gulf shores state park

You Need to Experience the Best Gulf Shores Bucket List

The Gulf Shores area is the ultimate place for a fun, relaxing, and unforgettable beach vacation! Whether you want to spend your time on the beach or inland, there are so many great things to see and do. Since we’re locals to the Alabama Gulf Coast, we’ll give you our picks for an outstanding Gulf Shores bucket list 

After you check out our Gulf Shores bucket list, start planning your unforgettable vacation along the Gulf of Mexico.

Let our team do the searching for you, so you can focus on what matters most: making memories with your loved ones.

Our Gulf Shores Bucket List 

No matter what time of the year it is, there’s always something to do here. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan are filled with top-notch family-friendly activities that will keep the whole group smiling.  

Spring 

snorkeling

You can’t beat the weather during the spring months in Gulf Shores. The high temperature hovers around 75-80 degrees, and by late spring, the ocean is warm enough to take a dip. Plus, most children are still in school, so the best beaches and attractions aren’t too crowded. Check out some of these fun-filled things to do in spring.  

  • Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo – Whether you’re young or old, you’ll have a blast at the zoo. It’s home to over 600 animals, including 22 endangered species, and they put on animal stage shows daily during warm months.  
  • Snorkeling – Experience the fascinating marine life that lies behind the water surface and try snorkeling. An array of local outfitters will lead to you the best snorkeling spots in the area. Keep your eyes peeled for stingrays, horseshoe crabs, butterflyfish, sea turtles, and much more! 
  • Trampoline Jump Experience at The Factory – If you’re looking for the best rainy day activity, head to The Factory and jump on some exciting trampolines. You can also try air dodgeball, dunk on the basketball hoop, and soar through the air and into giant foam pits! 

Summer 

beach day

The Gulf Shores area is in full swing during summer, and it’s the perfect spot for an unbelievable beach vacation. The opportunities for fun and making memories that will last a lifetime are practically endless! Check out some of our top picks below.  

  • Beaches – You can’t have a beach vacation without spending warm, relaxing summer days in the sand. The Alabama Gulf Coast is filled with public beaches, some of which are the most beautiful beaches in the United StatesWhether you want to sit back and work on your tan or play a rousing game of beach volleyball, you’re in for a treat at our local beaches.  
  • Dolphin Tours – Set sail on the back bays of the Gulf Coast and treat yourself to a thrilling dolphin tour. There are many outfitters in the area offering sunset cruises, nature cruises, dolphin cruises, and more.  
  • Flora Bama – There’s no place like Flora Bama, the word-famous waterfront beach bar. From live music to delicious food to oneofakind contests and events, there’s always something entertaining going on here. 

Fall

boat rental

During autumn, accommodation rates are lower, and there is plenty of warm weather to enjoy along the Gulf. Plus, the kids are back at school, which means it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to a well-earned, romantic, adults-only getaway. Here are some fantastic options for fall activities 

  • Water sports – The fall season is one of the best times to get out on the water, enjoy salty sea breezes, and try out some water sports, such as parasailingkayaking, or paddleboarding. 
  • Alabama Gulf State Park – The leaves might be falling back home, but you’ll experience sunshine and tropical flora as you explore the hiking trails through the scenic Alabama Gulf State Park.  
  • Pontoon rentals – One of our favorite things to do in the area is to rent a boat and explore the Gulf Coast first-hand. Pontoon rentals are the best way to get the whole group out on the water for a day filled with fun and sun. 

Winter  

fishing

Don’t let the dreary winter season get you in a funk. Drive south and enjoy a serene getaway by the coast. This season attracts fewer crowds and tourists so that you can make the most out of your trip. Check out some of our picks for winter activities in Gulf Shores 

  • Ice Skating – Each winter, The Wharf in Orange Beach has an ice skating rink. How often do you go on a beach vacation and have the option to go ice skating? Ice skating is a wonderful way to spend a date night or an evening out with the family.  
  • Deep-sea fishing – Winter is one of the best times for fishing in Gulf Shores. You’ll have the opportunity to catch redfish, pompano, and sheepshead when you cast your line in colder waters. Fishing charters are an amazing way to get the most out of your Gulf Shores fishing experience. Select a fishing charter and listen to the top-notch knowledge of the local guides.   
  • Golfing – With mild temperatures, the winter is a fantastic time to play a round of golf. You can work on your swing at gorgeous award-winning local courses without working up a nasty sweat. 

