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Important Tips for Pet Friendly Vacations in Gulf Shores

Important Tips for Pet Friendly Vacations in Gulf Shores

When we say “bring the whole family on vacation,” we really do mean the entire family, including your fur child. We know planning a dog-friendly vacation can be tricky. Not everyone loves our four-legged family members as much as we do. It’s shocking, we know! But, don’t let that deter you from enjoying a beach vacation fit for the entire family. Before you hit the road with pup in tow, read up on these five things to know about a pet friendly vacation on Alabama beaches.

Dog-Friendly Beaches

Dog-Friendly Vacation

Not all beaches allow pups to play, but you have do have options! Dogs are prohibited on Gulf Shores AL beaches and Orange Beach. However, you and your beach-loving fur child will enjoy the wide-open spaces of white-sand beaches in Fort Morgan. Rent a Fort Morgan AL beach house and you’re just a few steps away from a day of sandy fun during your dog-friendly vacation.

In addition to Fort Morgan, Orange Beach Waterfront Park offers a peaceful spot for your pooch to splash and play. The park is located on the banks of Wolf Bay. The water is shallow with few waves, making it the perfect spot for pups and small children. There is also a fishing pier, restrooms, picnic tables and swings. An outdoor shower makes it easy to rinse the sand off of Fido before heading back to your dog-friendly condo in Orange Beach.

Dog-Friendly Attractions Alabama

Gulf Shores Mini Golf

You didn’t bring Fido all this way to be left inside a crate all day! Get out and enjoy Gulf Shores and Orange Beach attractions on your pet friendly vacation. Historic Fort Morgan is a great place for your pup to run off energy. Explore the Civil War-era barracks and hear re-enactors in period dress tell the Fort’s history while you walk the grounds. Fort Morgan routinely offers guided tours throughout the year.

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a great way to spend the day. The trail offers more than 25 miles of paved paths and boardwalks over water through Orange Beach and the Gulf State Park. Experience several different ecosystems during your hike. Restrooms are available along the trail, as are benches to rest and take in the scenery. You may spot resident wildlife along the trails, including turtles and more.

Feeling artistic? Stop by The Hot Shop at the Coastal Arts Center. Watch a glass-blowing demonstration with your pooch. You can also create your own piece of art with a glass-blowing lesson. There’s really no better souvenir than one you make yourself. The Coastal Arts Center is located on the same grounds. Pets are welcomed on the first floor of the center while you browse work by local and regional artisans.

Play a round of miniature golf at Tiki’s Mini Golf in Gulf Shores. Leashed pets are allowed on the course. Putt away, but don’t let Fido get the ball!

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

dog-friendly restaurant

More and more restaurants are welcoming pups on their patios in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, making dog-friendly vacations even easier. Some of our favorites include Flora-Bama Yacht Club, Flora-Bama Ole River Grill, The Royal Oyster, The Gulf, Bill’s by the Beach, Fisher’s Dockside, Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar, Bayes Southern Bar & Grill, Another Broken Egg, Villaggio Grille at The Wharf, The Southern Grind Coffee House, Sassy Bass Caribbean Grille and Pirate’s Cove Marina & Restaurant.

Call Ahead

Pet policies do change from time to time at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach restaurants and attractions. Be sure to call ahead to confirm they still welcome visitors on dog-friendly vacations. Ask if restaurants will provide your pup with a bowl of water during your visit, too. Spots like The Southern Grind offer your fur child treats and a designated water bowl is always available on their patio.

Pet Friendly Vacation Accommodations

Somewhere In Time

Perhaps the most difficult part of planning a Gulf Shores AL vacation with your pooch in tow is finding dog-friendly accommodations. That is, until now. Harris Vacation Rentals Management has become the leader in pet-friendly condos and beach houses on Alabama beaches, and the inventory of this type of vacation lodging continues to grow. Browse condos and cottages for your dog-friendly vacation and find the one that best meets your needs.

