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Jennifer Mellon

10 Exciting Things to Do Beyond the Beach

Add a Little Extra Adventure to Your Dream Vacation

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, are popular vacation destinations known for beautiful sugar-white shores, warm weather and a variety of outdoor activities. While the beach is certainly the main attraction in this area, there are a vast variety of other things to see and do while you’re here. Whether you’re interested in nature, history or culture, there are plenty of options to explore in this scenic part of Alabama. In this blog, we’ll look at some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores beyond just visiting the beach.

Gulf State Park

One of the top destinations to explore in Gulf Shores is Gulf State Park, a 6,150-acre nature preserve that is home to a variety of outdoor activities and scenic vistas. The park features more than 28 miles of hiking and biking trails. Rent a free bike and explore the trails to your heart’s content. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking in the park’s freshwater lake or taking a guided tour to learn more about the park’s diverse plant and animal life. The park is also home to the Gulf Coast’s largest fishing pier, which stretches more than 1,500 feet into the Gulf of Mexico and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Another must-see destination for nature lovers in Gulf Shores is the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. This 7,000-acre refuge is home to a range of rare and endangered species, including sea turtles, red foxes and the Alabama beach mouse. Visitors can explore the refuge on foot or by kayak, taking in the scenic vistas and wildlife along the way. The refuge also offers guided tours and educational programs throughout the year, making it a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your family in Gulf Shores, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an excellent choice. Known worldwide as “The Little Zoo That Could,” this 25-acre zoo features over 300 animals from around the world, including tigers, lemurs and kangaroos. Visitors can enjoy a variety of interactive experiences, including feeding the animals and participating in behind-the-scenes tours. The zoo also hosts a range of educational programs and special events throughout the year. There is even a highly acclaimed restaurant on site called Safari Club.

The Wharf at Orange Beach

If you’re looking for some shopping and entertainment in Gulf Shores, be sure to visit The Wharf at Orange Beach. This outdoor shopping and dining complex features a range of shops, restaurants and attractions, including a movie theater, a Ferris wheel, and a miniature golf course. Visitors can also enjoy live music and festivals throughout the year, making it a great destination for families and groups. The 10,000-seat amphitheater is home to a well-known concert series that attracts top artists in a variety of musical genres, including Chris Stapleton, the Dave Matthews Band, Hank Williams Jr., and more.

Fort Morgan

History buffs will want to visit Fort Morgan, a historic fortification at the entrance to Mobile Bay. This well-preserved fort played a key role in the Civil War and is now open to visitors as a historic site and museum. Visitors can explore the fort’s many exhibits and artifacts, as well as take guided tours to learn more about the fort’s history and significance. There are even some great fishing spots on the property. While you’re there, take a day trip to Dauphin Island via the ferry, which operates daily, depending on weather conditions.

Waterville USA

Another fun destination for families in Gulf Shores is Waterville USA, a water and amusement park that offers a range of thrilling rides and attractions. Visitors can enjoy water slides, wave pools and lazy rivers, as well as a variety of carnival-style games and other attractions.

Gulf Shores Museum

For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Gulf Shores, the Gulf Shores Museum is a must-see destination. This small museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts that highlight the rich history of the region, from its Native American roots to the present day. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the area’s natural history, the Gulf Shores fishing industry, and the role of the region in the Civil War. Visitors can also enjoy various interactive exhibits and take part in educational programs throughout the year.

Dolphin Watching Tours

For a unique and exciting way to experience the wildlife of the Gulf Coast, be sure to take a dolphin watching tour. Several companies in Gulf Shores offer guided boat tours that take visitors out into the Gulf of Mexico to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy watching these playful creatures jump and play in the water, while learning about their behavior and biology from expert guides.

Fishing Charters

Another popular activity for visitors to Gulf Shores is deep-sea fishing. Several fishing charters in the area offer guided trips out into the Gulf of Mexico, where visitors can try their luck at catching a variety of fish, including red snapper, grouper and amberjack. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, a fishing charter is a wonderful way to experience the excitement and adventure of fishing in the Gulf.

