Parasailing in Orange Beach: Beginner’s Guide

Parasailing in Orange Beach: Beginner’s Guide

The Alabama Gulf Coast blesses us with remarkable sunrises, sunsets, and picturesque views of the horizon. But parasailing in Orange Beach elevates those views to a majestic perspective that you’ll remember forever.

Here at Harris Vacations, we welcome travelers from all over the US and beyond to our sleek, beachfront vacation rentals in Orange Beach. These include sky-high condos with unbeatable views and amenities, as well as beachfront villas and cottages for larger groups.

One way to enjoy your Orange Beach vacation? Channeling your inner eagle and parasailing across the ocean and coastline. We’ll walk you through our favorite companies to parasail with and general tips for safety and making the most of your experience.

Best Time to Parasail Orange Beach

Photo Credit: Silmy Maul

The good news? You can parasail nearly all year long (except during Winter). Spring, Summer, and Autumn are all safe to parasail, though you might consider going during temperature highs as you get deeper into autumn.

As for the time of day, most experts and parasailing companies recommend a morning trip for gentler waters and calmer skies. Sunrise with minimal winds is one of our favorite weather conditions for this sport. You might consider a parasailing trip an hour or so after or before breakfast in Gulf Shores.

Orange Beach Parasail: 3 Companies

A quick stroll on the beach might overwhelm you with water sports options. Which marina offers the best experience? Here’s a roundup of our favorite parasailing providers.

1. Southern Rose Dolphin Cruises & Parasailing

This company has been in the water sports and parasailing businesses since 2004 — and those 20 years of experience have resulted in some incredible experiences from many of our guests here at Harris Vacations.

Their trips bring you up to 800 feet into the air to take in gorgeous views of Alabama’s scenery. Rest assured that the staff and boats here are all U.S. Coast Guard approved. And if some of your group is afraid of heights? You can enjoy other water sports with Southern Rose, including banana boat rides, boat rentals, dolphin cruises, and jet skiing.

2. Orange Beach (OB) Parasail

Photo Credit: meatbull

Located beside the Sportsman Marina and Tiki Bar, Orange Beach Parasail offers 1-hour parasailing trips for parasailers themselves, along with anyone they want to bring along as an observer on the boat. A couple runs the company, which gives it a family-business vibe that delivers on stellar customer service and an overall positive experience. The two couples have operated their parasailing business for nearly 20 years.

Our advice? Add a photo package to your experience — trust us, it’s worth it. You’ll receive professionally taken photos to remember your parasailing adventure forever. OB Parasail offers packages of 1-4 photos, ranging from $35 to $65.

3. Chute for the Sky Parasail

Photo Credit: ad-foto

  • Address: 27206 Safe Harbor Drive, Orange Beach, AL
  • Website: chuteskyeparasail.com
  • Price: $85 for parasailers; $40 for observers

With a 100% safety rating, Chute for the Sky Parasail is one of the most reputable in the region. The owners are parents themselves, and they highlight that they fly both parents and children in their activities.

They offer double and triple parasail rides as long as the weight doesn’t exceed the limit of their canopies (450 to 500 pounds).

What to Know Before You Go Parasailing

First time parasailing? Maybe you’ve never even heard of it before planning this trip. While typically considered a water sport, you don’t actually do parasailing on the ocean — you physically parasail while in the air.

How to Get Up

In parasailing, a speedboat coasts into the ocean while a parasail wing or canopy (looks like a parachute) is tethered to that boat. The canopy has descending lines that attach to a thick bar, with straps to hold onto and thigh straps to sit in.

Up and Away

Photo Credit: CHUYKO SERGEY

As the motorboat gets moving, the canopy opens and ascends into the air, taking whoever is attached to it. Sounds pretty surreal, right? We can’t begin to explain the freedom and thrill of parasailing — you simply have to experience it. It’s like transforming into a bird as you glide across the ocean and see an unparalleled view of the coastline. At the end, you could dip into the water or land back on the boat without getting wet.

Take the Family!

You can enjoy parasailing with the entire family. Age limits usually allow kids over three years old to participate, though each company might have unique weight restrictions, depending on the canopy and boat.

Parasailing Safety Tips

Photo Credit: zefart

We’ve been in the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach area for decades, and every single one of our guests has had positive experiences with parasailing. That said, it’s important to recognize that being 800 feet in the air isn’t something to take lightly, and safety precautions are in order.

