amusement parks

Nothing compares to the sweet feeling of summertime. If you’re searching for the best summer getaway, look no further than the Alabama Gulf Coast. With breathtaking white-sand beaches, fantastic restaurants, and a plethora of things to do, Gulf Shores is your headquarters for summertime fun. Read on to find out our picks for the best summer activities in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and other nearby towns. With our help, it’s easier than ever to create the ultimate summer vacation bucket list.  

It’s time to start getting excited about your Gulf Shores vacation this summer! Browse our collection of luxurious vacation rentals and find the perfect one for your group. 

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The Best Summer Activities in Gulf Shores 

The fun never stops on the Gulf Coast! Discover the best summer activities in Gulf Shores and give yourself something to look forward to.

1. OWA 

OWA is an amusement park and entertainment destination with over 20 rides and an interactive splash pad for hot summer days. The area also features restaurants, shops, and fun-filled events. You can easily spend an entire day getting an adrenaline rush and feasting on good eats just north of the beach in Foley, Alabama.    

2. Waterville USA 

Waterville is an amusement park and waterpark consisting of 20 acres of pure fun. Whether you want to sit back and relax while floating down a lazy river or pick up speed on the Dune Racer, there’s something for all levels of adventurers here at Waterville USA. There’s also a Flowrider surf simulator, arcade, mini golf course, concessions, and more!  

3. Kayaking 

If you want to combine an adventure in the great outdoors with a bit of healthy exercise, why not try kayaking? Guided kayaking tours in Gulf Shores are a great way to discover the coastal ecosystem and backwaters of this gorgeous area! Some of our favorite nearby kayaking outfitters include Wild Native Tours and Coastal Kayak Excursions. They offer nature tours, sunset tours, dolphin tours, and more! You’ll fall in love with the natural beauty of this stunning environment.  

4. Lost Bay Helicopter Tour 

Get an out-of-this-world bird’s eye view of the beach on a Lost Bay Helicopter Tour. These tours are perfect for seeing miles of our famous white-sand beaches and turquoise water. You can even see schools of fish from up above. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 

5. Holmes Medical Museum 

If you’re a history buff, you need to go back in time and visit the Holmes Medical Museum. The museum was Baldwin County’s first hospital and operated from 1936 to 1958. The museum is arranged as it was an operating hospital, and most artifacts and machinery are original. This unique piece of history has remained virtually unchanged for the last 60 years! 

6. The Dog Pond 

Here at Harris Vacation Rentals, we’re proud to offer pet-friendly vacation rentals. If you want to take your pup’s vacation up a notch, head to The Dog Pond at Lake Shelby for swimming, running, and playing with other fur kids. Then, visit one of our favorite dog-friendly restaurants.    

7. Cat Boat Tours 

Are you ready to take things up a notch? Cat Boat Tours are like water sports, but better! You can glide over the back bays in a personal watercraft. The boats sit low and zip through the water. You choose to embark on your own expedition or take a guided tour and hear about celebrity homes on Ono Island.  

8. Big Beach Brewing Company 

Quench your thirst and order a flight of the bartender’s favorite craft brews, like the Hundred Daze IPA, at Big Beach Brewing Company in Gulf Shores. This fun spot is kid and dog-friendly—another reason we love it! Be sure to get there before sunset and watch the sun sink from the brewery’s deck. 

9. Sand Castle University 

If your sand castle skills aren’t what they used to be, give Sand Castle University a try! You’ll learn all the tips and tricks for building a spectacular sand structure. You’ll even be provided with a video from your lesson. It’s a great souvenir and a fun way to share your experience with friends and family. 

10. Gulf Shores Beaches 

No beach vacation during the summer is complete without spending some days in the water and sand. The Alabama Gulf Coast public beaches are some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, and once you visit, we know you’ll agree!  

11. Flora-Bama Marina 

What better way to experience Gulf Shores than on the water? Live the life of a local for a day and rent a boat from the Flora-Bama Marina. They offer luxury pontoon boats, as well as pontoons with slides. You can also rent jet skis. After your day on the water, hit up the Flora-Bama Yacht Club for ice–cold Bushwackers and fire-grilled oysters. 

12. The Wharf 

With its plethora of delicious restaurants and exciting activities, it’s easy to spend an entire day at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Treat the family to miniature golf, a Ferris wheel ride, or even a concert in the 10,000-seat arena. Satisfy your hunger with yummy eats at some of our favorite Orange Beach restaurants, including Ginny Lane Bar & Grill and Villaggio Grille. 

13. Charter Fishing 

Orange Beach is the fishing mecca of the Southeast. Head out to see, drop a line, and try your best to reel in red snapper, Spanish mackerel, redfish, grouper, and more. Some of our favorite fishing charters include Orange Beach Fishing Charters and Red Eye Charters.  

14. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo 

No trip to the Gulf Shores would be complete without a trip to the infamous Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The zoo is home to over 100 animal species, including 22 critically endangered species. During your visit, you can have the unbelievable opportunity to hold a baby sloth, kangaroo, or lemur!  

15. Shopping at Tanger Outlet Centre 

Who doesn’t love a good discount? If you’re looking for a rainy-day activity, head to Tanger Outlet Centre and shop until you drop! The outlets feature over 120 stores and a merry–go–round and splash pad to keep the kids happy. 

Reserve Your Summer Vacation Rental 

It’s time to plan the best summer vacation you’ve ever had! Harris Vacation Rentals offers the best rental properties in the area—hands down! No matter what size property you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered. Plus, all our rentals come with superior amenities, such as oceanfront views, fully-equipped kitchens, game rooms, private/community pools, hot tubs, elevators, and more!  

Browse our availability and pick the perfect home for you! We can’t wait to host you this summer.  

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