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
Graham Creek Nature Preserve
Graham Creek Nature Preserve is home to hundreds of plant and wildlife species. This 500-acre nature park offering passive recreation...
Infinity Bicycles
We are a locally-owned company focused on providing the best bike sales, service and rentals. Our rental options include comfort...
Eastern Shore Trail
On the Eastern Shore Trail, you’ll take in beautiful bay vistas and oak-canopied paths with plenty of places to stop...
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...
Gulf Shores Dog Park
The Gulf Shores Dog Park features a large fenced-in green space to accommodate small and large dogs. Seating, waste bag...
Orange Beach Dog Park
Our unleashed dog park in Orange Beach is a ¾-acre shaded area with double-gate entry and separate fencing for small...
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...
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...
Baldwin County Bicentennial Park
The Baldwin County Bicentennial Park is a 367-acre area in North Baldwin County that offers a unique family experience of...
The Dog Pond
Bring man’s best friend to The Dog Pond at Gulf State Park on Lake Shelby. Check out the new agility...
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...
Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train Exhibit
This museum is located in the Louisville and Nashville railroad depot that was built in Foley in 1909. In the...
Johnnie Sims Park
Johnnie Sims Park features four baseball/softball fields, a kids park, a skate park with 10 concrete modular skate ramps, and...
Wade Ward Nature Park
Wade Ward Nature Park is a public pedestrian access to a pocket of natural wetlands and waterways found in Gulf...
Find Yourself Wandering
Hiking
According to the Nature Conservancy and several other sources, Alabama ranks as one of the top five most biodiverse states. That means nature lovers will be enthralled when walking through the natural setting and extensive species that live on Alabama's coast. Orange Beach and Gulf Shores hiking paths, trails, and preserves are all ways to explore the distinct ecosystems of the area. You may even see one of the rare species (including the gopher tortoise, Alabama beach mouse and red-cockaded woodpecker) that call the region home.
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.
Biking Trails
Whether you bring your bike or rent one, you can try cycling your way through interconnecting bike systems in the Gulf Shores area. Pack a lunch and get your exercise on the trails, all while enjoying the shady trees and impeccable landscape. You’ll probably spy some birds or other creatures among the extensive foliage. Some of the top biking spots are the Fort Morgan Road Trail and the Coyote Crossing Trail, which is a new addition to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail’s 27 miles of paved road.
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.
Golf
Golfing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a popular activity for active travel and outdoor enthusiasts, as visitors can access courses designed by champions. The area has fifteen courses, giving you plenty of options to practice your long shot or combine smaller greens and different challenges. Some tracks are designed by golfing greats like Arnold Palmer, Jerry Pate and The South’s own Earl Jones. Each course highlights the beautiful scenery of the region. Your biggest dilemma will be choosing which course you want to play.
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.