OWA Amusement Park

Owa is a popular amusement park located just a few miles north of Gulf Shores beaches in Foley. This family-friendly destination offers a wide variety of attractions, including roller coasters, water rides and carnival games. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, shopping and dining options throughout the park and particularly in Downtown Owa. Whether you’re looking for thrills or just a fun day out with the family, Owa is a great destination to add to your Gulf Shores vacation itinerary.

While the beach is certainly the main attraction in Gulf Shores, there are plenty of other things to see and do in this beautiful region of Alabama. From nature preserves and historic landmarks to amusement parks and shopping centers, there’s something for everyone in Gulf Shores beyond just visiting the beach. So, the next time you’re planning a trip to the Gulf Coast, be sure to set aside some time to explore all that this scenic and exciting region has to offer.

5 Fun Gulf Coast Day Trip Options

Make the Beach Your Base of Operations & Plan a Little Extra Adventure

A visit to the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, area guarantees you’ll enjoy miles of pristine beaches, warm waters and a wealth of fun attractions.

While many tourists come to this region to simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun, there are plenty of other exciting things to see and do beyond the shore. Within just 25 to 50 miles of this area, a variety of destinations are waiting for you to explore, ranging from nature preserves and wildlife sanctuaries to historic landmarks and charming historic towns.

Here are five of our favorite places to explore within easy driving distance of the area.

  1. One wonderful day trip option for visitors to Gulf Shores is the port city of Mobile, Alabama, located just 48 miles northwest of the beach. Mobile is a historic city with a vibrant downtown area composed of plenty of charming architecture and cultural attractions. Among the top places to visit in Mobile is the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, which is home to a variety of military exhibits and a museum highlighting the history of naval warfare. Another must-see destination in Mobile, especially if your vacation includes children, is the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, a fun and interactive museum that focuses on science, technology, engineering and math education.
  2. Another nearby day trip destination is Perdido Key, Florida, just a few miles east of Gulf Shores. Perdido Key is a hidden gem that boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and clear blue waters, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind for a day. Visitors can also enjoy dining in the local restaurants and browsing souvenir shops in the area.
  3. Pensacola, Florida, is another popular day trip destination, just 32 miles east of Gulf Shores. This vibrant city has a rich history and beautiful beaches, making it a wonderful place to explore for visitors of all ages. Pensacola’s downtown area is a charming and quaint district that is home to a variety of historic buildings and landmarks, including the Saenger Theatre, a restored 1920s-era theater that hosts a range of cultural events and performances throughout the year. Visitors can also stroll along Palafox Street, which is lined with unique shops, restaurants, and galleries. The area is also home to many art galleries and museums, including the Pensacola Museum of Art, which features a range of contemporary and historical art exhibits. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or simply take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant district, Pensacola’s downtown area has something for everyone. Visitors can also stroll along the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, which offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
  4. For those who love outdoor adventures, a trip to Weeks Bay Reserve, situated 30 miles northeast of Gulf Shores, is a must-see destination. This 6,000-acre reserve is a natural wonderland, boasting wetlands, forests and waterways. Visitors can explore the hiking trails, go kayaking, or take a guided tour to learn about the diverse plant and animal life in the area.
  5. Finally, the charming town of Fairhope, Alabama, 30 miles northwest of Gulf Shores, is another excellent day trip destination. This small town is known for its beautiful gardens, unique shops and delicious restaurants. Visitors can take a stroll through the town’s historic district, or head to the Fairhope Municipal Pier to enjoy stunning views of Mobile Bay.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy beyond the shore in Gulf Shores, Alabama. So, the next time you’re planning a vacation to this beautiful region, be sure to set aside some time to explore these hidden gems and adventures.

Spend Time Together, Not More Money

Free & Cheap Activities to Enjoy with Kids in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

When it comes to planning a family vacation to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, there are plenty of fun and affordable activities to enjoy with the kids. From free outdoor adventures to low-cost educational experiences, here are some ideas to help you plan a budget-friendly family vacation that your family will never forget!

The Classic: A Beach Day!

