Best PTO Activities
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
After an invigorating conference filled with networking and learning, you deserve to relax for a bit before returning to work. The meeting probably sparked lots of ideas, and what better place to unwind and reflect than on Alabama’s Beaches? With miles of gorgeous beaches, fantastic fresh seafood, and impeccable southern hospitality, our destination is the perfect place for a day off after your conference.
Whether you’re looking to recharge and relax or find excitement, there are plenty of activities and attractions for a memorable one-day vacation. Our area offers stunning golf courses, historical attractions, serene natural wonders, and delicious drinks.
Local Food & Drink Scene
It’s not a vacation without indulging in amazing local food, and on Alabama’s Beaches, our coastal cuisine is unbeatable. From fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood to delectable desserts and unique cocktails, your tastebuds will surely be satisfied after your time on our shores.
Meals for Seafood Lovers
Seafood is a must when on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Our area boasts dozens of amazing seafood restaurants serving fresh, local catches like crab, oysters, snapper, and mahi. With so many great choices, it can be hard to choose, but we suggest ordering royal red shrimp while you’re in town. This shrimp species is large and crimson colored and has a rich flavor different from typical white or brown shrimp.
Trendy Cafes
You probably need a cup or two of coffee after a busy week. You’ll find a handful of coffee shops and cafés serving up your caffeine fix in the area. Stop by BuzzCatz Coffee & Sweets for filling breakfast plates and tasty pastries in a quirky café. If you’ve got a full day ahead, swing by Beach Girl Café, the area’s only drive-thru coffee shop. For the true coffee aficionados, Foam Coffee has locally roasted coffee, seasonal specialty drinks, and bakery items.
Nightlife & Bars
Treat yourself to a few libations while you’re here at a local bar. After all, you deserve it. Sit back and listen to the tunes of local musicians as you sip on a craft beer at Big Beach Brewing. Or dance the night away at the iconic Flora-Bama Oyster Bar & Lounge, where you’ll find multiple stages with live music, fresh oysters, and endless bushwackers. For those looking for a sophisticated setting with handcrafted cocktails, grab a seat at the bar at 8 Reale, a secret speakeasy at The Wharf.
Embark on Outdoor Adventures
The natural wonders of the Alabama Gulf Coast make for a stunning vacation backdrop. From relaxing paddle excursions on the back bays and soaking up rays on the shores to biking through miles of trails, there is no shortage of fun ways to get outside and explore the area.
Beautiful Beaches
Pack your sunscreen, a good book, and a towel and hit the 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches. The refreshing coastal breeze and soft sand make a beach day the ideal way to unwind, and our warm waters are perfect for cooling off, swimming, or relaxing on a float. There are 15 public beach accesses along our shores and lots of beachfront lodging.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
The Gulf of Mexico isn’t the only beautiful body of water in the area. You’ll discover serene waterways throughout the destination that are excellent for kayaking and paddleboarding. No kayak or paddleboard? No worries. The area has several local rental companies that will deliver all the gear you need right to your accommodation or launch point.
Hiking Trails & Nature Parks
Don’t forget to pack your best walking or biking shoes when you visit. Between Gulf State Park and Bon Secour National Wildlife Sanctuary, there are over 32 miles of trails to explore on Alabama’s Beaches. Along these trails, you’ll witness our area’s gorgeous natural beauty and may even see a few critters. If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one from a local outfitter or utilize Gulf State Park’s free bike-sharing program.
Enjoy Cultural & Leisure Pursuits
Play tourist during your day off and explore the area by shopping, golfing, and walking around museums and galleries. These are great activities for solo travelers, allowing you to experience the destination a little more and pick up a few souvenirs to remember your time.
Local Art Galleries & Museums
Immerse yourself into the history and culture of Alabama’s Beaches by visiting one of the museums, galleries, and attractions. Check out the incredible pieces from Gulf Coast artists at the Coastal Arts Center and the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance. If you’re a history buff, the Orange Beach History Museum and Gulf Shores Museum share the unique beginnings of our area and boast local artifacts and memorabilia. Step back in time and visit Historic Fort Morgan, which boasts tunnels, cannons, and batteries for visitors to explore.
Shopping
Everyone needs to pick up a few souvenirs to bring home when on vacation. Shop ‘til you drop at beachy boutiques, specialty shops, and souvenir stores in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The Wharf and Pelican Place are must-visit spots for shopaholics as both feature stores offering clothes, snacks, décor, gifts, and lots more.
Golfing
Alabama’s Beaches is a golfing paradise, offering five fabulous courses on the island. Golfers of any skill level will enjoy playing on these gorgeous greens and admiring the alluring atmosphere each one offers. You can pack your clubs or rent some at your desired course as they all have pro shops.