Read pet policies for lodging carefully. A pet fee is applicable on all accommodations that allow dogs. With minor exceptions, the number of pets is generally limited to two. For the most hassle-free fun, be sure to familiarize yourself with pet policies prior to your arrival.

 

For more great information on dog-friendly vacation in Gulf Shores A:, read

The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach.

 

 

Get Back to the Beach for Gulf Shores Events in August

Gulf Shores Events Ignore that school bell. On Alabama beaches, summer is still in session! Spend the last days of August soaking up the sun and creating vacation memories with family before the kids hit the books. There are plenty of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores events to keep you as busy as you want to be.

 

When you’re not building sandcastles, kayaking or treating the family to their favorite beach breakfast spots, check out these hot, late-summer Orange Beach and Gulf Shores events and get back to the beach before back to school.

 

Aug. 1-12  I  Pirates & Princess Breakfast

ARRR you ready for a unique Gulf Shores breakfast? Stop by The Hangout with the kids. Don’t forget your best princess and pirate costumes!

 

Aug. 2  I  The Bandwagon Tour with Miranda Lambert

Tap your toes to two of country music’s biggest stars, Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach on Aug. 2. Grab a bite to eat at your favorite Orange Beach restaurant at The Wharf before the concert, and then take a post-concert Ferris wheel ride and enjoy the night sky.

 

Aug. 2  I  Southern Grace Dinner with Emeril Lagasse

Bring your appetite for the last Southern Grace dinner of the season at Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina. The grand finale features Emeril Lagasse of Food Network acclaim.

 

Aug. 4  I  Battle of Mobile Bay Living History Event

There are no other Gulf Shores events like this one! Watch uniformed re-enactors tell the story of one of the most significant battles fought on the Alabama Gulf Coast. There will be cannon fire, small arms demonstrations and much more.

 

Aug. 7  I  Imagine Dragons Concert

Grammy-winning Imagine Dragons will take the stage at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach for their Evolve Tour on Aug. 7.

 

Aug. 11  I  The Wharf Block Party

Get your dancing shoes ready for Dancin’ in the Streets DJ Night at The Wharf on Aug. 11. DJ Matt will create a boogie-worthy block party from 7 to 10 p.m.

 

Aug. 15/21/22/28/29  I  Blue Angels Practice

Don’t miss the gravity-defying feats of the Blue Angels at the National Museum of Naval Aviation in nearby Pensacola, Fla.

 

Aug. 25  I   Keith Urban Graffiti U World Tour

Keith Urban will rock the stage, country-style, at The Wharf Amphitheater on Aug. 25. Don’t miss your chance to tap your toes in person!

 

September Gulf Shores Events Preview

Sept. 1  I  Tacky Jacks Bloody Mary 5K

Start your Labor Day weekend off with a run in Gulf Shores! Then, you won’t feel guilty for all that great food you devour during your Gulf Shores vacation.

 

Sept. 13-15  I  The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event

One of the most-anticipated culinary events of the year takes center stage at The Wharf. For the 5th year in a row, The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event will serve up more than 100 wine labels for sampling, as well as delicious culinary creations from local and regional award-winning chefs.

 

When you’re ready to book your perfect spot in the sand for your back-to-school bash, browse these Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan rentals. Browse these peaceful condo rentals and amazing deals!

 

For more Orange Beach and Gulf Shores vacation fun, read 5 Adrenaline Pumping Gulf Shores Attractions.

 

5 Adrenaline Pumping Gulf Shores Activities

You’ve spent the week relaxing on Alabama’s white-sand beaches, but now you need some adrenaline-pumping fun for one last vacation hoorah. What do you do? We’ve got ideas to give you the thrills and chills you’re seeking with these unique Orange Beach and Gulf Shores activities.

