Top 10 Reasons To Vacation in Gulf Shores
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Originally Posted On : https://lodgeatgulfstatepark.com/top-10-reasons-to-vacation-in-gulf-shores/
Top 10 Reasons To Vacation in Gulf Shores
- August 1, 2023
When choosing a spot to vacation, there are a few things to consider: where to stay, what to eat, and maybe most importantly, how to relax and have fun! Sometimes the decision can be difficult, and other times, like in the case of Gulf Shores’ coastal paradise, the decision couldn’t be easier! Gulf Shores is one of those destinations that has it all, from its stunning beaches and relaxing vibes to its delicious eats and unforgettable moments. So, if somehow your mind still isn’t made up, let’s dive into the top 10 reasons why you should book your next vacation to Gulf Shores!
1. Fantastic Weather Year-Round
One of Gulf Shores’s finest selling points is the incredible weather year-round! Here, it stays warmer much longer, meaning that you can enjoy much of what we have to offer year-round. While you can expect plenty of sunshine and moderate humidity most of the year, one of our best-kept secrets is the quiet and relaxing fall and winter seasons. Although the temps may take a slight dip, the fun sure doesn’t, with plenty to do and see with fewer crowds. Whether it’s for spring break or a winter holiday, you’re sure to take pleasure in our outstanding weather. Huh, no wonder birds make a point to flock here!
2. Delicious Dining and Drinks
Something you won’t have a problem finding is incredible coastal cuisine. Gulf Shores is home to a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to mouthwatering BBQ and Southern favorites. There’s a restaurant for every kind of person, like the elevated dining experience at Perch at The Lodge or the laid-back family atmosphere of Woodside at Gulf State Park that’s complete with yard games and some of the best local beers around. Speaking of drinks, there’s no drought here! The fairly new Jesse’s on the Bay offers upscale drinks with a unique steakhouse menu, or you can grab yourself a masterfully mixed cocktail from Foodcraft at Gulf State Park and dip your toes in the sand! With most restaurants locally sourcing their ingredients, you simply can’t go wrong with the bites and libations that Gulf Shores has to offer.
3. Relaxing Quiet Beaches
Unlike other loud, overcrowded beaches on the panhandle, you’ll actually find that Gulf Shores can be one of the most relaxing and serene destinations around. Many hotels nestled along the Coast offer exclusive beach access, like the Lodge at Gulf State Park, with 2.5 miles of secluded sugar-white sands for you to enjoy. Not to mention how easy it is to tap into Gulf Shores’ laid-back environment, complete with welcoming locals that express a hospitable demeanor that you won’t find at many other tourist destinations.
4. A Lively Entertainment District
While Gulf Shores can be a calm getaway, there’s also plenty of activities for those looking for a thrill. One of the most popular destinations is the lively entertainment district known as The Wharf. From the famous ferris wheel to live performances by the biggest names in music at The Wharf Amphitheater, there’s plenty of shopping and fun to be had for all ages. It’s also great for couples who might want to take a scenic walk under the twinkling lights of the boardwalk or eat waterfront at one of The Wharf’s many restaurants.
5. Great for Families and Kids
Gulf Shores isn’t just for newlyweds or retirees; it’s coastal fun for the whole family! There are tons of Gulf excursions to try, and watersports like kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, and paddle boarding are very popular in Gulf Shores as well. Maybe your kids would rather get up close and personal with some of the Gulf’s most intelligent creatures on a Gulf Coast Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise or, for those brave enough, feed some of the largest alligators in the world at Alligator Alley! There are so many activities and opportunities for you and your kids to have a ball in Gulf Shores.
6. A Short Drive Away with Great Places To Stay
Who wants a vacation that tires you out before it even starts? Luckily, Gulf Shores is just a short drive from many cities in the Southeast, like Nashville, Atlanta, Mobile, Birmingham, Montgomery, New Orleans, Houston, and Huntsville, to name a few. With less hassle to get to the Coast, you’ll find that relaxation begins the moment you arrive! There are also so many fantastic places to stay in Gulf Shores. One of the most unique is The Lodge at Gulf State Park, which offers an unmatched elevated, eco-friendly vibe and is just mere steps away from the Gulf and beautiful Gulf State Park. The Lodge even won the 2023 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award, the fourth consecutive year the hotel has received the honor—now that’s what we call a lodge-ical choice!
7. Beautiful Golf Courses
If you’re the type to hit the links, you’ll feel right at home at Gulf Shores. There are few things better than starting the day with a round of golf at one of the Gulf Coast’s beautiful golf courses. With lush fairways, stunning ocean views, and manicured greens, every swing becomes a memorable moment. You can get some nice relaxation time at Kiva Dunes or Craft Farms, some of the most popular courses equipped with stunning views and scenery. So, before you make the trip, remember to pack your clubs!
8. A Biker’s Paradise
Some people don’t realize that Gulf Shores is extremely bicycle-friendly! There are tons of scenic bike paths and trails that fit the needs of any leisurely cyclist or avid rider looking for an adventure. In fact, Gulf State Park offers over 28 miles of hiking and biking trails where you can pedal among the unique wildlife and scenery of our Gulf Coast ecosystems. You can also take advantage of the Bike Share Program and rent bicycles for free, so you can explore and take everything in at your own pace!
9. A Dedication to Sustainability
You may not realize it, but there are hotels and restaurants all across Gulf Shores with a strong dedication to sustainable practices. With various awards for sustainable practices and eco-friendly construction, The Lodge at Gulf State Park stays focused on environmentally friendly practices. It was designed and built leveraging eco-friendly resources and initiatives, and it is equipped with energy-efficient accommodations at every touchpoint. Many establishments, like Safari Club Gulf Shores or all of the Lodge’s on-site restaurants, focus on locally sourced, organic, and ethically produced food and ingredients. Whether it’s staying in an environmentally conscious hotel or lending a hand in a coastal cleanup, Gulf Shores makes it simple to have a positive eco-impact while enjoying a laid-back trip.
10. Breathtaking Sunsets
The best part about the day ending is that you’ll be greeted with an unforgettable Gulf Shores sunset. Whether you choose to watch the sunset from the beach, your balcony, or one of the many waterfront restaurants like Perch at Gulf State Park, each sunset is a magical experience. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Gulf Shores traveler; you’re sure to walk away from your vacation with fond memories of our famous Gulf sunset.
Gulf Shores is the perfect combination of natural beauty, southern hospitality, and relaxing charm. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, we’re certain you can find it all and more. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and pack your bags while we save you a spot on our sugar-white sand in Gulf Shores, Alabama!