orange Beach. This waterfront area is home to shops, a marina, restaurants, amusement rides, games, miniature golf, and an amphitheater. Some of the most popular things to do include ax throwing, Ferris wheel rides, breakout rooms, a laser light show, and more!

3. Listen To Live Bands at Flora-Bama

If you want to treat yourself to some adult beverages and fantastic live music, head to the legendary Flora-Bama Bar. The venue has an ever-changing lineup of incredible artists playing across five stages. Whether you want to listen to country, rock, or beach music, you can find it at Flora-Bama. Plus, thousands of musicians perform each year at their famous concerts on the beach.

4. Visit Tacky Jacks Restaurant and Tavern

One of the most popular hangout spots by the coast is Tacky Jacks. There’s always fun to have with locations in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach! The tavern takes pride in offering delicious seafood, waterfront seating, and top-notch live entertainment. Be sure to check out their karaoke, bingo, and open mic nights.

Find the Perfect Beach House Rental

For years, Harris Vacation Rentals has provided outstanding customer service and vacation rentals along the Alabama Gulf Coast. No matter what size group you’re traveling with, we have the perfect property for you. From elevators to private pools to game rooms, we have all the amenities you need for a five-star getaway. Browse our properties and start planning your escape to the Gulf today. We can’t wait to host you!

Jan 18 2022

How You Can Channel Your Inner Zen With Yoga in Gulf Shores

There’s no better way to unwind and relax than by treating yourself to a getaway by the beach. Do you really want to channel your inner Zen during your vacation? Consider trying out yoga in Gulf Shores. The area is home to some fantastic yoga classes that will leave you feeling recharged and at peace.

For more activities during your Gulf Coast getaway, bypass scrolling through Google to find the activities and services you may need. Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Discover Yoga in Gulf Shores

Improvement of flexibility, strength, stress, anxiety, immunity, inflammation, and mental health—these are just some of the benefits of yoga. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or you’re new to the practice, give yoga in Gulf Shores a try during your next beach trip.

Glow Yoga

One of the most well-known yoga studios on the Alabama Gulf Coast is Glow Yoga. At their studio, their motto is, “All you have to do is show up and breathe.” There’s no need to be concerned with having the perfect pose, and you don’t have to be experienced. Everyone is welcome, and their friendly staff is dedicated to helping to make your experience positive.

Glow Yoga offers various yoga classes and workshops, including teacher training and certifications.

Glow Flow – A unique style of Vinyasa Yoga that seamlessly synchronizes breath and movement
Slow Flow – Same style as Glow Flow in a slower-paced class
Beats – Let go and just flow in a Vinyasa Yoga class set to energizing music
Restore – A great class for all levels, flowing at a gentle pace. Learn new postures, practice a unique flow
Slow(er) Flow – The perfect balance to your busy life, focusing on long-held floor poses and breath. It helps to open the body and cultivate the ability to observe and stay with sensation
Beach Yoga @ The Lodge – Practice Yoga Poolside overlooking the Gulf at the eco-friendly Lodge Hotel
Kids – Fun and empowering flow for your little yogi

Orange Beach Yoga

Orange Beach Yoga is an impressive business beloved by locals and tourists alike. They take pride in offering various yoga classes outside with breathtaking, peaceful backdrops. Orange Beach Yoga specializes in providing options that make everyone feel comfortable, so no matter what your fitness or yoga experience levels are, they’ll challenge you without overwhelming you.

Orange Beach Yoga offers many different yoga classes and private workshops that are perfect for group trips.

BuzzCatz Yoga – Enjoy Saturday morning yoga with us at an adorable coffee shop
Flora-Bama Flow – This is our original outdoor class location, and we have classes at the Flora-Bama Ole River Grill every Friday
Group & Family Private Classes
Live Music Yoga – The Gulf Coast is home to some of the best musicians in the country, and we love to share their talent with our yoga students
Paddle Board Yoga – Beginners, don’t be intimidated. We provide a paddle 101 lesson right before the class
Bear Point Yoga – A waterfront class (on Arnica Bay) right next to Bear Point Marina & Flipper’s Restaurant
Pop-Up Beach Classes- These classes pop up throughout the year on the beach behind either Flora-Bama or Perdido Beach Resort

More Relaxing Gulf Shores Activities

Unwind in a Beautiful Vacation Rental

Do you want to be among the first travelers staying in one of our newest properties? Take a look at A License to Chill! This 9-bedroom, 7-bathroom beachfront duplex is equipped to comfortably sleep 30 guests! The property can also be rented as two single properties for smaller groups. This stunning property boasts beautiful gulf views and is the perfect place to unwind and get away from it all. Plus, you can bring Fido along, as this home is pet-friendly!

