Things to Do in December
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Winter on the Alabama Gulf Coast is an excellent time to visit. The comfortable temperatures mixed with fewer crowds make it the ultimate vacation destination. On top of that, December is jam-packed with activities for those of all ages to enjoy, from holiday events to outdoor adventures. Check out all the fun things to do in December on Alabama's Beaches!
Looking for a holiday getaway? Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama is the place for you! From lighted boat parades and parachuting Santa's to visiting Whoville and ice skating, there is something for the whole crew on Alabama's Beaches in December.
What to Do in December on Alabama's Beaches
Holiday Fun at The Wharf
Holiday Fun at The Wharf
The Wharf in Orange Beach is the hotspot for the holiday season. Here, you'll find an ice skating rink, horse-drawn carriage rides, and lots of shopping. You can take a spin on the Ferris wheel that runs year-round and the nightly Spectra light show. Be sure to snap a photo of the giant Christmas tree at the end of Main Street!
Explore Gulf State Park
Explore Gulf State Park
You can enjoy outoor activities like biking, hiking, and kayaking all year round here on Alabama's Beaches. However, the cool weather that winter brings to the coast makes December the ideal time to experience the area's natural beauty, and with 6,150 acres, Gulf State Park is a great place to explore.
See Santa
See Santa
Santa loves to visit the Coast before Christmas, and while you're here, you'll have plenty of opportunities to see him! Photos with Santa are available at The Wharf for those who want to snap a photo with the big man in red. You can also catch Santa on December 6 at the annual Flora-Bama Santa Drop, where Santa makes a special appearance by skydiving onto the beach and offering pictures with spectators after he lands.
Hit the Course
Hit the Course
Keep up your golf game by hitting the links this winter. With 15 amazing golf courses open year-round, the Alabama Gulf Coast is the premiere spot to get in a couple of rounds! The cool, comfortable temperatures combined with fewer crowds make a day of golf ideal to round out your beach trip.
Shop 'Til You Drop
Shop 'Til You Drop
Get all of your Christmas shopping done while you're here on Alabama's Beaches. You'll find something for everyone on your list. Choose to shop from prominent spots like The Wharf, Pelican Place, and Tanger Outlets or local treasures such as art galleries and specialty food stores. Need a few ideas on what to give? We've got you covered with our gift guide for beach lovers and souvenir list!
Marvel at Christmas Lights
Marvel at Christmas Lights
Checking out the beautiful Christmas lights is one of the best parts of the holiday season. You'll find light displays throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The lighted Christmas Boat Parade on December 13 is a bright and festive spectacle that features boats covered in lights. You can also catch Christmas lights at OWA and The Wharf. They both feature impressive Christmas trees decorated with glistening lights. Finally, take a stroll through Christmas Card Lane outside Gulf State Park's Visitor Center at Lake Shelby and enjoy the holiday greetings on display.
Create an Ornament
Create an Ornament
Decorated your tree with a handmade piece from The Hot Shop. This premier glass blowing studio offers classes throughout the week for guests to learn all about glass blowing and craft an ornament. The professional artists will guide you through the process and help you created a memorable piece of art to take home. You can also buy ornaments and other handcrafted work from The Hot Shop inside the Coastal Arts Center.