Most of the companies we listed above will brief you on all their safety protocols both when you book as well as when you arrive on-scene. Still, here are some general safety pointers to consider before your parasailing adventure:

  • Always wear a lifejacket: This is usually non-negotiable for many parasailing providers anyway. While you can often land back in the boat, the odd time timing as you land in the water. It’s usually a fun experience to coast in the ocean for a short while, but it’s better to be safe in case that happens.
  • Avoid windy weather: Canopies are quite susceptible to the winds. Although the boat guides your direction, strong winds could lead your parachute astray and pose a safety issue. Most companies won’t operate with harsh winds, but it’s something to keep in mind before you book anyway.
  • Pay attention to safety and rescue briefings: It’s rare for accidents to occur, but your parasailing company will share a protocol with you just in case. Listen attentively to be prepared for anything.

Start Parasailing in Orange Beach with Harris Vacations!

If you seek an unforgettable vacation experience this year, parasailing is the water sport for you. You’ll feel an unparalleled thrill while interacting with the ocean and coastline in a completely different way than you’ve ever experienced.

Parasailing is an exhilarating activity that we encourage all our guests to consider. Lucky for us, we’re only a stone’s throw away from Orange Beach’s most popular and credible parasailing providers.

Our vacation rentals vary in size (from 20-person cottages to cozy yet sleek condos), but most have one thing in common: they’re walking distance from the beach and have incredible views of the horizon.

Book your Orange Beach vacation today!

A Traveler’s Guide to Fall in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores, Alabama, saw one of its hottest summers on record this year. While the scorching sun is a plus for your tan and a welcome break from colder weather, you might crave a less sweaty vacation with fewer crowds. That’s why we at Harris Vacations invite you to consider a vacation in Gulf Shores in the fall months.

Take the regular tourism numbers and cut them in half during October and November. You’ll still enjoy coastal views of the Alabama Gulf Coast and smiling sunshine but without the intense heat or crowds.

But what can you expect from your fall getaway in Gulf Shores? Our founder and team have spent a lifetime in the region. We’ll walk you through weather details, fall festivals, and other exciting activities to enjoy during fall in Gulf Shores.

Fall Weather in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Photo Credit: Cavan-Images

Fall is the perfect time to visit Gulf Shores for your beach vacation, whether you’re on a romantic getaway or enjoying precious quality time with your family. Keep in mind that the City of Gulf Shores employs lifeguards on all its eight beaches from March all the way to October. So, if you come for a September or October vacation, you can still enjoy a relatively warm and safe swim.

The same goes for Orange Beach, a short 13-minute drive from Gulf Shores. In October, the water is still warm and swimmable. However, visitors in November might find the beach and water too chilly for a proper beach day.

Here are some average temperatures to expect in Gulf Shores during the fall season:

September

  • Water temperature: 81°
  • Average temperature: 78.6°
  • Daily high: 85.4°
  • Daily low: 73.8°

October

  • Water temperature: 74°
  • Average temperature: 71.2°
  • Daily high: 77.5°
  • Daily low: 64.8°

November

  • Water temperature: 65°
  • Average temperature: 62.5°
  • Daily high: 69.1°
  • Daily low: 55.8°

3 Best Things to Do in the Fall in Gulf Shores

Who says you can’t enjoy the beach or nature in the fall? If anything, some of our favorite outdoor activities in Gulf Shores are more relaxing when the heat isn’t so sweltering. Here are our favorite things to do during the fall season in Gulf Shores.

1. Enjoy a Gulf Shores Beach Day

Photo Credit: Monkey Business Images

Water temperatures stay pretty warm throughout September and a good chunk of October, meaning you can still bust out that bikini and enjoy Gulf Shores’ infamous beaches. You might bring a picnic basket with some goodies from one of the town’s fabulous seafood restaurants or enjoy some water sports like jet skiing or kayaking.

And even if it’s too cold to go swimming? The beach still welcomes you with its gorgeous sunset views and sugar-white sands. Take a romantic stroll or enjoy a picnic with a beautiful backdrop.

Our favorite Gulf Shores beaches:

2. Get Your Hike On

Photo Credit: Maridav

Who wants to go hiking when you’re sweating buckets from the heat? Not many — that’s why summer isn’t necessarily the best time for hiking in our view. But fall weather plus nature and exciting wildlife trails? Sounds like the perfect combination.

