Are you visiting Gulf Shores for the first time? Yay! You’re going to love it! I’m so excited to tell you about the most fun things to do in Gulf Shores this summer! Be sure to download the FREE beach essentials checklist below to make packing for your summer beach vacation a breeze.
I’ve vacationed in Gulf Shores since I was five years old and my family has owned a condo there since 2016. Needless to say, I know a lot about what to do in and around the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area.
You’ll find everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful Alabama beach town right here. These fun ideas for visiting Gulf Shores are organized based on interest so feel free to browse the table of contents to jump to the section that best suites your vacation vision.
Travel Tip! When planning a vacation to the Gulf Shores or Orange Beach area, please note that there are two MAJOR annual events which overwhelm these small beach towns with massive crowds and traffic. The Mullet Toss which usually occurs the last week in April and the Hangout Music Fest which is typically in mid-May.
Beach Vacation Packing List
Quick Reference Guide for First-Timers Visiting Gulf Shores
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Beach and Water Sports Activities
Gulf Shores Public Beach
- Address: Go to the end of Hwy 59. It dead ends at the beach.
- Fee: The beach is FREE, of course, but parking is about $15 all day.
Gulf Shores Public Beach is a must-visit. If you’re staying in a beach side condo like this one, then you’re all set for beach access. But, if your condo or hotel is located off of the beach, then you’ll definitely want to make the Gulf Shores Public Beach your go-to beach spot. Facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, beach rinse showers, volleyball, and nearby eateries, making it convenient for a day out.
Travel Tip! Gulf Shores (and likely most beaches) have a strict “Leave Only Footprints” policy. It’s the same as hiking: pack in/pack out. What you bring to the beach, is what you should leave with. No more leaving your chairs and umbrellas setup overnight. The beach patrol will throw your things away if left overnight.
Go Go Kayaks
- Address: They deliver to you!
- Fee: Varies (Starting from $70)
Explore the waterways and checkout the wildlife of Gulf Shores with Go Go Kayaks. You can rent kayaks, paddle boards, cornhole and beach fishing carts from them. Plus, they’ll deliver it straight to your condo or beach house!
Parasailing in Gulf Shores
- Address: Various parasailing companies are located on the beach.
- Fee: Average price is about $100/person and Observers are charged a separate rate.
Get a birds eye view of Gulf Shores, Alabama by taking a parasailing trip. This adventure provides stunning aerial views of the coastline and is a unique way to see the Gulf of Mexico.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf
- Address: 3201 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fee: $15.50 for adults, $11.50 for children (3yrs & under play free)
Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf is one of the best putt-putt courses we’ve ever been to and definitely the best putt-putt course along the Gulf Coast. Playing mini-golf at this cute pirate’s themed park is a long standing family tradition no matter what time of year we vacation in Gulf Shores. It’s a blast even for an adults only kid-free trip. There are two courses to choose from (one is easier than the other especially if you have little kids playing with you.)
Travel Tip! Download a KIDS PLAY FREE coupon from their site before you go. If traveling to Gulf Shores in the summer, plan to play putt-putt in the morning or evening because there aren’t any shady spots along the course and it gets really hot if you play in the middle of the day. Pirate’s Island in Gulf Shores in open 10am- 10pm.
Waterville USA
- Address: 906 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fee: $35.95 for adults, $25.95 for children
Waterville USA is a water and amusement park featuring water slides, wave pools, and go-karts. It’s a perfect escape if you’re feeling burnt out from the beach and sand.
Travel Tip! Waterville does not allow outside food, drinks, or coolers; however, you can come and go all day as long as you leave your wristband on until the end of the day. We usually just pack a picnic lunch and tailgate in the parking lot to save money.
The Track Family Fun Park
- Address: 3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fee: Varies by activity
The Track offers go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and arcade games, providing a variety of activities suitable for all ages. It’s a great spot for families looking to take a break from the beach.
Travel Tip! Plan your visit to The Track in the morning. It gets really hot mid-day and you’re exposed to the sun quite a bit. The Track gets really crowded at night because most families wait to visit during cooler nighttime temperatures.
OWA Parks & Resort
- Address: 1501 S OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535
- Fee: $34.99 for adults, $27.99 for children
OWA is a family-friendly destination with an amusement park, water park, and numerous dining options. The park features thrilling rides, live entertainment, and seasonal events. OWA usually hosts a summer concert series so check their site for updated event information.
Alligator Alley
- Address: 19950 Co Rd 71, Summerdale, AL 36580
- Fee: $18 for adults, $16 for children
Visit Alligator Alley to see and learn about alligators in a safe environment. The park offers guided tours, where you can observe and even feed these fascinating reptiles.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Deep South Speedway
- Address: 32971 AL-59, Loxley, AL 36551
- Fee: Varies by event
For racing enthusiasts, Deep South Speedway offers thrilling dirt track races. Check their schedule for events and enjoy an adrenaline-pumping experience.
