12 Unmissable Things to Do in Gulf Shores: Unforgettable Trip

Gulf Shores, Alabama’s premier coastal destination, boasts 32 miles of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.  The charming beach town attracts over 6.1 million visitors each year who discover their perfect slice of paradise along the Gulf Coast.

Visitors can swim with dolphins, explore historic forts, and savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.  Gulf Shores caters to every type of traveler with attractions like the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Gulf State Park’s nature trails.  The Wharf’s open-air complex provides excellent shopping opportunities. Solo travelers, couples and families will find memorable experiences throughout the year in this coastal paradise.

Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, affectionately called the “Little Zoo That Could,” welcomes guests to get up close with amazing exotic animals. This zoo’s steadfast dedication to conservation and education makes it a must-visit attraction in Gulf Shores.

Gulf Coast Zoo Animal Encounters

The zoo gives guests a chance to have amazing face-to-face experiences with fascinating creatures.  These daily adventures include:

• Sloth Adventure ($24.95 + admission)
• Lemur Adventure ($24.95 + admission)
• Giraffe Feedings ($5.00 + admission, available 10-11 AM & 2-3 PM)
• Sulcata Tortoise Feeding ($5.00 + admission)

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy premium experiences like the Big Cat Premium Experience and Giraffe Premium Experience at $350.00 each.

Gulf Coast Zoo Ticket Prices

Gulf Coast Zoo Best Exhibits

The South American Adventure features a jungle boardwalk where guests can see tropical rainforest animals up close . Destination: Madagascar houses critically endangered species, while Twiga Station introduces visitors to giraffes that eat up to 70 pounds of leaves each day.

Lions, tigers, giraffes, reptiles, kangaroos, lemurs, and sloths call this zoo home.  The zoo’s walk-through aviary creates an exceptional experience with birds flying freely.  Most families spend 2-2.5 hours at the zoo, which makes it perfect for a half-day adventure in Gulf Shores.

Explore Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park spreads across 6,150 acres and serves as a natural paradise that blends outdoor recreation with coastal beauty.  The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail stands as the park’s highlight, which USA Today named the country’s best recreational trail for 2023 and 2024.

Gulf State Park Trail System

The park boasts 28+ miles of paved trails that meander through nine different ecosystems.  Hikers and cyclists can use these multi-use paths that remain accessible to everyone.  Nature lovers can head over to the peaceful Gulf Oak Ridge trail with its hanging Spanish Moss or take the Rosemary Dunes trail where bobcats make occasional appearances.

The park’s free bike share program lets visitors grab one of 50 bikes from stations around the property.  Riders can bring their e-bikes on the trails as long as they stay under 10 mph.

Gulf State Park Beach Access

The beach comes with handy amenities and a simple parking system:

Veterans park for free, and yearly passes cost $100.

Gulf State Park Activities

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to do at the park.  Popular activities include:

• Kayaking and canoeing on Lake Shelby’s 900-acre freshwater expanse
• Spotting wildlife like alligators, deer, and various shorebirds
• Learning through Nature Center programs with guided walks and beach discoveries
• Finding geocaches throughout the park’s terrain

The Nature Center works as a living museum that showcases native Gulf Coast plants and animals.  Visitors can meet animal ambassadors including owls, turtles, and alligators.  Segway tours take guests around the park and include a stop to see Lefty, the resident alligator.

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Relax at Gulf Shores Public Beach

Gulf Shores Public Beach draws visitors with its stunning white sand and clear waters. The coastline provides a perfect mix of calm and fun that appeals to beach lovers of all ages.

Gulf Shores Beach Amenities

The beach comes equipped with modern facilities to make your visit comfortable.  Beach access mats run right to the water, making the beach accessible to wheelchairs and easier to walk on.  You’ll find parking kiosks that take both cash and cards at Beach Pavilion, East Gulf Place and West Gulf Place.

Clean restrooms and foot showers are available at each entry point.  The main entrance has distinctive blue walking mats that make your walk to the water much more comfortable.