Gulf Shores’ temperatures range from 75 to 80 degrees in fall months (except November which gets a bit chillier), which makes it a great time to enjoy nature. All you need is a light jacket, and even during daily highs you could get away with a t-shirt. Our town’s hiking trails gift trekkers with ample views of birds and wildlife like raccoons and, if you’re lucky, alligators!

Our favorite places to hike in Gulf Shores:

3. Spend Time on the Water on Fishing Charters and Dolphin Cruises

Photo Credit: Nigel Jarvis

We’d recommend this one closer to the beginning of fall so you don’t feel too cold on the boat — but either way, a windbreaker, and layers will still keep you cozy on the ocean in October and November! Gulf Shores has abundant options for boat experiences, but our favorite has to be the fishing charter. Don’t you want to see where your favorite Gulf Coast seafood comes from?

One we’d really recommend is from Easy Living Charters, a company that offers both charters to fish speckled and white trout, flounder, King Mackerel, and more, along with dolphin cruises that will have kids and adults alike marveling in wonder.

Fall Events in Gulf Shores

Craving live music, stellar cuisine, and a little bit of culture on your fall getaway? Check out these fall events in Gulf Shores. Just make sure you double-check each event’s website to confirm dates and times as well.

1. Annual National Shrimp Festival

Photo Credit: tairome

Craving a shrimp po’boy? How about gumbo or simply buttery garlic boiled shrimp? No matter your shrimp palate, you’ll find a ton of Gulf Shores seafood at the annual National Shrimp Festival.

The sidewalks touching the beaches fill up with endless food vendor stands selling shrimp in 100 different ways for you to enjoy in the sunshine. In the background, you’ll hear live music ranging from Motown and jazz to classical rock and country.

2. Alabama Coastal BirdFest

Photo Credit: pongsatorn imudom

This October event will take you about an hour away from Gulf Shores to Spanish Fort, Alabama — but if you’re a bird lover? You can’t miss the breathtaking sights of over 300 species of birds flying south from Canada during the fall season. Hummingbirds, herons, and plovers are just a few examples.

The festival has a few events within its three days for you to pick from, from bird-spotting walks to kayak trips and workshops on specific birds or watching techniques.

3. Orange Beach Freedom Fest

Photo Credit: Jorge A. Russell

Feeling patriotic? Then you can’t miss Freedom Fest, a four-time running festival that highlights pride for the USA. You’ll find various booths from the US forces, a collectibles firearm show, and even a First Responders’ demonstration from the Orange Beach fire and police departments.

There’s no shortage of food vendors for your favorite American and Southern fare, like cheeseburgers, barbecue, and much more. Freedom Fest is extremely family-friendly, with bouncing castles, live music sponsored by Flora-Bama, and a classic car show to stroll through with the whole family.

What to Pack for Fall in Gulf Shores

Photo Credit: Inara Prusakova

While September and October are still fairly warm in Gulf Shores, November brings a pleasant dip in temperatures and sometimes breezy weather! Here is how you can prepare when packing essentials.

  • Lightweight Clothing: Layers are ideal; pack t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
  • Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuit if you plan to enjoy the beach or a pool.
  • Comfortable Footwear: Bring sandals for the beach and sturdy shoes for exploring local trails and attractions.
  • Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun, even in autumn, with a high SPF sunscreen.
  • Hat and Sunglasses: For additional sun protection and comfort.
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring the beautiful outdoors.
  • Beach Towels: Perfect for lounging on the sand or drying off after a swim.
  • Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning landscapes and special moments during your trip.
  • Bug Spray: Autumn can still bring pesky insects, so pack some for outdoor activities.

Book Your Fall Getaway at Gulf Shores with Harris Vacations!

Fall is a lovely season to visit the Alabama coast for its milder weather (without sacrificing sunshine), fewer crowds, and variety of exciting events. But you can’t enjoy Gulf Shores any season without a comfortable place to stay.

Whether you want an Orange Beach condo along the coast or a Gulf Shores villa for your extended family, Harris Vacations has you covered. We’ve been in the vacation rental business for over ten years and have hundreds of happy clients who rely on us every year for their Gulf Shores vacation.

Find your Gulf Shores vacation rental today!

11 Best Free Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Are you planning a Gulf Coast getaway? You don’t have to break the bank to have a great family beach vacation. In fact, we have plenty of great tips for vacation planning on a budget. Read on to learn about some of the best free things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Then, start planning your trip!

