A Wellness Weekend in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach

A wellness weekend may mean different things to different travelers.

February 27, 2020

For some, it means hitting the pavement and racing toward the finish line in a beach race. For others, it's beachfront yoga and a Swedish massage. No matter which category you fall into, or even if it's a combination of the two, there are plenty of activities to plan your wellness weekend around in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Those who nourish their bodies through physical activity have their pick of races, from 5Ks to half marathons and even triathlons. Races are scheduled year-round; however, the fall and early spring are prime racing seasons on Alabama’s beaches. If you really love a great run, check out the Run the Beach series and run all three races in the series. And, if tennis is your game and you’ve got a competitive streak, check the sports calendar for tennis tournaments.

Rejuvenate your mind and body with a yoga session. Gulf Shores yoga studios offer private beachfront sessions that are perfect for a small group or even one person. Just imagine stretching to the sunrise on Alabama’s white-sand beaches. Regularly scheduled group sessions are also available at several yoga studios throughout the beach including MOXIE Lifestyle Fitness Studio at The Wharf.

Speaking of The Wharf, head over and check out High Cotton Bath Company to make your own bath products perfect for soaking away the day’s troubles. Pick your favorite scents and take some home.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also fun ways to keep moving. Kayak the back bays for a scenic peek into the area’s diverse ecosystems or give stand-up paddleboarding a try on the Gulf when the water is calm. Kayak and SUP rentals are available, and many companies deliver equipment to you.

You really don’t have to leave your fitness routine at home during your wellness weekend. Besides walking on the beach and hiking or biking miles of nature trails, there are also fitness centers that offer day or week passes for visitors to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Part of wellness is feeling your best aside from health and activity. Sometimes it’s simple—a haircut, a mani/pedi or a special look for an evening out. Pampering is always paramount in any health and wellness journey. What’s a wellness weekend without a day at the spa? Pamper yourself with a hot stone massage and pedicure, followed by lunch at one of your favorite Gulf Shores or Orange Beach restaurants.

Whether you spend a weekend or a week rejuvenating and re-nourishing your mind, body and soul, you’ll find the perfect blend of wellness activities on the Alabama Gulf Coast.