gulf shores activities

Jun 17 2021

Gulf Shores vs. Destin: Which One Is the Best For You?

Planning out your next vacation can be one of the most exciting yet stressful situations. Are you considering traveling south for your next getaway? Some of the most popular destinations are Gulf Shores, along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and Destin, situated on Florida’s Emerald Coast. We’ll compare Gulf Shores vs. Destin and help you pick the perfect place for your trip.

If you decide to travel to the Gulf Shores area, you’ll be surrounded by endless activities and attractions. Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

The Scoop on Gulf Shores vs. Destin

All About Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores, AL, is known for its picture-perfect white-sand beaches, quirky beach bars, and beautiful natural areas. This town is a popular destination for snowbirds and spring breakers. You’ll find exciting activities on and off the water and annual festivals, such as the Hangout Music Festival and the National Shrimp Festival.

Popular Things To Do in Gulf Shores

Hike the trails at Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park
Get up close and personal with wildlife at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Zip down a waterslide at Waterville USA
Enjoy delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and live music at Tacky Jack’s
Have a day or night out at the world-famous Flora-Bama Lounge

All About Destin

Destin, FL, is known for its sparkling emerald-hued waters and romantic beaches. It originated as a quaint fishing village and has evolved into a popular tourist generation. Destin is home to a plentiful underwater population and is often referred to as the “world’s luckiest fishing village.” This charming beach town also features many mouthwatering restaurants.

Popular Things To Do in Destin

Embark on a romantic sunrise or sunset stroll with your loved one
Go shopping at the Destin Harborwalk Village
Savor a delicious dinner at Sunset Bay Café
Catch a fish along the Florida panhandle
Go back in time at the Destin History & Fishing Museum

Staying With Harris Vacation Rentals Is Always the Best Choice

As Gulf Shores locals, we can’t help but think you should stay here. Whether you’re young or old, there’s something fun to do here for everyone. We have fantastic weather throughout the year and would love to host you during your much-anticipated vacation.

Here at Harris Vacation Rentals, we’re happy to offer luxurious vacation rentals throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. All of our vacation homes range in size and have all the amenities you need to feel at home. Our top-notch amenities include in-home elevators, fully equipped kitchens, hot tubs, private pools, game rooms, balconies, covered decks, beach access, and more. Whether you choose to stay with us, you’ll always be close to the famous beaches and the best activities and attractions.

If you’re searching for a breathtaking, beachfront vacation home, stay in our five-star property—Easy Day. This spacious home features six bedrooms, five bathrooms, and can comfortably sleep 22 guests. This home overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and is the perfect place to reside during a friends’ getaway, family reunion, or multi-family trip.

Book Your Stay With Us

Nov 27 2020

Why You Need to Visit Gulf Shores in January

Do you ever feel like you could use a vacation after the holiday craziness is over? We can relate. Start your year off on a high note with a trip to Gulf Shores in January! The offseason offers ample opportunity for rest and relaxation, and when you stay with Harris Vacation Rentals, you‘ll experience the best of the Alabama Coast during this special time of year.

Keep reading to learn more about our top January activities and travel tips. Then, browse our vacation rentals to find your ideal home away from home!

Things to Do in Gulf Shores in January

Please note that some of the experiences listed below may have COVID-19 restrictions. Be sure to check each website prior to your visit.

Outdoor Activities

If you’re traveling from the frigid northeast, you’ll be happy with the weather in Gulf Shores, AL. Our area experiences mild winters with an average high of 60 degrees and a low of 39 degrees. Snow is also a rare occurrence, which means you can spend plenty of time outdoors throughout the month of January. Some of our favorite recreational activities include:

Indoor Fun

Of course, there’s always a chance that the weather might be less than perfect during your Gulf Shores getaway. That’s why it’s important to be prepared with a list of indoor attractions to entertain your group. Enjoy quality time with the ones you love while discovering the unique history of our area. A few places you won’t want to miss:

Local Events & Happenings

There’s always something going on in Gulf Shores, even during the offseason. Visit a nearby restaurant/bar to chat with the locals and listen to live music. Or, head to the wharf for some festive winter fun. Either way, you’ll get a taste of what life is like here in January.

