Destinations

Experiences

Guides

Eats

Read on to discover the top destinations for your Gulf Shores adventures and the best campgrounds the area has to offer.

Gulf Shores promises an idyllic escape for every traveler, pack your bags and embark on a journey to this coastal haven.

Situated along the pristine shores of the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Shores, Alabama, stands as a testament to the beauty of the American South. This charming coastal town is a hidden gem, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Gulf Shores beckons travelers with its sugar-white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that instantly melts away stress. This coastal haven is a must for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families seeking a memorable vacation. From thrilling water sports to serene nature trails and vibrant local culture, Gulf Shores promises an unforgettable escape. Read on to discover the top destinations for your Gulf Shores adventures and the best campgrounds the area has to offer.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">State Parks and Hiking Trails</h2>
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Gulf State Park: Begin your Gulf Shores adventure at Gulf State Park, a 6,150-acre oasis offering a diverse range of outdoor activities. Enjoy hiking and biking trails that wind through the park's pristine landscapes, or simply relax on the park's two miles of sparkling white sand beaches. The park also features a fishing pier, a golf course, and abundant wildlife, making it a nature lover's paradise.
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Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge: For a more immersive nature experience, venture to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. This untouched coastal wilderness is home to diverse ecosystems, including dunes, scrub forests, and freshwater marshes. Explore well-maintained trails and keep an eye out for endangered species like the loggerhead sea turtle. Birdwatchers will delight in the numerous species that call this refuge home.
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Wade Ward Nature Park: This 400-acre park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including a large population of red-cockaded woodpeckers. There are also several hiking trails in the park.
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Alabama Coastal Connection Scenic Byway: This 132-mile byway winds its way through some of the most scenic parts of the Alabama coast. There are several state parks and hiking trails along the byway, including Gulf State Park, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and Weeks Bay Reserve.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Museums and Historic Sites</h2>
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Gulf Shores Museum: This local history museum tells the stories of the coastal town, its people, and their lives and livelihoods through permanent and special exhibits. One of the highlights is the "Hurricane Hunters" exhibit, which gives visitors a firsthand experience of flying through the eye of a hurricane.
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GulfQuest-National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico: This museum explores the history and culture of the Gulf of Mexico, with exhibits on maritime trade, shipbuilding, fishing, and marine life. Visitors can also enjoy interactive displays and a simulated maritime voyage.
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Pottery Central World Headquarters: This unique museum houses a working pottery studio and gallery, where visitors can watch artists create handcrafted pottery. The museum also offers workshops and classes for those who want to learn the art of pottery making.
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Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Gallery: This gallery showcases the work of local and regional artists, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and pottery. The gallery also hosts special events and workshops.
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Baldwin County Heritage Museum: Located just outside of Gulf Shores in Foley, this museum explores the history of Baldwin County, with exhibits on Native American life, early settlers, and the county's role in the Civil War.
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Fort Morgan State Historic Site: Located at the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, this historic military site played a role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. The fort dates back to the 19th century and offers tours and exhibits.
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Swift-Coles Historic Home: This historic home, located in Bon Secour, was built in the early 1880s and offers tours showcasing the architecture and history of the region.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Shopping at Gulf Shores</h2>
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The Wharf: Indulge in a shopping spree at The Wharf, a premier shopping and entertainment district in Orange Beach, just a short drive from Gulf Shores. Browse a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Afterward, enjoy waterfront dining and catch a live concert or event at the amphitheater.
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Tanger Outlets Foley: For those seeking deals and discounts, Tanger Outlets Foley is a shopper's paradise. Explore over 100 brand-name stores offering a wide range of products, from fashion and accessories to home goods.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Festivals in Alabama</h2>
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National Shrimp Festival: The 50-year-old shrimping festival, held annually in October, stands as a cherished celebration of the vibrant shrimping industry. The event resonates with the rich maritime heritage, drawing locals and visitors alike to partake in a four-day extravaganza. Over 50 vendors contribute to the culinary spectacle, tantalizing taste buds with an array of delectable shrimp dishes that showcase the versatility of this maritime delicacy. From traditional shrimp scampi to innovative shrimp tacos, the festival transforms into a gastronomic haven, providing a stage for local chefs to display their culinary prowess. Beyond the culinary delights, the festival is a sensory delight, resonating with the sounds of live music, the visual splendor of arts and crafts booths, and the laughter emanating from the children's activity village. This time-honored tradition not only pays homage to the shrimping industry but also fosters a sense of community and shared cultural appreciation.
