Planning a Snowbird Vacation to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

How to Plan a Snowbird Vacation to Alabama's Beaches

snowbird couple relaxing under a rainbow beach umbrella near the water in Orange Beach

When Is Snowbird Season in Alabama?

Snowbird season in Alabama generally runs from January to March, though some snowbirds arrive as early as fall. January is the busiest time, with many of Alabama’s snowbirds settling in for the winter and enjoying a range of activities and social events. By March, some begin their journey back north, while others linger a bit longer to enjoy the beginnings of spring.

Couple strolling the beachfront grounds of the Annual National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores

When to Arrive

Many early arrivals prefer coming down in October or November to take advantage of the tail end of the warm weather, before the majority of snowbirds arrive. This is the perfect time to experience fall festivals and a coastal holiday season on the beach.

The bulk of snowbirds typically arrive after the holidays. January is the peak of snowbird activity, with a vibrant community of long-term visitors who come to escape northern winters. This is when you’ll find the most social clubs, organized activities, and special snowbird events. The mild winter weather is ideal for outdoor recreation and social gatherings.

colorful beach houses along the shore in Fort Morgan, Alabama

Snowbird Beach Rentals

When you're planning your snowbird escape, picking the right place to stay is a big part of the experience. Alabama’s Beaches offer plenty of lodging options, whether you prefer a beach rental house, a charming condo, or a resort with everything you need. If you're traveling in an RV, you'll find campgrounds with full amenities to make your extended stay easy and comfortable. And if you're bringing a pet, you’re in luck—there are lots of pet-friendly places to choose from.

Winter Activities for Snowbirds on Alabama's Beaches

Group of snowbirds dining at Zeke's waterfront restaurant in Orange Beach

Snowbird Social Clubs & State-Specific Gatherings

Our snowbirds take advantage of the many opportunities to socialize and meet new people. State-specific snowbird clubs allow winter visitors to discover like-minded individuals and find a home away from home. A shared love of the area brings these snowbirds together for weekly potlucks, annual events, and fundraisers.

State clubs, such as the Michigan Snowbird Club, always plan yearly events for club members, including monthly meetings, horseshoes, a blood drive, food drives, and a trivia night with other clubs. Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Iowa, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and North Dakota/South Dakota also have active snowbird clubs that meet during the snowbird season. Casino trips, picnics, charity events, Mardi Gras parades, and golf outings are just a small portion of the activities club members enjoy.

people biking across the boardwalk at lake Shelby in gulf state park

Outdoor Adventures & Nature Activities

For snowbird travelers who love the outdoors, Alabama's Beaches offers endless opportunities to stay active. Whether it’s walking or biking along the scenic trails at Gulf State Park, fishing along the shore's edge, or playing a round of golf at one of the many courses, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Don't forget to bring your binoculars when you visit! Our area is an excellent destination for birding and boasts several fantastic spots to see migratory and native coastal species.

Man exploring Historic Fort Morgan site in Gulf Shores

Discover the History & Culture of Alabama’s Beaches

Alabama’s Beaches offer a rich tapestry of history for snowbirds to explore. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are both home to free museums that highlight the local culture and historical events that shaped the region. The area’s Civil War history is especially prominent, with Historic Fort Morgan standing as a key historical site that invites visitors to step back in time. For those wanting to explore further, nearby cities like Mobile and Pensacola provide even more ways to dive into the Gulf Coast’s past.

snowbirds attending the free winter showcase series at the learning campus in gulf shores

Free Showcase Series

Snowbirds will find many weekly programs and activities throughout the season, such as the winter showcase series. This free educational series spotlights an assortment of local organizations with topics that range from nature and history to art and culture. Winter guests can enjoy learning about a new interest every Monday-Friday beginning in January at the Learning Campus in Gulf State Park.

Make Alabama’s Beaches Your Winter Home

scenic view of turquoise waters and white sand beaches in Gulf Shores

Alabama’s Beaches are the perfect place for winter escape, with welcoming snowbird communities, exciting activities, and plenty of sunshine. Whether you’re staying for a few weeks or the entire winter season, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. Book your snowbird winter getaway to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan today and enjoy all the warmth and relaxation this coastal paradise has to offer!