Gulf Shores Alabama | Places to See, Eat, and Stay

Gulf Shores Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama is one of the top beach vacation destinations on the Gulf Coast, offering visitors a perfect mix of white sand beaches, outdoor adventure, family attractions, and coastal entertainment. Travelers can relax along the shores of Gulf Shores Public Beach, explore the scenic trails and lakes of Gulf State Park, or enjoy activities like kayaking, dolphin cruises, parasailing, deep sea fishing, and paddleboarding. Nature lovers can discover the beauty of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, while families will enjoy popular attractions including the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Waterville USA, mini golf courses, and amusement parks throughout the area.

Beyond the beaches, Gulf Shores features a variety of historic sites, local restaurants, waterfront entertainment, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Visitors can tour historic Fort Morgan, browse local art galleries, watch breathtaking sunsets at Little Lagoon, or experience the area’s famous seafood and beachside dining scene. From relaxing coastal escapes to action-packed family vacations, Gulf Shores offers endless things to do for visitors of all ages while delivering the laid-back charm and natural beauty that make Alabama’s Gulf Coast so popular year-round.

Places to Stay

Guests can choose from beachfront condos, vacation homes, luxury resorts, vacation rentals, hotels, and family-friendly resorts throughout Gulf Shores. Vacation rentals are one of the best lodging choices on Alabama’s Beaches, especially for families and large groups. Travelers can find luxury condos, private homes, and resort-style rentals throughout Gulf Shores

Gulf Shore Alabama Vacation Rentals

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Places to See

Gulf Shores Public Beach

The heart of Gulf Shores, this popular public beach features soft white sand, clear Gulf water, volleyball courts, beach access, restrooms, and nearby restaurants and shops. It is one of the best spots for swimming, sunbathing, and watching sunsets along the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion

Located within Gulf State Park, this beach area offers convenient parking, beach access, shaded seating areas, walking paths, and easy access to nature trails and fishing spots. It is popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Gulf State Park Pier

One of the largest fishing piers on the Gulf Coast, the Gulf State Park Pier is a favorite destination for fishing, sightseeing, birdwatching, and dolphin spotting. Even visitors who do not fish enjoy walking the pier for panoramic Gulf views.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

This protected coastal refuge is one of the most scenic natural areas near Gulf Shores. Visitors can explore hiking trails, sand dunes, sea turtle habitats, birdwatching areas, and quiet undeveloped beaches. It is ideal for photography, kayaking, and nature walks.

Gulf State Park

One of the top outdoor attractions in Alabama, Gulf State Park features more than 25 miles of biking and hiking trails, freshwater lakes, kayaking, fishing, picnic areas, nature centers, and scenic overlooks. The park is a must-visit for outdoor lovers.

Marsh Bridge

Located inside Gulf State Park, Marsh Bridge is a peaceful area known for birdwatching, marsh views, and wildlife photography. It is especially popular during sunrise and sunset.

Wade Ward Nature Park

A hidden gem near the beach district, Wade Ward Nature Park offers scenic walking trails, freshwater wetlands, and wildlife viewing opportunities close to the center of Gulf Shores.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Known as “The Little Zoo That Could,” the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is home to hundreds of animals, including lions, lemurs, sloths, reptiles, and giraffes. Animal encounters and feeding experiences make this one of the best family attractions in Gulf Shores.

Waterville USA

This popular waterpark and amusement center features waterslides, lazy rivers, wave pools, go-karts, escape rooms, and arcade games. It is one of the top attractions for families visiting Gulf Shores.

The Track Family Fun Park

A favorite for kids and teens, The Track offers multi-level go-karts, bumper boats, arcade games, mini golf, SkyCoaster rides, and family entertainment.

Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf

One of the most popular mini golf courses in Gulf Shores featuring waterfalls, caves, pirate-themed obstacles, and family-friendly fun.

Escape House Waterville

A great rainy-day activity where families and groups solve puzzles and clues in immersive escape room adventures.

Gulf Shores Museum

Learn about the history of Gulf Shores through exhibits featuring hurricanes, fishing culture, local history, Native American artifacts, and early Gulf Coast life.

