Introduction
There’s something about the sea air, the sugar‑white sands, and the laid‑back rhythm of a beach town that just resets your mind. When I first visited Gulf Shores, Alabama, I was looking for a place to unwind—but what I found was so much more. I found adventure, nature, food, and a vibe that made me stay longer than I planned. Over the course of that trip (and a return visit or two), I discovered a mix of experiences: lounging on the beach with a cool drink, biking through green trails, spotting dolphins at sunset and sampling local seafood that was nothing short of spectacular. In this blog post, I’ll take you through 12 of the best and most fun things to do in Gulf Shores, sharing bits of my own experience, practical tips, and why each activity gets a top spot. Grab your sunscreen and let’s dive in.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Gulf Shores, AL (2026)
1. Soak up the Beach & Sunsets
Let’s start with the obvious—but essential: the beach. The coast of Gulf Shores offers those soft white sands and turquoise‑green waters that you’ve seen in photos, but being there in person is something special. One evening I strolled the shoreline just as the sun dipped and the water reflected the sky, and it felt like a moment of calm I really needed.
Why it’s a must:
- Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or just walking with bare feet in the sand, the setting is consistently beautiful.
- Sunsets in particular felt like free magic—they made even simple snacks and a beach chair feel special.
- It’s accessible: you don’t necessarily need fancy equipment or planning, just some beach time.
Tip: Aim for early morning or late afternoon for lower crowds and better light. Bring a wide‑brim hat + reef‑safe sunscreen (the sand reflects a lot). A cover up helps when you head into restaurants afterwards.
See Also: 31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Amarillo, TX
2. Explore Gulf State Park
If you want to go beyond just the shore, Gulf State Park is a brilliant escape. With fresh‑water lakes, bike/hike trails, and a long public pier, it offers nature, motion, and restful spots all in one.
I remember renting a bike for an afternoon and cycling through pine and palmetto forest trails—it felt completely different from the beach, yet just minutes away.
Why it stands out:
- Variety: Beaches, forest trails, lakes, marshland.
- Family‑friendly: The pier, nature center, beaches all in one spot.
- A chance to “get out of the sand” but still stay in vacation mode.
Tip: If you’re renting a bike, go mid‑morning before it gets hot. Visit the Nature Center if you’re with kids (they have live‑animal displays). And if you fish, the pier is worth a stop.
3. Visit Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
When you want something a little different from beach and sand, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an excellent choice. It’s not huge like a major city zoo, but that’s part of the charm—it’s more personal, friendly, and manageable.
I took an afternoon here and even fed a baby kangaroo (yes, really). The kids in the group were thrilled and so was I.
Why it’s great:
- A good mix of fun and educational.
- Great for families or folks who want a break from the water.
- Light travel from the beach area, so you can easily pop over.
Tip: Buy tickets ahead if possible (especially in high season). Plan for 1‑2 hours so you’re not rushed. Combine it with a sandwich/ice‑cream stop afterward.
4. Dolphin Cruise & Water Sports
One of my favorite memories is being on a small boat as the sun lit up the water and a pod of dolphins surfaced nearby—it felt spontaneous and magical. Local guides offer dolphin cruises, parasailing, paddle‑boarding, and more.
Whether you want adrenaline (parasail!) or gentle (bay paddle/boat ride), the water offers versatility.
Why choose this:
- You’ll see the region from a different angle—on the water.
- Interacting with marine life (dolphins!) adds a memorable moment.
- Fun for couples, families, or solo travelers.
Tip: Book early for sunset cruises (fewer crowds, great light). Bring a light jacket for after the sun dips. And if you’re doing parasailing, check weather/sea conditions ahead of time.
5. Hike or Bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
For something a little quieter and green, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers miles of paved paths, multiple ecosystems, and a chance to peek into side‑nature of Gulf Shores. I took my bike and just rode, listened to the breeze and let the stress unwind.
Why it works:
- A break from beach crowds.
- Great for early morning/late afternoon.
- You get nature immersion—trees, marshes, birds.
Tip: Rent a bicycle if you don’t have one. Bring water/snacks. If you prefer walking, pick a shorter curated section for 30‑60 minutes of peaceful time.
6. Historic Fort Morgan & Coastal History
A shift from leisure to legacy: the Fort Morgan area gives you a dive into Gulf Shores’ historic/coastal past. It’s a fun admission into something meaningful, after all the beaches and fun activities.
I enjoyed walking the old battlements, looking out over the water, and reflecting on how this place must have been so strategic in earlier times.
Why include this:
- Adds depth to your trip (history + nature).
- A scenic drive and reward with views and photo ops.
- Great for couples or older kids who appreciate it.
Tip: Plan a half‑day; bring sunscreen and a hat (it can get exposed). Combine with a picnic or stop at a nearby beach for lunch afterward.
