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Taking a trip to Gulf Shores with the family? Gear up for a treasure trove of fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories! With an array of Gulf Shores attractions and delightful stays for families, every day and every spot presents a new adventure!
“Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion.” – Leigh Hunt
Nothing could be truer, especially when that motion leads you to Gulf Shores – one of the best family beaches in Alabama. This lovely city offers everyone a rollercoaster ride of fun, excitement, and wholesome adventure! With its white sandy beaches, nature parks, and vibrant attractions, Gulf Shores is not only the perfect backdrop for family pictures. It’s also even better for making exciting memories that last a lifetime.
We know you’re excited to dive into this journey. Well, us too!
So without further ado, let’s have a closer look at these exciting Gulf Shores attractions for families:
Gulf State Park
A haven for nature enthusiasts, Gulf State Park boasts more than just its expansive, pristine beaches. With diverse ecosystems spanning over 6,500 acres, families can hike or bike along the park’s trails, catch a glimpse of local wildlife, cast a line off the largest fishing pier on the Gulf of Mexico, or participate in interactive educational programs at the Nature Center.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Known affectionately as the “Little Zoo That Could,” this intimate, 7-acre zoo is home to over 300 exotic animals. From engaging with kangaroos and lemurs to watching tigers roam, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo offers numerous hands-on animal encounters that are both fun and educational for kids.
Waterville USA
Offering a splash of fun under the sun, Waterville USA is a 20-acre waterpark and amusement park rolled into one. Ride the adrenaline-pumping slides, float down the lazy river, and challenge each other in the arcade games. And that’s not all, there’s even an on-site escape room for the whole family to enjoy!
The Track
Ready, set, fun! The Track is the go-to place for high-speed family excitement. Race each other on go-karts, navigate bumper boats, take a mini-golf challenge, and for the daring ones, try out bungee jumping. It’s an action-packed day guaranteed!
Historic Fort Morgan
Travel back in time at this 19th-century fort that played a significant role in the Civil War. From guided tours to live demonstrations of cannon firings, Fort Morgan offers a unique blend of history and fun. Don’t miss their special “living history” events for an interactive historical experience.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
This is arguably one of the most thrilling Gulf Shores attractions for families to explore. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a picturesque sanctuary for several threatened and endangered species. Gently winding trails provide opportunities to spot migratory birds, sea turtles, and the stunning coastal dune ecosystem.
Alabama Coastal Birding Trail
Calling all birdwatchers! Discover a wide variety of bird species, including some rare ones, along this birding trail. Designed to capitalize on bird migration habits, the trail is peppered with different habitats, from beaches to marshes, offering a unique birding experience.
Gulf Shores Public Beach
Enjoy classic beach fun at Gulf Shores Public Beach. Lounge under beach umbrellas, take a dip in the clear waters, build towering sandcastles, and play a game of beach volleyball. With its wide, sandy beaches and clear waters, it’s the perfect spot for a family beach day.
The Hangout
Delicious food, live music, and a plethora of games for the kids make The Hangout a one-of-a-kind beach dining experience. Enjoy their “foam parties” or participate in their daily scheduled activities while savoring local seafood. It’s a guaranteed good time!
Gulf Shores Fishing Pier
Fancy a day of fishing? Head over to the Gulf Shores Fishing Pier. Rent a rod and bait, and cast a line. It’s a peaceful way to spend the day, and you might even catch dinner! Even if you don’t fish, the panoramic views of the ocean are worth the visit.
Where To Stay: The Best Gulf Shores Family Resorts & Hotels
When it comes to accommodations, Gulf Shores offers a wide variety of family-friendly resorts and hotels that cater to every budget and preference. Check out some of Hotala’s hottest picks:
In Central Gulf Shores:
Perdido Beach Resort: This beachfront resort offers stunning views, spacious rooms, multiple restaurants, and a large outdoor pool. Its prime location makes it convenient to access many Gulf Shores attractions for families.
The Beach Club Resort & Spa: Equipped with multiple pools, a private beach, and an on-site spa, this resort provides an ideal setting for relaxation after a day of family adventures.
In Orange Beach:
Fairfield Inn & Suites Orange Beach: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool. Plus, it’s just a short drive away from two of the most well-frequented Gulf Shores attractions for families, the zoo and the wharf.
Hilton Garden Inn Orange Beach: With its beachfront location, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant, this hotel is perfect for families seeking a convenient and comfortable stay.
In Fort Morgan:
The Indies: This condo-style property offers spacious living areas and full kitchens, perfect for family stays. Not only that, but it’s only 400 meters away from the serene Fort Morgan Beach.
Catalina At The Beach Club: Offering beautiful views of the Gulf, this property features a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and a private balcony. Perfect for families who enjoy home comforts while traveling.
Tip: If you want to try living like a local and have a more authentic Southern trip, you can check my previous blog covering some of the best and most unique vacation rentals in Gulf Shores.
Tips For Families Traveling To Gulf Shores For The First Time
Ready for a hassle-free family vacation in Gulf Shores? Keep these practical yet fun tips in mind to make your trip smoother and even more enjoyable!
Pack Beach Essentials. Heading to Gulf Shores without your beach essentials would be like going to Mardi Gras without beads. So pack that sunblock, those beach towels, water toys for the kids, and maybe even a flamingo floatie or two.
Buy Groceries. Want to feel like a local and save some cash? Skip dining out for every meal and hit the grocery stores. Who knows, your rented beach house might just witness the birth of your signature vacation dish!
Rent a Car. Sure, there’s plenty within walking distance in Gulf Shores, but why limit yourself? Renting a car is like getting a backstage pass to the Alabama coastline. Discover secret beaches, hidden eateries, and sights that aren’t on the usual tourist radar!
Book Accommodations/Tickets Ahead. You know what they say — the early bird gets the…best vacation experiences! Gulf Shores gets busy during peak season, so secure your accommodations and attraction tickets ahead of time. It’s like winning the vacation lottery!
Have a Rainy Day Plan. Even when the skies decide to put on a waterworks display, Gulf Shores doesn’t disappoint. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, The Track, or a visit to the local museum can turn a rainy day into a memorable adventure.
Understand the Beach Flag Warning System. At Gulf Shores, beach flags aren’t just decorative. They’re a color-coded guide to your safety. Brush up on your flag knowledge before hitting the beach. After all, knowledge is power, and in this case, it’s also the key to a worry-free beach day.
Make New Memories With Your Loved Ones in Gulf Shores with Hotala
Bringing your loved ones to Gulf Shores indeed guarantees a suitcase full of cherished memories and hearts full of joy. From exploring natural wonders to having fun at amusement parks, all these exciting Gulf Shores attractions for families offer an exciting blend of learning and leisure.
So go ahead, start planning your family trip, and let Hotala guide you to the best accommodations perfect for your family’s needs. After all, every family trip is a chapter in the travel diary of life, and Gulf Shores promises a chapter filled with sunshine, laughter, and shared stories.
Let’s make every moment count and create fun memories with your family in Gulf Shores with Hotala!
TLDR
Say hello to fun-filled family bonding in Gulf Shores, Alabama!
With ten must-visit attractions, from the wild side of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo to the watery wonderland of Waterville USA, every day promises a new adventure. And the cherry on top? Cozy family-friendly stays offered by Hotala, conveniently located near these attractions.
Remember, early booking wins, and safety comes first even at the beach. So pack your bags, keep our tips in mind, and set sail to this unforgettable journey with the people you love!
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Featured image credit: Mehdi Benkaci on Unsplash