Of course, the main attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the beautiful sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. And the best part? Enjoying a beach day is completely free! Pack a picnic lunch, bring some sunscreen and spend the day playing in the sand, building sandcastles and swimming in the warm Gulf waters. If you choose the main public beach in Gulf Shores, please note there is a nominal fee for parking.

Take a Nature Walk

The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area is home to a variety of beautiful natural areas that are perfect for a family nature walk. The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Gulf State Park and the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail all offer scenic walking paths that wind through forests, wetlands, and other natural habitats. Look out for local wildlife like shorebirds, turtles, foxes and alligators! Check out the beautiful butterfly garden you’ll encounter when hiking the trail system in Orange Beach.

Explore Local Parks

In addition to the natural areas mentioned above, there are also several local parks in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area that are great for family outings. Gulf Shores Kids Park, located in the heart of Gulf Shores, features a playground and a covered picnic area with grills. Orange Beach Waterfront Park is another great destination, with a playground, fishing pier and a scenic walking trail. You’ll also find the Coastal Arts Center at Orange Beach Waterfront Park. Cool off as you browse the gorgeous variety of local artwork.

Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, also known as “The Little Zoo That Could,” is a popular family destination that won’t break the bank. This 25-acre zoo is home to more than 300 animals from around the world, including tigers, lemurs and kangaroos. Visitors can also enjoy interactive experiences, like feeding the animals and taking behind-the-scenes tours. Dine in the on-site restaurant as you listen to the sounds of the animals. Be sure to let the kids ride the merry-go-round!

Visit the Gulf Shores Museum

If you’re looking for an educational activity for the family, the Gulf Shores Museum is a must-see destination. This small museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts that highlight the rich history of the region, from its Native American roots to the present day. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the area’s natural history, the Gulf Shores fishing industry and the role of the region in the Civil War.

Attend a Concert or Event

Throughout the year, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach host a variety of free and low-cost events and concerts that are perfect for families. The Gulf State Park hosts outdoor concerts and movies throughout the summer, while the Wharf at Orange Beach hosts events from farmer’s markets to festivals. Be sure to check the local event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit. The holiday season is an especially rewarding time to visit, with a popular light show at night and ice skating and Santa Claus visits during the day.

Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to a large population of playful dolphins, and there are several companies that offer affordable dolphin watching tours. These guided boat tours take visitors out into the Gulf of Mexico to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. Kids will love watching these playful creatures jump and play in the water while learning about their behavior and biology from expert guides.

The next time you’re planning a family vacation, consider Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for a budget-friendly getaway that’s sure to create lasting memories for everyone. With so many free and low-cost activities to enjoy, you can have a fun-filled family vacation without breaking the bank.

Book your next Gulf Shores vacation with Current Tides and get ready for your best adventure yet!

Share the Sweetness Online

Show Off Your Favorite Beach Vacation Moments

A family vacation to the Alabama/Florida Gulf Coast is a memorable experience for many reasons. The area offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are perfect for families, including beautiful beaches, family-friendly parks and water sports.

Make Memories That Last Forever

Kids can play in the sand and swim in the Gulf of Mexico while parents relax and soak up the sun. Gulf Shores also offers opportunities for families to learn about the local environment, with attractions like the Gulf State Park and the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Families can also enjoy delicious seafood at local restaurants and take part in events and festivals throughout the year. But perhaps the most memorable aspect of a family vacation to Gulf Shores is the opportunity to spend quality time together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

From building sandcastles and taking long walks under a moonlit sky to watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico, the white, sandy shores of the Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan and Orange Beach, Alabama, and Perdido Key, Florida are perfect for making memories with your loved ones.

Share Your Memories With Us!

If you’ve recently visited or are planning a beach vacation to Pleasure Island, Current Tides Vacation Rentals and Real Estate Sales invites you to share your beach memory photos by tagging us on Facebook and Instagram. By sharing your precious photos with us, you’ll not only help us showcase the beauty of our area, but you’ll also help inspire future vacationers to make their own memories on this beautiful stretch of the Gulf Coast.

To participate, simply tag Current Tides Vacation Rentals on your Facebook and Instagram photos and use the hashtag #CurrentTides. You can also send us your photos directly via email at [email protected], and we’ll be happy to share them on our social media channels.