Charter Fishing  I  Orange Beach

Orange Beach charter fishing

We’re not talking about the kind of fishing your grandpa did. We’re talking rod-bending, arm-aching charter fishing 30 miles out in the Gulf of Mexico. As the charter fishing mecca of the Southeast, Orange Beach boasts more than 100 experienced charter fishing captains. Connect with Reel Surprise Charters for tall fish tales and a fishing experience to write home about. Reel Surprise Charters offers shared-expense charters, as well as private fishing trips. Their head boat (a boat accommodating 20 or more anglers) is one of the most popular charter fishing trips in Orange Beach.

The Park at OWA  I  Foley

OWA roller coaster

Just north of Gulf Shores in Foley, Alabama, is the newest amusement park on the Gulf Coast. With 21 spine-tingling rides, thrill seekers will love a day at OWA. The park also added Wacky Waters, an interactive splash pad for the smaller thrill seekers in your group. Spend the day zipping and zooming on your favorite rides and then finish up with dinner in Downtown OWA at Wahlburgers.

Waterville USA  I  Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores attractions

For a wet and wild ride, visit Waterville USA, one of the most popular Gulf Shores attractions. The 20-acre waterpark and amusement park boasts a wooden roller coaster, go-karts and, of course, numerous waterslides and water attractions. See how well you can ride the waves on the Flowrider or race your family down Rainbow Falls. The really adventurous should ride the Screamin’ Demon. Not for the faint of heart, you’ll drop 60 feet in this white-knuckle scream machine. The Screamin’ Demon is a high-speed body slide.

BeachFlight Aviation  I  Gulf Shores

Touch the sky with a personal flight aboardBeachFlight Aviation. Soar above the beaches and Gulf of Mexico with an experienced pilot on a trike, also known as a powered hang glider. Packages for these Gulf Shores attractions start at $150 for a one-on-one flight experience.

Hummingbird Zipline  I  Orange Beach

Orange Beach Zipline

This list wouldn’t be complete without the Hummingbird Zipline at The Wharf. Soar 115 feet above the ground on the Orange Beach zipline course. The course offers eight ziplines and has been ranked as the number one attraction on TripAdvisor for three years. You’ll fly high at more than 30 miles per hour during a two and a half-hour tour over the Intracoastal Waterway and through wetlands. The less-adventurous in your crowd can browse the shops at The Wharf, play miniature golf or go for a ride on the tallest Ferris wheel in the Southeast.

 

How do you get your kicks on an Alabama beaches vacation? Explore these top thrill-seeker, Orange Beach and Gulf Shores attractions to put the finishing touches on your annual vacation.

                                                                                                   

Contact us today to learn more about Gulf Shores activities and to book your next vacation rental!

 

Does an Orange Beach Vacation Fit Your Travel Style?

Orange Beach vacation White-sand beaches and clear turquoise water as far as the eye can see are hallmarks of an Orange Beach vacation. Alabama beaches are comprised of three main vacation spots – Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.

 

The sister cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach blend together, and many visitors don’t recognize where one ends and the other begins. However, each offers its own unique qualities. Guests who’ve been coming for generations are oftentimes loyal to one city or the other. However, if you’re a first-time visitor, catch up on each area in our three-part series on the individual travel styles of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.

 

Why an Orange Beach Vacation is Special

An Orange Beach vacation is filled with spacious, white-sand beaches, especially near Alabama Point. Here, you’ll find visitors sunning, swimming and snorkeling. Robinson, Bird and Walker Islands are also located near this area and provide a beautiful setting for a day of fun in the sun. Only accessible by boat, these islands are popular spots for boaters on the weekends and kayakers during the week on an Orange Beach vacation.

 

Visitors who want to experience the islands can rent a pontoon boat at Flora-Bama Marina and spend a half or full day cruising the waterways. Beach your boat and set up your chairs for the day. If you’re not an experienced boater, go kayaking with Coastal Kayak Excursions. Captain Glenn will provide you with a guided tour of the backbays or transport you and your kayak to Walker Island where you can spend the day paddling through the crystal-clear water.

