My Favs Make Payment

Gulf Shores Vacation and Activities

Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores: Your Guide to the Best Road Trip Ever

Road trips are always a fantastic idea, especially if the destination is as exciting as Gulf Shores, Alabama. One of the areas that we get the most travelers from is Mobile, AL. If you’re from that area and you’re ready to head south for an unforgettable beach getaway, you’re in the right spot! We’ll tell you how to plan the ultimate road trip from Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores.  

After reading this blow, you’ll know all the details about the trip from Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores, AL. Now you need to start figuring out the rest of the details. Check out our accommodations to find the perfect vacation home for your group. Also, 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.

Getaway From Mobile, AL, to Gulf Shores 

With our help, it’s easy to start planning a road trip from Mobile to Gulf Shores. The ultimate adventure awaits! 

Load up the Car and Hit the Road 

The distance from Mobile to the Alabama Gulf Coast is approximately 55 miles. That means that the driving time is only about an hour to get to Gulf Shores. It’s the perfect location for a quick weekend escape or a weeklong vacation. All you have to do is follow I-10 East and Baldwin Beach Express to Foley Beach Express in Baldwin County. You’ll continue on Foley Beach Express until you reach your destination in Gulf Shores.  

If you’d prefer to drive along the coast, an alternative route is taking US-98 East. When you go that way, you can stop halfway between Mobile, AL, and Gulf Shores in Fairhope, AL. It’s the best choice for a pit stop for using the bathroom or getting a snack. Fairhope is a vibrant town that’s known for its picturesque parks and panoramic views of Mobile Bay. Stop in one of their charming waterfront eateries and grab lunch before you hit the road again.  

Make the Most Out of Your Stay in Gulf Shores 

You did it! You’ve arrived in our lively beach town of Gulf Shores. How will you make the most out of your stay? Our town is filled with exciting things to do and see. Whether you’re focused on relaxing on the beach, indulging in delicious seafood, or checking out unique attractions, we’ve got you covered here. These are some of the most popular things to do during a Gulf Shores getaway: 

The Perfect Destination Deserves the Perfect Vacation Rental 

As you’re planning your vacation in Gulf Shores, you’ll need somewhere to make your home base. Harris Vacation Rentals offers the biggest and best collection of vacation rentals along the Gulf Coast. We offer properties of all sizes in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. No matter how big or small your group is, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we offer five-star amenities, including private pools, beach access, game rooms, elevators, pet-friendly properties, and more!

How To Spend Two Days on the Best Couple’s Getaway in Gulf Shores

When was the last time you enjoyed a romantic getaway with your sweetheart? It’s time to start planning the ultimate escape to the Alabama Gulf Coast. After all, there’s nothing quite like an intimate beach vacation to help you reconnect. A couple’s getaway in Gulf Shores is easy to plan, but we’re making it even easier. Browse our itinerary below to learn about how you can make the most out of two days on our white sand beaches.  

Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, Alabama, are filled with fantastic, fun-filled activities for couples. Also, 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.

The Ultimate Couple’s Getaway in Gulf Shores

Day 1:

Sunliner DinerBreakfast. Kick-off your vacation with breakfast at the Sunliner Diner, one of the newest additions to the Gulf Shores culinary scene. Located just a block north of the intersection of Highway 59 and the beach, Sunliner Diner serves up delicious breakfast favorites all day long. Waffles, pancakes, biscuits, eggs Benedict, scrambles, and more. What a way to start your day!

Morning. Work off those morning calories with a hike along one of the trails at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Four trails wind through the refuge, for a total of six miles to explore. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for wildlife along the way!

Lunch. Now that you’ve worked up your appetite, enjoy lunch at Bahama Bob’s, located right on West Beach in Gulf Shores. Sit out on the deck for a view of the Gulf and dig into a Po-boy piled high with shrimp, oysters, or the fresh catch of the day.

Afternoon. Spend some time browsing the unique shops and boutiques at The Wharf. There’s plenty for everyone to enjoy including marine outfitters, men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, souvenirs, and more. Don’t leave without taking a ride around the Ferris wheel.

