From miles of sugar-white sand to the expansive turquoise waters of the Gulf, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are idyllic beach getaways. Beyond the breathtaking surroundings and picture-perfect outdoor scenes, there are many ways to spend your time. If you’re looking for an active vacation filled with outdoor fun and travel adventures, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach each have options for you. Take a look at some of our most popular outdoor activities.
Find Outdoor Activities
Learning Campus at Gulf State Park
The Learning Campus offers day and overnight programs throughout the year. Our trained field naturalists ensure a fun, educational and...
Infinity Bicycles
We are a locally-owned company focused on providing the best bike sales, service and rentals. Our rental options include comfort...
Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway
Beautiful beaches, authentic downtowns, wildlife preserves, historic sites and fresh-off-the-boat seafood are all yours to enjoy along Alabama’s Coastal Connection...
Ebike The Park
#1 Ebike Rental in Gulf Shores/OrangeBeach! We rent fun! Come roll with us and see why we have 5-star reviews...
Wetlands Park
Wetlands Park is a walking/hiking park and is located at the base of the water tower at the Gulf Shores...
Eastern Shore Trail
On the Eastern Shore Trail, you’ll take in beautiful bay vistas and oak-canopied paths with plenty of places to stop...
Wind & Water Learning Center
We provide on-water educational opportunities for sailing, paddle sports, and experiential outdoor learning. The unique waterfront learning center on Wolf...
Gulf State Park Interpretive Center
Adjacent to the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion, at the east pedestrian bridge, the Interpretative Center is the gateway to...
Coyote Beach Sports
Coyote Beach Sports is your rental headquarters on the Alabama Gulf Coast. We rent Slingshots, scooters, kayaks, surfboards, skimboards, paddleboards...
City of Foley Depot Museum and Model Train Exhibit
This museum is located in the Louisville and Nashville railroad depot that was built in Foley in 1909. In the...
E-Bikes and Boards LLC
Rent one of the coolest TREK Electra E-bikes, an Ocean Kayak, or a BOTE Paddleboard and set out on your...
Meyer Park
Meyer Park is a 12-acre park located within the heart of downtown Gulf Shores. This park features a shaded playground...
Claude Peteet Mariculture Center/Marine Resources Division
The Claude Peteet Mariculture Center has been utilized for many activities since its construction in 1973, including basic and applied...
Gulf State Park Nature Center
Gulf State Park's Nature Center is a living museum of plants and animals that are native to the Gulf Coast...
Find Yourself Wandering
Active travelers gravitate to trails like the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. There are seven trails and six ecosystems where you can see bobcats, white-tailed deer, alligators and numerous birds. Be sure to bring your camera!
Another popular outdoor spot is the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Depending on the time of year, you may see a monarch migration or sea turtle nesting season. There are plenty of potential wildlife sightings whenever you decide to go. At Bon Secour, you’ll have ample opportunities to learn about the refuge while having an excellent nature adventure.
Birding
You can’t visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach without hearing about the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail. Bird lovers consider this area a bucket list destination due to the many species that pass through the site. Hummingbirds, herons and snowy plovers are just a few birds that take to the air and water. If you want to learn more about birds, there is also an annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest in October. The festival features exhibits, raptor shows, and kids’ activities. Whether you are new to the birding world or have been birdwatching for years, it’s a festival for everyone.
History
Fort Morgan isn’t just a great excuse to get outside but also gives you a glimpse into Alabama’s rich history. The Mobile Bay Civil War Trail runs 90 miles from the Gulf of Mexico to north Mobile County. Along the way, there are opportunities to take in the natural surroundings and learn about battle sites through historical accounts. It's a beautiful journey through history as you follow military movements, battles and visit sites that show how soldiers lived during that time.