7 ways to have an action-packed trip to Alabama’s Beaches—parasailing, pickleball + more

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After this gorgeous weather we’ve been having in Birmingham, I’m so ready to pack up the car and head down I-65 to the beach. With spring break just ahead, it’s the perfect time for a road trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Here are seven ways to make the most of your visit.

1. Enjoy a delicious Gulf Coast meal

If you’re like me, your diet is put on a happy pause during vacation. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer a huge list of waterfront and open-air restaurants, eateries and bars so you can indulge in a savory meal or fun drinks.

You’ll find everything you’re craving, too, from fresh Gulf seafood and tasty cocktails to kid-friendly pizzas and more. 

Bonus: Grabbing a delicious ice cream is one of my favorite things to do when visiting the beach. There are lots of creameries sprinkled throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, so make sure to stop and enjoy a scoop or two.

Make the most of your spring break by visiting Alabama’s beaches. 

2. Get out in nature

After spending the winter months indoors, we could all use some fresh air and a Vitamin D boost. The good news is spring break falls when the weather is perfect in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Whether you choose to hike, bike or swim, the area is filled with an amazing list of parks, trails and more.

Here are a few places you can get out and enjoy nature:

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

What it offers:

• 4 trails of various terrains
• Seasonal birds like gulls + terns
• Unique wildlife + plant life

Where: 12295 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Gulf State Park

What it offers: 

• 28 miles of biking, hiking + running trails
• 9 distinct ecosystems for wildlife encounters
• Fishing, paddling + swimming on Lake Shelby
• Camping + glamping

Where: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

What it offers: 

• 15 trails stretching 25 miles 
• Hiking, biking, rock climbing, skating + wildlife watching

Where: 3801 Orange Beach Blvd. Orange Beach, AL 36561

3. Shop ’til you drop while supporting Alabama tourism

Don’t let your spring break pass by without visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach’s many shops. From funky souvenir stands to shops filled with fashion, art and more, you’ll find a little bit of everything. 

Plus, all purchases support Alabama businesses. 

4. Hit the court for a game of pickleball

Birminghamians love pickleball! Similar to tennis, the sport has been gaining popularity over recent years. Why not bring your love of the game to the beach?

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer tons of pickleball courts, from condos and high-rise hotels to area sports complexes. So grab some paddles and a fellow pickleballer and get your game on.

5. Have a close encounter with a wild animal at the Gulf State Zoo

Do you have a soft spot for animals? You have to experience a one-on-one animal encounter at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

There are several animals you can meet, including giraffes, kangaroos, lemurs and sloths. Can you think of a more exciting way to make spring break memories that last a lifetime?

Plus, because each encounter is supervised by zookeepers, all ages are welcome.

Where: 20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

6. Dig your toes in the sand at Alabama’s beaches

You can’t go to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for spring break without spending time on the gorgeous white-sand beaches. Its notable squeak, squeak, squeak under my feet is one of my favorite sounds.

Here are some things to do while you take in the stunning views of the Gulf:

• Dig your toes in the sand + relax to the sound of Gulf waves.
• Gather your group of family and friends for a game of beach volleyball or frisbee.
• Visit these spots for cool seashell finds—many only found in the Gulf.
• Spend the day creating sand castles with the kids.

7. Experience exciting water activities on Alabama’s Gulf Coast

Spring break is a great time to try something new. From the Gulf to the bay to water parks, there’s no shortage of adventure-filled activities on Alabama’s beaches.

Here are some to try:

• Parasail for stunning views of the Gulf below.
• Snorkel or dive for under-the-sea discoveries.
• Rent a kayak or canoe for a calm ride on the Gulf Coast bay.
• Go on a sunset cruise along the Gulf’s emerald waters and see dolphins play.
• Fish—pier, surf, nearshore, onshore + charter—for spring catches of local species like cobia, flounder, mackerel + pompano.

Experience all Alabama’s Beaches have to offer—plan your stay now.

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