10 Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores

Gulf State Park is possibly most well-known for its beach – one of the most popular in Gulf Shores – but don’t make the mistake of thinking this park is only sand and surf. Beyond the 2 miles of beach, there are hiking trails, a lake with water sports, a campground, cycling trails, a butterfly garden, and an educational center where visitors of all ages can learn about the native flora and fauna.

From fishing to geocaching, bathing to kayaking, the outdoor adventure opportunities at Gulf State Park – whether you bring your own gear or rent from one of the park’s vendors – are abundant.

Gulf Shores Beach is the primary stretch of sand that most visitors to Gulf Shores flock to. Naturally, that means it can become fairly crowded and parking can be a hassle if you don’t arrive early enough in the day. However, once you sink your toes into the white sand, as you look out at the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll feel worlds away from your worries.

Beyond simple bathing and sunbathing, the beach offers volleyball, beach bars, picnic neighborhoods and pavilions. Most of all, Gulf Shores Beach offers an enjoyable time whether you want to relax to your heart’s content or experience a new adventure out on the water.

The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge clocks in at 7,157 acres of land, and while that might seem like a lot, it's actually smaller than most USA wildlife refuges. Regardless, the important establishment does vital work protecting endangered species such as the Alabama beach mouse and ridley sea turtles, both of which live on the refuge’s undisturbed beaches.

Other wildlife animals that have been spotted at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge include bobcats, wild pigs, alligators and armadillos. You may get a glimpse of all of the above for yourself when you take to one of the refuge’s many hiking trails.

Sand Castle University specializes in teaching travelers of all ages how to build the perfect sandcastle. A by-reservation activity that’s available all along the Gulf Shores beaches, these classes will bring all the tools and tricks of the trade to you. 

All you have to do is show up and get your hands a bit sandy. The result is a gorgeous piece of beach art that you won’t want to wait to share on all of your social channels.

Fort Morgan is a must-visit for any traveler who fancies themselves a history buff. Preceded by Fort Bowyer, which served in the War of 1812, the fort was built later on, in 1819. It was used during the Battle of Mobile Bay, the Spanish-American War, WWI and WWII.

Standing right at the tip of Gulf Shores, as far out into the Gulf of Mexico as possible, the well-maintained structure gives you an interesting glimpse at the U.S. military’s development of coastline defenses.

The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail is a snippet of the state’s overall birding trail. It covers 200 miles, featuring 280 sites and 6 loops around Gulf Shores and the entire county, as well as one neighboring county.

Explore a birding loop or visit individual spots along the trail if you have time. Not only can you see some of the native wildlife (over 430 species, in fact), but you can also experience the full range of Alabama’s vast ecosystem – this ranges from saltwater marshes and delta canals to mudflats to ocean inlets.

One of the most popular activities for travelers visiting Gulf Shores is to charter a fishing boat for the day. Excellent fishing awaits right off the coastline, allowing both novice and expert anglers the opportunity to snatch up saltwater fish.

There’s an abundance of charter boat providers in Gulf Shores, but some local favorites include Summer Hunter Charters, Getaway Gulf Fishing, and Fins and Family Fishing. Check out your options and see which provides the services, amenities and atmosphere you most want for your day out on the ocean.

The Wharf is a hub of activity, whether you seek daytime shopping and dining or nighttime beverages and entertainment. Families enjoy the mini-golf, arcades, and the tallest Ferris wheel in the Southeast, while couples and singles are likely to love the live music, fireworks shows, and to-go beverages.

While The Wharf holds limited hours, the additional entertainment, shopping and dining venues that have popped up around it ensure that visitors nearly always have something to keep them occupied, regardless of the day or time.

Roller coasters and other traditional amusement rides await at The Park at OWA. The small park offers 22 rides, so it’s not as overwhelming as some larger amusement parks, but it still offers all your favorites, including arcade and midway games.

Not in the mood for outdoor thrills? The Park is adjacent to shopping and dining in the larger OWA complex, in case a part of your traveling group wants to head to the theme park while the other wants to stay indoors.