winter activities

Nov 12 2020

How To Escape It All With a Snowbird Getaway To Gulf Shores

Are you sick with the winter blues? Plan a much-needed winter getaway to the Alabama Gulf Coast. With its mild winter weather, clear blue skies, and white sand beaches, this is the perfect spot to escape the cold. Keep reading to learn how you have the ideal snowbird getaway to Gulf Shores, Alabama.

As you plan your snowbird getaway to Gulf Shores, don’t settle for a sub-par vacation rental. Make your winter home away from home in one of Harris Vacation Rentals’ luxurious long-term rentals. All of our beach houses are top-notch and offer outstanding amenities.

The Perfect Snowbird Getaway To Gulf Shores

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

What’s the best cure for winter blues? A healthy dose of sunshine and Mother Nature! The beautiful weather during winter in Gulf Shores is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore miles of scenic nature trails or embark on a fishing charter on the Gulf of Mexico, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy throughout Gulf Shores.

Dine at Local Restaurants

When you stay in a Harris Vacation Rental, you’ll be able to save money and prepare meals in your fully-equipped kitchen. If you want to take a break from cooking, treat yourself and eat out. After all, one of the best parts of vacation is indulging in local cuisine. Gulf Shores is home to an array of fantastic restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining to quirky beachfront bars, we’ve got it all. Don’t forget to try fresh-caught seafood!

Get Work Done From Your Winter Vacation Home

It’s essential to unwind and take advantage of your PTO from time to time. However, if you want to give yourself a change of scenery without using up your vacation days, you can get work done in your Harris Vacation Rental. After all, more and more people this year can work and do schooling from home. All our vacation rentals are equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi so you can work and learn remotely. Some of our homes that have recently received upgraded Wi-Fi include:

Pick Your Perfect Snowbird Rental

It’s time to start planning your winter retreat! Harris Vacation Rentals offers fantastic lodging options throughout Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach. We even offer pet-friendly rentals, so no family member has to get left behind!

Our long-term rentals have all the amenities you’ll need for your extended winter stay. You’ll want a rental that will feel like home, only better. Airy, open floor plans are perfect for gathering the entire family around for movie night. Fully-equipped kitchens make it easy to whip up some tasty snacks for everyone to enjoy, and many of our rentals have gourmet kitchens too.

Not sure which long-term rental is right for your stay? Just give our helpful staff a call! They can help you select a rental near the things you like to do and one that offers you the beach access and amenities you want for your stay.

Oct 28 2020

10 of the Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores in December

Are you dreaming of a white-sand Christmas? Perhaps you need a warm-weather escape from the frigid temperatures of your hometown. With fewer crowds, lower rates, and mild weather, winter is one of the best times of the year to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast! Keep reading to learn about some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores in December and during the holiday season. There are plenty of festive activities and Christmas events for the whole family to enjoy!

When it comes to finding a home away from home for the holidays in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach, Harris Vacation Rentals has you covered. Browse our list of gorgeous vacation rentals and find the perfect one for your group.

Top 10 Things To Do in Gulf Shores in December

From ice skating to boat parades to holiday celebrations, there are so many fun-filled things to do in Gulf Shores in December.

1. Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens

If you’ve never visited Bellingrath Gardens and Home during the Christmas season, you are missing out on the experience of a lifetime! There are over three million twinkling lights and 15 holiday scenes spread throughout the 65-acre estate. As stroll through the gardens and past the Bellingrath Home that are completely decked out for the holidays, you’ll be dazzled by the phenomenal display.

2. Gulf Shores Christmas Parade

One of the most beloved December traditions in Gulf Shores is the annual Lighted Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration. Each year on the first Friday of December, the street is lined with festive floats, marching bands, and all your favorite holiday characters. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit! Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for Santa Claus sightings!

3. Annual Snowball Drop

Immediately following the Gulf Shores Christmas Parade is the highly-anticipated Snowball Drop, a human-made “blizzard” of over 4000 ping pong balls dropped from above. This family-friendly celebration includes photos with Santa, holiday treats, unique crafts, and more.

Note: This event has not yet been confirmed for 2020. Be sure to check the event website for up to date details.

4. Ice Skating at The Wharf

No winter season is complete without a day or night spent on the ice rink! Thankfully, The Wharf in Orange Beach features a fabulous ice-skating rink. Whether you’re celebrating a day out with the family or a romantic date night, grab a pair of skates and brace yourself for an exciting time on the ice.

5. Holiday Horse and Carriage Rides

Is there anything more magical than a horse-drawn carriage ride beneath the moonlight? When it comes to magical things to do in Orange Beach in December, this should be at the top of your list! Head to The Wharf for an enchanting evening. You’ll trot along the streets and gaze at the holiday lights and decorations with your loved ones.

6. The Baldwin Pops Christmas Concert

There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by listening to a concert with all your favorite traditional Christmas tunes! The Baldwin Pops is an organization of volunteer musicians whose mission is to share music in a concert band format free of charge to Baldwin County citizens, and each year they perform in a highly-anticipated holiday concert. Seats are first-come, first-served, so we suggest arriving early!

Note: This event has not yet been confirmed for 2020. Be sure to check the event website for up to date details.

7. Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Did you know that Gulf Shores hosts one of the largest holiday boat parades in the Southeast? The Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade occurs on the second Saturday of December 13th from 5 P.M. until 8:30 P.M. Line up and watch more than 45 decorated vessels sail along the Intracoastal Waterway.

8. Holiday Shopping

You can cross everyone off your shopping list when you go shopping along the Alabama Gulf Coast. From amazing deals at the Tanger Outlets to specialty boutiques at The Wharf to holiday gifts at the Merry Market, the shopping possibilities are endless!

9. Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck

If you’re visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast, you must visit the famous Flora Bama Lounge. One of their most popular annual events is their delicious Christmas Potluck. This event is perfect for those that don’t want to stay at home and do all the cooking on the holiday. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, this potluck is a time for a gathering of friends and family! Bring a covered side dish or dessert to share and enjoy live music while you dine!

10. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

With uncrowded shorelines and beautiful weather, winter is one of the best times for a Gulf Shores vacation. Many of our first-time guests ask us if you can swim in Gulf Shores in December. The average temperatures range from the low 50’s to mid 60’s during this time of year, which is a bit too chilly for swimming. However, the weather is perfect for strolling the shoreline, golfing, fishing, or simply enjoying the sunshine!

Make It a December to Remember With Harris Vacation Rentals

Now that you know about all the best things to do in Gulf Shores in December, it’s time to start planning your trip! If you’re searching for accommodations along the Alabama coastline, Harris Vacation Rentals has got you covered. We offer a wide array of sizeable family-friendly vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Whether you prefer a pet-friendly rental or a beachfront home, we are sure to have the ideal property for your group!

Browse our availability and find the perfect property for your holiday beach vacation. We’ll see you soon!

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!

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