Don’t forget to book your Gulf Shores vacation home with Harris Vacation Rentals. We’ve got the best properties on the Alabama Gulf Coast!

Once you’ve taken care of where to stay, it’s time to plan your trip. These are our top 12 free things to do in Gulf Shores on your vacation.

1. Relax at the Best Alabama Beaches

Gulf Shores is home to the world’s most beautiful public beaches — it’s no secret. They are just as pristine as Florida’s famed beaches but typically less crowded. And when it comes to the best free things to do on the Gulf Coast, lounging by the shoreline on our white sand beaches should be at the top of your list!

Soak up the sun, play in the Gulf, and sink your toes into the sugar-white sand. Many of the local beach accesses offer free public parking on a first-come, first-served basis.

2. Explore Hiking and Birding Trails

Nature enthusiasts will love visiting the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge! This 7,000-acre wildlife sanctuary is open year-round and offers activities for everyone. Get out and explore miles of scenic hiking trails or enjoy fishing from the beach. Some of our other favorite free hiking areas include the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Orange Beach.

3. Visit a Local Museum

Museums

Whether you’re looking for rainy-day activities or you’re traveling with history buffs, you’ll love the amazing museums near Gulf Shores, Alabama. And many offer free admission! Here’s our recommendation for a day of museum hopping.

Gulf Shores Museum

First, visit this fascinating history museum and learn about the earliest inhabitants along the Alabama coast. Formerly a beach house, this enchanting museum features an array of permanent and rotating exhibits and a Butterfly Garden. It’s a great experience for all ages, so bring the whole family!

Foley Model Railroad Museum

If you’re looking for the best free things to do in Foley, AL, you must visit the Foley Model Railroad Museum. Take a step back in time as you explore real locomotives and engaging railroad exhibits.

Holmes Medical Museum

Afterward, stop by the Holmes Medical Museum and take a self-guided tour of Baldwin County’s first hospital. This spooky building features original medical devices and operating rooms dating back to the early 1900s!

Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum

Next, head over to the Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum. Discover the area’s Native American and fishing heritage through a variety of displays, artifacts, and other memorabilia.

Naval Air Museum

Finally, make sure to check out the Naval Air Museum in Pensacola. Serving as the world’s largest Naval Aviation Museum, it’s a must-see for any aviation lover! A ticket is required to enter but for a free thrill, come on a day that the Blue Angels are practicing overhead.

4. Attend a Free Festival or Event

No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something exciting happening in Gulf Shores, Alabama. From family-friendly events to concerts, art festivals, and more, the list of things to do here is endless. The best part? Many local events are free! Make sure to check out our website to see what upcoming events are scheduled during your Gulf Shores getaway.

5. Visit Gulf State Park

There are enough free things to do in this area of natural beauty to keep you entertained all day long. Enjoy a picnic, go hiking on the nature trails, try watersports like kayaking if you have your own equipment (rentals are available for a fee), or simply relax in the sun on the beach.

Note: Gulf State Park Pier was closed at the time of writing for repairs to the damage caused by Hurricane Sally. Check the website for updates before you visit.

6. Stroll The Wharf at Orange Beach

If you’re looking for things to do in Orange Beach, Alabama, you must visit The Wharf at Orange Beach. This lively entertainment district is home to our famed Ferris wheel and is filled with wonderful boutiques, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions.

However, you don’t have to spend anything to enjoy spending time here. After sunset, make sure to stay and watch the SPECTRA show. This sound and light spectacular features choreographed music synced with a stunning light show. The shows are free and held multiple times each night!

7. Spot Gators

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a fantastic place to see American alligators but if you’re looking to save your dollars, you can spot them in the wild instead. One of the best places to see these giants is in Gulf State Park on the Cross Park Trail bridge. Gators are known to swim between Little Lake and Middle Lake, so keep your eyes peeled while you’re out there biking and hiking!

8. Visit the Coastal Arts Center

Crafty types will love taking a trip to the Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach. As well as the paid glass-blowing and pottery-making classes, there are plenty of year-round free events and activities to enjoy, and entry to the gallery is also free. The program is always changing so keep an eye on the website for upcoming classes.

9. Explore a Historic Fort

Photo Credit: print_girl

Fort Morgan has stood proudly where Mobile Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico since 1834. The fort has been used during various wars including the Spanish American War and World War I and provides a fascinating glimpse into America’s military past. Visitors must pay to enter, but it’s free to see this impressive landmark from outside.