Fort Morgan

Located west of Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan is one of Alabama’s most important historic sites. Built in the early 1800s, the fort played a major role during the Civil War and offers self-guided tours, beaches, and scenic coastal views.

Swift-Coles Historic Home

This beautifully preserved historic home in nearby Bon Secour dates back to 1882 and offers visitors a glimpse into Gulf Coast history with antiques, architecture, and guided tours.

Parasailing & Jet Ski Rentals

Visitors can enjoy parasailing, jet ski rentals, banana boat rides, and other exciting water sports adventures along the Gulf Coast.

Dolphin Cruises

Dolphin cruises remain one of the most popular activities in Gulf Shores. Sunset cruises, family dolphin tours, and sailing excursions depart daily from nearby marinas.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Visitors can kayak through Little Lagoon, Bon Secour Bay, and Gulf State Park while exploring coastal marshes, wildlife habitats, and calm backwater areas.

Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Gulf Shores is one of the best fishing destinations on the Gulf Coast. Charter boats offer offshore fishing trips for red snapper, tuna, grouper, amberjack, and more.

Little Lagoon

A quieter waterfront area perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and watching sunsets away from the crowds.

Bird Watching

The Gulf Coast is a major stop along migratory bird routes, making Gulf Shores a top destination for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations.

Coastal Arts Centers & Galleries

Visitors interested in local art, pottery, and glass-blowing demonstrations can explore nearby coastal art galleries and studios throughout the Gulf Shores area.

Bushwacker Trail

Trying a famous Gulf Coast Bushwacker frozen cocktail is almost a local tradition. Many restaurants and beach bars throughout Gulf Shores serve their own version of the iconic drink.

Places to Eat | Best Restaurants in Gulf Shores Alabama and Nearby

The Alabama Gulf Coast is famous for fresh Gulf shrimp, oysters, crab claws, seafood boils, and waterfront dining experiences. From casual beachside seafood shacks to upscale coastal restaurants with stunning water views, Gulf Shores and the surrounding area offer a wide variety of dining options for every taste and occasion.

Casual & Family-Friendly Restaurants

• The Hangout - A famous beachfront restaurant known for live music, family entertainment, and a lively Gulf Shores atmosphere.
• LuLu's Gulf Shores - Popular waterfront dining created by Lucy Buffett featuring seafood, burgers, live music, and family-friendly fun.
• Tacky Jacks - A local seafood favorite overlooking the marina with casual coastal dining and waterfront views.
• Sea-N-Suds - A classic beachfront seafood restaurant loved by both locals and visitors for fresh seafood and Gulf views.
• Sunliner Diner - A retro-style diner serving breakfast, burgers, sandwiches, and hand-spun milkshakes.

Waterfront & Seafood Dining

• The Gulf - Unique waterfront dining built from shipping containers offering seafood, cocktails, and incredible sunset views.
• Cobalt The Restaurant - Popular seafood restaurant located on Perdido Pass known for fresh seafood and waterfront seating.
• CoastAL - Beachfront dining featuring seafood, cocktails, and panoramic Gulf Coast views.
• Original Oyster House - Well-known for oysters, gumbo, and Southern seafood favorites in a casual family-friendly setting.
• Doc's Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar - Casual seafood restaurant famous for fried shrimp, oysters, and seafood platters.

Local Favorites Worth the Drive

• Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar - A hidden local favorite known for fresh seafood and Southern coastal cuisine.
• Jesse's Restaurant - Popular upscale dining spot featuring steaks, seafood, and Southern-inspired dishes.
• Cosmo's Restaurant & Bar - A Gulf Coast favorite offering seafood, sushi, pasta, and creative coastal dishes.
• Flora-Bama - Legendary beach bar and entertainment venue located on the Florida state line featuring live music, seafood, and a lively atmosphere.

 

 

Extended Information on Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf State Park

Encompassing 6,150 acres of land, there are a plethora of activities to do in Gulf State Park of Alabama. Gulf State Park offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, providing outdoor enthusiasts with diverse landscapes and a chance to experience Alabama's natural beauty firsthand. Whether you are looking to engage in wildlife observation, capture stunning views through nature photography, or simply enjoy a leisurely ride or hike, this park has something for everyone.