Dinner. Since you’re at The Wharf anyway, enjoy dinner and drinks at Ginny Lane Bar & Grill. Happy Hour takes place every day ’til 6 p.m., or sip one of their Daily Penny Cocktails (one penny cocktail per person, per day). For your meal, the menu offers an array of options, from fresh local seafood to Black Angus beef to pasta.

Day 2:

Gulf Shores restaurantBreakfast. Sleep in, then enjoy a brunch at Tacky Jack’s on the canal in Gulf Shores. Have a Whiskey Willies Bloody Mary while chowing down on an omelet with your choice of fillings. Or, enjoy a breakfast burrito with a Mexican coffee.

Morning. Sit back and relax aboard a Sail Wild Hearts excursion. This seasoned crew takes its passengers on sails aboard a 53-foot catamaran. Opt for a snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking adventure when the crew pulls up to Robinson Island in Orange Beach.

Lunch. Pick up a salad, protein bowl, meat platter, or smoothie and fruit at Picnic Beach in Gulf Shores. This new restaurant near the Gulf Shores Public Beach offers a unique dining experience. Set up your picnic lunch in the open, airy space with a view of the Gulf.

Afternoon. Swing by one of the local courses for a round of golf. Craft Farms, just over the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge, offers two courses with 36 holes of extraordinary golf. Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club on Fort Morgan Road has three, nine-hole courses. The Gulf Shores Golf Club is a beautiful 18-hole course right in the center of the community. Golf is a fun way to spend a quiet day outdoors on a couple’s getaway in Gulf Shores.

Dinner. End your day at the Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails on West Beach in Gulf Shores. Start off with a seasonal, craft cocktail made with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Juices are squeezed daily. Syrups are made in-house. The bacon-wrapped shrimp is a favorite as an appetizer, but the Gulf Coast coconut shrimp is pretty tasty, too. Entrees include chili-lime shrimp skewers, Gulf grouper, and crawfish mac & cheese.

Book the Best Beach House for the Two of You

beach rental

Do you want to wake up to the sound of rolling waves coming in from the Gulf Shores beaches? There’s nothing more romantic than that! Harris Vacation Rentals offers the best vacation rentals along the Gulf of Mexico. Our properties range in size and come with a variety of impressive amenities, so it’s easy to have the best getaway ever!

Ready to book your couple’s getaway in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? Browse vacation rentals and make plans today. 

 

How To Enjoy Fantastic Live Music in Gulf Shores

Nothing compares to the feeling of unwinding during a Gulf Coast vacation while listening to the vibrant sounds of local musicians jamming out. One of the best parts of visiting Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach is the city’s abundance of laid-back bars and music hotspots. See some of the greatest live music in Gulf Shores and up-and-coming musicians at the neat places we’ve listed below! 

Looking for more fun-filled things to do during your Alabama Gulf Coast vacation? Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Your Guide To Gulf Shores Live Music Venues 

The Hangout Gulf Shores 

Location: 101 E Beach Boulevard, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 

concert

We’re starting off our list with The Hangout. This relaxed beach bar features indoor and outdoor seating and is located right on the beach—you can’t beat this location! The Hangout literally built its reputation on its Gulf Shores live music offerings. 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. 

The Wharf Amphitheater 

Location: The Wharf at Orange Beach, 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL 36561 

One of the most notable places for live music in Gulf Shores is the Wharf Amphitheater. It’s the area’s headquarters for large concerts and hosts shows of some of the biggest names in music. If you love an arena-style musical experience, you’ll have a blast at this venue that can house just under ten thousand seats. Some of the impressive names you can listen to at the Wharf Amphitheatre include Jason Aldean, Chris Stapleton, Jimmy Buffett, and more! 

Flora-Bama 

Location: 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Pensacola, FL 32507 

Flora-Bama is a carefree bar that straddles the state line between Florida and Alabama. If you’re looking to listen to country, rock, or beach music, this classic roadhouse is the place for you. It’s home to five different stages that are frequented by local musicians every week. Flora-Bama also hosts an array of annual concerts on the beach. So, head here, sip on a famous Bushwacker, and enjoy the sounds of live music.  

