Are you planning a trip to the Alabama coast this year? This idyllic location along the beautiful blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico is the perfect place for you and your family to relax on the beach or spend time exploring the local area.
Keep reading to learn more about our favorite things you should add to your Alabama vacation bucket list.
1. Orange Beach
Located close to the Florida state line on Alabama’s southern shore is Orange Beach. This beach has some of the cleanest and whitest sand so its no wonder why visitors from near and far flock to it every summer.
After a day of soaking up the sun on the sand, you can visit one of the many restaurants located on the waterfront for a bite to eat. In the evening, you can listen to some live music, enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset over the beach.
If you are looking for a little adventure you can venture out with Blue Water Charters for some fishing or watching dolphins play in the pristine waters.
2. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Not far from the beach is the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo which is home to nearly 300 animals, ranging between lions, bears, monkeys and birds.
In 2004 and 2005, three major hurricanes came through Alabama and the zoo owners had to evacuate all their animals to safer ground. This gained the zoo a lot of media attention and to help raise awareness they were featured on a TV series for Animal Planet called “The Little Zoo that Could.”
Thanks to the publicity and awareness the show raised they were able to rebuild the animal shelters and are even planning to move to a new location. The new location should be opening to the public soon where you can expect to continue receiving educational animal talks and see different themed areas.
3. The Wharf
The Wharf is a state-of-the-art marina that has plenty of entertainment to offer. There are boating and fishing activities, as well as plenty of dining and shopping choices.
If you are traveling with children, they will love the Sound and Light Spectacular which is one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the south. There is also a zipline course, mini-golf, and arcades for everyone to enjoy.
The Wharf Amphitheatre is great for hearing some live music and make sure you check the calendar before planning your visit to see if your favorite band is playing that day.
4. Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
For those who would like to slow down and see some of Alabama’s natural ecosystem, a hike on this backcountry trail is the perfect option.
This trail runs through Gulf Shores, Gulf State Park, and Orange Beach and you see plenty of wildlife in the coastal swamps and freshwater marshes. Keep an eye out while walking the trail for deer or alligators sleeping in a patch of sun.
Plan Your Visit to the Alabama Coast Today!
There are so many great things to see and do along the Alabama coast that you’ll be planning a return trip just to see it all!
For more travel tips and information, be sure to visit our website daily!