• Scenic Overlooks: These vantage points provide breathtaking views of the park's lush habitats. Ideal for nature photography, these overlooks give you a chance to capture the beauty of Gulf Shores from unique perspectives.
• Trail Maps: Available at the park's visitor center, these maps guide you through various trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. This guarantees you can tailor your adventure to your fitness level and preferences.
• Picnicking Spots: Scattered throughout the park, these areas offer perfect stopovers to relax and refuel. Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.

Biking in Gulf State Park

One of which is biking. With a 28+ mile paved trail system, the award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is something for bikers to explore.

The trails allow you to explore the nine distinct ecosystems and discover different animal and plant species within the park boundaries. If you explore the Gopher Tortoise trail, you’ll get to see an alligator. If you want to see an elusive bobcat in person, you should explore the Rosemary Dunes trail. The park is also home to endangered species like Alabama beach mice, gopher tortoises and white-topped pitcher plants.

The park also offers kayaking, segway rides, parasailing, geocaching and camping.

Fishing in Gulf State Park Pier

Before Hurricane Sally destroyed some portion of the pier, The Gulf State Park Pier held the title of the longest fishing pier on the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier, one of the longest in the Gulf of Mexico, is a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, offering 2,448 feet of fishing space and various amenities 

The pier offers a tackle and bait shop, accessible rail fishing, rod and reel rentals and great scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Fish that are usually caught here are Spanish Mackerel, Sheepshead, Red Drum, King Mackerel, Flounder, Florida Pompano, Whiting and many more. Fish with the locals and feel the excitement of getting your first catch! Aside from fishing, locals and visitors come here to witness the epic sunrise and sunset.

Gulf State Park Beach

Whether you want some thrilling water activities like kayaking and fishing or just want to go for a swim, the Gulf State Park Beach got you covered. The park’s natural beauty helps you slow down for a while and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Gulf State Park Nature Center

The Gulf State Park Nature Center provides an equally compelling experience for families looking to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Gulf Shores, Alabama. This family-friendly attraction immerses visitors in the region's unique ecological landscape through a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs.

The Nature Center is dedicated to showcasing the area's native plants and wildlife, making it an ideal destination for budding naturalists and curious minds.

• Educational Programs: The center hosts numerous educational programs that teach visitors about local ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting endangered species. These programs are designed to be both informative and engaging, catering to all age groups.
• Interactive Exhibits: The hands-on exhibits allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the region's flora and fauna. Whether it's touching a snake's skin or observing a live owl, these exhibits provide a tactile learning experience that is both memorable and enlightening.
• Conservation Efforts: The Nature Center actively participates in conservation efforts, aiming to preserve the delicate balance of the Gulf Shores environment. Visitors can learn about ongoing projects and even participate in some of the initiatives, fostering a sense of community and responsibility towards nature.

 

Alabama Coastal Birding Trails

Free and self-guided, this network spans Gulf Shores with stops like Bon Secour and the Pine Beach Trail. Spring (March-May) brings warblers; fall (September-October) lures hummingbirds. Download the app or grab a map at the visitor center (3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy).

 

Deep-Sea Fishing

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Waterville USA

You can race with other riders in their Dune Racer, a six-lane, 55-foot tall racer slide. You can practice surfing in their Flowrider. You can relax in their crystal water rivers. Or grab a tube and ride with the waves in their North Shore wave pool. Or you can scream while dropping yourself at an almost 60-foot waterslide!

Planning a visit is made easier with the availability of seasonal discounts and group rates, guaranteeing an affordable experience for everyone. Families can choose from various ticket packages that cater to different interests and timeframes, making it simple to tailor the day to their needs.

Safety is a priority at Waterville USA, with clearly posted height restrictions to make sure all rides are enjoyed safely. After a day of excitement, visitors can take advantage of nearby dining options, which offer a range of culinary delights to satisfy any craving. Waterville USA delivers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an essential stop on any Gulf Shores itinerary.

 

Go-Kart in The Track 

Not a fan of a waterpark? Not a problem. The Track is a great alternative for you. Located at 3200 Gulf Shores Parkway, The Track features six Go-Kart Tracks -  Wild Woody, Slick Track, Family Track, Super Track, Rookie Track and Kiddie Track. If you’re looking for a thrilling go-kart ride, the slick track is a must-try. 