Jan 11 2022

The Best Guide To Traveling From Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores, AL

People from all over Alabama travel south to the coast for relaxing and fun-filled beach getaways. One popular city that we have a lot of guests from is Huntsville. If you’re traveling from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores, AL, we’ll help you plan your trip every step of the way. Whether you’d prefer to drive or fly, we’ve got you covered!

How will you make the most out of your vacation in Gulf Shores, Alabama? Stay with us at Harris Vacation Rentals and bypass scrolling through Google to find the activities and services you may need. Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

All About Traveling from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores

If you’re planning a road trip from Huntsville or you’re considering flying, we’ll help you make your vacation planning go off without a hitch!

Pack the Car and Hit the Road

The driving distance from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores is about 375 miles, with the travel time being less than six hours. The cost to drive between cities is cheaper than booking a flight, so this is a popular transportation option among our guests.

If the driving time from Huntsville to Gulf Shores is a little long for you, consider making some pit stops along the way. Halfway between Huntsville, AL, and Gulf Shores, you’ll find Montgomery, AL. Stop here to stretch your legs and grab a bit to eat, or spend the night here. Montgomery is the capital of Alabama and home to lots of unique attractions, such as the Civil Rights Memorial Center, Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Hank Williams Museum, and Montgomery Zoo.

Fly in the Sky

If saving money on gas prices isn’t one of your concerns, consider flying to the Alabama Gulf Coast. Huntsville is home to an international airport (HSV), and the closest international airport to Gulf Shores is located in Pensacola, Florida (PNS). The flight distance between the cities is only 300 miles; however, there aren’t currently any direct flights offered. That means that flight time can be increased (depending on how long your layover is), so keep that in mind.

Once you arrive in Pensacola, you can rent a car or take a rideshare service to Gulf Shores. You’ll be less than 40 miles, from your final destination and the trip will only take about an hour. Before you know it, you’ll be at your dream vacation spot!

Stay at One of the Best Vacation Rentals on the Gulf

Whether you want to drive from Huntsville, AL, to Gulf Shores or book a flight, a fun-filled, unforgettable adventure is in your future! Where will you make your home base during this exciting time? Harris Vacation Rentals is here for you! We offer top-notch vacation rentals throughout the Alabama Gulf Coast, and we’d love to host you and your group.

No matter which one of our properties you choose to stay in, you’ll always be close to all the best things about Gulf Shores. If you’re interested in fishing, hitting the beaches, renting a boat, or exploring delicious restaurants, you’ll be good to go!

Dec 15 2021

How To Have the Best First Day of Vacation in Gulf Shores, AL

Nothing compares to the feeling of your first day of vacation in Gulf Shores. You’ve been counting down the days, and it’s all finally happening! Dip your toes in the warm sand of our Alabama sugar-white sand beaches, gaze at stunning turquoise waters, and get ready to have an experience you’ll never forget. We’ll tell you how you can make the most out of your first day of a fun-filled vacation!

After reading this blog, you’ll be ready to kickstart your Gulf Shores vacation. Now you need to start figuring out the rest of the exciting details! Check out our accommodations to find the perfect vacation rental for your stay, and to book activities let our team do the searching for you so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

The Best First Day of Vacation in Gulf Shores Looks Like This:

Whether you’re on a friends’ reunion, romantic getaway, or family-friendly beach vacation, the Alabama Gulf Coast has everything you need for the ultimate vacation!

1. Check Into Your Beautiful Vacation Home

When it comes to five-star vacation rentals along the coast, it doesn’t get better than Harris Vacation Rentals. When you rent one of our Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach rentals, your check-in location will vary based on the property you select. Some units have keypads, allowing you to go directly to your rental (a code will be emailed to you prior to your check-in day). Some rentals may have a lockbox with your keys inside. Like the units with keypads, a code will be emailed before your arrival. For properties with traditional locks, you’ll pick up your keys at the Harris Vacation Rentals Management rental office. Your welcome email will contain all these details and put you in the know.

2. Get Some Fuel in Your Stomach

Did you have a long car ride driving to the coast? You must be hungry! Kick vacation off on the right foot with a delicious meal. If you want to go out and let someone else do the cooking for you, our area is filled with charming beach bars and restaurants. You should be sure to try some local seafood and treat yourself to a cocktail at happy hour!

