gulf shores activities

Feb 18 2019

You Need to See These Awesome Orange Beach Boat Rentals

Salty air, ocean breeze, and blue skies for miles. This is what the perfect Gulf Shores day looks like. One of our favorite things to do in the area is to rent a boat and explore the Gulf Coast first-hand. During your next Orange Beach vacation, spend a day on the water, soaking up the sunshine. Read on to discover the best Orange Beach boat rentals. Then, get ready to book the ultimate family beach vacation with Harris Vacation Rentals!

The Top 3 Orange Beach Boat Rentals

1. Orange Beach Boat Rentals

This family-oriented boat rental company is a staple of the Gulf Shores boating community. Located at The Wharf Orange Beach, Orange Beach Boat Rentals provides you with a map of the area as well as a complete tour of the vessel before you head out on the bay.

All of their boats include safety equipment, life jackets, clean restrooms, two anchors, satellite radio, leather cushions, and more. Select from either a half, full, or multi-day boating trip. Be sure to make your reservation in advance, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of Orange Beach!

2. Wallace Boat Rentals

Another full-service boat rental company, Wallace Boat Rentals encourages its customers to be their own captain. No boating license is required, though ample instruction and maps are provided. All boats include life jackets, safety gear, and anchors.

Additionally, Wallace Rentals customers can choose to rent a traditional boat, a pontoon boat, or a jet ski. How will you decide to explore 20 miles of bays, rivers, and islands?

3. Flora-Bama Marina

Located across Perdido Pass, Flora-Bama Marina offers pontoon boat, kayak, paddleboard, and jet ski rentals by the hour. Additionally, the marina’s deep sea fishing charters give you the opportunity to catch your own fish under the guidance of an expert captain.

After a day on the water, head across the street from the marina to Flora-Bama. This all-in-one fun spot has restaurants, bars, and live music.

More Ways to Enjoy Gulf Shores

There are plenty of ways to experience the Gulf Coast! Jet ski rentals and other Gulf Shores watersports are popular for thrill-seekers and adventurers. If you’re looking for a quieter way to spend your vacation, Gulf Shores is also a great place for fishing and relaxing on the beach.

Dock Your Boat at a Harris Vacation Rentals Home

Now that you’ve selected from the best Orange Beach boat rentals, it’s time to get out on the water! There are so many things to see on the Gulf Coast, from beautiful beaches to stunning sunsets. After a day’s worth of boating, you’ll want to a relaxing night, and we know just the place.

What sounds better than a gorgeous, bay-front vacation home with a private boat slip? We can’t think of anything! Bay Dreamin in Fort Morgan features open entertainment areas, a game room, and accommodations for up to nine guests. Outside, enjoy the screened porch and outdoor shower. Bay Dreamin is the perfect place for your family to call home for a week!

At Harris Vacation Rentals, we want your family vacation memories to last a lifetime. Browse our vacation rentals and get ready for your dream getaway!

Dec 24 2018

What You Need to Know About Dolphin Cruises in Gulf Shores

Nothing says “Welcome to Gulf Shores” like seeing a dolphin jump out of the water. During your next beach vacation, put one of the awesome dolphin cruises in Gulf Shores on your to-do list. It’s a unique way to get an up-close look at dolphins in their natural habitat! Read on to discover our top recommendations for dolphin cruises. Then, start planning your Gulf Shores vacation with Harris Vacation Rentals!

Here Are the Best Dolphin Cruises in Gulf Shores

Thanks to the mild Gulf climate, these breathtaking dolphin cruises are held year-round in Gulf Shores!

The Sunny Lady Dolphin Tours

The Sunny Lady is one of our favorite cruises in Gulf Shores! Explore the scenic bays of Orange Beach on this hour and a half-long dolphin cruise. This is one of the most relaxing dolphin cruises in the area because the ship doesn’t leave the bay. Discover the marvelous shores of Orange Beach Bay throughout the day or at sunset with Sunny Lady dolphin cruises.

Tip: If you don’t want to buy snacks and drinks on the boat, each guest is allowed to bring their own six-pack cooler.

The Fun Boat

The Fun Boat is the perfect dolphin cruise for families with children. Their well-informed staff answers all dolphin, shark, and sea life questions your kids may have during the boat ride.

