The Wharf

Sep 17 2019

5 of the Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores in Winter

Are you tired of shoveling ice and snow out of the driveway? Escape the freezing temperatures with a relaxing winter getaway to beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama! While summer is peak season along our Gulf Coast paradise, winter is secretly one of the best time to visit. Are you ready to enjoy lower rates, fewer crowds, warmer weather, and endless activities? Here are some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores in winter!

Top 5 Things to Do in Gulf Shores in Winter

1. Golfing

Gulf Shores experiences mild winters, and the beautiful weather is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. Are you looking to play a round of golf? You’ll find an array of award-winning golf courses here. Spend a fabulous day teeing off on the 36-hole Arnold Palmer-designed course at Craft Farms Golf Club. Or, visit the links-style course at Kiva Dunes in Fort Morgan. Ranked the #1 public golf course in Alabama by Golf Advisor, this course promises to be a challenging yet rewarding play every time.

2. Fishing

While it’s too cold for swimming during the winter months, you can still enjoy fishing in the Gulf! Cast a line right from the dock or embark on a thrilling deep-sea adventure with one of the local charters. During the winter months, the waters are teeming with species like redfish, pompano, and sheepshead. See if you can reel in all three!

3. Hiking

Calling all nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! Winter is a spectacular time to take a stroll along the shoreline or the many nature trails in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Visit the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and hike along miles of winding, scenic trails. Keep an eye out for rare birds, alligators, nesting turtles, and the flora and fauna of these coastal habitats.

4. Visit The Wharf in Orange Beach

Are you looking for the best things to do in Orange Beach? From shopping and dining to attractions and events, The Wharf in Orange Beach offers year-round family fun. Soar on a zipline adventure at the Hummingbird Zipline Course, enjoy ice skating with the whole family, or play a game of laser tag at Arena The Next Level. Afterward, enjoy delicious cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

5. Attend a Holiday Event

If you’re visiting during the holiday season, you’re in for a treat! There are tons of fun holiday events in Gulf Shores, and you won’t want to miss a single one! If you’re searching for the best things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama, in November, the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at The Wharf should be at the top of your list. Enjoy cookie decorating, hot cocoa, the lighting of the tree and visits with Santa at this festive celebration. Are you spending Christmas in Gulf Shores? Mark your calendar for the Annual Lighted Christmas Parade, Christmas Boat Parade, and the Flora-Bama Santa Drop!

Book Your Winter Getaway With Harris Vacation Rentals

Now that you know about all the best things to do in Gulf Shores in winter, it’s time to start planning your trip! When it comes to the best local lodging, no place can compare to Harris Vacation Rentals. We offer a wide array of vacation rentals throughout Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan. Why settle for a generic chain hotel when you could be enjoying luxurious beds, full kitchens, and all the comforts of home? Plus, all of the best activities and attractions are just minutes away!

Whether you’re dreaming of a property with Gulf Views, an intimate villa, condo, or a large family home, your dream vacation awaits. Browse all of our incredible properties and contact us to start planning your winter getaway today. We can’t wait to welcome you!

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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Jul 12 2018

Get Back to the Beach for Gulf Shores Events in August

Ignore that school bell. On Alabama beaches, summer is still in session! Spend the last days of August soaking up the sun and creating vacation memories with family before the kids hit the books. There are plenty of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores events to keep you as busy as you want to be.

When you’re not building sandcastles, kayaking or treating the family to their favorite beach breakfast spots, check out these hot, late-summer Orange Beach and Gulf Shores events and get back to the beach before back to school.

Aug. 1-12 I Pirates & Princess Breakfast

ARRR you ready for a unique Gulf Shores breakfast? Stop by The Hangout with the kids. Don’t forget your best princess and pirate costumes!

Aug. 2 I The Bandwagon Tour with Miranda Lambert

Tap your toes to two of country music’s biggest stars, Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach on Aug. 2. Grab a bite to eat at your favorite Orange Beach restaurant at The Wharf before the concert, and then take a post-concert Ferris wheel ride and enjoy the night sky.

Aug. 2 I Southern Grace Dinner with Emeril Lagasse

Bring your appetite for the last Southern Grace dinner of the season at Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina. The grand finale features Emeril Lagasse of Food Network acclaim.

Aug. 4 I Battle of Mobile Bay Living History Event

There are no other Gulf Shores events like this one! Watch uniformed re-enactors tell the story of one of the most significant battles fought on the Alabama Gulf Coast. There will be cannon fire, small arms demonstrations and much more.

Aug. 7 I Imagine Dragons Concert

Grammy-winning Imagine Dragons will take the stage at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach for their Evolve Tour on Aug. 7.

Aug. 11 I The Wharf Block Party

Get your dancing shoes ready for Dancin’ in the Streets DJ Night at The Wharf on Aug. 11. DJ Matt will create a boogie-worthy block party from 7 to 10 p.m.

Aug. 15/21/22/28/29 I Blue Angels Practice

Don’t miss the gravity-defying feats of the Blue Angels at the National Museum of Naval Aviation in nearby Pensacola, Fla.

