Gulf Shores Vacation and Activities

Feb 28 2022

Activity Recommendations with Kids in Gulf Coast

If you are traveling with your kids, there are many activities for your family to enjoy along the Gulf Coast. Hanging out at the beach or in your vacation rental can provide entertainment for most of your trip, but exploring the local attractions can be a fun adventure for the day. Harris Vacation Rentals is a family-owned company with deep roots in the area, so our team is prepared to help you plan your day.

Places to Check Out

The Park at OWA–When you buy a day pass to The Park at OWA, you get access to all 23 of their attractions, the splash pad, and plenty of amusement park restaurants and food carts. The park also hosts special events, such as concerts and shows, so make sure to check the schedule to see if any are happening when you visit. The Park at OWA is designed for the whole family to enjoy, offering a range of attractions from thrilling roller coasters to a classic ferris wheel.

Sail Wild Hearts–Booking an ocean charter gives you a unique view of the Gulf Coast’s beauty. There are a variety of catamaran rental options available, whether you are hoping for a romantic sunset cruise for two or a dolphin-watching adventure for your whole family. Sail Wild Hearts can even accommodate large groups of up to 49 if you are traveling with a large group or planning a special event, such as a birthday party or wedding party. These charters are popular in the spring and summer seasons, so we recommend booking your charter as early as possible by calling 251-981-6700.

Tiki’s Mini Golf–This putt putt place delivers a lot of family fun without breaking your budget. It costs five dollars per player, which includes the club, ball, and unlimited play. Your family can take your time and play through as many times as you would like. The course has 18 holes with a zombie tiki apocalypse theme. Tiki’s Mini Golf is rarely overly crowded, so your family can play through without feeling rushed. This attraction is appropriate for all ages; they even have smaller plastic clubs for younger children.

The Track Family Recreation Center–From a large arcade to a three and a half story go-kart track, The Track Family Recreation Center has a variety of choices for your family. There is a whole section of the park dedicated to children called Kid Country, which has smaller-sized attractions like a train, ferris wheel, a carousel, and more. The Track Family Recreation Center is a popular choice in Gulf Shores because of the diverse activities available. When your family cannot decide between putt putt or roller coasters, you can still have both in one location. Your whole family will find attractions to enjoy during your visit. The arcade is a great choice for a rainy day at the beach too.

Waterville USA–Waterville USA has plenty of thrills for guests of all ages. On both sides of the park, there are attractions geared towards younger guests, such as a merry-go-round, carnival rides, and a bounce house. There is also the Fun Depot on the dry side or slides and geysers in WaWa World. The amusement park side of the park includes go-karts, mini golf, and roller coasters. The water park accommodates whatever speed you are interested in, from a lazy river float around the park to fast-paced water slides to an endless wave pool.

If you are ready to plan your adventure to the Gulf Coast, finding the right place to stay is the first step. Contact Harris Vacation Rentals to find a comfortable home away from home for your family today!

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.

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