Not only will you spend two hours on the water observing Bottlenose dolphins, but you’ll also get to experience the Fun Boat water wars! Water cannons and squirt guns are the weapons of choice in this epic boat battle. At the end of the trip, families can examine the boat’s crab traps. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your child holding a crab’s claws in their hands!

Wild Native Tours

Would you like to get even closer to dolphins than you would on a standard dolphin cruise? Then Wild Native Tours is for you! During this 3-hour kayak tour, see Bottlenose dolphins swim next to you and observe native birds of the area. You’ll also learn about the Bottlenose environment, behaviors, and history. The best part? You’ll have a front-row seat to a Gulf Shores sunset.

Bonus: Wild Native Tours has a “leave no trace” policy, and the company is very environmentally conscious. Rest assured that they care about the dolphins you paddle alongside!

Make Harris Vacation Rentals Your Home Away From Home

After you’ve experienced the thrill of one of the many dolphin cruises Gulf Shores has to offer, enjoy a view of the ocean from your private balcony. Our luxury Dolphin View condominium has floor to ceiling windows with views of the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay, Lake Shelby, Little Lagoon, and Oyster Bay. The stunning water views and sophisticated amenities, like whirlpool tubs and stainless steel appliances, make this the ideal beach rental.

When you stay at Dolphin View at the Mustique Condo, you’ll also have access to the building’s lagoon front pool, fitness center, and sauna. Simply walk across the street to the beautiful beaches of Gulf Shores. Don’t wait; check our availability and book your Gulf Shores vacation rental today! Click here to browse our condo rentals now or check out our special deals!

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Dec 14 2018

Sing Your Heart Out at the Greatest Gulf Shores Concerts

There are few better places for year-round live music than Gulf Shores, Alabama. All year long, this beachfront town is the perfect setting to see your favorite band perform. Locals and tourists alike love to experience the area’s lively entertainment scene, so we’ve compiled the essential guide to Gulf Shores concerts. What are you waiting for? Gather your friends and family, belt out the lyrics to your favorite songs, and dance like no one is watching! Then, continue the fun at a private vacation rental with Harris Vacation Rentals!

Have a Rockin Good Time at These Gulf Shores Concerts

From intimate shows on the water to nationally acclaimed music festivals, there’s no shortage of concerts to attend in Gulf Shores. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy the Gulf Coast music scene!

Join the Party at Local Music Festivals

Hangout Music Festival

The annual Hangout Music Festival is the most renowned music festival on the Gulf Coast. Rain or shine, you can enjoy three days of music from the top rock, hip-hop, indie, and electronic artists in the industry. Past and upcoming artists include The Chainsmokers, Halsey, The Killers, SZA, Logic, The 1975, Khalid, and Hozier. For access to exclusive artist performances and preferred viewing areas, treat yourself to VIP tickets.

You’ll never be bored with activities like a tropical spa, puppy kissing booth, and a roller disco. Toast s’mores and tell stories around the fire at Camp Hangout, or take a spin on the Ferris wheel for an excellent view of the Gulf. You don’t want to miss the beachfront Hangout Festival this May ‒ get your tickets now!

Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

Talented musicians from all over the country perform at the Frank Brown Songwriters’ Festival. The festival spans across two dozen venues along the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast and features over 200 acclaimed, up-and-coming artists. Check out shows in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, as well as Pensacola’s Flora Bama beach bar.

One of the best parts of the festival is that the artists have a chance to share their musical journey with attendees. Some of the songs that guests hear are still in demo stages, and the musicians love to hear audience feedback. If you love music and are eager to learn more about the songwriting process, this is the festival for you. Learn more about the performers and get ready for ten days of soulful music this November!

Return for a Concert Series Encore

The C Spire Concert Series comes to Gulf Shores every spring and summer for months of outstanding outdoor music concerts. Plenty of talent passes through the Wharf Amphitheater each season. Past and future headliners include Imagine Dragons, The Dave Matthews Band, Hootie & The Blowfish, Zac Brown Band, and Jimmy Buffett. Explore the full lineup of upcoming events and reserve your tickets!

In addition to attending a concert at the Amphitheater, you can explore the rest of The Wharf at Orange Beach. You can shop, dine, see a movie, or play some mini golf at this entertainment destination.