They also have The Skycoaster ride, Spinning coaster, blaster boats, mini golf and kids country rides. Did you bring a lucky charm with you? Why not try your luck in their 5,000-square-foot Fat Daddy’s arcade?

 

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Gulf Coast Zoo is located 6 miles from the beach and is home to over 200 species, 31 sub-species and 8 endangered species. After starring in a 13-episode documentary series entitled “The Little Zoo That Could” Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo was dubbed as the Little Zoo.

Spanning 25 acres of land and home to various animal species, a trip to this zoo allows you to learn about wildlife from around the world. Aside from seeing and learning about different animals, the zoo has a carousel and safari ride for kids and families to enjoy.

 

Gulf Shores Beaches

With its gorgeous white-sand beaches, hitting the beach should be part of your Gulf Shores tour.  There are 8 public beach access locations in Gulf Shores.

Lagoon Pass
West 13th Street
West 12th Street
West 10th Street
West 6th Street
West 5th Street 
West 4th Street
Gulf Place West and East Beach

Best Beaches in Gulf Shores:

Gulf Shores Main Public Beach (Gulf Place)

Gulf State Park Pavilion

This uncrowded, natural beach is located six miles east of Highway 59, among the sand dunes and sea oats. There is lots of room to spread out, making it a great place for families with lots of gear. Surf fishing is a popular activity here. A brand-new beach pavilion features air-conditioned restrooms, private showers, a snack bar, plenty of shady spots to sit and eat, and even a huge fireplace for chilly days.

Little Lagoon Beach

Do you want to escape the crowd? You can enjoy a  good soak in Little Lagoon Beach without the bustling crowd. Whether you want to enjoy a picnic, go fishing or enjoy the scenery, Little Lagoon Beach is a perfect destination to connect with nature.

West Beach

West Beach is located pdirectly in the middle of Gulf Shores. Packed with exciting water sports, delicious food and live music, West Beach is a family’s favorite destination. Whether you want to take a dip, build sandcastles with kids or just want to have some quality time with your family, West Beach will never disappoint you.

 

 

Dolphin Watching in Gulf Shores

The waters of Gulf Shores Alabama are home to nine different species of dolphin, making it one of the best areas for dolphin watching. There are a lot of dolphin cruises to choose from which usually last for around one and a half hours.

Setting sail on a dolphin watching cruise in Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers a fascinating adventure where visitors can witness these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat. These cruises provide a unique blend of relaxation and excitement, allowing you to experience the Gulf's serene beauty while keeping an eye out for wildlife sightings.

Opt for sunset cruises to enhance the magic of your journey, as the golden hues of the setting sun reflect off the water, creating a picturesque backdrop perfect for ocean photography. Many tour operators also offer private charters, catering to those who prefer a more personalized experience, away from the crowds, where you can enjoy the dolphins' acrobatics in a more intimate setting.

In addition to the sheer delight of watching dolphins, these cruises often include elements of marine education. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights about the local ecosystem, the behavior of dolphins, and other marine life you might encounter. This educational component adds depth to the adventure, making it not just enjoyable but also enriching.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or someone seeking a tranquil escape, a dolphin watching cruise in Gulf Shores promises an unforgettable experience that marries adventure with the freedom of the open sea.

 

Sunset Sail

 

Gulf Shores Museum

Formerly a beach house, this tiny Gulf Shores Museum is for history buffs. They have three permanent exhibits, Portrait of a Fishing Village, Drawing a Line in a Sand and Hurricanes: What You Need to Know. The first two permanent exhibits depict the first settlers and the evolution of the town. The third permanent exhibit educates visitors on the origination of the hurricane. It includes an interactive display where you can fly through the hurricane. Aside from permanent exhibits, there are also rotating exhibits. So contact the museum if you want to know more about their schedule. 

 

GCAA Art Market

Are you a fan of art? The GCAA Art Market should be on your list of destinations in Gulf Shores. Located at 309 East 21st Avenue, GCAA Art Market features original local and original art. There, you can find pastel art, pottery, acrylic art, oil paintings, wood, metal and fiber art.