Your Dream Gulf Coast Vacation Rental 

Book Our Gulf Shores Alabama Beach rentals and Cottages

If staying in a beautiful, luxurious vacation rental is on your bucket list, look no further than Harris Vacation RentalsOur properties are out of this world. They’re located throughout Gulf ShoresOrange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Plus, they each come with an array of outstanding amenities. Whether you’re looking for oceanfront views, a private poolgame room, or a pet-friendly property, we’ve got you covered.  

Browse our availability and pick the perfect vacation rental for you. We can’t wait to host you during your incredible beach vacation!  

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How To Make the Amazing Trip From Atlanta, GA, To Gulf Shores, AL

Are you craving an escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city? Make the trip from Atlanta, Georgia, to Gulf Shores, Alabama. With its white sandy beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and fantastic vacation rentals. There’s nowhere better to go than Gulf Shores! Keep reading to how you can embark on a trip from Atlanta, GA, to Gulf Shores, AL 

When you arrive in Gulf Shores, you’ll want to explore everything that this charming coastal area offers. To book fun-filled activities at affordable prices in one convenient place, use TripShock. Our program makes booking Gulf Coast adventures easy!   

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Head From Atlanta, GA, To Gulf Shores, AL 

The distance from Atlanta to Gulf Shores is approximately 348 miles. This makes it the perfect spot for a convenient getaway with manageable travel times. Whether you prefer to fly or drive, there are options to make this trip perfect for you.  

Road Trip 

Pack the car and take a road trip down south. The drive from Atlanta, GA, to Gulf Shores, AL, only takes about five and a half hours. The route is relatively straight and follows along I-85 South and I-65 South.  

If you want to break up the trip, Montgomery, AL, is the perfect place for a pit stop. After leaving Atlanta, you’ll reach Montgomery in just under two and half hours. As the capital of the state, there’s plenty of things to see and do in this city. Some of the most popular things to do in Montgomery include visiting the Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Montgomery Zoo, and Hank Williams Museum.  

Flying 

If you’d prefer to fly instead of driving, that’s a viable option. You can fly out of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and into the Pensacola International Airport (PNS). The flight only takes a little over an hour. Once you land, you can rent a car or take a transportation service to Gulf Shores. That car ride is approximately one hour long.  

Explore Everything That Gulf Shores Has To Offer 

You did it! You’ve made it to the Gulf of Mexico. Make the most out of your vacation and explore everything that this one of a kind area has to offer.  

Hit the Beach 

Gulf Shores is famous for its white sand beaches and great weather

When you live in Atlanta, you’re landlocked. Luckily for you, Gulf Shores isn’t far away, and it’s home to incredible beaches. Voted one of the best beaches by Coastal Living magazine, Gulf Shores Beach is famous for its unbelievably sugary-white sands. Spend your days relaxing by the shoreline, building sandcastles with your family, or taking a dip in the ocean. From jet skiing to parasailing to beach volleyball, there’s always fun to be had at the beach!  

Experience Alabama Gulf State Park 

One of the most gorgeous places to visit in Gulf Shores is Alabama State Park. The park has a variety of incredible sights and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. Gulf State Park is home to Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail, the largest paved trail network in the United States. It weaves its way through the town and links to a series of hiking and biking trails. The park also features a scenic golf course where you can practice your swing.  

Have a Blast at an Amusement Park 

Head just a few minutes up the road and make your way over to The Park at OWA. This unbelievable amusement park features 23 different attractions, thrilling rides, can’t miss events, and some of the most delicious park food you have ever experienced. It also offers 10000 square feet of water park fun. Whether you’re young or old, The Park at OWA has something for everyone.  

