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Venture into the captivating world of Gulf Shores wildlife through Alabama’s top five natural havens. Join us as we reveal the best spots and stays where coastal splendor meets abundant biodiversity.
Did you know that Alabama ranks among the top five US states for biodiversity, hosting a rich array of flora and fauna?
And among its spectacular natural offerings is the city of Gulf Shores, where the state’s record-breaking tourism revenue of $7.3 billion in 2022 came from. Here, an adventure unfolds at the intersection of azure waters, sun-kissed beaches, and an abundance of coastal wildlife.
In this guide, we’ll journey through the top five Gulf Shores wildlife spots where you can witness the state’s impressive biodiversity up close. From tranquil sanctuaries and expansive recreational parks to vibrant marine ecosystems and interactive zoo experiences, get ready to explore Alabama’s treasure trove of natural wonders.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge: An Unspoiled Sanctuary
On the eastern edge of Gulf Shores lies Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. It is an unspoiled sanctuary and a testament to the rich biodiversity of Alabama. Spanning over 7,000 acres, it’s home to an array of wildlife including the Alabama beach mice, nesting sea turtles. A staggering variety of birds are also native to the area making it a hotspot for birdwatchers.
Adding a stroke of magic to this wildlife sanctuary, each fall, Bon Secour becomes a vital stopover for the iconic Monarch butterflies during their epic 3,000-mile migration journey. This natural phenomenon transforms the refuge into a fluttering sea of orange and black, an enchanting spectacle that should not be missed.
From red foxes to armadillos and butterflies, this refuge presents endless opportunities to explore and learn about the unique Gulf Shores wildlife. It’s truly a nature lover’s paradise.
Waking up to the sound of waves and the songs of coastal birds completes the experience. So consider staying at the cozy Casa Del Mar, situated just a short distance from the refuge. This spacious home offers stunning views and all the comforts you need after a day of exploration.
Looking for more places to stay? Check out these vacation rentals near Gulf Shores.
Gulf State Park: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Another gem on Alabama’s coast, Gulf State Park hosts a rich array of ecosystems. Encompassing over 6,000 acres, this park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering numerous trails, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities.
Walking through the trails, you may encounter white-tailed deer, bobcats, and even alligators. The park is also part of the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, where you might spot ospreys, herons, or migrating warblers.
After a day of nature therapy, you’ll want a place to relax and share stories of the wildlife you’ve encountered. The Lodge is a perfect choice, providing modern amenities with the park right at your doorstep.
Meanwhile, if you want to say somewhere more secluded and upscale, these private villas and resorts in Gulf Shores won’t disappoint!
Orange Beach and Perdido Beach: A Marine Life Galore
Transitioning from the forest to the sea, Orange Beach and Perdido Beach provide a remarkable marine adventure. From dolphins playfully breaking the water’s surface to the colorful fish teeming beneath, these areas are a marine life enthusiast’s dream come true.
Boat tours are a popular way to experience the area’s marine life, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience. For the adventurous, snorkeling trips provide an up-close encounter with this vibrant underwater world.
After a day of marine exploration, the Turquoise Place Pelican Paradise in Orange Beach offers luxury accommodations with panoramic sea views. It’s the perfect place to end your day, watching the sunset over the Gulf. On the other hand, these vacation rentals in Perdido Beach also make for a very relaxing getaway in Gulf Shores.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo: More Than Your Average Zoo
Wrap up your Gulf Shores wildlife adventure with a visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. This modern facility is home to over 300 animals from around the globe. It offers unique experiences like animal encounters where you can get closer to kangaroos, lemurs, and even snakes.
This zoo emphasizes education and conservation, providing an opportunity to learn about various species’ struggles and triumphs. For families and wildlife enthusiasts alike, it’s an unforgettable experience.
For accommodations near the zoo, consider the charming Sandbox Cottage. This penthouse offers easy access to the beach and is only a short drive from the zoo, making it the ideal base for your Gulf Shores wildlife adventure.
If you’re bringing the kids along on this exciting zoo exploration, consider these kid-friendly properties for your stay.
Beyond Gulf Shores Wildlife Watching: Fantastic Outdoor Activities in the City
When you’re not busy admiring the stunning array of Gulf Shores wildlife, the city offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventures. From kayaking through bioluminescent waters to enjoying a leisurely bike ride, Gulf Shores invites you to explore its landscape in a variety of ways.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding. Gulf Shores’ calm, clear waters are perfect for paddling. Get up close and personal with the marine life as you paddle across the Bon Secour River or the more adventurous might want to try the nocturnal adventure of bioluminescent kayaking. Companies like Paddled By You offer eco-friendly paddle tours that let you experience the best of Gulf Shores.
Fishing. Cast a line in the back bays or deep sea, Gulf Shores is renowned for its fishing. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, the diverse aquatic life ensures a rich fishing experience. Zeke’s Marina provides a variety of fishing charters to suit everyone’s needs.
Hiking and Biking. Experience Gulf Shores’ natural beauty on land with a hike or bike ride through the Gulf State Park’s many trails. Don’t have a bike? No problem! Beach Bike Rentals has got you covered.
Board a Gyroplane. For those who want to enjoy Gulf Shores from a unique perspective, taking to the skies in a gyroplane is a must. Gulf Shores Helicopters provides thrilling gyroplane rides, offering panoramic views of the city and its wildlife from high above. It’s an adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Photography. With its breathtaking natural beauty, Gulf Shores is a haven for photographers. Be it the radiant sunsets or the native wildlife, there’s always a picturesque moment waiting to be captured.
Unleashing Your Wild Side in Gulf Shores with Hotala
From exploring the rich biodiversity in Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to basking in the marine wonder of Orange Beach and Perdido Key, Gulf Shores, Alabama, promises an enchanting retreat for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Between the avian spectacle of the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, the immersive experience at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, and the additional adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, Gulf Shores offers a cornucopia of experiences that captivate and inspire. Unique stays also abound in Gulf Shores, from vacation rentals to hotels for every taste and budget.
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So why wait? Plan your trip with Hotala to find the perfect accommodation for your wildlife-filled adventure. Your perfect Gulf Shores wildlife exploration awaits – all you need to do is take that first step!
TLDR
Hotala lets you discover the awe-inspiring biodiversity of Gulf Shores, Alabama, in this comprehensive guide.
Explore the unspoiled sanctuary of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, immerse in the marine splendor of Orange Beach, and have unique animal encounters at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Go beyond wildlife watching with fantastic outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and even boarding a gyroplane.
With Hotala, finding the perfect place to stay is easy as you explore these Gulf Shores wildlife spots!