Gulf State Park
- Address: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fee: Free entry (additional fees for certain activities)
Gulf State Park offers hiking and biking trails, freshwater fishing, and nature programs. The park also has a nature center with educational exhibits about the local ecosystem. You wouldn’t think there would be such awesome biking trails located near a beach but the Gulf State Park boasts 29 miles of paved and boardwalk trails. Trust me, you’ll definitely want to spend the day biking this beautiful park!
Dolphin Cruises
- Address: Various providers, Gulf Shores, AL
- Fee: Varies by provider
Take a dolphin cruise to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Many operators offer narrated tours that provide insights into the local marine life and ecosystem.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Fort Morgan State Historic Site
- Address: 110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fee: $8 for adults, $5 for children
Fort Morgan is a historic fort with significant Civil War history. Visitors can tour the fort, explore the museum, and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Travel Tip! Traveling on I10? Make your trip extra unique by taking the Mobile Bay Ferry from Dauphin Island to Fort Morgan. The ferry ride is about 40 minutes, takes you across Mobile Bay and drops you right off at Fort Morgan. It’s super convenient and a great way to see different views of the coastline and of Mobile Bay. Be sure to make reservations in advance (especially when traveling in the summer) as the wait for the ferry ride can get super long.
Dining and Entertainment
The Hangout
- Address: 101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
The Hangout is a family friendly restaurant located on the beach in the heart of Gulf Shores. It’s basically the hub of all things happening in and around that area. It has a very lively atmosphere with outdoor games and activities, live music, foam parties and even dancing on the tables when it’s someone’s birthday.
Travel Tip! Like most restaurants in Gulf Shores, it’s expensive. You can enjoy all of the amenities and games outside for free but there is a parking fee. If possible, it’s best to walk from your condo or beach house to The Hangout to save money on parking. Don’t miss the photo ops in the oversized Adirondack chair and in front of the famous Hangout “hang-ten” hand.
LuLu’s Gulf Shores
- Address: 200 E 25th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Owned by Lucy Buffett, LuLu’s is a popular spot for delicious seafood, live music, and that classic Jimmy Buffet vibe. The restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with an outdoor play area for kids.
The Wharf
- Address: 23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
The Wharf is a premier entertainment district featuring shopping, dining, and live music. Highlights include a Ferris wheel, a movie theater, and an amphitheater that hosts concerts.
Travel Tip! The Wharf puts on a weekly fireworks show every Monday throughout the summer. Admission is FREE and there’s a DJ, fireworks and laser light show from 6pm-9pm.
Flora-Bama
- Address: 17401 Perdido Key Dr., Pensacola, FL 32507
If you’re into live music and good food then Flora-Bama is definitely a spot you’ll want to check out. Live music performances are practically 24/7 and located in various venues, at various times throughout the property (on the beach, under a big tent, inside, at the yacht club).
Travel Tip! Don’t miss the Flora-Bama Yacht Club located across the street from the original Flora-Bama. It’s open air and waterfront views are the perfect spot for relaxation. And, if you’re looking for the BEST Bushwacker in the Gulf Shores area, then the Flora-Bama Yacht Club is where it’s at! Order one from the bar outside and add a banana rum topper. OMG, it’s delicious! Drink one Bushwacker and you’ll be feeling those vacation vibes!
The Yard Milkshake Bar
- Address: 3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Suite 218, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Don’t miss this decadent and creative dessert masterpiece! The Yard Milkshake Bar is a one of a kind ice cream extravaganza but if you love sweet treats, then this is the place for you. It’s expensive so be prepared to drop a pretty penny on dessert. The portions are huge so if you can share with someone that’s the best way to go.
Travel Tip! The Yard gets very busy especially in the peak summer season so plan to wait in line. Because their desserts are beautifully crafted, each one takes a while to make.
Arts and Crafts
Hawaii Fluid Art Gulf Shores
- Address: 3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Suite 220, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
For a creative outing, visit Hawaii Fluid Art Gulf Shores. They offer fluid art classes where you can create your own unique art pieces, perfect for a fun and artistic experience. This place makes for a great rainy day activity spot!
Nature and Wildlife
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
- Address: 12295 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fee: Free
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot for nature lovers. The refuge features trails for hiking and bird-watching, with a chance to see native wildlife and learn about local conservation efforts.
Gulf State Park Pier
- Address: 20800 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fee: $10 all day parking for personal vehicles which includes one daily fishing permit.
The Gulf State Park Pier is a popular spot for fishing. You can rent fishing gear on-site if needed. The Pier is closed for renovations and is scheduled to reopen summer 2024. Check their site for updates.
Final Thoughts on the Top Fun Things To Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama
As you can see, you definitely won’t get bored when visiting Gulf Shores for the first time. It’s the perfect summer vacation destination for a couple trip, a bachelorette party, and a family trip. It sounds cliche but there really is something for everyone in Gulf Shores. Plan your trip to Gulf Shores this summer and enjoy everything this vibrant coastal town has to offer.
Travel Resources
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