Gulf Shores Vacation Guide: Best Attractions, Activities & Dining
Welcome to Gulf Shores, Alabama, where sugar-white beaches meet adventure, relaxation, and fresh Gulf seafood. If you're looking for things to do in Gulf Shores, AL then you're come to the right place! Whether you're here for family fun, outdoor exploration, or a romantic getaway, there are so many things to do at Gulf Shores that will surprise you. Here are a few Gulf Shores, Al attractions that you won't want to miss!
Explore must-visit attractions, thrilling activities, and hidden gems to make the most of your stay! If you have a dog you can't bare to leave on your vacation bring it with you! Dogs are welcomed at our Gulf Shore rental, The Blue Mermaid.
Top Attractions in Gulf Shores
1. Gulf State Park
Stretching over 6,500 acres, Gulf State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Enjoy:
✔ Two miles of pristine beaches with soft white sand
✔ Hiking & biking trails (28+ miles of scenic routes!)
✔ Fishing at the Gulf State Park Pier (largest in Alabama!)
✔ Kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching
📍 Location: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL
2. The Wharf at Orange Beach
A premier entertainment district featuring:
✔ Ferris Wheel rides with a panoramic view of the Gulf
✔ Live concerts at The Wharf Amphitheater
✔ Shopping & dining along the waterfront
✔ Sunset dolphin cruises
📍 Location: 23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL
3. Fort Morgan Historic Site
Step back in time at Fort Morgan, a Civil War-era fortress with stunning Gulf views. Walk through centuries-old tunnels, explore military artifacts, and enjoy secluded beaches nearby.
📍 Location: 110 Hwy 180, Gulf Shores, AL
4. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Nicknamed "The Little Zoo That Could," this attraction features:
✔ Giraffe & kangaroo encounters
✔ Reptile & sloth exhibits
✔ Wildlife conservation programs
📍 Location: 20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL
Best Outdoor Activities in Gulf Shores
5. Dolphin Cruises & Kayaking Tours
See playful bottlenose dolphins up close on a guided boat tour or kayak adventure through the back bays.
📍 Best Providers:
✔ Dolphins Down Under (Glass-bottom boat tours)
✔ WildNative Tours (Eco-friendly kayaking & wildlife tours)
6. Deep-Sea & Inshore Fishing
Gulf Shores is a fishing paradise! Book a charter to catch:
✔ Red snapper, grouper, king mackerel (offshore)
✔ Speckled trout & redfish (inshore)
📍 Top Charters:
✔ Distraction Charters
✔ Reel Surprise Charters
7. Sunset Parasailing & Jet Skiing
For thrill-seekers, Gulf Shores offers:
✔ Parasailing over the turquoise waters
✔ Jet skiing around Perdido Pass
📍 Best Rentals:
✔ Blue Sky Parasail
✔ Alabama Extreme Watersports
8. Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
Escape the crowds and explore 9 interconnected trails through coastal wetlands, dunes, and pine forests. Keep an eye out for alligators and bald eagles!
📍 Trailhead: Gulf State Park Pavilion
Best Restaurants in Gulf Shores
9. The Hangout
✔ Beachfront dining with live music & foam parties!
✔ Famous "Hangout Punch" cocktail & Gulf seafood.
📍 Location: 101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL
10. LuLu’s Gulf Shores
✔ Owned by Jimmy Buffett’s sister, Lucy Buffett
✔ Famous cheeseburgers, fish tacos & key lime pie
📍 Location: 200 E 25th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL
11. Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina
✔ Upscale dining with fresh-caught seafood & craft cocktails
✔ Waterfront views & elegant atmosphere
📍 Location: 27075 Marina Rd, Orange Beach, AL
12. The Gulf (Hidden Gem!)
✔ Eco-friendly beachfront restaurant made from shipping containers
✔ Relaxed atmosphere with fire pits & ocean views
📍 Location: 27500 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL
Hidden Gems & Lesser-Known Adventures
13. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge (Off-the-Beaten-Path)
✔ Undisturbed coastal habitat for sea turtles & migratory birds
✔ Scenic walking trails & hidden beach access
📍 Location: 12295 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL
14. Sand Island Lighthouse (Historic Hidden Gem!)
✔ Take a boat tour to explore this 1864-built lighthouse
✔ Stunning views of Mobile Bay & Dauphin Island
📍 Best Tour Provider: Gulf Shores Boat Tours
15. Shell Hunting on West Beach (Local Secret!)
✔ Quiet beach with tons of seashells & sand dollars
✔ Less crowded than Gulf Shores Public Beach
📍 Location: Near Lagoon Pass, Gulf Shores, AL
Stay with Us for the Perfect Gulf Shores Getaway!
With so many things to do at Gulf Shores, you'll want the perfect beach house to relax after long days of adventure. Book Direct & Save! Get the best rates when you book your stay with us!