Aug. 25 I Keith Urban Graffiti U World Tour

Keith Urban will rock the stage, country-style, at The Wharf Amphitheater on Aug. 25. Don’t miss your chance to tap your toes in person!

September Gulf Shores Events Preview

Sept. 1 I Tacky Jacks Bloody Mary 5K

Start your Labor Day weekend off with a run in Gulf Shores! Then, you won’t feel guilty for all that great food you devour during your Gulf Shores vacation.

Sept. 13-15 I The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event

One of the most-anticipated culinary events of the year takes center stage at The Wharf. For the 5th year in a row, The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event will serve up more than 100 wine labels for sampling, as well as delicious culinary creations from local and regional award-winning chefs.

When you’re ready to book your perfect spot in the sand for your back-to-school bash, browse these Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan rentals. Browse these peaceful condo rentals and amazing deals!

For more Orange Beach and Gulf Shores vacation fun, read 5 Adrenaline Pumping Gulf Shores Attractions.

Jul 03 2018

Does an Orange Beach Vacation Fit Your Travel Style?

White-sand beaches and clear turquoise water as far as the eye can see are hallmarks of an Orange Beach vacation. Alabama beaches are comprised of three main vacation spots – Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.

The sister cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach blend together, and many visitors don’t recognize where one ends and the other begins. However, each offers its own unique qualities. Guests who’ve been coming for generations are oftentimes loyal to one city or the other. However, if you’re a first-time visitor, catch up on each area in our three-part series on the individual travel styles of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.

Why an Orange Beach Vacation is Special

An Orange Beach vacation is filled with spacious, white-sand beaches, especially near Alabama Point. Here, you’ll find visitors sunning, swimming and snorkeling. Robinson, Bird and Walker Islands are also located near this area and provide a beautiful setting for a day of fun in the sun. Only accessible by boat, these islands are popular spots for boaters on the weekends and kayakers during the week on an Orange Beach vacation.

Visitors who want to experience the islands can rent a pontoon boat at Flora-Bama Marina and spend a half or full day cruising the waterways. Beach your boat and set up your chairs for the day. If you’re not an experienced boater, go kayaking with Coastal Kayak Excursions. Captain Glenn will provide you with a guided tour of the backbays or transport you and your kayak to Walker Island where you can spend the day paddling through the crystal-clear water.

Orange Beach Shopping and Entertainment

An Orange Beach vacation isn’t complete without a trip to The Wharf. This shopping and entertainment district is a hot spot for fun located on the Intercoastal Waterway. Home to the Hummingbird Zipline, a miniature golf course, the tallest Ferris wheel in Alabama and a 10,000-seat amphitheater, there’s an activity for everyone! The amphitheater has hosted Kenny Chesney, Kid Rock, Jason Aldean, Florida-Georgia Line and many more. You’ll also find a great assortment of Orange Beach restaurants at The Wharf, including the award-winning Bayes Southern Bar & Grill.

Orange Beach Restaurants

Visitors are flocking to Orange Beach for its unique culinary offerings. Foodies have found a new cuisine-centric destination in this coastal city. Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina boasts a James Beard Award nominee in Chef Bill Briand. This waterside restaurant prepares world-class dishes in a coastal comfortable atmosphere. On the opposite side of the menu is The Gulf, a waterfront restaurant made entirely of shipping containers. There’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy entrees at either of these unique Orange Beach restaurants.

Orange Beach is also home to the World Food Championships, where more than 1,500 chefs and home cooks compete for bragging rights and prize money. In addition, wine enthusiasts will enjoy The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event. More than 100 labels are available for sampling at the wine festival during your Orange Beach vacation.

Orange Beach Charter Fishing

Orange Beach is considered the charter fishing mecca of the southeast. With more than 100 charter boat captains and one of the largest artificial reef systems in the country, it’s a haven for seasoned fishermen and those casting a line for fun. People come from all over the country for an Orange Beach vacation to watch or participate in some of the biggest fishing tournaments in the southeast.

The Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf hails from The Wharf in Orange Beach and is held every July. Hundreds of anglers cruise out to the Gulf in hopes of claiming a piece of the $1 million prize money. Billed the “greatest show in sportfishing,” spectators are invited to view the weigh-ins and are entertained with a boat parade, as well.

Held in May each year, the Orange Beach Billfish Classic means big fish and big money! Weigh-ins for this Orange Beach fishing tournament are held at The Wharf.

For those who want to cast a line and reel in a great Orange Beach vacation, it’s easy to book a charter fishing trip with an experienced captain from nearly any marina in this beachside city. Choose a four- or eight-hour trip or even an overnight Orange Beach charter fishing trip.

Orange Beach AL Condos

From spacious Gulf-front condos to bayside beach houses, you’ve got plenty of accommodation options during an Orange Beach vacation. You’ll find a great selection of dog-friendly vacation rentals, as well. When determining your travel style, ask yourself if you’d prefer a community pool with beachfront access or if the additional privacy of a beach house better meets your needs.

Now, let’s hear it. Read our entire Travel Style series and tell us which Alabama beach community best meets your travel style.

Does a Gulf Shores Vacation Fit Your Travel Style?

Does a Fort Morgan Vacation Fit Your Travel Style?

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