Planning a Snowbird Vacation
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
The influx of car tags from northern and midwestern states during the early fall and winter can mean only one thing: it's snowbird season on the Alabama Gulf Coast! Motivated by cold temperatures in the northern region of the country, our winter guests, or snowbirds, migrate to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to enjoy the mild temperatures and Southern hospitality our area offers.
When Is Snowbird Season in Alabama?
Snowbird season in Alabama generally runs from January to March, though some snowbirds arrive as early as fall. January is the busiest time, with many of Alabama’s snowbirds settling in for the winter and enjoying a range of activities and social events. By March, some begin their journey back north, while others linger a bit longer to enjoy the beginnings of spring.
What to Keep in Mind When Planning Your Snowbird Getaway
Once you've decided to escape to Alabama’s Gulf Coast for the winter, the next step is planning the details of your snowbird getaway. Whether you're staying for a few weeks or the whole winter season, here’s what you need to make your time here relaxing and enjoyable, just as you pictured it.
When to Arrive
Choosing the right time to head south to Alabama’s Beaches can shape your snowbird experience. Most snowbird travelers arrive between October and January, but there are differences in crowd sizes, weather, and available activities throughout the season. Here’s what to consider when planning your arrival:
October to Early November: Early Birds & Warm Days
Many early arrivals prefer coming down in October or November to take advantage of the tail end of the warm weather, before the majority of snowbirds arrive. This is the perfect time to enjoy the beach and local attractions with fewer visitors.
Late November to January: Peak Snowbird Season
The bulk of snowbirds typically arrive in late November, after Thanksgiving, or early January, following the holiday season. January is the peak of snowbird activity, with a vibrant community of long-term visitors who come to escape northern winters. This is when you’ll find the most social clubs, organized activities, and special snowbird events. The mild winter weather is ideal for outdoor recreation and social gatherings.
February to March: Settling In for the Remainder of the Season
By February, the majority of snowbirds are well-settled into their winter routines. This period offers the full snowbird experience, with regular social events, established friendships, and a strong sense of community. While some begin preparing for their journey back north as March approaches, others choose to extend their stay, enjoying the mild weather and quieter beaches before the spring tourist season picks up in April.
snowbird Beach rentals
When you're planning your snowbird escape, picking the right place to stay is a big part of the experience. Alabama’s Beaches offer plenty of lodging options, whether you prefer a beach rental house, a charming condo, or a resort with everything you need. Many spots cater specifically to snowbirds, offering special deals for longer stays. If you're traveling in an RV, you'll find campgrounds with full amenities to make your extended stay easy and comfortable.
Pet-friendly Accommodations
And if you're bringing a pet, you’re in luck—there are lots of pet-friendly places to choose from. Whatever your preferences, you’ll find the perfect spot to settle in and enjoy your winter on the Gulf Coast.
Winter Deals for Long-Term Stays
Many properties offer special winter deals for snowbirds who plan to stay longer. These discounts can apply to beach rentals, resorts, and even RV parks, making it easier to extend your stay and enjoy the Gulf Coast to the fullest.
activities for snowbirds
Once you’ve settled in, you’ll find plenty of snowbird activities to make the most of your time on Alabama’s Beaches. While relaxing by the shore is a favorite pastime, there’s so much more to explore and enjoy in Alabama’s Beaches:
Snowbird Social Clubs & State-Specific Gatherings
Our snowbirds take advantage of the many opportunities to socialize and meet new people. State-specific snowbird clubs allow winter visitors to discover like-minded individuals and find a home away from home. A shared love of the area brings these snowbirds together for weekly potlucks, annual events, and fundraisers.
State clubs, such as the Michigan Snowbird Club, always plan yearly events for club members, including monthly meetings, horseshoes, a blood drive, food drives, and a trivia night with other clubs. Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Iowa, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and North Dakota/South Dakota also have active snowbird clubs that meet during the snowbird season. Casino trips, picnics, charity events, Mardi Gras parades, and golf outings are just a small portion of the activities club members enjoy.
Explore Outdoor Adventures
For snowbird travelers who love the outdoors, Alabama’s Gulf Coast offers endless opportunities to stay active. Whether it’s walking or biking along the scenic trails at Gulf State Park, fishing off the pier, or playing a round of golf at one of the many courses, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
Discover the History & Culture of Alabama’s Beaches
Alabama’s Beaches offer a rich tapestry of history for snowbirds to explore. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to museums that highlight the local culture and historical events that shaped the region. The area’s Civil War history is especially prominent, with Fort Morgan standing as a key historical site that invites visitors to step back in time. For those wanting to explore further, nearby cities like Mobile and Pensacola provide even more ways to dive into the Gulf Coast’s past.
Snowbirds will find many weekly programs and activities throughout the season, such as the winter showcase series. This free educational series spotlights an assortment of local organizations with topics that range from nature and history to art and culture. Winter guests can enjoy learning about a new interest every Monday-Friday beginning January 6, 2025, at the Learning Campus in Gulf State Park.
Make Alabama’s Beaches Your Winter Home
Alabama’s Gulf Coast is the perfect place for winter escape, with welcoming snowbird communities, exciting activities, and plenty of sunshine. Whether you’re staying for a few weeks or the entire winter season, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. Don’t miss out on the fantastic winter deals—book your snowbird winter getaway to Alabama’s Beaches today and enjoy all the warmth and relaxation this coastal paradise has to offer!