 

Orange Beach zipline Orange Beach Shopping and Entertainment

An Orange Beach vacation isn’t complete without a trip to The Wharf. This shopping and entertainment district is a hot spot for fun located on the Intercoastal Waterway. Home to the Hummingbird Zipline, a miniature golf course, the tallest Ferris wheel in Alabama and a 10,000-seat amphitheater, there’s an activity for everyone! The amphitheater has hosted Kenny Chesney, Kid Rock, Jason Aldean, Florida-Georgia Line and many more. You’ll also find a great assortment of Orange Beach restaurants at The Wharf, including the award-winning Bayes Southern Bar & Grill.

 

Orange Beach Restaurants

Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina Visitors are flocking to Orange Beach for its unique culinary offerings. Foodies have found a new cuisine-centric destination in this coastal city. Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina boasts a James Beard Award nominee in Chef Bill Briand. This waterside restaurant prepares world-class dishes in a coastal comfortable atmosphere. On the opposite side of the menu is The Gulf, a waterfront restaurant made entirely of shipping containers. There’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy entrees at either of these unique Orange Beach restaurants.

 

Orange Beach is also home to the World Food Championships, where more than 1,500 chefs and home cooks compete for bragging rights and prize money. In addition, wine enthusiasts will enjoy The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event. More than 100 labels are available for sampling at the wine festival during your Orange Beach vacation.

 

Orange Beach Charter Fishing

Orange Beach charter fishing Orange Beach is considered the charter fishing mecca of the southeast. With more than 100 charter boat captains and one of the largest artificial reef systems in the country, it’s a haven for seasoned fishermen and those casting a line for fun. People come from all over the country for an Orange Beach vacation to watch or participate in some of the biggest fishing tournaments in the southeast.

 

The Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf hails from The Wharf in Orange Beach and is held every July. Hundreds of anglers cruise out to the Gulf in hopes of claiming a piece of the $1 million prize money. Billed the “greatest show in sportfishing,” spectators are invited to view the weigh-ins and are entertained with a boat parade, as well.

 

Held in May each year, the Orange Beach Billfish Classic means big fish and big money! Weigh-ins for this Orange Beach fishing tournament are held at The Wharf.

 

For those who want to cast a line and reel in a great Orange Beach vacation, it’s easy to book a charter fishing trip with an experienced captain from nearly any marina in this beachside city. Choose a four- or eight-hour trip or even an overnight Orange Beach charter fishing trip.

 

Orange Beach AL Condos

From spacious Gulf-front condos to bayside beach houses, you’ve got plenty of accommodation options during an Orange Beach vacation. You’ll find a great selection of dog-friendly vacation rentals, as well. When determining your travel style, ask yourself if you’d prefer a community pool with beachfront access or if the additional privacy of a beach house better meets your needs.

Now, let’s hear it. Read our entire Travel Style series and tell us which Alabama beach community best meets your travel style.

Does a Gulf Shores Vacation Fit Your Travel Style?

Does a Fort Morgan Vacation Fit Your Travel Style?

Does a Gulf Shores Vacation Fit Your Travel Style?

Gulf Shores Vacation Families for generations have always enjoyed Gulf Shores vacation. When many people refer to the Alabama Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores is often the beach that comes to mind. The oldest of the Alabama beach communities of Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan and Orange Beach, the city has a special place in many visitor’s hearts.

 

Each of these three beachside communities offers visitors something different, but how do you decide which one meets your travel style? Read on to see how a Gulf Shores vacation checks off the boxes for your next beach getaway.

 

What Makes Gulf Shores Tick

Unlike the sleepy community of Fort Morgan, the City of Gulf Shores is a small, but bustling beach town. For families who want to be in the heart of the action, Gulf Shores is your destination. For a Gulf Shores vacation, the downtown beach area offers a variety of restaurants, shops and attractions, many in walking distance of Gulf Shores condos and beach houses. Teens love the main public beach area, and it’s easy for parents to keep an eye on everyone with spacious, wide-open beaches.

