My husband and I are new to the snowbirding scene and love Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. We’ve vacationed in the area many times in different seasons, and each year, we spend more time along the beautiful Alabama coastline, soaking in the sun and appreciating the active lifestyle available on Alabama’s Beaches. The time passes very quickly as we enjoy everything the area offers.
Being from the Midwest, where winters can be particularly brutal, we decided it was time to give snowbirding a try. We booked a couple of weeks at a resort on Alabama's Beaches with an active winter community of Midwesterners to test the waters. We enjoyed our snowbird experience so much that we booked our next vacation before we even left the resort!
There were a few things we learned during our stay that may help you if you’re considering testing the water as an Alabama's Beaches snowbird.
Tips for Snowbirds on Alabama's Beaches
Snowbird Rentals on Alabama's Beaches
Snowbird Rentals on Alabama's Beaches
Begin the planning process early to make your stay memorable. We learned many winter visitors book their next vacation rental before leaving in the spring. Book a resort with an active winter activity calendar like The Beach Club, Caribe Resort, Turquoise Place, or the Phoenix properties. Many complexes cater to their extended-stay winter visitors with day trips to casinos and museums in neighboring areas. While we were not there long enough to enjoy these extra activities, they can be a draw for those staying one or more months.
Snowbird Clubs on Alabama's Beaches
Snowbird Clubs on Alabama's Beaches
If you long for home during your visit, several state snowbird groups gather throughout the winter months. These clubs offer great opportunities to really get to know the area and be part of the community. They also organize volunteer opportunities with a chance to give back to the area.
Things to Do For Snowbirds
Things to Do For Snowbirds
We love spending time outdoors, and the winter climate on Alabama’s Beaches is still perfect for light activity. The outdoor opportunities are all around. Hiking the Jeff Friend Trail in Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is one of our favorites. The birding and wildlife are abundant alongside beautiful flowers and trees. The most important thing to pack is a pair of binoculars, as birding opportunities are everywhere.
We are e-bike riders and love riding the biking trails in the area. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers more than 28 miles of paved trails that traverse throughout nine distinct ecosystems. Many trails are rated as easy, with a few moderate trails throughout the area. If you don’t travel with your bike, you can borrow a bike through Gulf State Park’s Bike Share program.
Suppose you are a history buff or are looking for something to do on a rainy day. There are several museums where you can learn about the Civil War, local culture, fishing history, and aviation. If you visit in February, the Mardi Gras parades are where the good times roll. Ninety minutes before the parade begins, find your place to view the parades. The smiles, laughter, beads, and moon pies will be a memorable experience. Be sure to sample the local Mardi Gras food and drinks that are available during this season!
Dining on Alabama's Beaches
Dining on Alabama's Beaches
You’ll be on Alabama's Beaches long enough to find your new favorite restaurants. My husband and I have yet to find one we don’t enjoy. Many of them offer live music and happy hour deals. Several even have early bird and snowbird-specific menus so be sure to ask your waiter about any specials. If you visit a restaurant that serves bread pudding, order it! Bread pudding is an iconic Alabama food, and this area has the best in the country.
Planning Your Snowbird Vacation
Planning Your Snowbird Vacation
Lastly, you will also want to order your free vacation guide and check out more blogs to help you plan your snowbird trip. You'll find the best information on things to dos, events, and restaurants. Make your winter the best, and join my husband and me on Alabama’s Beaches this winter!