7. The Wharf (Orange Beach) & Shopping + Dining
Just outside of Gulf Shores is The Wharf in Orange Beach—a marina, shopping/dining complex, and evening entertainment spot. It’s one of those places I found myself drawn to when I wanted something lively after a quiet beach day.
There was live music, lots of food options, shopping, and a ferris wheel by the water.
Why go:
- Evening fun: good for dinner + strolling + maybe a concert.
- Variety: Even non‑shoppers enjoy the ambience, the lights, the water view.
- Good for families or groups where people want different things (some wander shops, others drink, others just sit by the marina).
Tip: Visit around sunset: the lighting is lovely, and it helps you see both day and night vibes. Parking can fill, so arrive early for dinner. Bring a light layer for evening breezes.
8. Water Park Fun at Waterville, USA
For those travelling with kids (or feeling young at heart), Waterville USA is a water‑and‑amusement park that delivers big. Time away from the sand and still full of sun, splashes and smiles.
On one “break” day I ditched the sand and spent an afternoon here—it was exactly the kind of fun change the trip needed.
Why this works:
- Big on fun, low on planning (just show up).
- Great for families, or if you want a lighter, carefree afternoon.
- Combines water rides + relaxing areas.
Tip: Bring swimwear + towel + waterproof bag for phone. Check height restrictions if you have younger kids. Arrive early to avoid crowds or long line‑ups.
9. Try Local Seafood & Dining Experiences
One of my favourite parts of visiting Gulf Shores was the food. The seafood is fresh, the bars are fun, and there are plenty of local gems. The local forums are full of recommendations and it’s easy to make a food memory.
Dinner with ocean breeze, a chilled drink, and the subtle hum of vacation around you—it’s something I came to look forward to.
Why it matters:
- Food connects you to place.
- Dining spots can become relaxing end‑of‑day rituals.
- Local bars and beachfront restaurants often have live music, playful vibe.
Tip: For popular restaurants, reserve ahead or arrive before the rush (6pm is good). Try a local speciality (think Gulf‑shrimp, grouper, oysters). For budget‑savvy eats: lunch specials or casual dives can be gold.
10. Sunset & Evening Beach Walks
While this may feel like an extension of “beach time”, I’m giving it its own spot because there’s something unique about the twilight hour in Gulf Shores. One evening I walked along the waterline as the last light faded—it’s peaceful, rejuvenating, and, honestly, romantic in a simple way.
Why include it:
- A great “slow down” moment on your trip.
- Perfect for reflection, photos, or just quiet companionship.
- Different vibe from midday beach chaos.
Tip: Bring a light jacket or cover‑up (it can get breezy). A small flashlight or phone light helps if you head back after sundown. Walk somewhere accessible so you don’t worry about parking or navigation.
11. Wildlife & Nature at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge / Little Lagoon
For our nature‑loving selves, a visit to the refuges, lagoons and quieter natural spots is a must. I spent a morning kayaking in Little Lagoon and spotting birds in Bon Secour—it was slower pace, but deeply satisfying.
Why it’s special:
- A change from “sun & surf” to “forest & marsh”.
- Great for photography, family nature excursions, introspective moments.
- Often less crowded.
Tip: Bring bug protector (marsh trails can attract mosquitoes). Choose early morning for better wildlife spotting. Kayaks/paddle‑boards often available for rent.
12. Live Music, Bars & Fun Night Spots
Finally, the nights in Gulf Shores can be as active or as mellow as you prefer. There are beachfront bars, live‑music venues, dancing, or simply cocktails while you watch the tide. One evening I found myself at a beach bar, sunset turning pink, live music floating on the air—perfect cap to the day.
Why it rounds out the trip:
- Gives you a “local flavour” beyond the beach chair.
- Good for groups or nights when you want a little more energy.
- Drinks + live music + ocean view = vacation mood elevated.
Tip: If you’re driving, consider a rideshare for safety. Choose a spot with good reviews for service and ambience. For families, some bars have outdoor play or earlier set live music; ask beforehand.
Final Thoughts
What I learned during my time in Gulf Shores is that an unforgettable vacation doesn’t always have to be overly planned or jam‑packed. It’s about balance: a bit of beach lounging, a bit of motion (bike, kayak), a good meal, maybe a sweet sunset, plus a little local character. Gulf Shores offers all that in a compact, welcoming package.
If I were to distill it into one piece of advice: choose two “active” days and two “relaxed” days. For example, a dolphin cruise and nature trail one day; beach morning, seafood dinner and evening live music the next. Then maybe a water park or bike trail; and finally, a slow morning beach walk + spa or reading in shade. That mix gives you variety without exhaustion.
One of the best parts? The memories linger—not just of “we went to the beach,” but of that swim as the sunset pinked the horizon, that bike ride under the pines, and that cocktail by the water listening to music. Even one of those is enough to make me want to return.