 

 

The Hangout

At 101 E. Beach Blvd., this beachfront icon is equal parts restaurant, bar, and social hub. Its open-air courtyard hosts live music (daily in summer, weekends off-season), with a sandy play area for kids and a foam party stage. The vibe’s pure Alabama Gulf Coast, flip-flops, cold beer, and sunset views. It’s touristy but undeniably fun.

 

Local Cuisine in Gulf Shores

 

Food Festivals and Events

For those who relish the flavors discovered at the farmers markets, Gulf Shores also hosts a variety of food festivals and events that celebrate the region's cultural and culinary diversity. These events allow visitors to immerse themselves in local culture, view the area, and savor everything from freshly caught seafood to expertly grilled barbecue, while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

Gulf Coast Alabama Hot Air Balloon Festival (early May)

Foley Alabama Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is a Great Time and for All Ages with Balloon Flights, Live Entertainment, Food Booths, Children Activities, and More.

National Shrimp Festival (mid October)

Gulf Shores is renowned for its seafood, and the annual National Shrimp Festival is a confirmation of this. Here, top chefs compete to create the most delectable shrimp dishes, offering attendees the chance to taste their innovative creations.

The Coastal Alabama Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival (early November)

The Coastal Alabama Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival is a must-visit for those who appreciate gourmet food on-the-go. Featuring a selection of food trucks offering diverse cuisines and local craft beers, this event also includes wine tastings to tantalize the palate.

 

Craft Breweries

Amid the vibrant culinary landscape of Gulf Shores, a burgeoning craft beer scene offers enthusiasts a chance to explore a diverse array of locally brewed ales and lagers. Visitors will find an array of microbreweries that provide not only unique local brews but also an immersive experience into the art of beer-making through brewery tours and beer tastings.

Local breweries have become a cornerstone of Gulf Shores' social fabric, providing both residents and tourists with a cozy atmosphere to unwind and explore new flavors. Here are three must-visit spots for any craft beer aficionado:

Big Beach Brewing Company

Tucked in the heart of Gulf Shores, this microbrewery offers a wide selection of craft beers brewed on-site. Their open-air taproom is perfect for enjoying an invigorating pint while soaking in the coastal breeze.

Gulf Shores Brewing

Known for its innovative beer flavors and community-focused environment, this brewery offers detailed brewery tours that explore the intricacies of the brewing process, making it a favorite for beer tastings.

Fairhope Brewing Company

Although a short drive away, this brewery is worth the trip. With an ever-evolving menu of local brews, it showcases the dynamic nature of Alabama's craft beer scene.

These breweries embody the spirit of creativity and freedom, making Gulf Shores a compelling destination for craft beer lovers.

 

 

Wade Ward Nature Park

If you want to see wildlife but hate the long walk, then you should stop by Wade Ward Nature Park located at 500 Gulf Shores Pkwy. This 12-acre nature park can be accessed from a sidewalk on Highway 59.

With its elevated boardwalk, you can stroll the park comfortably while enjoying the beautiful view of wetlands that connect Little Lagoon and Lake Shelby. You can expect to see pelicans, otters and occasional alligators in its shallow waters hunting for food. It is also a good place to look out for migrating and local birds.

 

Fort Morgan Historic Site

Although outside of the town of Gulf Shores, we must mention Historic Fort Morgan. Named after the Revolutionary War hero,

Daniel Morgan, Fort Morgan has witnessed four wars - the famous Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay, the Spanish-American War, and World Wars I and II. This historic masonry pentagonal bastion fort was designated a national historic landmark in 1960. Building Fort Morgan started in the year 1819 and was finished in 1834. Most of the masons who laid the more than 46 million cubic yards were enslaved African Americans during that time. 

A trip to this old fort would allow you to see the old fortification, old weapons, carriages, artillery and machinery used during the war it participated in. At the tip of Mobile Point (51 AL-180 W), this 1834 masonry fort guarded Mobile Bay through the Civil War and beyond. Self-guided tours reveal brick tunnels, cannons, and tales of the 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay. Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., it’s a 20-mile drive from Gulf Shores, with beaches nearby for a post-history dip.

