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Pure fun only found on the beach. Photo via Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
As the world around us opens up again, summer vacations are busily planned. First place on my family’s travel list – Gulf Shores, Alabama. From white sand beaches to an endless list of activities, it’s the ultimate place for young families to vacation. And we are not alone. Find out why Birmingham families flock to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, and why yours, too.
1. It offers entertainment in a beautiful place.
Fun + Sun in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Photo via Patience Itson for Bham Now
As soon as my family drives to our beach rental, we drop off our bags and hit the sand. The main reason families in Birmingham love Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is because they offer all-in-one entertainment.
Parents can laze on the beach and relax with a drink, while children can build sandcastles and splash around in the water. As long as you have towels, sunscreen, and a cooler for food and drinks, the family can stay in one place all day and always be entertained.
2. The wild side of your crew can escape.
Adorable animals can be found at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Photo via Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
A few days away from home with your significant other can be amazing. But when you throw in kids, family, and laws, it’s easy to feel surrounded by wild animals.
Need an idea to tame your wildling crew? I suggest a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
If you love the Birmingham Zoo, with its vibrant flamingos and fun sea lions, you will love the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. It has more than 199 species and 31 subspecies; It is also a haven for many endangered animals. My favorite are always the lions, but for your wild bunch, you may want to examine the monkeys.
3. Dinner is finally easy.
What’s your beach food Photo via Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
As a parent, I would say that 90% of every day is food. Buy, make, eat … it takes a lot of time. Use it as a vacation in the kitchen during your trip to the beach and check out the local Gulf Shores and Orange Beach food scene.
I know what you think, we Birminghamians are used to a lovely food scene with an abundance of restaurants and top chefs. Bring your appetite to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach as the area also has an amazing foodie scene.
Whether you want to go out or order, the local eateries and eateries offer everything from pizza and tacos to a must-have beach dish – fresh seafood.
4. You can fix your nature.
From clams to marine animals, there’s always something interesting to find at Gulf State Park. Photo via Facebook of Gulf State Park
Birminghamians like to eat, but there is one more thing we love as well and that is being outside. State parks are one of my family’s favorite outdoor spots when they hit the beach, and they should be put on your family’s vacation list too – especially one that’s as cool as Gulf State Park.
Here are some of the exciting things it offers:
- Bird watching
- fishing
- Geocaching
- Hiking + bike paths
- Wildlife
Gulf State Park even has a number of restaurants and concession stands on-site. Do you remember when I mentioned parenting is 90% food? You’re welcome!
5. Adventure is everywhere.
From kayaking to paddle boarding, adventure on the beach is a breeze. Photo via Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
Let me tell you a not-so-secret secret: I’m an important homebody. If you’re wondering how important a homebody is, let’s just say that I wasn’t concerned about settling down during the pandemic.
But when I go on vacation, my often dormant adventurous side loves to break free. And wow, does it feel good! If your family discovers the adventure bug while on vacation, the beach is the ultimate place for thrills.
Before reading the things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, I recommend you have a cold drink as this list is fire:
- Boating
- Go kayaking
- Paddle
- Parasailing
- Snorkeling
- Ziplining
For your information, these are just a few of the activities Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer. You can find more thrills here.
Ready to pack those bags?
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