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Family Gulf State Park

Favorite Family Adventures

 In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

By Karen Dawkins

For some, a trip to the beach is just that…long, relaxed days at the beach with a cooler and an umbrella. And, that's just fine!

April 29, 2021

But, if you're like us, a little adventure on vacation is a really good thing. We try something new just about every vacation. These adventures, some which test our skills and others that test our nerve, tend to be the highlight of vacation. In Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, there's no shortage of adventure!

couple kayaking in Orange Beach al

Take a ride on the wild side.  With Sail Wild Hearts, the whole family will enjoy a day-long cruise on the 53-foot catamaran to see the Blue Angels fly overhead. This cruise also includes lunch and a stop in a quiet area to try your skills at paddle boarding and kayaking. Our daughter really enjoyed jumping into the water from the back of the catamaran and trying her hand at hula hooping onboard. For a unique adventure that’s also super relaxing, you can’t beat this tour!

Navigate the bays in your own kayak adventure. With Wild Native Tours you’ll explore the bays and beaches of coastal Alabama with a knowledgeable guide who shares about local wildlife, ecology, local history and lore. No prior experience is needed, and with tandem kayaks, it’s not too strenuous. Of course, if you and your kayak partner get in a splash battle, that’s up to you. We won’t tell.

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Search for “treasure” as you go geo-caching on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.  With multiple trails through six distinct ecosystems covering more than 25 miles in Orange Beach and Gulf State Park, geo-caching on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail can entertain families for hours. Be sure to pack bottled water, snacks and sunscreen, though! Watch for Lefty, the trail’s resident alligator, who is often seen sunning alongside the trail.

With so many fun adventures in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, your family is sure to find something new to do that you’ll talk about for years to come.

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