In addition to helping us highlight our properties and inspire future guests, sharing your photos can also help you connect with other vacationers and make new friends. By tagging us and using our hashtag, you’ll become part of the Current Tides Vacation Rentals community and have the chance to connect with other beach lovers from around the world.

Whether you’re staying in one of a cozy cottage or a beachview condo, we want to see your photos and hear your stories! Send photos showing you with a good book, playing in the waves with your kids, or exploring the local attractions. Whatever your favorite pictures are, we want to be a part of your beach vacation memories.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, hit the beach, and let’s make some memories together! We can’t wait to see what you come up with! Share your photos on Facebook or Instagram and tag us using #CurrentTides!

A Vacation Like No Other

6 Fun & Unique Things You Can Do During Your Gulf Shores, AL Vacation

When most people think of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in Alabama, they think of beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and exciting water sports. While those are all great things to experience in the area, there are also some truly unique and weirdly fun things to do that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are just a few:

Visit the Gulf Coast’s only underwater forest.

The Gulf Shores area is home to an amazing underwater forest. It is a unique and relatively unknown dive site that features the remains of an ancient cypress forest that was submerged over 50,000 years ago during the Ice Age. The forest was rediscovered by fishermen in 2012 and has since become a popular destination for divers and scientists alike. The site is approximately 60 feet deep and is home to a variety of marine life, including fish, crabs and sea turtles. Divers can explore the eerie, yet fascinating, forest and experience a unique glimpse into the past. You can explore this otherworldly landscape by taking a dive with Down Under Dive Shop, the only dive shop in the area that offers tours of the underwater forest.

Take a unique dive.

While you’re diving, take in Poseidon’s Playground, a popular dive site in Orange Beach, AL that attracts scuba divers from all over the world. The site features a unique underwater sculpture garden that includes a variety of marine life-inspired art installations, including a giant octopus, sea turtles, and sharks. This dive site is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers, with a maximum depth of 60 feet. The site also features an abundance of marine life, including schools of fish, rays, and sometimes even dolphins. The visibility is typically excellent, making it a great spot for underwater photography. Whether you are a seasoned diver or just starting out, Poseidon’s Playground is a must-visit dive site for anyone exploring the waters of Orange Beach.

Take a dolphin-watching tour on a pirate ship.

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to see the Gulf Coast’s famous dolphins, look no further than the Pirate’s Island Adventure Tour. This interactive boat tour takes you on a pirate ship, complete with a crew of swashbucklers and a treasure hunt. And of course, you’ll get plenty of chances to spot dolphins along the way.

Get lost in a corn maze.

Every fall, Magnolia Farms in Summerdale opens up its corn maze to visitors. It’s a fun and challenging way to spend an afternoon, with twists and turns that are sure to keep you guessing. And once you’ve made it through the maze, you can enjoy other seasonal activities like pumpkin picking and hayrides.

Explore the history of medicine.

…at the Medical Museum in Foley. Located inside the Baldwin County Department of Archives and History, this museum offers a glimpse into medical practices and equipment from the early 1900s to the present day. Visitors can explore displays featuring antique medical tools, vintage hospital equipment, and photographs that document the evolution of healthcare in the Gulf Coast region. One of the highlights of the museum is the operating room exhibit, which showcases surgical instruments and techniques from the past. The museum also features a collection of antique pharmaceuticals, including elixirs, tonics, and powders, as well as exhibits on the history of nursing, dentistry, and public health.

Have a spot of tea.

The Copper Kettle Tea Bar in nearby Foley (just a few minutes’ drive north of the beach) is a charming spot that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant is housed in a historic building and features a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu is focused on teas, offering a wide range of options to choose from, along with light bites and desserts. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea complete with scones, finger sandwiches, and petit fours, or opt for a simple cup of tea accompanied by a slice of homemade cake.

Book a vacation condo or house with Current Tides. With options in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, Orange Beach in Alabama and Perdido Key in Florida, Current Tides has the perfect getaway for your family! Book your favorite spot now.

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