The Flying Harpoon | Live music & karaoke
The Hangout Gulf Shores | Live music plus year-round events
Ice Skating at the Wharf | Open November to mid-January
Holiday Horse & Carriage Rides | Available every Sunday in January

Start Planning Your Stay

With mild weather, fewer crowds, and lots to do and see, January is one of the best times to visit Gulf Shores. Get the ball rolling on your next vacation by booking one of our luxury rental properties today! We have a beautiful selection of homes in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach. Plus, our long-term rentals are perfect for an extended winter stay. Simply select your preferred travel dates and amenities, and we’ll take care of the rest!

There’s nothing better than a memorable vacation to start the year off with a bang. Check our availability and begin planning your trip to Gulf Shores in January. We look forward to hosting you soon!

Jul 08 2020

Everything You Need to Know About Gulf Shores Mini-Golf

When you vacation in Gulf Shores, AL, you will be surrounded by a plethora of fun-filled activities. If you’re looking for the perfect way to shake things up from going to the beach every day, try your hand at Gulf Shores mini-golf. Miniature golf is a beloved pastime by people of all ages and is the perfect way to have family fun or a romantic date night.

If you’re searching for additional exciting things to do during your Alabama Gulf Coast vacation, look no further. 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 Places to Enjoy Gulf Shores Mini-Golf

To learn more about the best places to try for a hole in one throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, keep reading!

Tiki’s Mini-Golf and Bike Shack

Location: 1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Head to Tiki’s Mini Golf and Bike Shack to get the most bang for your buck. This family-friendly adventure center offers all-you-can-play miniature golf for $5. This 18-hole golf course is ideal for people of all skill levels and features majestic oak and cypress trees. You’ll fall in love with their iconic orange-colored “greens” and zany holes adorned with spooky ramshackle cabins, menacing polar bear sculpture, and faux-junkyard accessories.

Tiki’s is also your headquarters for bike rentals in Gulf Shores. Enjoy an eco-friendly activity, and enjoy the gorgeous scenery of the coast. They offer free delivery, and you can rent bikes by the hour, the 1/2 day, or the full day. The bike shop is perfectly situated close to the beach and the best biking trails in the area.

Shrimpy’s Mini Golf & Ice Cream

Location: 204 E 2nd Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

A day on the Alabama Gulf Coast doesn’t get much better than mini-golf, arcade games, fresh seafood, and ice cream. That’s exactly what you’ll find when you visit Shrimpy’s Mini Golf and Ice Cream! The crisp, emerald greens of this fishing village-themed course will draw you in, and the punny, seafood-inspired names of the holes will keep you entertained. After a round of putt-putt, head over to the ice cream parlor and cool down with a scoop of their mouthwatering ice cream, such as their Cookie Brownie Sundae. Or, feed your appetite next door at Mikee’s Seafood.

Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf

Location: 3201 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

You’re in for a fantastic adventure at Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf. This thrilling course includes pirate ships, waterfalls, and mesmerizing tropical props and flora and fauna. You’ll follow in the footsteps of notorious pirates like Blackbeard and Captain Kidd and continue through the caves where pirates buried their booty. If you have a large group or are celebrating a birthday, Pirate’s Island will be more than happy to accommodate you. If you have children with you under the age of three years, they’ll play for free!

Stay in a Harris Vacation Rentals Vacation Rental

After a rousing game of Gulf Shores mini-golf, retreat to your home away from home—a Harris Vacation Rentals Vacation Rental. We’re proud to offer vacation homes of all sizes throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Choose from pet-friendly properties, and homes with private pools, hot tubs, and convenient beach access. There’s no time like the present to start planning your next getaway. Check our availability and start getting exciting for your Gulf Coast vacation!