For a historic double bill, head to Fort Gaines afterward to learn about one of the most important sites of the Battle of Mobile Bay that took place during the Civil War. Again, there is a fee to enter but it’s impressive enough from the outside to make it worth a visit.

10. Spot Dolphins Playing in the Ocean

Dolphin cruises are popular with visitors to Gulf Shores, but did you know that you can spot these playful creatures from the beach for free!?

Sightings are said to be most frequent in the early morning hours when dolphins come close to shore, but eagle-eyed visitors have a good chance of spotting one or two at any time of the day.

11. Go Bird Spotting

alabama coastal birding trail

Gulf Shores is home to a diverse variety of ecosystems and is an incredible place to go bird spotting. The Alabama Coastal Birding Trails cover 280 sites across Alabama where over 430 bird species have been spotted. Expect to see great blue herons, sanderlings, and ruddy turnstones here in Gulf Shores.

Tip: If you can swing the $2 per vehicle entrance fee, the Gulf State Park Nature Center is a living museum and one of the best places to learn about the birds, plants, and creatures that call the Gulf Coast home. Check the activities calendar to see what’s on during your visit.

Enjoy the Beach on a Budget

Now that you know about some of the best free things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama, it’s time to start planning your trip! Enjoy your vacation to the fullest when you book a stay with Harris Vacation Rentals.

We offer a wide array of vacation rentals throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Whether you’re searching for a large family home or an intimate beachfront condo, we offer options for a range of preferences and budgets.

Check Our Availability

7 Tastiest Ice Cream Shops in Gulf Shores

Alabama sees one of its warmest months in July, with daytime temps averaging 90 degrees Fahrenheit. A dip in the Gulf might offer some relief, but we’d prefer to sneak in a summer treat first. How do ice cream sundaes and gelato sound on your Gulf Shores vacation?

Here at Harris Vacations, we’ve curated hundreds of Gulf Shores vacays for travelers since 1983. And if you need recommendations for the best beach spots, things to do, restaurants, or ice cream shops? We’re your people.

After jumping off your Gulf Shores fishing charter or family day at the beach, it’s time to finally treat yourself to a Gulf Shores vacation, which wouldn’t be complete without the best ice cream shops in town. Keep reading for our favorite spots!

  1. Island Ice Cream & Treats

Photo Credit: stockcreations

  • Address: 1154 West Beach Blvd. Suite C, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: islandicecreamandtreats.com
  • Price point: $$$
  • Theme: Elaborate ice cream sundaes and creations

If you’re after a truly indulgent experience, a stop at Island Ice Cream & Treats is a must on your Gulf Shores vacation. For starters, you can pick from over 40 different ice cream flavors, from butter crunch and brownie sundae to our personal favorite, blackberry cobbler. Feel free to stop at a couple of scoops — or if you want the full experience, try one of the banana splits with fudge, peanuts, and pineapple on top.

We also love the sundae menu, which resembles cocktails in their complexity. The Mint Green Grasshopper has mint-chip ice cream, Oreos, and a literal cherry on top!

  1. The Yard Milkshake Bar

Photo Credit: Kolpakova Svetlana

  • Address: 3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: theyardmilkshakebar.com
  • Price point: $$$
  • Theme: Extravagant milkshakes and ice cream concoctions

Fancy a day of shopping before heading to the beach? Pelicans Place is a shopping mall with a few beauty shops and beachy clothing stores like Reef Havoc and Sunrays. Once you’re all shopped out, meander on over to the Yard Milkshake Bar for a sweet treat. You might remember the name from a Shark Tank episode a while back. The Southern couple who started this franchise successfully expanded to over 30 locations nationwide.

As for the menu, it’s not just milkshakes that bring travelers to their yard! Think extravagance in every possible way—milkshakes with entire cupcakes and ice cream scoops on top or edible cookie dough that you can add to any creation. The price point is high, at nearly $20 for a loaded milkshake, but we can promise you that the generous portion and delectable taste make up for it!

  1. Cowbell Rolled Ice Cream

Photo Credit: DimaSid

  • Address: 2200 E 2nd St STE D, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: instagram.com/cowbellgmb
  • Price point: $$
  • Theme: Ice cream made from scratch

When was the last time you tried something truly homemade on vacation? If you crave a natural and homegrown kind of treat, look no further than Cowbell Rolled Ice Cream. These guys make their ice cream from scratch every day, and the presentation is striking and comforting all at once, with the cream rolled into thin sheets that fold together and welcome drizzles of fruit puree, whipped cream, and other toppings, too.

