Things to do in Gulf Shores

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Orange Beach

Gulf Shores Attractions

Sprawled along miles of sugar-white sand and the warm, clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Shores is an enchanting vacation destination for those seeking sunshine and relaxation. But there's more to this Alabama Gulf Coast town than its gorgeous beaches and abundant resorts—you can also find world-class golf courses, incredible fishing locales, serene hiking trails, and plenty of exciting water sports right at your fingertips. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, history buff, adrenaline seeker, or nightlife lover, Gulf Shores offers a wealth of things to see and do if you're looking to venture away from your beach chair.


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Gulf Shores must see attractions

1. Gulf Shores Beach

Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a blend of white-sand beaches, nature refuges, family activities and oceanside dining. Parasail or play beach volleyball in the sun, then spend the afternoon in a shady coastal marsh, looking for migrating birds. Between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the coastline offers 32 miles (51.4 kilometers) of beaches perfect for sunset strolls, yoga at sunrise, swimming and lounging in the sun.
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Gulf Shores Beach showing a coastal town, general coastal views and a beach

2. Fort Morgan

Fort Morgan may be the historic centerpiece of the Mobile Bay area west of Gulf Shores, but the attractions of this resort community go beyond its Civil War–era military fort. Play in the emerald water, discover sand dunes and coastal marshes and go fishing and birding. Then, make time for the impressive fort for an educational experience for the whole family.
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Fort Morgan

3. Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park is a popular vacation spot with spacious, sandy beaches and diverse activities. Trips here can be as active or as relaxing as you like. Try exhilarating water sports, go fishing, learn about coastal creatures at the nature center or simply sprawl out on the sands.
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Gulf State Park showing modern architecture

4. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Slip away from the busier areas of Alabama’s Gulf Coast and visit Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, an expansive coastal landscape of rolling sand dunes and pine-oak woodlands. Within this natural refuge, one of the last remaining undisturbed coastal habitats in the state, you’ll find everything from green, loggerhead and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles to migratory songbirds.
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Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge showing signage and forests

5. West Beach

Quieter than adjacent Gulf Shores, with its nightlife and amusement parks, West Beach offers a serene oceanside vacation setting. Lounge on beautiful public beaches, admire luxury oceanfront homes and explore the area’s renowned wildlife refuge.
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West Beach featuring a beach and a coastal town

What to do in Gulf Shores

Free Things to Do in Gulf Shores

There's no need to give your credit card a workout in Gulf Shores. The following won't cost a thing.

Gulf Shores Museum - Chat to the staff and discover more about the collections held at this museum.

The Wharf - Saunter down the sidewalks and lose yourself in the atmosphere of this vibrant local hangout.

Gulf State Park Fishing Pier - Strike up a conversation with a few locals and find out why many travelers visit this place.

Gulf Shores Beach - Dive into your favorite novel or play some music while you're basking in the sun.

Alabama Coastal Birding Trail - Take your camera and let the natural surrounds capture your imagination.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Gulf Shores

Beyond your hotel, resort, or vacation rental, there are a variety of places worth visiting in and around Gulf Shores. In addition to the many shops, restaurants, and beaches in the city proper, tranquil nature areas and fun-filled attractions are just a short drive away.

Gulf Place

One of the most-traveled spots in all of Alabama, this famous stretch of public beachfront marks the spot where Highway 59 runs right into the Gulf. Shopping and dining options abound, and it's also home base for Hangout Fest, an annual 3-day music extravaganza that draws festival-goers to see A-list acts performing right on the beach.

Orange Beach

Mosey over to Gulf Shores' next-door neighbor to explore The Wharf, a family-friendly entertainment district featuring an old-timey boardwalk, a Ferris wheel, and an array of inviting shops and boutiques. Stay until it gets dark to witness the free nightly display known as SPECTRA, which transforms the palm tree-lined Main Street with lights and music.

Gulf State Park

If you're looking for outdoor fun, you'll find it at Gulf State Park. This recreation area encompasses 6,500 acres (2,600 ha) worth of places to camp, hike, bike, and swim amidst a stunning landscape of white-sand beaches, pine forests, and freshwater lakes. After getting your nature fix, grab your golf clubs for 18 holes on the Refuge Golf Course, or check out the swimming pool and sport courts on the modern campground.

Things to See in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores draws thousands of visitors each year with its pristine beaches, but its location on the Gulf of Mexico also means that saltwater marshes, rolling sand dunes, and shrub-filled forests enhance the picturesque coastal scenery. Hop on a boat tour and soak up the views of the area's cerulean waters, or wander the nature trails of the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to migratory birds and several endangered species of sea turtles. You can also immerse yourself in Civil War history with a visit to Fort Morgan, the site that helped decide the course of the fateful Battle of Mobile Bay.

Sightseeing in Gulf Shores

Between lounge sessions on the beach, it's easy to find ways to soak up the waterfront beauty and charm of Gulf Shores. Take advantage of the many opportunities for watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing, or pursue the perfect catch on an inshore fishing trip in the teeming waters of Pensacola Bay. If you're vacationing with the family, take the kids to meet kangaroos, lemurs, and sloths at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, or check out the variety of splashy rides and attractions at Waterville USA. Foodies and beer lovers will also find plenty of fresh seafood joints and beachside bars to satisfy their appetite in the Gulf Shores area. For a chance to experience a true Gulf Coast landmark, head to the Flora-Bama, the lively honky-tonk and oyster bar that has inspired songs by the likes of Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffet, and Blake Shelton.

Things to Do in Gulf Shores with Kids

Gulf Shores is a wonderful place for a family getaway. Take the youngsters along and try these popular family friendly experiences together:


 

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Frequently asked questions

Are there cheap things to do in Gulf Shores?
What can you do in Gulf Shores for free?
You could store your wallet in the hotel safe for the day, because these cool attractions won’t cost you a cent:

  • Gulf Shores Beach
  • The Wharf
  • Gulf State Park Fishing Pier
  • Tanger Outlet Center


Discover the most popular places to visit in Gulf Shores

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Gulf Shores

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Surf Side Shores

While Surf Side Shores isn't home to many top sights, Kiva Dunes Golf Course and Fort Morgan Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

Surf Side Shores
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Morgantown

5/5(1 area review)

While Morgantown might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Kiva Dunes Golf Course and Fort Morgan Beach.

Morgantown
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Brigadoon Trail

While Brigadoon Trail isn't home to many top sights, West Beach and Gulf Shores Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

Brigadoon Trail
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Cabana Beach

When in Cabana Beach, you can plan a visit to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and Kiva Dunes Golf Course, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Cabana Beach
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Fort Morgan Pines

While Fort Morgan Pines might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Fort Morgan Beach and Fort Morgan.

Fort Morgan Pines

 

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Popular day trips from Gulf Shores