Mar 16 2020

Your Guide to the Best Outdoor Recreation in Gulf Shores

If you’re looking for the perfect place to celebrate the summertime with your family, Alabama’s Gulf Shores has everything you need! The Gulf Shores’ outdoor recreation is extraordinary! You can take in the spectacular wildlife or search for dolphins in the Gulf. The magic of Gulf Shores will leave you and your crew with lasting memories! Bypass scrolling through Google to find the activities 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. Simply select any activities you may need, share any special events that need celebrating, and we will begin working with our local partners to ensure your stay is one that your family holds in their memories forever.

We Highly Recommend Taking Advantage of Gulf Shores Endless Outdoor Recreation Opportunities!

Spend an Afternoon at Alabama Gulf State Park

The Alabama Gulf State Park provides a Gulf Shores outdoor recreation experience like no other. This park boasts tons of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. You can start by strolling along the country’s largest paved trail network, then splash around on Lake Shelby and finally, snap a few family photos on the Gulf State Pier. A relaxing afternoon at Alabama Gulf State Park will leave you wanting more Gulf Shores adventures.

Discover Wildlife at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

You have to see the stunning landscape of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge! This nature reserve extends along the Gulf Shores for nearly 7,000 acres, and it’s home to many species of flora and fauna. The Wildlife Refuge is open to the public year-round, and it offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and bird watching. With so many unique creatures to see and beautiful vistas to capture, the whole family will be entertained for hours.

Explore the Bay on a Guided Dolphin Tour

Hop aboard a dolphin watching cruise for a remarkable outdoor adventure. Several local businesses offer guided tours of varying lengths. One of our family-friendly favorites is the Dolphin eco-tour. On this two-hour nature cruise, you’ll get to see the Gulf Shores from a different vantage point, explore hidden estuaries and, of course, spot the local dolphin pod! Trust us; the kids will thank you!

Take Your Family to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is widely known as the “Little Zoo” for its starring role in The Little Zoo That Could on Animal Planet. However, despite its nickname, this “little zoo” houses 600 animals, 199 sub-species, and 22 endangered species. When you visit this tropical urban oasis, you’ll find yourself surrounded by curious sounds and a diverse array of animals. The zoo is adjacent to a nature preserve, spreads over 25 acres, and provides up-close sights of the animal exhibits to visitors of all ages.

In March of 2020, the zoo opened in a new park and welcomed record crowds. The new park features more innovative spaces, encourages public education programs, and emphasizes animal conservation. You’ve never seen a zoo quite like this one, so next time you’re in town, be sure to check it out.

Admire Art at Museums Near Gulf Shores, Alabama

The city of Gulf Shores has a rich history, filled with colorful characters, delicate architecture, and region-specific experiences. Throughout many of the museums found in the area, you’ll find exhibits and explanations for events of the past, and when you leave, it will be with a deeper appreciation for life on the Gulf.

These fascinating museums will take you through time, art, and history by way of their captivating charm and historical significance:

Gulf Shores Museum
Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum
Swift-Coles Historic House
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Foley Railroad Museum
Fort Morgan Historic Fort

Go for a Helicopter Ride With a Skilled Pilot

For a special experience over the cool blue water, take a helicopter tour in Gulf Shores. Picture yourself buzzing through the clouds, taking in all the views of the picturesque coast. Lost Bay Helicopter Tours offers a vast array of tours. Pick anything from an Island View Tour to a Sunset Tour and you’ll get to see the Gulf Coast like never before. If you think that’s fun, take on another challenge and book a flying lesson! You’ll be guided by an experienced pilot with incredible knowledge of the skies!

Feel the Sand Between Your Toes

We know you’ve been dreaming of the Gulf Coast’s sugar-white sand and sparkling blue waters! What better way to spend your vacation than relaxing on these pristine and undiscovered beaches? Lucky for you, the Gulf Coast is home to gorgeous beaches in several locations, so you can relax on a different beach every day.

Take some time to explore the beaches in these three areas: Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Each area has its own special charm and offers endless fun for the entire family. While you are in Gulf Shores, hit the water on a jet ski, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. Then, head to Orange Beach or Fort Morgan for a serene beach day away from the crowds. Here, you’ll have plenty of beach fun building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or reading a book in the sand. However you choose to spend your day, make sure it’s on the Gulf Coast.

