A family-friendly beach destination nestled along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores boasts 51 kilometres of sandy beaches perfect for surfing and fishing. Visitors can enjoy sky coaster rides, dolphin cruises and hiking in wilderness beach parks.
Things to do in Gulf Shores
Warm Gulf waters and pillow-soft white beaches take centre stage in Gulf Shores, with most activities revolving around the shoreline. You can soak up the sun in secluded coves or indulge in parasailing, jet skiing, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Feel like reeling in your dinner? Head to Gulf State Park Pier, which extends for over 400 metres into the water, then cook your catch at waterfront grilling stations.
There are plenty of ways to get out on the water, from sailboat glides to glass-bottom boat cruises and dolphin-watching schooners. You can also explore underwater with diving expeditions to famous shipwrecks, such as the Whiskey Wreck and the USS Oriskany.
PGA golf courses dot the landscape of Gulf Shores, with courses such as Cotton Creek and the award-winning Diva Dunes open to the public. Take a leisurely hike on the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail to view indigenous species in native swamps and forests. Delve into the area’s naval history with a visit to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.
Family entertainment starts with a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, known for its impressive reptile house and engaging animal shows. Older kids will love the thrills of simulated skydiving on the Skycoaster, a feature of The Track Gulf Shores.
Getting around Gulf Shores
Bicycles and trolleys provide transport around the beach areas of Gulf Shores, while taxis and ride-shares operate throughout the city. Airports in Mobile and Pensacola, about a one-hour drive away, offer rental cars and shuttles.