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Hangout Music Festival: Held annually every spring, this unforgettable three-day experience is charged with the beats of top musical acts across diverse genres. Immerse yourself in captivating art installations, tantalize your taste buds with offerings from a variety of food vendors, and participate in engaging activities that go beyond the typical festival fare. This event is not just a celebration of music; it's a convergence of artistic expression, culinary delights, and a vibrant community spirit that will create lasting memories for all who attend.
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Mullet Toss: The Mullet Toss, an annual festival celebrated at the iconic Flora-Bama venue, brings together a community of revelers to pay homage to the mullet fish in a series of lively events every April. At the heart of the festivities lies the amusing mullet toss competition, where participants showcase their strength and throwing skills in a friendly contest to launch mullet fish across the Florida-Alabama state line. The beachside atmosphere is electrified by a diverse lineup of live music, spanning genres like country, rock, and beach tunes, providing a soundtrack to the festivities. As attendees indulge in the coastal ambiance, they can explore an array of food vendors offering local culinary delights, and peruse arts and crafts booths, and immerse themselves in the unique spirit that defines this offbeat and unforgettable celebration.
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Orange Beach Seafood Festival &amp; Car Show: The annual February festival is a vibrant celebration that spans a full day, offering a diverse array of attractions. Attendees can indulge in delicious food while enjoying the artistic creations of over 100 regional artists. The event provides a family-friendly atmosphere with music performances on two stages, a kids' zone filled with activities, and a sprawling car show along Main Street, showcasing antique, classic, and hot rod vehicles. Overall, it promises an action-packed day of entertainment for all ages.&nbsp;
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Ballyhoo Festival: The Ballyhoo Festival is an annual Fine Art and Culture Festival held at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama. It marks the beginning of the festival season, offering a distinctive blend of fine art, cultural charm, and the lively spirit of Coastal Alabama residents. Attendees can appreciate fine art from the southeastern region, indulge in local seafood, and experience live music. The event promises a unique and enjoyable celebration that captures the essence of the community.&nbsp;
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Orange Beach Festival of Art: The Orange Beach Festival of Art is a comprehensive celebration of various art forms, including visual, performing, musical, and culinary arts. The festival boasts over 100 vendors showcasing diverse media, providing attendees with a rich sensory experience. Highlights include a kid's art alley, a culinary arts court featuring local cuisine, and a music and songwriter's stage. The event, held annually every March aims to engage participants through a multitude of artistic expressions, creating a vibrant and immersive experience for all.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Where to Stay</h2>
<a href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/gulf-breeze-rv-resort?equipmentType=&amp;vehicleLength=&amp;adults=1&amp;children=0&amp;infants=0&amp;pets=0&amp;checkIn=2023-12-12&amp;checkOut=2023-12-13&amp;location=Gulf+Shores%2C+AL%2C+USA&amp;locationType=City&amp;lat=30.2460361&amp;lng=-87.70081929999999&amp;zoom=6&amp;entry=favorites">Gulf Breeze RV Resort</a>: Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, Alabama, Gulf Breeze RV Resort beckons visitors with an opportunity to embrace the beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast. For those seeking a night under the stars and a chance to commune with Mother Nature, this RV park stands as the perfect spot for serenity and outdoor adventure. With RV sites and cozy cabins, Gulf Breeze RV Resort provides a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's preference. The inclusion of RV and boat storage, a tranquil fishing lake, and several ponds add to the allure of this picturesque getaway.&nbsp;
<a style="text-decoration: none; display: inline-block; background: #009080; color: #fff; border-radius: 4px; text-align: center; padding: 10px 20px; word-break: keep-all; font-weight: bold;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/gulf-breeze-rv-resort">Book now</a>
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<a style="color: #169179;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/pirates-cove-rrrrv-resort?equipmentType=&amp;vehicleLength=&amp;adults=1&amp;children=0&amp;infants=0&amp;pets=0&amp;checkIn=2023-12-12&amp;checkOut=2023-12-13&amp;location=Gulf+Shores%2C+AL%2C+USA&amp;locationType=City&amp;lat=30.2460361&amp;lng=-87.70081929999999&amp;zoom=6&amp;entry=favorites">Pirate&rsquo;s Cove RrrrV Resort</a>: For those venturing to Gulf Shores, Alabama, Pirate&rsquo;s Cove RrrrV Resort gives a myriad of reasons to drop anchor and stay a while. The resort, a gem in Foley, offers a variety of family-centric amenities, transforming it into a maritime haven where relaxation and excitement unite. Beyond the resort's borders, the allure of OWA Water Park and the thrill of parasailing in Orange Beach create a tapestry of adventure for intrepid travelers. With the promise of comfort and a bounty of seasonal delights, this destination ensures an unforgettable journey for all who choose to make it their maritime home.
<a style="text-decoration: none; display: inline-block; background: #009080; color: #fff; border-radius: 4px; text-align: center; padding: 10px 20px; word-break: keep-all; font-weight: bold;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/pirates-cove-rrrrv-resort">Book now</a>
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Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a destination that captivates with its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse entertainment options. Whether you're basking in the sun on the beach, exploring nature trails, or immersing yourself in local culture, Gulf Shores promises an idyllic escape for every traveler. Ready to pack your bags and embark on a journey to this coastal haven? Use&nbsp;<a style="color: #169179;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/">Spot2Nite's interactive booking platform</a> to filter your favorite park activities, features, and amenities to make booking a breeze.

Discover Camping Paradise in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Read on to discover the top destinations for your Gulf Shores adventures and the best campgrounds the area has to offer.