Fort Morgan also hosts events. Visit their Facebook page to know the schedule: Historic Fort Morgan

One of the ways to get to Fort Morgan, visit for Ferry Schedule: Mobile Bay Ferry

 

Shopping at The Wharf

We also have to mention the Wharf in nearby Orange Beach, Alabama. The Wharf stands as a premier destination for shopping enthusiasts and lovers of local markets. This vibrant shopping center offers a unique blend of retail experiences, concert venues, and marina activities that cater to a diverse range of interests. Whether you're looking to indulge in some retail therapy or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, 

The Wharf has something for everyone. The Wharf boasts an array of attractions and amenities that guarantee a memorable visit:

• Shopping Center: Featuring a variety of boutiques, specialty stores, and local vendors, The Wharf's shopping center is a haven for those seeking unique finds and high-quality goods. From trendy fashion to artisanal crafts, there's something to delight every shopper.
• Ferris Wheel: One of The Wharf's iconic landmarks, the Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the Gulf Shores landscape. Perfect for families and romantics alike, a ride on this towering attraction provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle below.
• Event Space: The Wharf's versatile event space frequently hosts concerts, festivals, and community gatherings. With state-of-the-art facilities and a picturesque setting, it is an ideal venue for enjoying live music and cultural events.

 

Swift-Coles Historic Home

In the town of Bon Secour, Alabama to the north of Gulf Shores, is the Swift-Coles Historic Home. Step back in time and explore the rich history of Gulf Shores by visiting the Swift-Coles Historic Home, an elegant 19th-century mansion that offers a glimpse into the region's past. Situated amidst majestic oak trees, this historic estate invites visitors to experience a bygone era through its well-preserved period decor and antique furnishings. Each room tells a story, showcasing the craftsmanship and lifestyle of its original occupants.

The guided architectural tours provide an in-depth look at the mansion's unique construction and historical significance. You'll traverse through grand rooms and hallways, learning about the various gardening techniques used to maintain the lush grounds that surround the property. These tours offer a rare opportunity to appreciate the intricate details and aesthetics that define 19th-century Southern architecture.

 

 

Final Tips for Your Gulf Shores Adventure

 

History of Gulf Shores, Alabama

The Alabama Gulf Coast is one of the most historic regions of the South. Long before the first European explorers arrived on the coast, the area was populated by prehistoric Native Americans. Later, historians and archaeologists concluded that the Spanish found this destination during their early 1500s explorations. In fact, the Spaniards named Mobile Bay after the local Indian tribe, Mabila.

Decades later, the French followed but surrendered to the British throughout the French and Indian War in 1763. The English then held Mobile Bay for roughly seventeen years. However, the Brits lost to Spain in the Battle of Fort Charlotte in 1780. Finally, the United States took control of the area in 1813 leading to the Battle of Fort Bowyer. As a result of the war, the U.S. created two secure defenses: Fort Morgan on the site of Fort Bowyer and Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island. Nevertheless, both forts were seized by Alabama troops in 1861. Thus, the area became a Confederate stronghold, only to fall under Federal forces as a result of the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864.

Despite having endured centuries of battle, the Gulf Shores came to prosper. Now, the beaches welcome golf enthusiasts from all over the country. The Gulf Shores are also home to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo—named by Animal Planet as “The Little Zoo that Could”—which attracts many visitors to enjoy 16 acres of more than 250 exotic animals in natural habitats. Moreover, this vacation spot can cater to the "shop til you drop" philosophy with the conveniently located Tanger Outlet shopping mall stocked with over 120 true manufacturers' outlet stores.

On the other hand, kids will love Waterville USA—a family water park sporting splash fun for all! Similarly, charter boats embark on a daily basis providing visitors with the best in local fishing excursions. Foley, a town about 20 minutes from the Gulf, is a water-sports paradise as well. Of course, an absolute stop for family fun is the Gulf State Park offering public beach access. Whether you want to tan picnic, enjoy freshwater lakes, or hike this is the place to go. Have you made up your mind yet? The Gulf Shores is truly a vacation that will likely inspire you to spread the word back home to all those looking for a great vacation get-away!

Map of the Gulf Shores of Alabama

Additional Alabama Gulf Coast Articles

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