Would you prefer to get your kitchen stocked so you’re ready for the rest of the week? Head to the store and get that pantry and refrigerator filled. Harris Vacation Rentals is happy to offer concierge services and assist you with grocery shopping.

3. Make Your Gulf Shores Bucket List

How will you fill your days by the ocean? This area has so much to see and do, so it’s easy to create the ultimate Gulf Shores bucket list. Day one of vacation is the best time to start mapping out your week. Plus, if you have time, you can even start knocking a few things off!

All our vacation rentals are conveniently located in the heart of the Alabama Gulf Coast, so you’re always close to the best attractions. Some of the most popular local things to do include:

Let’s Get Ready to Vacation!

Are you itching more than ever to take a vacation now? We don’t blame you! Browse our collection of vacation rentals and pick the perfect one for you! We can’t wait to host you during your Gulf Coast getaway.

Dec 02 2021

Experience the Best Vacation From Chicago to Gulf Shores, AL

It’s no secret that Chicago is known as “The Windy City” and has lots of chilly weather? Are you craving a getaway to the warm and sunny Gulf Coast? Pack your bags and head to Gulf Shores, Alabama! Our quirky beach town is filled with fun-filled adventures, lively bars, and a delicious culinary scene. It doesn’t get any better than that! Learn how you can have the ultimate escape from Chicago to Gulf Shores.

After reading this blog, you’ll know all the details about the trip from Chicago, IL, to Gulf Shores, AL. Now you need to start figuring out the rest of the exciting details! Check out our accommodations to find the perfect vacation home for your stay. Plus, let our team do the activity searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Getaway From Chicago to Gulf Shores

With our help, planning a trip from Chicago to Gulf Shores is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. Reserve Your Dream Vacation Rental

You can’t plan a trip without a place to rest your head and make your home base. When it comes to vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Harris Vacation Rentals is your headquarters. We offer top-notch vacation rentals in beach towns along the coast, including Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach. Each property ranges in size and price, so it’s easy to find the perfect place for you.

Each of our rental properties features five-star amenities to make you feel at home. Whether you want a private pool, elevator, covered deck, game room, or breathtaking beach views, we’ve got you covered here. With the help of Harris Vacation Rentals, the ultimate getaway awaits!

2. Book Your Travel

Now it’s time to figure out your travel plans. The distance from Chicago to Gulf Shores is about 940 miles. So that means the driving time is roughly 14 ½ hours long. That is a bit of a long road trip—but if that’s your preferred journey, then go for it! If the drive from Chicago to Gulf Shores is too much for you, booking a flight is your best move.

The best way to fly from Chicago to Gulf Shores is to leave from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and fly into Pensacola International Airport (PNS). You’ll find an array of airlines to choose from that offer connecting flights between the two airports. These airlines include United, Delta, Spirit, Southwest, and more.

After you arrive at the Pensacola airport, it’s time to make your way to Gulf Shores. The driving distance from Pensacola to Gulf Shores is just under 40 miles and only about an hour long. Rent a car, hop in a cab, or order an Uber and head for the coast!

3. Make the Most Out of Your Stay at the Beach

You did it! You’ve arrived in our one-of-a-kind beach town of Gulf Shores. How will you make the most out of your stay here? Our town is filled with endless things to do and see. Whether you’re focused on relaxing in the sand, indulging in the delicious local food scene, or checking out unique attractions and outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered here. These are some of the most popular things to do in Gulf Shores:

Soar through the blue skies over the ocean and go parasailing
Get up close and personal with nature on a dolphin cruise
Try deep-sea fishing or go fishing along the coast
Cool off at a local waterpark
Explore the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Sip on a local lager at Big Beach Brewing Company
Play beach games at Gulf State Park
Get a birds’ eye view of the area with a helicopter tour
Go paddleboarding or kayaking through our back bays

One of the best parts of any trip is indulging in new restaurants. After all, calories don’t’ count when you’re on vacation—right?! Some of the most popular eateries in the area include:

Lulu’s, Gulf Shores
The Hangout, Gulf Shores
S&S Seafood Market, Gulf Shores
Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Café, Gulf Shores
Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar, Orange Beach
Fisher’s Upstairs at Orange Beach Marina, Orange Beach
Kitty’s Kafe, Gulf Shores
Duck’s Diner, Orange Beach
And so many more!

Make Your Getaway Happen

Now you know everything about the perfect vacation from Chicago to Gulf Shores. It’s time to make it happen! Browse our collection of vacation rentals and find the perfect one for you. We can’t wait to host you on your Alabama Gulf Coast retreat!

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