Tips for First Time Visitors to the Alabama Gulf Coast

girl feeding a giraffe at the alabama gulf coast zoo

September 20, 2024

With the holidays fast approaching, you’ll no doubt be spending time with family, possibly discussing where to go for your annual vacation next year. If you’ve never considered the Alabama Gulf Coast, maybe it’s time to throw it in the mix. Ranked as one of the 25 Best Beaches in the USA and #1 on the Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S., Gulf Shores is known for its beautiful beaches, open-air eateries, and family-friendly activities. Right next door, Orange Beach offers just as much charm and beauty, making it another top beach destination for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway with family and friends.

If you’re ready to discover someplace new, we’ve got some helpful tips for first-time travelers to the Alabama Gulf Coast!

Planning Your Trip

We’re known for our relaxed atmosphere, and casual dress codes are the norm at most restaurants, so feel free to pack light. While you can enjoy the pleasant temperatures annually, cooler months may require a light jacket for the evenings. Don’t forget your swimsuit and shades, which you can use year-round. We highly encourage making travel arrangements early. Lock in accommodations, transportation, and any excursions you want to book in advance, especially during the summer when popular activities can fill up quickly.

Flying Here:

Getting to the Alabama Gulf Coast is a breeze, thanks to several major airports nearby. Mobile Regional Airport, serviced by most major airlines, offers several non-stop flights and is less than two hours away. Pensacola International Airport provides domestic and international flight options and will see you on our sandy shores in under an hour. Gulf Shores International Airport, the second busiest airport in Alabama, caters to private charters and is less than five miles north of the beach in Gulf Shores.

Driving Here:

Visitors often pop over for weekend trips from neighboring cities, hopping on the I-10 and I-65 corridors. Whether you’re making the short drive from New Orleans, Tallahassee, or further away, like Atlanta, Memphis, or Nashville, you’re guaranteed a beautiful drive along the way!

Getting Around:

You can rent a car at the airport or opt for the convenience of Uber and Lyft ridesharing programs. While biking offers a fun way to explore, taxis and shuttles are also readily available.

Where to Stay:

Of course, once you arrive, you’ll want cozy accommodations, either near the beach or on the beach, so you can while away the days soaking up that glorious sunshine! Lucky for you, Kaiser Vacation Rentals offers a wide variety of beautiful vacation homes with stunning interiors and luxurious amenities near popular restaurants and fun activities for the kids!

Best Time to Visit

While any time is an excellent time to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast, seasonal variations offer new opportunities. Summer brings warmer weather and plenty of sunshine, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. If you prefer quieter beaches and cooler temperatures, spring and fall are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Winters are very mild, with temperatures rarely below 50 degrees, suitable for peaceful beach walks and enjoying the coastal landscape with fewer crowds.

Communities to Explore

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan share a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Fort Morgan offers a quiet atmosphere and 20 miles of shoreline, featuring attractions like historic Fort Morgan and the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge. Gulf Shores is a central hub for family-friendly activities, boasting the Gulf Shores Sports Complex and the longest pier on the Gulf of Mexico. Orange Beach is known for its boating culture, with highlights including The Wharf shopping complex and excellent fishing opportunities at its many marinas.

Activities and Experiences

While the Alabama Gulf Coast is an excellent place for girlfriend trips, reunions, and weddings, it’s jam-packed with fun things to do for every member of the family!

First things first, and that includes hitting the beach! With 15 public beach access points, you’ll have no problem finding one that suits your family, many featuring outdoor showers, bathrooms, and pavilions for sharing picnic lunches. Take advantage of the many water activities available, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Boating is popular, as are helicopter and Segway tours, which showcase incredible views of the scenic byways. Whether you prefer hiking and biking the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail or freshwater fishing in Lake Shelby, every day promises a new adventure!

Must-See Attractions

From family-friendly waterparks to historic landmarks, you’ll find numerous attractions for all ages!

Historic Fort Morgan

History buffs will enjoy a self-guided tour through this historic military site. While you’re learning about legendary battles and the men who fought them, the kids can browse the gift shop for collectibles.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Spend an afternoon learning about exotic animals—live chats and animal encounters offer interesting tidbits about lemurs, sloths, giraffes, and more!

The Wharf

This outdoor entertainment center features shops, restaurants, an arcade, and a movie theater. While there, take in a laser light show or catch a concert at the open-air amphitheater.

OWA

Whether browsing the shops at Downtown OWA or hitting Tropic Falls Water Park, every day is a good day at OWA!

Gulf State Park

This beautiful park is free to enter and offers plenty to explore, including biking, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and boating opportunities!

The Alabama Aquarium

Located on Dauphin Island, a short ferry ride will land you just minutes from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, where you can learn about our local waterways and marine life.

We look forward to seeing you on our beautiful beaches soon! Rest assured, you’re in good hands with Kaiser Vacation Rentals. With over forty years of experience hosting first-time travelers like you, we’re a trusted resource and happy to offer personalized service to ensure your stay is one you’ll remember for years to come!