 

Gulf Shores Wheelchair Mat What’s New in Gulf Shores AL

The main public beach in Gulf Shores saw a makeover in 2018. The area, also known as Gulf Place, now includes grassy areas, picnic tables, shade, fitness areas and more. In addition, an AccessMat was installed by the City of Gulf Shores to make it easier for wheelchair travelers and anyone with limited mobility to get to the water during a Gulf Shores vacation. The 200-foot mat stretches from the sidewalk towards the Gulf and then runs parallel to the water. The mat is changing the way those in wheelchairs get to experience Alabama’s white-sand beaches.

 

Gulf Shores Events

If you love a great festival, then Gulf Shores is your go-to beach town. The Annual National Shrimp Festival is held the second weekend of October and offers four days of live music, arts and crafts and, of course, thousands of pounds of fresh, Gulf shrimp! The festival has been going strong for 47 years and is a fun (and delicious) addition to a Gulf Shores vacation

 

Oyster lovers should head south the first weekend in November for The Oyster Cook Off and Craft Beer Weekend at The Hangout. Celebrity chefs and Food Network stars offer cooking demos and local and regional chefs go head-to-head for the best oyster bites. There’s even an oyster shucking contest for festival goers! This two-day event includes a craft beer night where dozens of labels of brew can be sampled.

 

Less than a decade old, but one of the biggest events on Alabama beaches is The Hangout Music Festival. Gear up for three days of nearly non-stop music located directly on the beach in Gulf Shores. If you love to tap your toes and dance in the sand, this festival has your name on it. Festival extras include carnival rides, hammock beach, roller disco and even a wedding chapel. Held the third weekend of May, the festival hosts nearly 40,000 music lovers. However, if a three-day music festival doesn’t float your boat, we recommend a Fort Morgan or Orange Beach vacation during this weekend. Roads near the main public beach will be closed during Hangout Music Fest.

 

Where To Eat During Your Gulf Shores Vacation

There’s no shortage of good eats on a Gulf Shores vacation! Whether you love a great beachside dive like Bahama Bob’s or prefer something a little more refined like Bill’s By the Beach, dive in and dine out. Bahama Bob’s is a Gulf Shores tradition for many families. Simply walk up from the beach and feast on a shrimp po-boy with great views of the water.

 

Wine lovers can’t miss a dinner at Bill’s By the Beach during a Gulf Shores vacation. With one of the largest wine collections in Gulf Shores (more than 115 selections!), there’s a pour you’ll love. They are also known for Bloody Mary’s that are piled high with extras. It’s really a meal in a glass with shrimp, bacon and even a slider! Ruby’s Signature Shrimp & Grits and the Crab Cake Dinner are must-order dishes at Bill’s.

 

Gulf Shores Attractions

Water, water, everywhere, but you still must go to Waterville USA. The waterpark is packed with adrenaline-pumping slides, a lazy river, wave pool, and FlowRider. There’s even a separate area for younger kids to splish and splash. There’s also a wooden roller coaster, arcade and amusement park with go-karts.

 

Little, but mighty, don’t miss a stop at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. There are few places where you can hold baby kangaroos or personally interact with lemurs, and the beach zoo is one of those places. Fair warning! The lemurs love to take selfies and may just takeover your camera and phone!

 

Gulf Shores Beach House Gulf Shores AL Condos

Whether you choose a condo or a Gulf Shores beach house, you’re close to everything. Beach houses offer a great option for large families or those who want additional privacy. Add a private pool to the mix and you’ve made your guests very happy! In Gulf Shores, there are accommodations on Little Lagoon, as well as the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll also find a great selection of pet-friendly vacation rentals.

 

 

Now, tell us, does Gulf Shores fit your vacation travel style? Stay tuned to find out how it compares to a Fort Morgan or Orange Beach vacation in our three-part series on travel styles.

 

Does a Fort Morgan Vacation Fit Your Travel Style

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