Gulf Shores Beach Activities

The shoreline buzzes with activity throughout the day.  Shell collectors often find treasures scattered along the beach, and you can spot dolphins playing in the waves from the shore.  There’s plenty of room to spread out your towel or play beach games without bumping into others.

Gulf Shores Beach Safety Tips

The beach uses a simple flag system to keep swimmers safe.  Here are the key safety rules:

• Never swim alone or during double red flag conditions
• Watch for rip currents, especially near piers and jetties
• Keep an eye on the beach flag warning system all day
• Stay away from marine wildlife
• Fill in any holes deeper than 12 inches for safety

Important Notice: The beach operates without lifeguards from October through February and beach patrol services are limited.  Free life jackets are available to borrow at specific points – a great idea for children and less confident swimmers.

Take a Dolphin Cruise

Finding playful dolphins along Alabama’s Gulf Coast is one of Gulf Shores’ most captivating experiences.  Several cruise operators guarantee dolphin sightings and visitors can pick from different boats and tour types.

Gulf Shores Dolphin Tour Options

The area’s cruise operators each bring something unique to the table.  The Sunny Lady runs 1.5-2 hour tours that feature climate-controlled cabins and roomy rooftop viewing decks.  Wild Native Tours takes nature lovers closer to bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat through kayak adventures.

Notable cruise features include:

• Wildlife commentary from expert naturalist guides
• Complimentary bottled water on select vessels
• Photography spots from multiple angles
• Guaranteed dolphin sightings on most tours

Dolphin Cruise Prices

Each tour type comes with its own price point:

Kids under 3 can join the cruise free.

Best Time for Dolphin Watching

Calm waters and smaller crowds make morning and noon the perfect time to spot dolphins.  You’ll find dolphins throughout the year, but sightings become more frequent from late spring through late summer.  Afternoon waters get choppy from stronger winds, which might affect how well you can see the dolphins.

Morning tours give photographers better light and clearer waters.  Smaller groups and better rates await those who book during off-peak seasons.  These quieter times let you get a more personal experience with these amazing creatures.

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Experience The Hangout

The Hangout sits at the intersection of Highway 59 and the beach.  This popular Gulf Shores destination brings dining, music and family fun together under one roof.

The Hangout Entertainment Schedule

Music and laughter fill the venue all day long.  Families splash around in hourly foam parties that create mountains of frothy fun.  Musicians take the courtyard stage every evening, while guests enjoy various activities between shows.

The Hangout Menu Highlights

Fresh Gulf seafood and coastal favorites dominate the extensive menu.  Signature dishes include:

• Ultimate Seafood Boil with snow crab, mussels, and wild-caught shrimp
• Award-winning XL wings with choice of BBQ, Buffalo, or dry rub
• The Lifeguard Burger – a towering creation with two half-pound patties

The famous cocktail list features the Shark Attack made with Malibu Coconut Rum and Blue Curaçao.  You’ll also find the Southern Mai Tai that blends Malibu, Amaretto, and Triple Sec.

The Hangout Special Events

The Hangout brings unique celebrations and themed experiences year-round.  Kids love the Pirates and Princesses Breakfast – an all-you-can-eat feast with treasure hunts, games, and dancing.  Summer evenings come alive with free yard games, ring toss, and temporary tattoo stations.

Visitors leave their messages in bottles at the Wish Wall.  The venue’s walls showcase impressive collections of vintage lunch boxes, PEZ dispensers and rubber duckies.  Kids play endlessly in the giant sand pit, while adults relax at the indoor bar with multiple TVs and beautiful Gulf views.

Visit Fort Morgan Historic Site

A magnificent star-shaped fortress guards the entrance to Mobile Bay.  Fort Morgan stands as one of the finest military architectural achievements in the Americas.  This impressive structure used more than 46 million cubic yards of bricks and has witnessed centuries of American military history.

