The Greatest Pet-Friendly Orange Beach Activities

The Greatest Pet-Friendly Orange Beach Activities

Your most loyal and lovable four-legged family members shouldn’t be left out of the fun on your vacation in tropical Gulf Shores, Alabama! Now you can bring them along and check out the handpicked pet-friendly Orange beach activities that we’ve picked out for you and your pets to try together!

Treat Your Pet (and Yourself) to the Vacation of a Lifetime

To begin, if you’re bringing your dog, you should definitely stop by The Dog Pond. A popular local dog park with scenic views, The Dog Pond is located at Lake Shelby and is open from 8:00am until sunset. Dogs are allowed to be off-leash here.

Gulf Shores Dog Park and Orange Beach Dog Park are two other notable locales that include separate off-leash sections for small and large dogs. Water and benches are provided.

Orange Beach Waterfront Park is a great pet-friendly location, though they must remain on a leash and will require cleaning up after. This site is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll and seeing the sights of Orange Beach.

For more outdoor Orange Beach activities with your pet, there are a number of fantastic trails for walking and hiking throughout the Gulf Shores area. Gulf State Park allows pets on leashes on their trails, as well as in the campground and picnic areas. No pets are allowed in the nature center, in the swimming pool, or on the beaches, unfortunately.

Connecting with Gulf State Park is the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a network of seven trails that span over fifteen miles and six different ecosystems. While pets must remain on a leash at all times on these trails, they’ll have plenty of space to run, play, and explore.

Finally, for that beach experience that everybody (dog or otherwise) craves, you should take your pet to Fort Morgan. Unlike most of Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan’s public beaches are open to dogs on leashes, though you won’t be able to take them to the Fort Morgan Historic Site. Let them experience the ocean and watch what happens!

Click here to see over 30 pet friendly rentals!

Harris Vacation Rentals – Your Guides to Everything Gulf Shores

Contact our reservation specialists to learn more about pet-friendly and other activities and attractions that you’ll encounter in Gulf Shores when you book your stay in one of our lovely vacation rental properties today! We offer pet-friendly vacation rentals that are clean, spacious, and comfortable without skimping on quality.

Gulf Shores Activities for the Fitness Enthusiast

Everyone dreams of escaping to a tropical paradise like Gulf Shores, Alabama, but how many people actually plan out what they’re going to do before they get there? Whether you’re the type of person who plans ahead or the type who likes to “go with the flow,” chances are good that you’ll want to do something fun and active at least once during your vacation.

A healthier you is a happier you, and nothing inspires confidence on the beach like keeping your body toned. With that in mind, we present to you our handpicked list of some of the best fitness-related activities to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama during your stay!

The 5 Best Fitness Activities To Do In Gulf Shores Alabama

Below, we’ve put together a list of a handful of fun and exciting activities to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama to keep in shape and not let your vacation derail your fitness routine. We hope that you enjoy these suggested activities as much as we do!

1. Hike or Run Along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

One of the most extensive networks of paved trails in not only Gulf Shores but the entire United States, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is the perfect place to get your run on while exploring and sightseeing around Gulf Shores. Several trails are even pet-friendly, meaning your dog can join in on the fun!

2. Challenge Yourself by Biking to Fort Morgan and Back

A fun and lengthy biking path, the paved trail along Highway 180 is ideal for people who want to soak up the gorgeous sights of the Gulf of Mexico while pushing themselves. The trail begins at Gulf State Park and goes five miles westward through Gulf Shores, ending in secluded Fort Morgan.

3. Take a Dip in the Water

Gulf Shores has a ridiculous amount of options for watersports enthusiasts. There’s always swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, but you can even take it a step further by trying your hand at kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding!

4. Run and Play with Your Dog at a Local Dog Park

Orange Beach Dog Park permits dogs to run off-leash, but Gulf Shores Dog Park and The Dog Pond at Lake Shelby do not. Gulf State Park also has a number of dog-friendly trails that require leashes, while Orange Beach Waterfront Park is a great place to walk your dog.

5. Attend One of the Popular Fitness Events in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is home to a variety of fitness events, including 5Ks, half-marathons, triathlons, and more all year long! From For a-Bama’s Beach Run/Walk for America’s Warriors in late March to the Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon in September, it’s easy to sign up for a fun fitness event during your vacation!

6. Glow Yoga in Gulf Shores

If you’re looking for an activity that offers a bit of relaxation, check on some of the Gulf Shores Glow Yoga options. It is a style of Vinyasa Yoga, that focuses on establishing synchronization of both breath and movement. During this type of yoga, a specific arc form is followed, and while classes may be challenging, they are a great option for both beginners and novices. It should also be noted that rooms are heated during this particular style of yoga! It is a great option for a beach vacation activity!

7. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Recreation Center Day/Week Passes

In the event that you’re not around the Gulf Shores area for long, there are some great day pass options available! For under ten dollars, you can spend a whole day at the Gulf Shores recreation center, getting your much needed workout in. For a day pass that includes aerobic classes, the fee is a mere $8. All other day passes are $5, and children under the age of 2 are free. If you’re in Gulf Shores for longer than a week, fear not! There are options for that as well. Not only are there weekly passes available, but there are monthly options as well. You can check online for more details on pricing! So even if you get the vacation lazies but know you have to do something, or even if you really just need to get some exercise in, there are always some great options available at Gulf Shores!

Let the Vacation Experts at Harris Vacation Rentals Help You Plan Your Tropical Escape!

Curious to learn more about what there is to do and see during your time in Gulf Shores? Our friendly reservation specialists can help! Contact our office to find out further information on the awesome attractions and activities that are waiting for you here when you book your stay in one of the incredible vacation rental properties that are available through Harris Vacation Rentals today! Check out our condo rentals today and our special deals.

