With our white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of outdoor activities, you’ll never be bored. There are just too many things to do in Gulf Shores Alabama.
We are a beautiful coastal town with something to offer to everyone, especially active, health-conscious seniors. You can go swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, golfing, hiking, biking, or simply relax on the beach.
And when you’re ready to refuel, you’ll find plenty of healthy dining options to choose from. So come on down to Gulf Shores and experience the best of what the Gulf Coast has to offer!
Things to Do in Gulf Shores Alabama
1. Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park: This 6,500-acre park is home to a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, golfing, hiking, and biking. It also has a nature center and a campground.
2. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge: Interested in wildlife? This 7,100-acre refuge has sea turtles, dolphins, and shorebirds. It also has hiking trails and a boardwalk. Get an information brochure from the visitor center.
3. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo: Personally I prefer seeing animals in their natural habitat. But there is a benefit of visiting a good zoo.
You can learn and see a lot more animals in a short time. This zoo, for example, has over 500 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys.
4. Gulf Shores Public Beach
Gulf Shores Public Beach: The beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It has soft sand, clear water, and has all the amenities, including restrooms and showers.
An excellent place to laze the day away, working on your tan, getting in a swim from time to time and people watching. A bit crowded and touristy, though!
5. Craft Farms, Cypress Bend Golf Course
Craft Farms: This golf course is known for its challenging layout and beautiful scenery. It has hosted several professional golf tournaments. Book ahead of time and play 18 holes for the time of your life!
6. Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club
Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club: The club is located on a peninsula, with absolutely stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. It has a clubhouse, racquet club, bar & grill, a pro shop, a restaurant, and a swimming pool. You can do a lot more than just play golf!
As an avid golfer you may like to check out my earlier post 11 Best Towns in Alabama for a Golf Trip | Fine Senior Travel.
7. Big Beach Brewing Company
Big Beach Brewing Company: In the mood for some craft beer. This brewery is the perfect way to spend a late afternoon at, as it is known for its award-winning beers. It has a taproom, a restaurant, and a gift shop.
8. Alabama Coastal Birding Trail
Alabama Coastal Birding Trail: If bird-watching is your passion you will be absolutely delighted to go on this trail.
The trail is a great way to see a variety of birds, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. It has 11 different birding sites, each with its own unique features.
9. Fort Morgan Road Trail
Fort Morgan Road Trail: This trail is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
The trail runs more than 5 miles through the coastal community of Gulf Shores. As it is a paved trail it is an easy walk even for seniors.
10. Pottery Central World Headquarters
Pottery Central World Headquarters: This pottery studio offers classes and workshops for all skill levels. If you have a few days on hand and have an interest in crafts, why not pay them a visit.
Your visit will be well rewarded, regardless, as it also has a gift shop and a cafe.
Check my earlier post 7 Best Small Towns near Mobile Alabama to Visit | Fine Senior Travel for information on other towns near Mobile worth visiting, while you are in that area.
Where to Stay in Gulf Shores Alabama
The number of hotels, B&B’s, vacation rentals in Gulf Shores Alabama are countless. Here are 5 of my best picks:
- Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores: This all-suite hotel is located just a short drive from the beach. Great for a long term, luxurious stay as the suites have a full kitchen. There is a free breakfast buffet, as well..
- The Lodge at Gulf State Park: This lodge is located within Gulf State Park. Terrific place for seniors who prefer outdoor physical activities, such as, swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, golfing, hiking, and biking. It also has a nature center and a campground.
- Best Western On The Beach: This hotel is located on the beach. Excellent if you just want to chill and soak in the beach vibes. The hotel has a pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, a restaurant and a bar.
- Phoenix All Suites West: This all-suite hotel is located close to the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including a full kitchen, a free breakfast buffet, and a fitness center. It also has a pool and a hot tub.
- Caribe Resort By Hosteeva: Looking for a long secluded vacation? Book at this condotel in Orange Beach, because you deserve to get away from it all. The lazy river, pools, slides, saunas, hot tubs, tennis courts will keep you fit, healthy and happy.
Check out things to do in the following nearby towns too!
Where to Eat in Gulf Shores Alabama
The choice of places to dine in Gulf Shores, Alabama are amazing. Some of the “must try” places in my opinion are:
- Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores: This casual restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and its lively atmosphere. It has a variety of menu items to choose from, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood dishes.
- Sunset Cork Room: This fine-dining restaurant offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and a sophisticated menu. It has a variety of seafood dishes, as well as steak and chicken options. A great choice to impress your date or a valued client!
- Louisiana Lagniappe: This Cajun restaurant offers a taste of Louisiana with its gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys. It also has a variety of other dishes, including crawfish etouffee and red beans and rice. If you are craving for some real authentic southern comfort food, this is the place for you.
- Kitty’s Kafe: This breakfast and lunch spot is known for its pancakes, waffles, and omelets. It also has a variety of other breakfast and lunch items, including sandwiches, salads, and burgers. Come over for a late relaxed brunch!
- Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream: The homemade ice cream flavors are mouth watering. In addition to the standard favorites like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry they also have seasonal flavors and flavors made with local ingredients.
Honestly there is no reason not to put Gulf Shores, Alabama on your bucket list. However, you really need to plan and book ahead. Here are a few tips:
- Book your accommodations and activities in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Tripadvisor usually has the best deals!
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be very strong in the Gulf Shores area.
- Bring a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a beach towel. (Of course, you are going to be on the beach a lot!)
- Be sure to try some of the fresh seafood that Gulf Shores is known for.
I hope you have a wonderful vacation in Gulf Shores!
You may also like to check out my earlier post Top 15 Small Towns in Alabama Worth Visiting | Fine Senior Travel.
DISCLAIMER: The site is not an affiliate of TRIPADVISOR or any other properties mentioned in this post. However, I do recommend using them to get more information.
