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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 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. 

Start Planning Your Stay 

Easy Day Vacation Rental

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 beautiful selection of homes in Fort MorganGulf 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!

What You Need to Know About Gulf Shores Kayaking

There’s nothing quite like spending a day on the water enjoying the ocean breeze and jaw-dropping views. Get some exercise and experience the natural beauty of the Gulf coast by going on a Gulf Shores kayaking excursion during your next trip! When you book a Harris Vacation Rentals family vacation rental, you’ll receive up to $100 off local tours and activities through TripShock. Planning the perfect vacation has never been easier!

Book Your Kayak Tour Today!

Your Ultimate Guide to Gulf Shores Kayaking

Kayaking is perfect for all ages, making it a fantastic option for family fun in Gulf Shores. Kids and adults alike will love exploring the area from this new perspective.

Can’t-Miss Kayaking Tours

Guided kayaking tours in Gulf Shores are a great way to discover the coastal ecosystem! Here are two of our favorite nearby kayaking tours.

Tour the National Wildlife Refuge

The National Wildlife Refuge contains over 7,000 acres of uninterrupted, protected wildlife. A deep sense of calm and seclusion characterizes the area, and visitors love escaping the crowds here. If you want to get even closer to nature, book your spot on the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Kayak Tour. This tour takes you to the refuge’s quiet areas so you can see unique birds in their native environment.

See Dolphins at Sunset

Do you want to get up close to dolphins in their natural habitat? Book yourself on a Dolphins at Sunset Kayak Tour through the Wild Native Tours company. Kayak your way through Southern waterways and learn about the ecology, diet, life cycles, and behaviors of the bottlenose dolphin. Wid Native Tours is environmentally conscious and follows a strict “Leave No Trace” policy. It’s just another reason to explore the area with them!

Top Kayak Rentals in the Area

Another fantastic way to enjoy Gulf Shores kayaking is by renting a kayak. Get out on the water and explore the surrounding area at your own pace. Gulf Shores Boat and Paddlesports Rental offers kayak rentals starting at $50 for four hours. You can even opt to extend your rental for multiple days. When the kayak is delivered to you, you’ll receive a quick lesson on how to make the most of your experience. Paddled By You in Orange Beach is another awesome kayak rental option. Choose from a single, double, or triple kayak for either two, four, or eight hours. Rates start at $25 for two hours of fun!

Find Your Home Away From Home With Harris Vacation Rentals

sunset place

After an exciting day of Gulf Shores kayaking, head back to your Harris Vacation Rentals vacation rental for a relaxing evening with family. Our Sunset Place home features gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico from the patio and spacious entertainment areas throughout the house. Spend the day at the beach, rinse off in the outdoor shower, and prepare dinner for the entire family in the fully equipped kitchen. This charming beachfront home sleeps 15, making it the ideal spot for a family reunion or summer vacation.

Don’t wait to book your dream family retreat! Browse our rentals and start planning your Gulf Shores vacation today. Click here to browse our condo rentals and deals.

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Your Ultimate Gulf Shores in Alabama Fishing Guides

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When you picture your ideal beach vacation, what do you see? Are you lounging on white sand beaches, parasailing over bright blue waters, or dining at waterfront restaurants? Gulf Shores is the perfect destination for experiencing all of these activities and more. Fishing along the Gulf is an excellent way to spend a day during your trip. Savor the sunshine, hang out by the water, and have fun seeing who can reel in the biggest catch. If you’ve never fished before, or this is your first time fishing in Gulf Shores, don’t worry! We created the ultimate Gulf Shores in Alabama fishing guides. Read on to find out the best spots for fishing and some tips and tricks for fishing along the Gulf. Then, check out all of our family-friendly vacation rentals and get ready to book your vacation!

Look No Further for Your Gulf Shores in Alabama Fishing Guides

Where to Fish

Gulf State Park

The Alabama Gulf Coast is a great spot for avid anglers. The Gulf State Park Fishing Pier, in the heart of Gulf State Park, is perhaps the best place for fishing in the state. Hurricane Ivan destroyed the old pier in 2004, but the rebuilt and revamped pier is better than ever before. The new pier is wheelchair accessible and features comfort stations, a shop for tackle and souvenirs, and indoor seating at the concessions area.