There’s No Place Like a Harris Home

Once you’ve discovered what Gulf Shores has to offer, retreat to a perfect island-style vacation rental. Unwinding in a Harris Vacation Rentals home is ideal for you, your kids, and even our furry friend! Our private properties span from Orange Beach to Gulf Shores and offer plenty of space for everyone in your party. Make your home away from home on that’s just minutes away from the beach and give your family the getaway they deserve. Spend your spring break, summer, or any other vacation with us. We can’t wait to meet you! Browse our properties and contact us to book an unforgettable beach getaway today!

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Dec 18 2019

How to Explore Gulf Shores Off the Beaten Path

If you’re planning a trip to Gulf Shores, you’ve probably already know about popular attractions like Waterville, USA , The Hangout, and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. But what about the area’s best-kept-secrets? If you’re looking to explore Gulf Shores off the beaten path, we’ve got you covered! Pack your bags, book your vacation rental, leave the itinerary to us. Here are three of our favorite lesser-known activities and attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Experience Gulf Shores Off the Beaten Path

1. Alabama Fishing Charters

Have you ever wanted to explore the hidden backwaters and beaches along the Alabama Coast? Now is your chance! There are several fishing charters to choose from in Gulf Shores. However, if you’re looking for a more unique experience, we recommend taking a tour with Nelson Fishing Charters. Tours are captained by Gator Nelson and Matt White, who will navigate you to all of the best fishing holes and hidden gems along the Alabama Coast. From pontoon reef trips and dolphin cruises to nature tours and fishing trips, they offer a little bit of everything. Their local knowledge and experience makes for a fun and interesting tour every time!

2. Orange Beach Waterfront Park

Trade the Gulf waters for a day on scenic Wolf Bay. Orange Beach Waterfront Park is an ideal spot where families with small children can relax and enjoy some quality time together. The water is shallow and calm, and there is a small beach area. Watch the kids build sandcastles, or bring a kayak or stand up paddleboard and paddle away in smooth bay waters. A 400-foot fishing pier offers covered pavilions with seating. Bring your fishing pole and cast a line right from the pier.

The park is open year-round and is rarely crowded, even on a typical summer day. Picnic tables and grills make it easy to spend the entire day at the park. Restroom facilities are nearby, and an outdoor shower is available to rinse the saltwater away before heading back to your Orange Beach vacation rental.

Are you traveling with dogs? It’s also important to note that Orange Beach Waterfront Park is dog-friendly, which is just another reason that we love it so much. Bring your pooch and enjoy a day splashing in the water!

3. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

You may have hiked or biked the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, but did you know that there are more scenic trails to explore? Just a short drive from Gulf Shores, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers 7,000 acres of protected trails and beaches just waiting to be explored. A great destination for birdwatchers, the refuge is a stopover for more than 300 species of migratory birds.

If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, you will definitely want to plan a visit to the refuge. Away from all the crowds, there’s a large secluded beach area that feels like a private oasis. Numerous trails offer miles of opportunities to see native wildlife. Relax by the beach and then get out and explore miles of scenic trails. Or, take a short hike along the one-mile-long Jeff Friend Trail and launch your canoe or kayak into Little Lagoon. The possibilities are endless!

Book Your Stay With Harris Vacation Rentals

Experience Gulf Shores off the beaten path when you book your stay with Harris Vacation Rentals. We offer a wide range of vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach. Whether you prefer an intimate condo, a luxury home, or a beachfront property, we are sure to have the ideal vacation rental for your getaway. We also offer pet-friendly properties for guests who are traveling with their four-legged friends.

If the quiet and tranquility of Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge appeals to you, consider spending your vacation on the Fort Morgan Peninsula. We offer a variety of Fort Morgan rentals near the refuge, including beautiful beach houses and condos. If you prefer to stay near Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, consider booking your stay in Adagio. This great 3-bedroom cottage is ideal for a memorable Orange Beach vacation (and it’s pet-friendly!). Enjoy being just minutes from the waterfront park.

Are you ready to start planning your family beach vacation? Browse our properties and contact us to book your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you!

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