From miles of sugar-white sand to the expansive turquoise waters of the Gulf, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are idyllic beach getaways. Beyond the breathtaking surroundings and picture-perfect outdoor scenes, there are many ways to spend your time. If you’re looking for an active vacation filled with outdoor fun and travel adventures, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach each have options for you. Take a look at some of our most popular outdoor activities.
Find Outdoor Activities
Fort Gaines Historic Site
The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Today, the...
Coastal Blue Persuasion Fishing, LLC
Inshore, nearshore & snapper fishing with Capt Frank aboard our Contender Sport for 1-6 anglers. Dauphin Island, Mobile, Fort Morgan...
USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park
The public is invited to tour the grounds and monuments, utilize the picnic area, fish from the fishing pier, and...
Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier
There is covered seating for the concession area and indoor retail shop with tackle and souvenirs. Signs along the pier...
The Dog Pond
Bring man’s best friend to The Dog Pond at Gulf State Park on Lake Shelby. Check out the new agility...
Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Come experience Bellingrath Gardens and Home, the naturally breathtaking historic manor home and pleasure gardens located in southern Mobile County...
Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway
Beautiful beaches, authentic downtowns, wildlife preserves, historic sites and fresh-off-the-boat seafood are all yours to enjoy along Alabama’s Coastal Connection...
Beach Bike Rentals
Park and cycle to the library and scenic bike trails in the Gulf State Park and Fort Morgan. We offer...
Sailaway Charters
At Sailaway Charters Your family can enjoy my family friendly 2 hour nature cruise which includes oystering, crabbing, shrimping, birding...
Gulf State Park Lake Shelby
If you're looking for a little lakefront beach activity, try basking by Lake Shelby. This 900-acre freshwater lake is perfect...
Wind & Water Learning Center
We provide on-water educational opportunities for sailing, paddle sports, and experiential outdoor learning. The unique waterfront learning center on Wolf...
Five Rivers Delta Resource Center
Where the Mobile, Spanish, Tensaw, Apalachee and Blakeley rivers flow into Mobile Bay stands an incredible facility for outdoor recreation...
Meaher State Park
This 1,327-acre park is situated in the wetlands of the Mobile Delta and is a day-use, picnicking and scenic park...
Gulf Shores Bike Rentals
Gulf Shores Bike Rentals is a safe 6 block ride down the sidewalk to get to one of the trailhead...
Find Yourself Wandering
Active travelers gravitate to trails like the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. There are seven trails and six ecosystems where you can see bobcats, white-tailed deer, alligators and numerous birds. Be sure to bring your camera!
Another popular outdoor spot is the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Depending on the time of year, you may see a monarch migration or sea turtle nesting season. There are plenty of potential wildlife sightings whenever you decide to go. At Bon Secour, you’ll have ample opportunities to learn about the refuge while having an excellent nature adventure.
Birding
You can’t visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach without hearing about the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail. Bird lovers consider this area a bucket list destination due to the many species that pass through the site. Hummingbirds, herons and snowy plovers are just a few birds that take to the air and water. If you want to learn more about birds, there is also an annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest in October. The festival features exhibits, raptor shows, and kids’ activities. Whether you are new to the birding world or have been birdwatching for years, it’s a festival for everyone.
History
Fort Morgan isn’t just a great excuse to get outside but also gives you a glimpse into Alabama’s rich history. The Mobile Bay Civil War Trail runs 90 miles from the Gulf of Mexico to north Mobile County. Along the way, there are opportunities to take in the natural surroundings and learn about battle sites through historical accounts. It's a beautiful journey through history as you follow military movements, battles and visit sites that show how soldiers lived during that time.