The pier is also an incredibly scenic spot for fishing! You can choose saltwater fishing off the dock for flounder, speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, and more. Or, you can venture farther into the park for freshwater fishing in Lake Shelby. There, you’ll find redfish, bass, catfish, and more. A complete list of fees can be found on the park’s website. There are additional charges for fishing licenses and rod rentals.

Inshore and Offshore Fishing Charters

Fishing charters are another awesome way to get the most out of your Gulf Shores fishing experience. When you select a fishing charter, the captain provides everything you’ll need. This includes the boat, fishing licenses, equipment, and top-notch knowledge of the local waters. Here are a few of our favorite fishing charters in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach:

  1. Orange Beach Fishing Charters ‒ This capable crew has over 35 years of fishing experience. They offer a variety of options to fit every group’s size and preferred timeframe. Their most-booked tour is the six-hour-long charter for six people. Check out their website for pricing details. We highly suggest bringing your catch to the on-site restaurant at Zeke’s Landing Marina after your charter. They will happily serve you your freshly caught seafood!
  2. Fish-Kabob Bowfishing  ‒ Fish-Kabob charters offer a variety of services to their guests. You can choose from fresh- or saltwater, night or day, bow or rod, inshore or offshore fishing when you book a charter with them. Their most popular adventure package is the Night Saltwater Inshore Bowfishing and Gigging excursion. You’ll have the chance to see stingrays, sheepshead, butterfly rays, and more.
  3. Red Eye Charters  ‒ This half- or full-day charter service specializes in Bottom Fishing, Trolling, Tuna Fishing, and Deep Dropping for up to six guests. Red Eye charters is happy to accommodate groups looking for either a relaxing day on the water or a challenging afternoon excursion. The boat itself features a high cruise speed and comfortable amenities.

Check out the Gulf Shores Tourism website for even more fishing charter options!

When to Fish

two men surf fishing along the water

There’s no doubt about it: fishing is a year-round sport along the Alabama Gulf Coast. During the summer, surf fishing along the beach is a favorite activity for both kids and adults.  Pompano, whiting, and flounder are the most common catches for this fishing method. When the spring weather turns into summer heat within a matter of weeks, it’s important to head into deeper waters to find bigger fish.

Summertime is arguably the best time of year for fishing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. However, winter offers some promising fishing opportunities as well. Redfish, pompano, and sheepshead are the top three winter catches in Gulf Shores. Braving the winter cold could have a big payoff!

Check out this chart for a complete list of what’s biting during the different seasons. Please note that, while fishing is permitted at all times of the year, gray triggerfish season doesn’t begin until midnight on March 1st. Federal waters also open on this day.

How to Fish

Fishing rods off the back of a boat

There are so many different fishing methods to use in Gulf Shores. So, what exactly is the difference between inshore and offshore fishing? According to our Gulf Shores in Alabama fishing guides, inshore fishing usually takes place within nine miles of the shoreline. Popular spots include Fort Morgan and Perdido Pass. In Gulf Shores, you can expect to spend four to six hours reeling in speckled trout, white trout, tripletail, flounder and redfish. Offshore, or deep sea fishing, is done more than nine miles from land (typically 20-30 miles). Delve into the Gulf of Mexico’s rich, blue waters to find artificial reefs, natural sand bottoms, and a variety of fish.

Other fishing methods along the Gulf include fly fishing, bow fishing, and canoe or kayak fishing. These unique adventures can add an extra element of excitement to your fishing journey. No matter which method you choose, Gulf Shores is the ideal place for appreciating breathtaking scenery and catching staggering fish.

Reel in a Great Vacation Deal at Harris Vacation Rentals

beach babe porch overlooking private beach and pier

Now that you’ve read our Gulf Shores in Alabama fishing guides, you’re ready to get out on the water! Whether you’re traveling to Gulf Shores for a guys getaway, family reunion, or vacation with the kids, fishing is a wonderful way to get out and enjoy the Alabama sunshine.

