How to Meet Other Snowbirds
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
The Southern hospitality and welcoming atmosphere of Alabama’s Beaches are two of the many reasons why so many snowbirds choose to spend their winters in our coastal community. Mingling with other visitors is one of the highlights of snowbird vacations, and our area makes it easy to connect with both locals and fellow travelers. Whether it’s your first winter on Alabama’s Beaches or your tenth, here are a few ways to meet snowbirds during your stay in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or Fort Morgan.
Tips for Meeting Fellow Snowbirds
Join Local Snowbird Clubs
Join Local Snowbird Clubs
Snowbirds who visit Alabama’s Beaches have formed state-specific groups for winter guests to connect with others from home easily. Each club meets regularly during the season and hosts events like potlucks, happy hours, golf games, and local outings. Joining a snowbird group is an excellent way to meet people here, and many maintain these friendships back home. These clubs welcome newcomers and will gladly give you tips for vacationing in the area. There are currently snowbird clubs for ten states, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
Attend Local Snowbird Events
Attend Local Snowbird Events
During the winter, our area hosts several snowbird events that allow visitors to connect in fun settings. Weekdays in January and February, guests can attend the free Winter Showcase Series at The Learning Campus in Gulf State Park. This series brings in local experts to speak on various topics like nature, history, art, fishing, and wildlife, allowing attendees to learn more about the area and get ideas for things to do. The Snowbird Fest at the Orange Beach Event Center on January 26 is another fantastic event for winter travelers. A combination of a trade show and expo, this annual festival allows snowbirds to get to know local businesses, all while connecting with other winter visitors. Snowbirds up for a little friendly competition should sign up for the Snowbird Trivia Night hosted by the South Baldwin Literacy Council at the Orange Beach Event Center in February. Be on the lookout for specific dates regarding these events!
Stay at Snowbird-Friendly Rentals
Stay at Snowbird-Friendly Rentals
You don’t have to leave your accommodation to make friends on Alabama’s Beaches. Condos, resorts, beach house communities, and RV parks are favored lodging options for snowbirds and are great places to foster friendships naturally. Communal spaces like pools, tennis courts, and activity rooms provide visitors with places to meet others conveniently, and some accommodations even host organized snowbird events for guests to mingle. RV parks are especially great for connecting with your neighbors. When deciding on a place to stay, consider properties popular with other snowbirds that will increase your chances of meeting others.
Connect Through Local Activities
Connect Through Local Activities
Lots of places along Alabama’s Beaches host activities just for snowbirds during the winter. Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores and Orange Beach host weekly arts and crafts events during weekday mornings for snowbirds to connect and let their artistic side shine. The Orange Beach Public Library and Senior Activity Center put on a myriad of events, including a monthly snowbird book club, art classes, game nights, and educational classes. Gulf State Park has free guided walks at the pier and daily programs at The Learning Campus and Nature Center, perfect for nature enthusiasts. And during January and February, Cosmo’s and Cobalt offer cooking classes for regionally inspired dishes crafted by their chefs. Be sure to check the events calendar regularly for more upcoming snowbird activities and events, where you can connect with fellow guests!
Chat with Fellow Snowbirds at Popular Hangouts
Chat with Fellow Snowbirds at Popular Hangouts
You're likely to encounter other snowbirds when out and about on Alabama’s Beaches. Many winter guests like to gather at their favorite spots to meet new people and are happy to chat with fellow travelers. Lots of restaurants offer snowbird specials during specific hours as well as bingo nights and happy hours, which are ideal places for snowbirds to connect. Coffee shops and local diners are additional relaxed and casual spots to meet new folks. Forming friendships with other visitors is a huge part of why snowbirds choose to stay on our shores, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation!
Explore the Area
Explore the Area
One of the easiest ways to meet new people is to explore the destination. With so many activities, attractions, and local restaurants and bars, there are plenty of spots to connect with others. Walking or biking in Gulf State Park is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area while fostering friendships with those you meet along the trails. Golfers will love playing a round at the magnificent courses in the area and chatting with fellow players on the greens. Prefer to fish? Visit the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier, which attracts anglers looking to reel in their next meal. Locals will be happy to give you tips for catching Gulf species! And if you brought your furry friends with you to Alabama’s Beaches, consider visiting local dog parks and dog-walking spots to meet other pet owners. After all, your pup needs a new pal too!
Start Your Snowbird Season with New Connections
Alabama’s Beaches offer snowbirds much more than just comfortable weather and sunshine, but also a community. Friendships can begin anywhere along Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, whether you’re at a snowbird social, annual event, or local restaurant. Your winter home should be just as much about the connections you make as it is the place. We hope to see you this snowbird season on our beaches!