  1. Yumm Twister & Ice Cream

Photo Credit: JM Travel Photography

  • Address: 229 E 20th Ave, Suite 8, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: yummtcf.com
  • Price point: $$
  • Theme: Gelato and handmade twister cones

Gelato tugs on the tastebuds of many over the creamier counterpart, ice cream. This Italian ice cream’s slower churn gives it a dense texture and iciness that feels satisfying and even more refreshing. Plus, it’s a tasty way to travel back to Italy in time. Gulf Shores has its very own gelato bar known as Yumm Twister & Ice Cream.

Pick from classic gelato flavors like chocolate and vanilla, or go richer with unique flavors like tiramisu or cookies and cream. This joint takes things up a notch with their homemade twister cones that are the perfect combination of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Add some toppings like oreos or fudge, and you’re ready to go!

  1. Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream

Photo Credit: lozas

Sometimes, you just want a traditional, creamy, satisfying scoop of ice cream like you had when you were kids. Matt’s is the place to get it here in Gulf Shores. The joint has tons of different flavors to choose from. Maple Walnut, anyone? We prefer raspberry chocolate ourselves, but we love returning to try all the variety.

Load up your ice cream or banana splits with hot fudge or sprinkles, and try to mosey on over to the benches outside or the nearby waterfront. This shop tends to get crowded, so bear with us as the kind staff does their best to get your order!

  1. Cherry on Top

Photo Credit: Charles Brutlag

Craving a pina colada? Save it for cocktail hour — but if you want that sweet, sweet coconut icey flavor without the alcohol, you gotta check out Cherry on Top’s snow cones. Pina Colada is one flavor among others, like blue raspberry, cotton candy, or banana. They also make specialty milkshakes and floats using root beer, orange Fanta, or Sprite.

Honestly, we can’t think of a more refreshing snack than a snowcone on a hot Alabama summer’s day. But if you crave something creamier and richer, you can always opt for the peanut butter sundae or warm brownie sundae.

  1. Chocolate Corner & Ice Cream

Photo Credit: Yala

  • Address: 200 W Fort Morgan Rd, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: chocolatecorneronline.com
  • Price point: $$
  • Theme: Homemade chocolates and unique ice cream treats

Do you have a sweet tooth that yearns for all things chocolate? Sounds like the Chocolate Corner is a must-see on your Gulf Shores trip. Here, you’ll find homemade chocolates like pecan paws, pecan caramel turtles, and 15 different types of chocolate bark.

And don’t forget the ice cream — pick from a variety of different Blue Bell ice creams and sundae mixes, chock-full of goodies like toffee,, mint chocolate, and so much more. The whole family will find something to indulge in this joint’s endless variety, from fudge cups and truffles to sundaes, snow cones, and blended smoothies.

Try the Best Ice Cream in Gulf Shores with Harris Vacations!

Bottom line? Delicious ice cream is never far away when you vacation on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Butter fudge sundaes, banana splits, and traditional scoops on waffle cones are a dime a dozen.

Ready to embark on the relaxing vacation you deserve? Book your stay with Harris Vacations today!

When Is the Best Time to Visit Gulf Shores?

Anyone who has fallen in love with the white sand beaches and glimmering waters of Gulf Shores knows there is no wrong season to visit. No matter what time of year you choose to explore the Alabama Gulf Coast, you’re sure to enjoy delicious food, fun-filled activities, stunning Alabama beaches, and spectacular views. There’s never a dull moment!

The best time to visit Gulf Shores is different for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a serene getaway, organizing a wild Spring Break adventure, or planning an exciting family-friendly beach vacation, we’ve got you covered! 

Read on to discover the best time to visit Gulf Shores according to what’s most important for your vacation.

Then, reserve your stay with Harris Vacation Rentals. No matter the time of year you visit, our premium vacation rentals and luxury condos are the ideal setting for your getaway. Don’t wait; book your vacation today!

Spring in Gulf Shores

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/Billy McDonald

Gulf Shores in March, April, and May is a great time to visit. 