The Club at Live Bait 

Location: 24281 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, AL 36561 

Live Bait is a restaurant and nightclub committed to fun times, top-notch food, and exceptional service. It’s known for being Alabama’s premier Gulf Coast nightclub, where people travel from near and far to listen to music, dance, and attend outstanding special events. The live music includes rock bands, hot DJs, special concerts with nationally touring artists, and can’t-miss dance parties.   

LuLu’s Gulf Shores 

Location: 200 E 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 

No list of Gulf Shores’ live music would be complete without mentioning Lulu’s! As a popular spot for 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 to eat while you’re here! 

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

Book amazing rentals for online school in Fort Morgan

Stay near all the best live music hotspots in Gulf Shores and reside in a Harris Vacation Rentals property. We offer luxurious vacation rentals throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, each offering its own list of unbeatable amenities. We’re also happy to provide an array of deals and discounts throughout the year to ensure that you can make the most out of your getaway!  

Check out our collection of vacation rentals and find the perfect beach house for you!

 

Here Are Fantastic Options for Fine Dining in Gulf Shores

One of the best parts about a beach vacation is feeling the sugar-white sand on your skin, having windswept hair, and throwing on some flip flops and a coverup, and heading to your favorite local eatery. However, if you want to treat yourself to an elevated evening during your Gulf Coast vacation, we’ve got you covered. Here are some fantastic options for fine dining in Gulf Shores, AL.  

Are you looking for more ways to make the most out of your vacation? 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 Restaurants for Fine Dining Gulf Shores

Whether you’re celebrating a romantic occasion or just want to spice things up with a memorable meal, you’ll find what you need with these restaurants offering fine dining in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach. 

Sea-N-Suds Restaurant and Oyster Bar 

Address: 405 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 

crab

Established in 1975, Sea-N-Suds is one of the original family-friendly restaurants on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The eatery sits just a couple of feet away from the Gulf of Mexico and offers an authentic waterfront dining experience. This is one of the best spots in town to sit back, relax, listen to the waves, watch the gorgeous sunset, and indulge in delicious dishes.  

Sea-N-Suds Restaurant and Oyster Bar is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Must-Try Menu Selections: 

  • Gumbo (it’s their specialty!) by the cup, bowl, or quart to-go.  
  • Stuffed Crab Dinner (it’s been bringing back guests for over 40 years!) 

Voyagers 

Address: 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd #3205, Orange Beach, AL 36561 

steak

When you’re searching for top-notch coastal cuisine paired with breathtaking panoramic views, Voyagers is the spot for you! This restaurant is known for its impressive menu featuring local produce, sustainable seafood, dry-aged steaks, and an award-winning wine list.  

Voyagers is open for dinner service seven days a week, starting at 5 p.m.  

Must-Try Menu Selections: 

  • Ostrich Carpaccio with capers, shaved parmesan, crispy shallots, and whole grain mustard 
  • Prime Bone-In Filet Mignon that has been slowly aged for full flavor and buttery tenderness 

Fisher’s Upstairs at Orange Beach Marina 

Address: 27075 Marina Rd #300, Orange Beach, AL 36561 

oysters

Fisher’s Upstairs is voted one of the best restaurants in the south by Southern Living, so it’s got to be good! This establishment provides both indoor and outdoor dining, creating the perfect blend of upscale class and laidback ambiance. The Head Chef, Bill Briand, is committed to serving only the freshest ingredients and classic southern flavors.  

Fisher’s Upstairs is open for dinner service seven days a week, starting at 5 p.m. Reservations are encouraged.  

