Looking for a family vacation to escape normal life and just bond and have some fun? Gulf Shores Alabama is the perfect destination for you and your loved ones. Gulf Shores has a wide range of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. From the white sandy beaches to the crystal clear waters, it’s an ideal setting for any family getaway. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an exciting adventure, Gulf Shores has something for all ages to enjoy.
Family Beach Days in Gulf Shores
Alambama’s Gulf Shores are home to miles of fluffy, white sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing, sunbathing and exciting water sports. With over 10 public beaches all along the pristine coastline, you are spoiled for choice. Most beaches are equipped with picnic areas, shower facilities and free parking. If you are staying in a beachfront home, why not take lunch down to the beach or enjoy the multiple ocean view restaurant spots dotted along the coast.
Take to the ocean on jet skis, paddleboards and surfboards, the water activities are endless.
Take a sand castle building class and compete in a ruthless sand castle building competition, which takes place right on the sands of the Gulf Shores.
If you’ve had enough fun in the sand, strap on a pair of snorkels and flippers and go explore the underwater marine life in the Gulf Shores. With comfortable water temperatures averaging at 82°F in the spring and summer months, and 56°F in the winter, snorkeling is a year round activity. Head to the Whiskey Wreck and see a shipwreck teeming with marine life. Keep a keen eye out for octopi, jellyfish, stingrays, sea turtles and so much more.
Go dolphin watching with Gulf Shores’ various cruise companies. Make lasting memories with your family by getting up close and personal with these amazing creatures. Watch them sing and jump right next to your boat, with the warm Gulf Shore sun in your face. It’s a Gulf Shore must-do activity enjoyed by all ages.
Explore Gulf Shores Surroundings
With so many great outdoor activities for you to experience in Gulf Shores, your family’s agenda will be packed. Choose from a variety of exciting outdoor activities like biking along the gorgeous coast, hiking the trails, birding in the state parks and kayaking through swamps and lakes.
Hiking The Trails
The Gulf State Park in Alabama offers hiking trails perfect for families. Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, for example, features 15 miles of paved trails and boardwalks that wind through a variety of ecosystems, like longleaf pine forests, wetlands, and coastal dunes. The trail also offers several educational exhibits and interactive displays along the way that highlight the area’s natural and cultural history. Another option is the Lake Shelby trail, with a 3.5-mile trail that circles the lake, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife. Who said hiking can’t be educational!
Slip n’ Sliding Around The Gulf Shores
Take the whole family to Waterville USA, and enjoy a fun, exciting day out on the slides. Located in Gulf Shores, Waterville is a 20-acre waterpark and amusement park. Here you’ll find 17 water slides, a lazy river and a wave pool. The amusement park attractions include the go-karts, roller coasters, 36 holes of miniature golf, trampolines, kiddie rides, escape rooms and a large arcade.
Visit The Zoo
Encounter some amazing, exotic animals at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. This 25-acre zoo houses 118 species, 22 of which are endangered. See giraffes, kangaroos, lemurs and even get a selfie with a sloth. With affordable admission fees and the option to leave a donation to support the conservation of the animals, the zoo makes for a great day out for the whole family.
Shopping In The Gulf Shores
Shopping is a day out in itself so why not explore all the Gulf Shores has to offer from a variety of shops like unique boutiques, artisanal, gourmet food markets, sweet shops and souvenir shops. Take the family out shopping and pick up a souvenir to remember the best family vacation.
Family Rentals in Gulf Shore, Alabama
There are some great Gulf Shores vacation rentals all around Gulf Shores, Alabama, making it the perfect destination for families. Whether you’re looking for a house, a condo in an apartment complex or a beach side villa, Gulf Shores has it all. Bring the whole extending family to Gulf Shores and host a reunion party in the comfort of your very own rental home.
Beautifully designed and well maintained ocean view villas await you this winter in Gulf Shores. With large occupancies, big decks, wet bars and pools, these villas are the perfect way to enjoy your family vacation in style. You can’t ask for any better than white sand and clear blue water right outside your window.
If you’re looking for something more traditional, there are large pet friendly homes with great amenities available to rent for families who want to bring their furry friends along. There is a large outdoor space for your dog to roam free, kids to play freely in the sun and dad to BBQ on the grill. Additionally, with large occupancies of up to 21 people, there will be no fighting over who gets the couch!
For smaller families, there are lovely, specious 2-3 bedroom rental homes, perfectly suited for you and your families needs. No need to compromise on your rental home with great options available with even better amenities like pools, hot tubs, ocean views and tennis courts.
Pack Your Bags
For families looking to escape normal, everyday life and enjoy some fun in the sun, Alabama’s Gulf Shores may be just what you need. Head to the Gulf Shore and experience endless outdoor activities, great shopping and make lasting family memories. Relax and chill out on stunning white sand beaches, just a stone’s throw away from your very own rental home. Gulf Shores Alabama has everything you need to have the perfect family vacation.