My Father/Daughter Visit to Alabama’s Beaches
When my dad found out I was interested in visiting Gulf Shores, he immediately volunteered his services as my adventure sidekick and additional driver.
My dad joined me on a road trip to North Dakota the previous summer, and I knew he could handle a fast pace with lots of fun. When I visit a destination, I want to experience “all the things.” That typically means a full-throttle itinerary packed full of activities to make the most of my time there.
It had been 20+ years since my last visit to Gulf Shores, so I had a lot of catching up to do! I knew that the turquoise water of the Gulf would be still beautiful, but we also discovered fantastic local restaurants and unique adventures.
One of our favorite experiences was an unforgettable flight in a gyroplane with Beachflight Aviation. My dad and I both enjoyed scenic flights in the sky at the same time. My dad rode inside an M29 Orion gyroplane (enclosed side-by-side model), and I rode in the American ranger gyroplane (open tandem.) The gyroplanes are such a smooth and safe way to see the area from the air.
If you enjoy exploring on two wheels, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a MUST! The Gulf State Park has a free bike-share program that allows you to experience nine distinct ecosystems through 26 trails, on 28 miles of paved trails. All you have to do is download the Bloom Bike Share App for access to borrow one of the 50 bikes that can be used for free for up to three hours at a time. Pickup spots for the bikes are near Woodside Restaurant and the Gulf State Park Pavilion. While you’re on the trails, be on the lookout for the eagle’s nest and “Lefty the Alligator” along the way.
If you prefer to keep both feet on the ground, another option is to relax on a 52-foot Hawaiian catamaran during a Sunset Sail with Cetacean Cruises. The highlight of our evening was observing several dolphins swim and play within viewing distance of our boat.
During your visit, stop by Big Beach Brewing Company to toast the day with a local brew and reminisce about all of your unforgettable adventures in Gulf Shores.
My dad and I had such a great time in Gulf Shores. Now we understand why it's such a wonderful multi-gen vacation destination that families return to year after year.
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