Fort Morgan History

This masonry masterpiece took shape between 1819 and reached completion in 1834.  The fortress served crucial roles in four major conflicts: the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and both World Wars.  The most memorable moment came during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, when Union Admiral David Farragut’s famous words “Damn the torpedoes!” became part of history.

Fort Morgan Tour Options

The 479-acre historic site offers numerous attractions to explore:

• The museum displays military artifacts, uniforms and soldiers’ personal items
• Concrete artillery batteries built between 1895-1904
• Historic military buildings from 1899-1910
• Nature areas ideal for bird watching and photography

Fort Morgan Admission Details

Visitors can experience this historic site throughout the year.  Special events and living history programs bring different military periods to life.  The fort’s pentagonal design and architectural details create amazing photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.  This architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to its builders – skilled masons, many of whom were enslaved African Americans.  Their craftsmanship continues to engage visitors through its historical significance and structural brilliance.

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Enjoy Waterville USA

Waterville USA, a 37-year old premier family entertainment destination in Gulf Shores, spans 20 acres of thrilling attractions.  Visitors can enjoy both a water park and a traditional amusement park at one location, which makes it a unique dual-purpose facility.

Waterville USA Attractions

The park’s impressive array of water attractions has 17 water slides, a lazy river and an expansive wave pool.  These exciting features stand out:

• The Dune Racer – A six-lane mat racer with 55-foot tall slides
• Flowrider – A simulated surfing experience that pumps 40,000 gallons of water over a trampoline-style mat
• Shrimp Boat Village – A three-story interactive water playground with sprays, geysers and water cannons
• Nascart Go-Carts, 36 holes of miniature golf, and a large arcade

Waterville USA Pricing

Both water park and amusement attractions are accessible with general admission during specified hours.

Waterville USA Operating Hours

The amusement park welcomes visitors from March through September, while the water park runs seasonally.  Flowrider participants must be 18 years old or have guardian permission.  Visitors can use tubes, mats, boogie boards and U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets at no extra cost.

The park’s dining options include the Surf Side Grill near the wave pool and Gold Rush Cafe.  Guests can enjoy hamburgers, hotdogs, pizza and ice cream at these locations.  Cabana rentals provide a premium experience, but guests should book early due to limited availability.

Shop at The Wharf

The Wharf stands as a premier shopping and entertainment complex on Alabama’s coast.  Visitors can stroll down its charming Main Street that features boutiques, eateries and entertainment venues.  This open-air destination blends coastal charm with modern amenities and creates an engaging atmosphere for everyone.

The Wharf Shopping Options

The Wharf’s retail scene boasts over 30 unique stores that range from local boutiques to specialty shops.  Notable retail categories include:

• Fashion and Accessories: Joanna A. Boutique, Southern Athletica
• Home and Gifts: High Cotton Bath Company, Fric-N-Frac
• Specialty Items: Gulf Coast House of Jerky, Pepper Palace
• Beach Essentials: Seaside Shoes & SWIM, Sand Dollar Lifestyles

The Wharf Entertainment

The complex buzzes with year-round entertainment that makes it a vibrant destination.  A stunning ice skating rink presented by Pepsi serves as the centerpiece from November through January.  Entertainment options include:

The Wharf Dining Choices

Food lovers can choose from 13 diverse dining establishments at The Wharf.  The restaurants range from casual spots to upscale dining experiences and feature:

• Waterfront Dining: Ginny Lane Bar & Grill
• Casual Fare: Villaggio Grille, YoHo Rum & Tacos
• Sweet Treats: Kilwins, The Sugar Shack & Cafe
• Coffee and Snacks: The Southern Grind Coffee House

Visitors will find free parking throughout The Wharf resort area.  The spots fill up quickly during peak seasons and special events, so early arrival helps secure convenient parking.

Fish at Gulf State Pier

Gulf State Pier stretches 1,540 feet into the Gulf of Mexico and gives fishing enthusiasts a perfect spot to create lasting memories along Alabama’s coast.  Both beginners and seasoned anglers will find excellent fishing spots here.

