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The Ultimate Guide to Fall Vacations in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

July 7, 2025

As much as we hate to see summer go, there’s something special in the air when fall rolls in along the Alabama Gulf Coast. The crowds thin, the sunsets get even more spectacular, and a fresh season of festivals, flavors, and outdoor adventures begins. From crisp morning beach walks to cozy patio dinners, autumn in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offers a brand new way to experience the coast. Here’s your ultimate guide to fall vacations on the Alabama Gulf Coast!

Fall Travel Just Hits Different

Fall isn’t just a season, it’s a vibe. It’s quieter beaches, cooler breezes, and golden hour everything. It’s sipping seasonal on a patio with no wait, strolling festivals hand in hand, and hearing the waves crash while you nap under your beach umbrella. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a week away with your favorite people, fall gives you all the beauty of summer, with a lot more elbow room.

Find Your Spot in the Sand

With fewer crowds and room to roam, the beach in fall is pure coastal bliss. It’s easier to snag that perfect seashell with less competition, stretch out with your toes in the sand, and soak up the peace and quiet locals look forward to all year. After a morning stroll, warm up with a hearty breakfast or go for an afternoon walk and grab a steaming bowl of gumbo for the ultimate comfort. In the evening, pack a few blankets and a picnic, and catch the sunset—it’s one of the best shows on the coast this time of year!

Catch a Football Game

When game day rolls around, you’ll find plenty of places in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to cheer on your team with fellow fans, great food, and a cold drink in hand. The Hangout brings the energy with beachfront views, oversized screens, and a family-friendly vibe. At Flora-Bama Ole River Grill, you can catch the game, enjoy fresh Gulf seafood, and enjoy waterfront views on the Alabama-Florida line. Lulu’s offers a laid-back coastal atmosphere, plenty of TVs, and a full menu of crowd-pleasers meant for sharing. And if you’re near The Wharf, Yo Ho Rum & Tacos at the Wharf delivers a fun, festive atmosphere with creative tacos, house-made rum cocktails, and all the game day action you can handle!

Treat Yourself to a Sunset Cruise

There’s no better way to wind down a day on the coast than by hopping aboard a sunset cruise. Cetacean Cruises offers relaxing sunset sails on a spacious 52-foot catamaran complete with a full-service cocktail bar. You can choose from sunset, dolphin, and nature cruises, or even book a private sailing experience. Sail Wild Hearts explores the waters around Orange Beach, Perdido Key, and Gulf Shores with 1.5 to 2-hour sunset cruises that include complimentary soft drinks and light hors d’oeuvres.

Check Out Gulf State Park

Located between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Gulf State Park is a local favorite, boasting acres of natural beauty. Picnic at the beach pavilion, hit the Nature Center, or paddle out on Lake Shelby. Bike the scenic Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, or join a guided Segway tour through the park’s diverse landscapes. Don’t miss the fishing pier, butterfly garden, and hands-on exhibits at the Interpretive Center. With everything from hiking and geocaching to kayaking and parasailing, a visit to Gulf State Park lets you mix up your beach days and discover a new side of the Alabama Gulf Coast!

Mark Your Calendar for Fun Fall Events

Looking for other fun things to do on the Alabama Gulf Coast this fall? Gulf Shores and Orange Beach host a variety of seasonal events perfect for families, foodies, and festival-goers alike!

September Events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

It feels like summer’s still in the air in September, with warm beach days, live music, and local flavors to kick off the fall season!

Flora-Bama Bulls on the Beach

Get ready for three nights of adrenaline-pumping action at Bulls on the Beach, one of Flora-Bama’s most anticipated events of the year. With professional bull riders and themed nights, it’s a rodeo you won’t want to miss!

Freedom Fest and Bama Coast Cruisin’ Car Show

Celebrate all things red, white, and blue at the Orange Beach Freedom Fest, a patriotic weekend packed with live music, arts and crafts, and a star-spangled car show!

October Events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

There’s nothing like stepping out into a sunny October day on the coast: cool breeze, warm sun, and plenty of fun events to explore!

Annual National Shrimp Festival 

With two entertainment stages, fresh Gulf shrimp prepared every way imaginable, and hundreds of art and retail vendors, it’s no wonder this beachside tradition has been going 50 years strong!

Fort Morgan Historical Haunted Tour 

Step inside the storied walls of Fort Morgan after dark for a haunted history tour, complete with ghost-hunting gear, paranormal investigations, and a few eerie surprises. With spine-tingling stories and giveaways, it’s a fun way to explore one of Alabama’s most historic sights.

Luna’s Annual Oktoberfest 

Raise a glass at Luna’s Oktoberfest, featuring delicious German cuisine, modern polka music by local artists, and a wide selection of ice-cold beer, all for a minimal fee, with beer and food tickets sold separately. 

Annual Jubilee Festival of the Arts 

With over 100 artists displaying their wares, live music, and family fun, under the oak-lined streets of Lott Park in Old Towne Daphne is the place to be! Featuring a Tailgate Area with football and grill demos, it’s always a fun time at this beloved fall event.

Parrot Heads in Paradise Meeting of the Minds

Enjoy live music, beachside camaraderie, themed parties, and pure fun in the company of fellow Parrot Heads for their official annual gathering with performances at The Hangout, Lu-Lu’s, and Flora-Bama while fundraising for local and environmental causes.

November Events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

With the holidays on the horizon, November brings a mix of seasonal cheer and can’t miss events to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!

Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival 

The Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival brings together over 200 acclaimed songwriters for hundreds of live performances across more than two dozen stages along the Alabama-Florida Gulf Coast. From Lulu’s to Flora-Bama, this 10-day celebration lets you hear the stories behind the songs straight from the people who wrote them.

Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival 

The Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival rolls into Gulf Shores for a full day of flavor, featuring top Southern food trucks, craft brews, and live music. Enjoy tasty bites, cold drinks, and a stroll through the artisan market, all under the glimmering Alabama sunshine!

Coastal Half Marathon, 5K, and 1-Mile Fun Run

Kick off your holiday season at the coastal Half Marathon, 5K, and 1-Mile Fun Run, held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving on Alabama’s scenic Gulf Coast. With routes for all ages and abilities, runners run their own race along the beautiful Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, one of our favorite ways to make memories and burn off those extra calories!

Plan Your Fall Vacation with Kaiser Vacation Rentals

Whether you come for the festivals, football, food, or just some well-earned rest, Kaiser Vacation Rentals has the perfect home base. Choose from an assortment of luxury properties near the beach, along the shore, and minutes from your favorite fall activities and events!

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