A vacation rental home with Harris Vacation Rentals is the perfect place to unwind and spend quality time with family and friends. Our Beach Babe home features a private beach and fishing pier for your enjoyment. Soak up the sun on the sand or test out your fishing skills on the dock. The home’s side porch overlooks Little Lagoon, making it a peaceful spot to relax with a book or a cup of coffee. This 3-bedroom oasis has comfortable furnishings, spacious entertainment areas, and covered parking as well.

Why wait to take the vacation of your dreams? Check our availability and start planning your Gulf Shores vacation today! Check out our condo rentals and deals now.

What You Need to See on Your Dallas to Gulf Shores Drive

Road trips are a perfect opportunity for family bonding and sightseeing. During your next trip to Gulf Shores, why not choose to take the scenic route? You’ll save money on airfare, and who knows what adventures you’ll stumble upon on your way there. There’s plenty of attractions along your Dallas to Gulf Shores drive that the whole family will love. Want to know the best part? At the end of your drive, you’ll be rewarded with an awesome Gulf Shores family getaway! Are you ready to start planning your Gulf Shores vacation? Browse our deluxe selection of vacation rentals and book your trip today!

book your family vacation today with harris properties!

3 Must-See Cities on Your Dallas to Gulf Shores Drive

The Dallas to Gulf Shores drive can be a ten-hour drive, especially with a car full of kids. Add some fun to your road trip by stopping to stretch your legs and explore as you make your way to your destination. Here are our favorite places to stop between Dallas and Gulf Shores.

1. Shreveport, LA

About three hours into your journey, you’ll need a break. Why not stop in Shreveport? Get some air at the Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park, a 160-acre conservation park. There are hiking and nature trails to explore, as well as restrooms and a pavilion. Shreveport is also home to the American Rose Society gardens, the nation’s largest park dedicated to roses. With 20,000 rosebushes, sculptures, and fountains scattered through the park, it’s the ultimate scenic stopping place on your road trip.

2. Jackson, MS

Jackson, Mississippi has plenty of fun activities that kids will love. It only takes an hour or two to stop at The Jackson Zoo, home to over 200 animal species. A spin on the zoo’s train or carousel is just what your family will need after spending hours in the car.

Another popular attraction in Jackson is the Mississippi Children’s Museum. The museum has plenty of interactive exhibits and unique programs that kids will love. Give them an hour to play, and then load the car for the last few hours of the drive.

3. Mobile, AL

After you drive through the De Soto National Forest, you’ll arrive in Mobile, AL. If you have time for one more stop, it’s worth taking a self-guided tour on the USS Alabama in Battleship Memorial Park. Then, you’ll make your way to your final destination, Gulf Shores. Please note that even though your GPS may route you to the ferry, it’s usually better not to rely on the ferry’s irregular schedule.

Congratulations – you’ve made it to Gulf Shores! Now it’s time to relax and enjoy some of our favorite Gulf Shores activities. Is it your first time vacationing here? We’ve created a first timers guide to Gulf Shores to make your planning even easier.

End Your Road Trip at Harris Vacation Rentals

lightly salted kitchen

With so many exciting things to see on your Dallas to Gulf Shores drive, we know you’ll need a place to relax when you arrive. Lightly Salted, a vacation home in the heart of Gulf Shores sleeps ten with four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The home’s two balconies are perfect for relaxation, and the modern, fully equipped kitchen is every chef’s dream.

There’s nothing better than spending time with family by the beach. Check our availability and start planning your Gulf Shores vacation today!

The Best of Dog Friendly Orange Beach Vacation

There’s one thing we can all agree on: Vacation is awesome. If you’re like us, you mark off the days on your calendar and prepare to make memories that will last a lifetime. The only downside is leaving your adored family dog at home. We hate to see our furry friends left behind. So, we’ve compiled a guide on the best of dog friendly Orange Beach vacation so that you can bring everyone’s favorite family member on your next beach vacation! There’s so much to explore on the Gulf Coast. Read on to discover some of our favorite dog-friendly spots, then start planning your Gulf Shores family vacation with Harris Vacation Rentals!

