5 No-fuss Ways to Spend a Summer Night
Our family's favorite time of day is sunset as the temperatures drop and the world gets just a little bit quieter. That's especially true at the beach!
When the day visitors pack their things and head home, we love having the beach to ourselves. In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we have found lots of places to enjoy as the sun goes down. In no particular order, here are five great ways to welcome the summer evening with your family.
Karen's Top 5 Summer Night Activities on Alabama's Beaches
1. Walk on the beach
This might seem like a no-brainer, but a sunset walk along the water is amazing. Birds seem to enjoy it, too, and put on quite a show. The beaches are quiet, the surf is the only sound. Walk along the water's edge as the sun slips away on the horizon.
2. Bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
Bikes are a great way to explore Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, whether renting for a day or for your whole vacation. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail at Gulf State Park is one of the best places to ride with miles of trails to enjoy. In the evening, fewer visitors are on the trails, which means they're quieter. Take a break at one of the many swings along the trail and take in the sounds of nature - frogs croaking, birds singing and the breeze blowing through the trees.
3. Play a round of miniature golf
Miniature golf is a fun family activity any time of day, but it's even more fun after dark under the stars. And, without the sun beating down, it's not so hot, either.
If playing with young kids or people with vastly different skills, play team golf, aka "best ball." Divide your group into teams. Everyone on the team plays with the same color ball. Everyone takes their first turn. Then, for the next shot, start at the ball closest to the hole. It speeds the game up and makes it easier for those still developing their skills.
4. Ride the Ferris Wheel at The Wharf at Orange Beach
The whole family will enjoy a ride on the Ferris Wheel at The Wharf after dark. The large buckets seat four comfortably and offer a birds-eye view of The Wharf all lit up for evening fun. It's a relaxing way to end the day with the ones you love.
5. Enjoy a sunset kayak trip
Many of the kayaking outfitters offer sunset trips. Several kayak rental companies serve Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, some offering guided sunset and dolphin tours, which are great for beginners. Whether on a guided tour or on your own, paddling the coastal waterways as the sun melts away is a sure way to make great memories.
Explore Gulf Shores and Orange Beach as the sun goes down to discover the quiet spots that make this such a great place for families to connect and recharge.
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