thanksgiving in gulf shores

Here Are the Best Things To Do in Gulf Shores in November

The Alabama Gulf Coast is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the summer. Fort MorganGulf Shores, and Orange Beach are all top-notch cities with a plethora of things to do. We don’t think you should overlook this area if you’re looking to get away in the fall, though. We’ll tell you about some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores in November and other surrounding areas.  

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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The Best Things To Do in Gulf Shores in November 

Dine at Outstanding Restaurants 

It isn’t out of the norm in July and August to wait an hour for a table at local restaurants. Although we think it’s worth the wait, you can also avoid the crowds and visit in the off-season. In November, you won’t have to wait for your name to be called while your stomach is growling. Some of our favorite mouthwatering eateries are:  

Taste Delicious Oysters 

Fresh oysters on tray with ice and lemon pieces. Delicious seafood

If you’re a fan of oysters, you know that you’re not supposed to eat oysters unless it’s during a month that ends in the letter “r.” That means November is the perfect time to slurp down this seafood delicacy. Some fantastic spots to get your hands on fresh oysters from the Gulf of Mexico are: 

Visit Alabama Gulf State Park 

Temperatures in Gulf Shores in November usually sit between 60 and 70 degrees. Although that means it’s too chilly to swim, it’s still an ideal climate to enjoy outdoor activities. At Alabama Gulf State Park, you’ll find a plethora of things to do, including 

  • Paddleboard and kayak on Lake Shelby 
  • Play a round of golf 
  • Explore the Nature Center and take a guided tour of the park 
  • And more! 

Participate in the Vacasa Coastal Half Marathon & 5k Run 

There’s no better way to burn off those turkey and mashed potato calories than with a fun-filled race during Thanksgiving weekend. You’ll run through the scenic Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system and be surrounded by breathtaking scenery. With three different courses/distances, there really is something for everyone! 

  • 1-mile fun run 
  • 5k run 
  • Half marathon  

Finish Your Christmas Shopping 

shopping

If you visit Gulf Shores in November, Christmas is right around the corner. Make a dent in your Christmas shopping list and head to the outlet mall in Foley, AL. You’ll head north and drive for about 20 minutes, and then you’ll arrive at Tanger Outlets. Shop until you drop and receive significant savings on many name brands, including: 

  • Nike 
  • Polo Ralph Lauren 
  • Vera Bradley 
  • And more!  

Don’t forget to check out these stores on Black Friday for even bigger discounts! 

Enjoy a Memorable Thanksgiving 

What’s the best part about November? Thanksgiving, of course! When you stay in one of our Alabama Gulf Coast vacation rentals, you’ll have everything you need for a magical holiday. Our homes offer cozy living rooms where you can watch the parade, fully-equipped kitchens for preparing a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, and spacious dining areas where you can gather to enjoy your meal together. If you want to get out of the house and let someone else do the cooking, there are plenty of things going on in the area during Thanksgiving, such as: 

  • Flora-Bama Annual Thanksgiving Potluck 
  • Traditional Thanksgiving menu served at Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar 
  • Thanksgiving buffet at The Hangout 

We Offer the Best Vacation Rentals Around 

Now that you know about the best things to do in Gulf Shores in November, it’s time to book your vacation home. Harris Vacation Rentals offers outstanding rental properties throughout coastal AlabamaMany of our rentals are pet-friendly and offer an array of amenities, such as private pools, hot tubs, game rooms, and more! 

Check our availability and start planning your fall trip today. We can’t wait to have you!  

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Everything You Need To Know About Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores

Is a hassle-free holiday calling your name? Sit back and relax and spend Thanksgiving in Gulf ShoresAmazing fall weather and even better fall rates on your favorite Gulf Shores condos are just two of the perks of a holiday at the beach. What else do you need to know about spending Turkey Day on Alabama’s beaches? We have the details! 

Are you looking to spend Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores, but don’t want to miss out on quality time with family and friends? No problem! We offer an impressive selection of large group vacation rentals throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. 

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How To Spend Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores 

Wide-Open Beaches and Fantastic Fall Weather 

One of the perks of the fall season is our mild weather. The humidity is reduced, and temperatures range from the low-70s to mid-80s. Plus, you’ll benefit from fewer crowds on the beach during this season. You’ll have more than enough room on the sand for a game of football, volleyball, or horseshoes before you settle in for your Thanksgiving meal 

Cook a Mouthwatering Thanksgiving Feast 

THANKSGIVING FEAST

If you love to prepare a big, traditional Thanksgiving dinner for your family, we’ve got you covered. You’ll find plenty that we offer many beach houses throughout the Gulf Coast that feature fully-equipped kitchens fit for a chef. When you stay in a Harris Vacation Rental, you’ll have everything you need for the perfect holiday with spacious living areas, accommodating dining rooms, and pristine kitchens. 

Let Someone Else Do the Cooking 

If you’d prefer someone else to take care of the cooking, you’ve got options. Plan ahead and pre-order your Thanksgiving meal at Rouses Market or Publix in Gulf Shores. Both locations are open on Thanksgiving Day and offer traditional delectable meals prepared and ready to go. Simply heat them up, and you’ve got a feast fit for the family.  

If you want to get out of the house, load the family up and head to Flora-Bama for their Annual Thanksgiving Potluck. Bring your favorite covered dish and indulge in all the turkey and ham your appetite can handle. The event is free, all ages are invited, and you’ll feel like family the moment you walk through the door. 

Shop ‘Til You Drop 

Is the day after the holiday your favorite part of Thanksgiving? You’re in luck! You can have the ultimate Black Friday shopping adventure at Tanger Outlets in nearby Foley. You’ll find more than 120 stores, including Banana Republic, Columbia, Express, and more!  

Get Active 

After eating lots of delicious food, you might be craving an active day. Rent kayaks and paddle your way around the back bays of Orange Beach, or get your adrenaline pumping on the Hummingbird Zipline at The Wharf. Many of the activities and attractions you love during the summertime are still open for business during the fall months. However, days and hours of operation may be more limited. Be sure to call ahead. 

Where To Stay During the Holiday 

kitchen and dining table

As you plan your vacation to the Alabama Gulf Coast, many questions might immediately pop into your head: 

  • How large is my group? Will we need multiple vacation rentals near each other? 
  • Does the rental have enough indoor seating in a dining room, plus counter seating? Does the balcony or deck have dining furniture, as well? 
  • Is the television in the living room large enough for watching the big game? 

Harris Vacation Rentals is here for you to take all of your stress away. With our large selection of Gulf Coast rentals, we’ve got all of those bullet points covered! Our large group vacation rentals have everything you need to enjoy the holiday and will be the ultimate home away from home. When you end Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores, a hassle-free holiday at the beach is sure to become your family’s new favorite tradition.  

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