Gulf State Pier Fishing Tips

The best catches happen at sunrise and sunset. Expert anglers suggest arriving thirty minutes before daybreak.  The seasons bring different fish species like Sheepshead, Red Drum, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder and Florida Pompano.

Pier Etiquette Tips:

• Wait for invitations before joining experienced anglers
• Keep tackle away from rails using pier carts
• Assist others when landing large fish
• Allow space for anglers to move along rails when fighting fish

Gulf State Pier Permits

The pier stays open 24/7 and provides several permit options that fit different fishing schedules:

Veterans can get discounted daily passes at $6.00.  A valid Alabama saltwater fishing license is required, but residents under 16 and those over 65 don’t need one.

Gulf State Pier Facilities

The pier’s amenities make fishing comfortable and convenient.  Anglers can rent rods and reels at $10.00 for four hours or $20.00 for all day.  The pier also has:

• Bait and tackle shop with frozen bait options
• Wheelchair-accessible rail areas
• Bywater Beachside Bar and Grill (spring/summer)
• Restrooms and concessions (11 AM – 9:30 PM)
• On-site fishing license kiosk

The $10.00 parking fee covers all-day access and a daily fishing permit.  Just show your parking receipt to the pier attendant.

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Explore Little Lagoon

Little Lagoon stretches 10 miles long and half a mile wide between the Gulf of Mexico and West Beach Boulevard.  This brackish water haven gives you a peaceful alternative to Gulf Shores’ busy beaches.

Little Lagoon Activities

The lagoon’s calm waters create ideal spots for water activities. You can enjoy:

• Kayaking and canoeing through wetlands
• Fishing for flounder, trout, and redfish
• Bird watching from designated observation points
• Nature photography along scenic trails
• Swimming in protected waters

Little Lagoon Access Points

You’ll find three main spots to access the lagoon:

Little Lagoon Pass Park sits three miles west of Highway 59 and serves as the main gateway with its facilities and beach access right across the road.

Little Lagoon Wildlife

The lagoon’s protected waters and wetlands support rich wildlife.  You can spot coastal birds like herons, osprey, pelicans, and gulls.  The waters teem with rays and fish of all types.

Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their distance from nesting areas in spring and early summer.  Alligators sometimes visit the eastern part of the lagoon near Lake Shelby but stick to canal areas near Highway 59 and avoid people.

Safety Note: The lagoon’s waters stay calmer than the Gulf, making them great for families and beginners in water sports.  Remember to check weather conditions and follow posted guidelines before any water activities.

Wade Ward Nature Park gives photographers amazing chances to capture wildlife, especially when birds are active early in the morning.  The park’s spot on the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail makes it a top choice for bird watchers.

Dine at Waterfront Restaurants

Alabama’s Gulf Coast dining scene creates an unforgettable experience.  Restaurants line the shore with stunning water views and breathtaking sunsets.  Gulf Shores has waterfront venues of all types, from laid-back beach bars to elegant establishments that showcase local seafood and coastal charm.

Best Seafood Restaurants

Several acclaimed establishments in the area make fresh-caught seafood their specialty.  Tacky Jacks welcomes families with its vibrant atmosphere and guests can arrive by boat or car.  Louisiana Lagniappe delivers an elegant dining experience with Creole-inspired seafood dishes.  Original Oyster House serves its famous chocolate chip peanut butter pie with beautiful views of Little Lagoon.

Waterfront Dining Views

Restaurants along the coast provide spectacular vantage points of Gulf Shores’ natural beauty.  Notable spots include:

• Wolf Bay’s sweeping views of boats and marine life
• Cobalt’s spacious outdoor dining terrace overlooking Perdido Bay
• Flora-Bama Yacht Club’s beachfront location with open-air dining

Restaurant Price Ranges

The area’s dining spots fit every budget, from casual meals to upscale experiences:

These waterfront spots maintain a relaxed coastal vibe while delivering excellent service.  Early bird specials and happy hour deals are available, especially during slower seasons.  Guests should book ahead since wait times can stretch to two hours at peak dining hours.