Must-Try Menu Selections: 

  • Alabama Farm-Raised Oysters (available in half or full dozen) 
  • Duck Confit with Louisiana dirty rice, baby bok choy, and citrus gastrique  

After Fine Dining in Gulf Shores, Book A Top-Notch Vacation Rental 

Pool and Vacation Rental to Work From Home in Gulf Shores

When you’re looking for the best vacation rentals on the AL Gulf Coast, Harris Vacation Rentals has got you covered. We’re proud to offer luxurious vacation rentals ranging in size and shape, each offering amazing amenities.  

In addition to outstanding vacation rentals, we’re also happy to offer Concierge Services. Leave all your responsibilities behind during your getaway and let us handle all the planning and logistics. When you book directly with us, you’ll have full access to our concierge services, and our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be at your beck and call—all for no extra charge! 

 

The Ultimate Family Beach Packing List for Your Gulf Shores Vacation

What do you look forward to the most when you’re planning a vacation to a beach destination? From picturesque white sand to thrilling watersports to family-friendly activities, Gulf Shores has it all! Before you can hit the sand, you’ll need to gear up and pack the perfect beach bag. As locals, we have the best travel tips so you can be sure you’ll have the best day at the beach ever. Check out our family beach packing list below! 

Aside from planning the best beach trip packing list, you’ll also want to plan some special activities! Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones. You can experience sunset cruises, sailing charters, parasailing, and more! 

Family Beach Packing List: Find the Best One for You 

What do you need to pack for the beach? Depending on your family dynamics, your needs will differ. Read on to find the perfect family beach vacation packing list for your group! 

Must-Haves for Any Family Beach Packing List 

No matter how young or old your children are, there are some items we call can agree on that are necessary for any beach day. 

beach

  • Bathing suits 
  • Beach towels 
  • Flip-flops
  • First-aid kit 
  • Water bottles 
  • Beach chairs 
  • Sun hat 
  • Cooler  
  • Umbrella  
  • Snacks  
  • Sunglasses 
  • Sunscreen 
  • Books/magazines  
  • Cash 
  • Waterproof bag to keep your phone dry and sand-free 
  • Cover-ups  
  • Insect repellant 
  • Essential medications 
  • Lip balm with SPF 

Families With Babies 

Is this your first beach getaway with your new baby? That’s so exciting! Don’t forget these items below, and your day is sure to be fantastic. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 

baby

  • Swim diapers 
  • Change of clothes 
  • Bottles/formula 
  • Wipes 
  • Pacifier  
  • Blanket 
  • Beach toys 
  • Beach wagon 
  • Beach tent 
  • White noise machine 
  • Ziplock bags 
  • Fan  

Families With Kids 

Are you vacationing with kids that are old enough to swim, run, and play? This will be a magical time that you’ll never forget. Bring these items along with you to ensure that they have a safe and fun-filled day. 

kids at beach

  • Water shoes 
  • Boogie board 
  • Floaties 
  • Swim goggles 
  • Sandcastle toys 
  • Inflatables  

Families With Teenagers 

If you’re hitting the beach with teens, they might want to be in charge of their own beach bags. However, here are some recommendations in case you want to be extra prepared! 

beach

  • Headphones 
  • Waterproof Bluetooth speaker 
  • Hairbrush/comb 
  • Hair detangler 
  • Feminine products 
  • Makeup wipes 
  • Portable phone charger 
  • Deck of cards 
  • Beach games 

Find Your Family’s Dream Vacation Home 

Fort Morgan rental villas

For over three decades, Harris Vacation Rentals has been helping families make unforgettable memories on amazing beach vacations. We offer top-notch vacation rentals throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Each of our properties ranges in size and shape, so finding the ideal home for your group is easy. Whether you’re looking for a property with a private pool, covered deck, hot tub, game room, or picturesque beach views, we’ve got you covered. Plus, you’ll always be close to the best things to do in the area, such as waterparks, nature trails, kid-friendly restaurants, and more. 

SOCIAL MEDIA

Instagram Twitter Facebook

We are On social

Footer

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

    Contact

    769 Commerce Dr. Gulf Shores AL 36542

    USA Toll Free: 877-446-4853

    Book your tradition

    BOOK NOWarrow
    Footer Mobile Screen
    Skip to content