Swim Out to a Floating Music Venue

Have you ever heard of a concert you could swim to? Well, there’s a first for everything! Gumbo Key is less of a concert venue and more of a well-kept local secret. Boaters find the event by using GPS coordinates which lead them to a barge marked with a flag. Gumbo Key’s “leave no trace” policy promotes more than just mystery. The event is adamant about cleaning up all trash to protect the fragile marine ecosystem.

There’s no better way to celebrate the summer solstice than attending a free, floating concert. In years past, thousands of people have flocked to the mythical floating venue to hear live Southern music serenade the Gulf Coast.

All you need is a boat to get you there! Check out some of our boat rental options and head out to the elusive Gumbo Key. Then, spend the rest of the day zipping around the open ocean and exploring the magic of Gulf Shores.

Get a Taste of the Area’s Best Live Music

A guide to the music of Gulf Shores would be incomplete without mentioning some of the best places to experience live music with a little more local flair.

Pleasure Island Tiki Bar

Pleasant Island Tiki is known for their open-air beach vibes and excellent live entertainment. Take a seat at the colorful bar, enjoy views of Terry Cove, and immerse yourself in the sounds of Gulf Shores. The live music lineup includes regular favorite Al & Cathy, a local classic rock band. Get ready to jam out with a drink in your hand!

Papa Rocco’s

Live music and a kitchen open until midnight? Count us in! Papa Rocco’s pizza and oyster bar serves up free, in-house concerts every night of the week. Don’t miss their extended happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every Monday through Friday.

Insider tip: If you are in town for St. Patrick’s Day, check out Papa’s owner Bill McGinnes’s Pub Crawl.

Lucy Buffett’s Lulu’s

Lulu’s family-friendly restaurant is a Gulf Shores landmark. Bring the kids, order some fresh-caught seafood, and soak up good vibes. Climb the ropes course and play at the arcade while live music fills the air. Lulu’s is an all-in-one hotspot for family fun!

Come Sail Away to a Gulf Shores Vacation Rental

Attending a Gulf Shores concert will have you dancing all night long! We have good news: discovering the Gulf Coast music scene is one of many fun things to do in Gulf Shores. Hit the beach, rent a bike, play a round of golf… there are limitless options for fun on Gulf Shores!

Now, all you need is to find the perfect vacation rental for you and your family! At Harris Vacation Rentals, our wide range of Gulf Shores vacation rentals have something for everyone. During your stay on the Gulf Coast, let our Tiki Time property be your home away from home. This charming, bayfront bungalow is beautifully decorated and comfortably sleeps 10. The house has its own pool, a large deck overlooking the lagoon, and a covered entertainment area. The private pier is ideal for kayaking, fishing, and family photo ops. The ultimate family vacation is at your fingertips. Browse our vacation rentals and start planning your Gulf Shores getaway today!
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Oct 27 2017

Top Reasons to Visit Gulf Shores for Halloween

There are plenty of reasons to visit Gulf Shores all year long, but planning your vacation during the Halloween season adds a special touch of spooky fun to your stay. Read on to learn more about celebrating Halloween in Gulf Shores!

Fantastic Weather During Halloween in Gulf Shores

With average temperatures in the mid- to upper-70s during the month of October, you and your guests will be reveling in the nice temperatures while the rest of the country starts to get chilly. Even the water stays warm, meaning you can plan a beach day in the middle of fall!

OWA’s Town of Terror

Located in the nearby city of Foley, OWA is an entertainment destination that hosts the Town of Terror on weekend nights throughout October. The Town of Terror has a haunted house, bloodthirsty butchers, insane asylum escapees, and more. They even have special Flashlight Nights, where you can explore the park guided only by the light of a flashlight for extra scares. Flashlight nights are held on Thursdays and Sundays from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, while regular Town of Terror hours are held on Fridays and Saturdays from 6:00pm to midnight. Admission ranges from $10.00 to $44.95. Town of Terror is open from 6:00pm to 10:00pm on the nights of October 30th and 31st.

Pumpkin Patch Express

Perfect for a fall-themed steam train ride during the day or a haunted thrill ride at night, the Wales West Light Railway Pumpkin Patch Express runs in the nearby town of Silverhill from the end of September through October 31st. The train rides are only scary after 7:00pm. Other attractions and activities on-site include pony rides, a petting zoo, a bounce house, a pumpkin cannon, pumpkin decorating, a haunted barn, and more. Admission is $15.00 per person plus tax, with children two and under admitted for free.