Fresh Gulf seafood, incredible views, and diverse price points make waterfront dining a highlight for families and couples in Gulf Shores.  Local specialties include fresh shrimp, oysters, crab, flounder, snapper and grouper.  Each dish comes with regional flavors and Alabama’s beautiful coastal waters as the backdrop.

Take a Sunset Beach Walk

A stroll along Alabama’s coastline while watching the sun paint the sky creates one of Gulf Shores’ most peaceful experiences.  The beach reshapes the scene into nature’s theater each evening and gives visitors a magnificent display of colors that dance across the Gulf waters.

Best Sunset Viewing Spots

Fort Morgan leads the list of perfect sunset spots, situated 22 miles west of central Gulf Shores.  Visitors can watch the sun sink into the horizon with sweeping views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.  The Little Lagoon Pass serves as another excellent viewpoint and its northwest-facing position makes sunset photography a dream.

Beach Walking Routes

The Centennial Trail stretches 4.7 miles along the shoreline and makes sunset walks unforgettable.  A paved beachfront path lets you enjoy Gulf views without sand in your shoes and shower stations dot the entire route.  Lake Shelby’s trails in Gulf State Park provide a quieter setting with beautiful evening views that work well for couples or family outings.

Photography Tips

Professional photographers suggest these techniques to capture stunning sunset images:

• Frame sunset shots with natural elements like dunes or sea oats
• Use longer exposures after sunset to create silky water effects
• Include foreground elements to add depth and interest
• Think over vertical compositions to highlight beach features

September stands out as the best time for sunset photography, with warm, breezy conditions and smaller crowds.  Photographers should arrive 45 minutes before sunset to prepare their equipment and document the changing light.  The required longer exposures during sunset work in your favor by creating artistic cloud effects and turning water into glass.

Pro Tip: The sky might tempt you to make it dominant, but seasoned photographers suggest keeping it to one-third of the frame.  Focus instead on interesting foreground elements that tell a better story.

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Comparison Table

Enjoy the Things to do in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores welcomes visitors with 32 miles of beautiful coastline and countless ways to enjoy it.  The extensive trail system at Gulf State Park and Little Lagoon’s peaceful waters attract nature lovers.  Animal enthusiasts find joy at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and watch dolphins play in their natural habitat.  Fort Morgan tells fascinating military stories, while Waterville USA and The Hangout create perfect spots for family fun.

Beautiful beaches are just the beginning of Gulf Shores’ appeal.  The Wharf’s shopping district draws visitors with its unique stores and waterfront restaurants serve the freshest Gulf seafood.  Every spot adds something special to a visitor’s stay, whether they want thrilling adventures or peaceful moments by the shore.  Natural wonders blend with family entertainment and historic landmarks to make Gulf Shores perfect for any time of year.

Smart planning will make any Gulf Shores trip better.  Visitors should head to indoor attractions during the hottest afternoon hours and save beach time for mornings or evenings.  This beautiful coastal town combines Southern hospitality with natural beauty and entertainment that creates unforgettable vacation memories.

FAQs

What is the best area to stay in Gulf Shores?
West Beach and Kiva Dunes are highly recommended areas in Gulf Shores, offering a variety of vacation rentals.  Both locations boast sugar-white sands, bright blue oceans, and a family-friendly atmosphere that visitors love.

Where can you find the clearest water in Gulf Shores, Alabama?
Fort Morgan Beach is renowned for having the clearest water in Alabama, attracting many visitors with its Caribbean-like blue waters.

Is it safe to swim in the lagoon at Gulf Shores?
Yes, swimming in Little Lagoon at Gulf Shores is safe and enjoyable.  The lagoon features a soft, sandy bottom and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming without the risk of an undertow.

Which is better, Gulf Shores or Orange Beach?
The choice between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach depends on your preferences.  Gulf Shores is known for its vibrant and active beach scene, while Orange Beach offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.