The 5 Best Things to Do During Your Visit to Alabama Gulf State Park

One of the most gorgeous places to visit in Gulf Shores, Alabama State Park has a variety of incredible sights and activities for everyone to enjoy. Below, we’ve compiled a list of just a handful of the many top spots and activities to check out in Alabama State Park. We hope that you enjoy them as much as we do and that you find this information helpful during your time in Gulf Shores!

Walk Along the Largest Paved Trail Network in the U.S.

Alabama Gulf State Park is home to the Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail, which weaves its way throughout the Gulf Shores area on a series of fantastic trails for hiking and biking. Some of the trails are even pet-friendly!

Fish on the Largest Pier in the Gulf Coast

Alabama Gulf State Park is also home to the Gulf State Pier, known as a scenic place for visitors to eat and fish ‘til their heart’s content. When you stop by, you’ll find that day licenses, equipment, and bait area all available for rent or purchase here.

Spend Some Time on Lake Shelby

This beautiful lake area has paddleboard and kayak rentals for those who want to get out on the water, as well as bike rentals and segway tours for those who want to stay on dry land. Lake Shelby also has a waterfront dog park and hosts the annual Paws in the Park event every September.

Play a Few Rounds on the Golf Course & Alabama Gulf State Park

The golf course at Alabama State Park has a great value on their playing prices. For beginners or players looking to improve their game, free lessons are also provided on the course on Thursdays. Golfers who are interested in lessons should call the pro-shop for details.

Pair Your Fun with a Dash of Education

The Nature Center at Alabama State Park has a ton of fun educational programs that nature and animal lovers of all ages will enjoy. The center also offers guided tours, and has plans to bring on an on-site marine biologist for additional sea-based educational programs.

Harris Vacation Rentals – Your Gateway to the Wonders of Gulf Shores, Alabama

For further information on Alabama State Park and other must-see attractions located all throughout the Gulf Shores area, contact our reservations team and learn more when you reserve your trip accommodations in one of the lovely vacation rental properties that Harris Vacation Rentals has to offer today!

(Photo by faungg via Flickr)

5 Reasons to Vacation in Fort Morgan

Just a short drive west of Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan is a lovely undiscovered area that is steeped in both natural beauty and history. This area has ruins to explore, white sand beaches, and big fish to catch—and that’s just for starters. Below, we’ve put together a list of a handful of reasons why Fort Morgan is a great place to spend your vacation. We hope that you enjoy all that Fort Morgan has to offer during your time here!

Here Are 5 Reasons to Vacation in Fort Morgan

Fishing and Wildlife Watching

Fort Morgan is renowned for its plentiful fishing and wildlife watching opportunities. You can cast your line from a nearby pier, embark on a short excursion along the shoreline, or spend a day out on the water deep sea fishing. If you would rather watch the local marine life than catch it for dinner, you can always take a dolphin- or sea turtle-watching tour.

Relaxing on the Beach – Fun Things To Do In Gulf Shores

The beach here has soft, pristine white sand that is ideal for laying out and soaking up the warm Alabama sunshine. Since Fort Morgan Beach isn’t as busy as other beaches around Gulf Shores, you’ll enjoy a little more peace and quiet here. Just be sure to pack all the supplies that you need for the day, as stores and services here are limited to a few local convenience stores.

Touring Historic Fort Morgan and Hitting the Links

No trip to Fort Morgan is complete without visiting the historic fort for which the area is named. This fort guards the entrance to Mobile Bay and has seen action in conflicts dating back to before the Civil War. Costumed actors perform historical reenactments and demonstrations that provide a side of entertainment with your educational experience.

If it is golf you are after, there are two terrific options to choose from. Kiva Dunes has been ranked in the Golf Digest Top 50 and provides a challenge to even the most experiences player. There are three 9-hole courses at The Peninsula; a course that has become a local favorite.

Alabama Dining and Nightlife

There are a number of mouthwatering Alabama dining options that you can choose from in Fort Morgan. Sassy Bass Amazin’ Grill is a laid-back beach restaurant with fresh seafood, tropical-themed cocktails, and live music. Or, head over to Tacky Jack’s for a Bayfront view of the sunset and some delicious gulf seafood.

There are several great eating options to enjoy at The Beach Club. The flagship restaurant is the Coast Restaurant inside the resort and past the main gate (just tell the guard you are going for dinner). Here you will enjoy an upscale dining experience with beach front views.

Two other dinner options are the Village Hideaway (open year round) which serves up pizza, burgers, and seafood in a fun casual environment. If you are here in season, don’t miss the food trucks that make up The Village Lawn. You will have your pick of a variety of menu options and eat under the stars!

Pet-Friendly Beaches and Rentals

One of the best things about Fort Morgan is that it is one of the few pet friendly beach areas in the country. It’s the perfect place to bring the whole family, four-legged friends included! You won’t have to worry about leaving them behind, as there are also numerous pet friendly vacation rentals available in the area. So pack your bags, grab your family and fuzzy friends, and enjoy all the fun things to do in Gulf Shores!

The Incredible Vacation Rentals

Last but not least, the stunning vacation homes that are available for rent through Harris Vacation Rentals make the perfect home away from home during your time in Fort Morgan. Between exquisite ocean views and locations that are just steps away from the beach, these Fort Morgan beach rentals Gulf Shores are the ultimate place to stay for your seaside retreat.

Plan Your Gulf Shores Vacation with Harris Vacation Rentals!

Contact our reservations team to begin planning the vacation of a lifetime when you book your stay in one of our amazing Fort Morgan vacation properties that you can search by bedrooms today!

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