Caribe Marina Ghost Cruise

Taking place at Caribe Marina & Watersports in Orange Beach on select days during October, the Caribe Marina Ghost Cruise invites visitors to experience Halloween in a uniquely coastal way. Cruise around Perdido Bay on a moonlit cruise while listening to ghost stories and being haunted by ghouls. The forty-five minute cruise departs twice per night at 7:00pm and 8:00pm. Admission is $15.00 per child and $20.00 per adult.

Trunk R Treat at The Wharf

An alternative to trick-or-treating by going door-to-door, Trunk R Treat at The Wharf is a family-friendly event where people can dress up, kids can have fun doing activities like face painting and riding camels, and Main Street plays host to cars and trucks filled with candy. This event takes place from 6:00pm to 8:30pm on October 31st.

Harris Vacation Rentals – Your Gateway to Gulf Shores

For more information on what Gulf Shores has to offer for your vacation during Halloween and beyond, contact our reservation specialists and book your lodgings in one of our incredible vacation rental properties today!

Apr 19 2017

Welcome to Paradise – Gulf Shores Beach Things To Do

Spring officially ushers in the high tourist season along the Alabama Gulf Coast – and Alabama’s very own Pleasure Island. By early May, the island will be teeming with vacationers. It’s likely you’ll require more than a week to see all the attractions, eateries, bars, and things to do and events in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, but if a week is all you have, that’s ample time to hit all the Gulf Shores beach things to do.

Eat and Drink – Gulf Shores Beach Things To Do

When it comes to beach grub, there’s the iconic establishments like Bubba’s, Lulu’s at Homeport, Tin Top, Tacky Jacks, The Hangout, Mikee’s, Sea ‘N Suds, DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen, Doc’s Seafood Shack, and of course, the infamous Flora-Bama. But there are some off-the-beaten path restaurants like Anchor, Flippers, Our Cigar Bar, Coastal Kitchen, O’Choppers, Snappers Lounge, Barefoot Island, and Our Cigar Bar, just to name a few. When it comes to imbibing in a bushwhacker or cocktail with an umbrella, there are dozens of juke joints, honky-tonks, and thatched, pool-side tiki bars to get your drink on. Cheers!

Family Fun On the Cheap

Got a condominium full of little ones? Pleasure Island offers things to do away from the beach like Waterville U.S.A., The Track, Adventure Island, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, The Hangout and much more. If you’re on a budget, there’s plenty to do on the cheap with the kids like Waterfront Park, Gulf State Park Pier, Fountain of Youth at Lulu’s and, naturally, the beach! Yeah, we got beaches—dozens of miles of powdery, snow-white sand. From West Beach to Gulf Shores to Cotton Bayou and Perdido Pass in Orange Beach, it’s endless beach as far as the eye can see.

Events and Festivals

April and May also means the shoulder season, which means festivals like the Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party. What’s that? Glad you asked. It’s an intimate beach bash for three days at the Flora-Bama Lounge and Package along with tens of thousands of folks from across the country gathered for one of the most popular Gulf Shores beach things to do: to toss a lifeless mullet from Florida into Alabama and to party in paradise.

Like classic Southern muscle cars? In late April, The Wharf holds its annual Bama Coast Cruise. In May is The Hangout Fest, a three-day music fest held right on Gulf Shores Public Beach, featuring a variety of live music from Friday to Sunday night. Got wine? The Orange Beach Wine Fest in mid-May offers a plethora of crushed grapes at Caribe the Resort, while the Hot Air Balloon Festival in neighboring Foley in early May gives tourists a bird’s-eye-view of Baldwin County.

Where Do I Stay?

Lodging options run the gamut from small beach cottages to plush beachfront homes to cozy condos and swanky penthouses. Depending on your lodging budget and needs, the Alabama Gulf Coast offers all kinds of price points. Whether you’re looking for lodging for a romantic getaway for two or a large home for a family reunion or a baseball team, the area can accommodate your needs. But keep in mind, rates don’t dip in the high season.

Your Perfect Spot in the Sand

The beautiful beach communities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are no longer a secret, and with good reason. The beaches are some of the most pristine and stunning in the country, while the culinary and entertainment landscape captures the best of the Deep South. So, come on down, y’all. What are you waiting for? The Alabama Gulf Coast is waiting for you.

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