The weather is beautiful and the kids are still in school so there are fewer crowds on the public beaches and the amusement parks are much less crowded than in the summer. If you’re an empty nester, spring breaker, or millennial traveler, spring is the perfect time to visit the Gulf Coast!

Spring Weather

From April to May, the weather is terrific. The average temperature hovers around 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and by late spring, the water temperature is high enough for swimming. It stays warm after dark, too — watch the sunset, then take a moonlit stroll on the beach, and embrace the comfortable climate.

Things to Do in the Spring

Spring in Gulf Shores is a fantastic time to experience outdoor activities before it gets too hot. A few of our top spring recommendations include: 

If you happen to be in town during May, don’t miss the popular Hangout Music Festival which attracts world-famous acts like SZA, Paramore, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

Summer in Gulf Shores

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/Andriy Blokhin

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach are in full swing during the summer months. This peak season is an exceptional time to bring the whole family on vacation while the kids are out of school. Keep in mind that summer is our most popular season, so you’ll want to reserve your vacation rental before the best units are booked!

Summer Weather

In the summertime, the weather in Gulf Shores heats up. High temperatures are around 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit, with the low around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s an ideal time to enjoy dinner outside in the summer breeze after the heat of the day has passed.

Things to Do in the Summer

When you visit Gulf Shores in June, July, and August, you’ll need to plan activities that beat the heat! If you visit us in the summer don’t miss out on watersports and other activities like: 

  • Boat rentals are the perfect way to spend a summer day out on the water
  • Thrill-seekers will love renting jet skis and exploring the back bays of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. 
  • If you’re looking for a way to get a bird’s eye view of the area, parasailing is an experience you’ll never forget. 

Our city is also home to some of the best Fourth of July celebrations on the Gulf of Mexico, so timing your Gulf Shores vacation to coincide with Independence Day is a great way to make your summer trip even more memorable.

Fall in Gulf Shores

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/Mark Winfrey

In the fall, the crowds start to dissipate throughout the Gulf Coast. The kids are back in school, but that doesn’t mean that your vacation season has to be over. Accommodation rates are lower in September, October, and November, and there is still warm weather to be enjoyed, making the Gulf Coast one of the USA’s best vacation destinations.

Fall Weather

Gulf Shores during fall enjoys average high temperatures of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the water is still a comfortable temperature for swimming. If you have the opportunity, save your summer vacation days for the off-season! You’ll enjoy warm weather during the day and pleasant breezes at night.

Things to Do in the Fall

Fall is one of the best times for:

  • Paddleboarding
  • Kayaking
  • Sailing
  • You can also spend a day exploring Alabama Gulf State Park’s breathtaking shoreline.
  • The National Shrimp Festival also takes place in the fall, so be sure to bring your appetite!

During your adventures on the water, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming alongside you. 

Winter in Gulf Shores

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/Mark Winfrey

If you’re looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat from your everyday life, visit Gulf Shores during the winter months. Snowbirds love escaping the frigid temperatures to experience a much more mild climate. 

Want to know the best part? You’ll have white sand beaches all to yourself. It doesn’t get better than that.

Winter Weather

Winter months bring the most unpredictable weather to Gulf Shores. Some days the skies are sunny and warm, while other days, the temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to pack a variety of outfits and layers to prepare for your trip!

Things to Do in the Winter

The ocean may be too chilly for a swim during the winter, but there’s still plenty to enjoy during your winter getaway. We recommend: 

  • A calm beach stroll
  • You’ll have the opportunity to catch redfish, pompano, and sheepshead when you cast your line in colder waters. 
  • If you’re visiting during the winter, we also recommend checking out The Wharf at Orange Beach. This entertainment hub is home to some of the Gulf’s best shopping, dining, and live music.

Find Your Spot in the Sand in Gulf Shores Alabama

Book your stay to Crow’s Nest II

Now that you’ve decided the best time to visit Gulf Shores for you, it’s time to find your ideal vacation rental. Harris Vacation Rentals offers rental homes year-round, so it’s easy to determine the right time for you and your loved ones to plan your trip.

Each of our vacation homes comes equipped with an array of amenities that will help make you feel at home. Choose from properties that feature gulf-front views, hot tubs, private pools, spacious decks, game rooms, and more! We also offer pet-friendly properties so nobody has to miss out on family vacations.

WES25 promo code – 25% your stay
Searches valid for any day 30 days or more on during these dates:
Jan-March 8, 2025
Jan – March 7, 2026
Some restrictions apply.

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