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Your Guide to a Dog Friendly Orange Beach Vacation

The Dog Pond

Your pup will love a visit to the Dog Pond. This dog park is located on Lake Shelby in Gulf State Park, and it is open from 8 a.m. until sunset. Though dogs must be leashed when they enter the park, they are free to roam on this doggy playground once they’ve entered. The dog park has stunning water views and plenty of entertainment for dogs. They’ll go crazy over the agility courses, play equipment, and swimming area. What more could man’s best friend need?

Tip: Leashed dogs are allowed on the trails in Gulf State Park, as well as the picnic and campground sections. However, there are no pets allowed in the swimming pool, nature center, or beaches in the park.

Beware: Lake Shelby is home to many types of wildlife, including alligators. Please be vigilant at all times.

Orange Beach Dog Park

This dog park is one of the greatest pet-friendly activities in Gulf Shores. There is a ¾ acre shaded area with separate fencing for large and small dogs. There’s plenty of water for tired dogs to lap up and benches for owners to take a seat. Gulf Shores Dog Park is another large green space for dogs to roam in unleashed.

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

This network of seven trails spans more than fifteen miles and traverses six different ecosystems. The trails weave through Gulf State Park, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores. To find the most convenient path for you, check out their comprehensive trail map. There are plenty of restrooms, water stations, parking, and access spots along the trails.

The Backcountry Trail is home to years and years of history. The story Catman Road, for example, dates back to the Native Americans. The legendary Catman was a young, fanatic warrior who ran away from his village with a pack of wildcats. It is rumored that when you hear leaves rustling or whispers in the wind on the Backcountry Trail, you may be about to catch a glimpse of Catman.

Today, the trails have plenty of amenities, like a picnic pavilion, geocaching activity, and butterfly garden. During your hike, you’ll walk through beautiful marshes and swamps. Don’t forget your camera, because you may even see a bobcat or alligator along the way!

Bring your dog along for the ultimate dog friendly Orange Beach adventure. While your pet must remain on a leash at all times on the trails, there are miles of space for your pup to run, play, and explore.

Explore Fort Morgan Historic Site

Fort Morgan is just a 40-minute drive from Orange Beach. Enjoy the scenic drive out to Gulf Shore’s most secluded neighborhood. When you arrive, dive into the fort’s rich military history. Fort Morgan played a role in the Civil and Spanish-American Wars as well as both World Wars and the Battle of Mobile. Step back in time with a trip to the Fort Morgan Historic Site!

Tip: Dogs are allowed anywhere in the fort or inside the seawall. They must be leashed and under their owner’s control. Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed on the adjoining beach or Sutter Wildlife Refuge.

Head to the Beach

A Gulf Shores vacation would be incomplete without a day at the beach. Unlike the more commercial areas in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan allows dogs on leashes to most of its public beaches! The dog-friendly region of the beach are between the engineer’s wharf and the fishing pier. Walk the dog, build a sandcastle with the kids, and catch some waves. End your day with a golden sunset over the ocean.


Plan a Barking Good Gulf Shores Vacation

sea's the day

After you’ve spent the day with your pup, you’ll need a place that the whole family can call home! At Harris Vacation Rentals, we value our furry friends just as much as you do, which is why we offer a variety of pet-friendly beach rentals.

One of our favorite dog friendly Orange Beach homes is Dock of the Bay. This spacious four bedroom, two and one half bathroom bungalow overlooks the serene blue waters of Wolf Bay. The screened porch is ideal for watching magnificent Gulf Shores sunsets while keeping away the bugs. This fisherman’s paradise has a private dock for reeling in the perfect catch of the day!

Another great dog-friendly vacation rental near Gulf Shores is Sea’s the Day in Fort Morgan. The tropical paradise property offers sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico. Your pup will love hanging out on the outdoor patio as you grill on the barbecue. The home features an airy, white, updated kitchen as well as an open floor plan living area. The property is ideal for family reunions, as it sleeps up to 12 guests.

We have more than 30 pet-friendly rentals for your family. Never leave your furry friend at home again!

Are you ready to make your vacation plans with Harris Vacation Rentals? Browse all of our vacation rentals and book your Gulf Shores getaway today!

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