Solo Traveling
In Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
For many people, traveling alone can feel overwhelming and a bit daunting. There's a lot to consider, from booking lodging and planning activities to the journey itself. However, a solo trip to Alabama's beaches offers visitors the vacation of a lifetime filled with adventure, relaxation, and peaceful solitude. Our small beach towns provide plenty of activities, perfect for those traveling alone, and our friendly locals will greet you with open arms and southern hospitality. Here are a few pieces of advice and ideas for those traveling solo to our stunning beaches.
Tips:
- Book accommodations and classes/rentals in advance.
- Plan out your route before traveling for a stress-free drive-in.
- If flying in, download ride-sharing apps like Lyft and Uber to make getting around easier.
- Pack clothes and shoes suitable for water and outdoor activities.
- Take advantage of locals’ expertise and ask for suggestions on dining and attractions.
- Keep your loved ones updated on your location throughout your trip.
- Watch the weather and check beach conditions daily.
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are excellent destinations for solo travelers looking for outdoor experiences. Gulf State Park boasts 28 miles of paved trails, perfect for biking, hiking, and birding. You'll feel like you've escaped into an entirely new world inside the park. If you don't have a bike with you, you can take advantage of the park's free bike-sharing program and ride along the trails. If you prefer to take things slower, grab a pair of binoculars and experience the plant and wildlife within the park's nine distinct ecosystems. You'll have plenty of opportunities to chat with other nature enthusiasts venturing along the trails.
When it comes to exploring the waterways of Alabama's Gulf Coast, there are many options. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards and float along the island’s peaceful back bays. Don't worry about hauling gear, as rental companies will drop everything off at the launch site. If you want to experience the scenery below the surface, go on a snorkeling adventure and admire the local reef system and marine life.
The beach has a way of revitalizing people, and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the ideal destinations to unravel and rest. If your trip is all about taking time to care for yourself, you've chosen the right place. Start your mornings with a refreshing outdoor yoga class with Glow Yoga. The studio offers a welcoming environment for yogis of all skill levels. Unwind on our 32 miles of white-sand beaches by soaking up the sun and letting the waves wash over your feet. After a day by the water, book a rejuvenating massage to loosen up.
Traveling alone offers the perfect chance to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Book a one-on-one class at The Hot Shop and learn the art of glassblowing or create a handmade pottery piece with a lesson at The Clay Studio. If you're up for something more exciting, schedule a private surfing lesson with Red Flag Surf and Dive or Tambo's Surf Shack and learn to ride the waves of the Gulf of Mexico from a seasoned surfer who will provide you with all the necessary gear. No matter what you choose to do, your friendly instructors will happily guide you along your journey.
The food of the Alabama Gulf Coast is unmatched, as our area is home to more than 100 exceptional restaurants. Eating out in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a great way to experience our incredible cuisine and meet locals and other travelers. Dining solo is also a breeze, as parties of one typically have short or no wait times. Grab a seat at the bar and make friends with those around you. Locals and seasoned visitors are your best resource for suggestions on what to do, see, and eat.
Don't let the fear of traveling alone prevent you from encountering new adventures. Plan your next solo trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and experience an exhilarating vacation.