Gulf Shores is home to more than one amusement park. Since its opening, Waterville USA became one of the premier entertainment destinations for families vacationing along the Alabama Gulf Coast. The excitement never stops at this park. One of the most popular attractions is the Flowrider. Channel your inner surfer and ride over a continuous wave. You can practice all your tricks on a perfect wave with no fear of falling or injury! If you’re a thrillseeker, then you’ll want to get in line for Great White. This world-class one, two, and three passenger tubing adventure sends you through the jaws of a Great White Shark, a tunnel, a waterfall, and a quick drop to the lagoon below. This ride is the Gulf Coast’s most awesome tube ride. 

Stay in a Luxurious Vacation Rental 

beach house kitchen

When you arrive in Gulf Shores, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head and make your home away from home. Here at Harris Vacation Rentals, we’ve been making dream vacations a reality for over three decades. We’re happy to offer vacation homes of all shapes and sizes and varying amenities for whatever your group needs. We provide pet-friendly rentals, homes with private pools, and more. We even offer properties in Fort Morgan and Orange Beach, in addition to Gulf Shores.   

One of our standout properties is 50 Shades of Blue. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is perfect for any beach lover. Located right in the heart of Gulf Shores, guests will be able to access the area’s best attractions easily. It’s situated directly across from the beach and features two decks, giving it the ultimate coastal appeal. This pet-friendly home offers a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious bedrooms, a laundry room, and more!   

There’s no time to waste! Check our availability and find the perfect vacation rental for you. We can’t wait to see you in Gulf Shores!  

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How You Can Enjoy the Best Eco-Friendly Travel in Gulf Shores

Alabama’s Gulf Coast is known for its 32 miles of pristine, sandy white beaches. During your visit to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you can enjoy fascinating native wildlife, picturesque scenery, and outdoor adventures. However, none of this would be possible if we didn’t do our part to be environmentally-friendly and “leave only our footprints behind.”  If you’re curious how you can do your part and how you can do the best eco-friendly travel in Gulf Shores, please keep reading! 

Don’t forget to book your Gulf Shores vacation home with Harris Vacation Rentals. We’ve got the best properties around!

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Tips and Tricks for Eco-Friendly Travel in Gulf Shores

Eco-Friendly Basics

If you’re new to the idea of being environmentally-conscious, that’s no problem! There are many simple ways to start easing yourself into the lifestyle.

pink water bottle

  • Carry a reusable water bottle – The best way to prevent adding unnecessary plastic to the environment is by ditching disposable water bottles. You can also carry a glass or metal straw to use as you sip summer cocktails to avoid polluting the natural habitats of our nesting sea turtles
  • Avoid driving your car – Every time you start your car engine, you immediately pollute toxins and chemicals into the environment. Thankfully, it’s convenient to avoid using your vehicle during your stay in Gulf Shores. You can rent a bicycle and explore the town with the sea breeze blowing through your hair. If you’re looking the perfect place to cycle and get some extra exercise, hop on the 15-mile Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail or ride through Gulf State Park.
  • Save energy – We know that summer temperatures can rise and be brutal. However, sometimes we’re greeted by cooler days with refreshing ocean breezes. If that’s the case, take a break from using your air conditioning and open your deck/balcony doors or windows

Eco-Tourism Excursions

Continue to go green during your vacation and participate in fun-filled ventures that don’t leave a carbon footprint. 

man holding paddleboard

  • Kayaking – Hop in a kayak and explore the local waterways and get a workout in. There’s no better way to sightsee the waters than this! 
  • Paddleboarding – Most people have kayaked or canoed before. Have you ever tried paddleboarding? Give it a try! You’ll get a full-body workout and enjoy the sights of the coast. 
  • Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge – This refuge was established to protect migratory birds, sea turtles, and other endangered native species. You’ll have a blast hiking through the gorgeous nature trails and searching for wildlife and rare flora and fauna. You can also fish, birdwatch, and boat at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Stay With Harris Vacation Rentals

beachfront home

Make a Harris Vacation Rentals vacation rental your home away from home during your eco-friendly travel in Gulf Shores. Many of our Gulf Shores properties feature private beach access so that you can walk to the beach! You can also have access to sparkling pools, fitness centers, boat slips, and beautiful piers. With Harris Vacation Rentals, you always feel like you’re in a serene oasis. Browse our vacation homes today and find the perfect one for you!

 

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