Holiday homes & rentals in Gulf Shores

A laid-back coastal town, Gulf Shores entices visitors with its festivals, concerts and sporting events. Add to that a whole host of great outdoor activities, including swimming, biking, surfing and diving, and there's never a dull moment. When you book Gulf Shores holiday accommodation, you'll be able to soak up the sun as part of an unforgettable trip.

Getting to your Gulf Shores accommodation

The nearest major airport to Gulf Shores is the Pensacola International Airport, which receives domestic flights from Florida and other nearby destinations. The airport lies 40 miles from Gulf Shores' city centre. The second major airport is the Mobile Regional Airport that's 70 miles from Gulf Shores. A hire car is a great option for getting from the airport to your Gulf Shores holiday accommodation quickly and conveniently.

What to eat on your Gulf Shores holiday

When it comes to seafood, Gulf Shores' cuisine is as fresh as it gets. Whether you like your shrimp baked, fried, grilled, blackened or steamed, the city offers up this treat alongside the best of the sea. For seriously good oysters, head to the Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar where live music and the region's signature drink, the Bushwhacker, are thrown in for good measure.

Another great spot is Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina, which has indoor and outdoor dining. Feast on shrimp and grits, Momma's pork roast, fried crab claws or Cajun roasted oysters, and wash it all down with a chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Another local favourites when it comes to oysters is the lovely, family-owned Murder Point Oyster. Of course, with a Gulf Shores holiday letting , you always have the option to enjoy a take-away meal.

The weather in Gulf Shores

The best time to visit Gulf Shores is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. April and May are perfect for those planning on swimming, biking and generally embracing the outdoors. The fall months are just as fair and have the added bonus of side-stepping the crowds that come during summer months.

Although December gets a bit chilly, seafood fans should note that it's oyster season. Visit at this time of year and you can also take part in the colorful Christmas and New Year's festivities with the locals.

What to do in Gulf Shores

In Gulf Shores, the natural attractions are practically endless. A dolphin cruise will help you unlock the marine secrets of the Gulf of Mexico and its back bays. Chartered fishing trips and pier fishing are sure to keep anglers busy, while for an adrenaline rush, why not attempt the zip line course at the Gulf State Park? Kids will love a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo where they can get up-close-and-personal with the resident bears, lions, tigers, wolves and primates.

Did you know that Alabama’s Gulf Coast is home to more than 200 golfing holes? Whether you fancy yourself as a seasoned golfer or a beginner, why not fit in a few rounds as part of your holiday. Shopaholics will be kept busy because in Gulf Shores, you can find everything from one-of-a-kind jewelry to locally-made accessories. After all that shopping, pamper yourself at any of the Gulf Coast spas and recreation centers, where well-trained staff treat you to a relaxing massage, facial or pedicure.

Art and culture in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores and the surrounding area are steeped in history, which is documented across the city's museums. Head to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park to learn more about US naval history, by exploring a giant WW2 battleship. The National Museum of Naval Aviation is another great attraction for the whole family, with over 150 restored aircraft, an IMAX cinema and a thrilling flight simulator.

The Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum, located nearby to Gulf Shores, is also well worth a visit. Detailing local Native American history, as well as marine and fishing culture, it contains a number of interesting artifacts.

Excursions around Gulf Shores

History buffs should drive down to Fort Morgan, which stands proudly by the water. The museum housed within the former fort recounts 200 years of history through exhibits including artillery, uniforms and other well-preserved objects. The Fort Morgan Historic Site surprises visitors with its fishing opportunities and many nature trails. Don't be surprised to bump into foxes, coyotes, bobcats and water moccasins.

Those looking to drive further out will be happy to know that cities such as Chattanooga, Atlanta, Memphis, Nashville and Houston are all easily accessible by car from Gulf Shores.

Book your Gulf Shores holiday letting and get ready for an unforgettable trip, with beaches, history, delicious cuisine and more. A Gulf Shores holiday home also gives you comfort and privacy, so that you can concentrate on having a great, stress-free time in the sun.

Gulf Shores: Sun, sea and parks

Waterville USA

With its lazy river, wave pools, high-speed body slides and tube slides, this 20-acre water park is an outstanding family attraction.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Bon Secour, meaning "safe harbour" in French, is a feeding and resting area for migratory birds. Admire native flora and fauna here, as well as looking out for Kemp's Ridley sea turtles.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The zoo is home to more than 290 animals including wolves, tigers, lions, leopards and bears. Kids will love the petting zoo, animal shows and aviary.

Gulf State Park Fishing Pier

The second longest pier on the Gulf of Mexico is also Alabama’s only public pier on the Gulf. Fishing space along the rails make it a popular haunt for anglers.

Gulf State Park

With miles of white-sand beaches, nature trails, campsites for RVs and tents, and zip-lining, kayaking and paddle boarding opportunities, this park is popular with lovers of the outdoors.

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