It’s always a good time to head to Gulf Shores! From sunny days to sandy beaches and warm Gulf water, the area makes it easy to enjoy a nice family beach getaway.
While the beach is the main reason to visit, the best Gulf Shores vacations leave room for more than just sun and sand. The area offers more than enough family-friendly attractions, easy meals, and local treats! There are plenty of ways to round out your trip. Follow along to see how you and your family can make the most out of your time in Gulf Shores!
In this blog:
- Plan Around the Beach!
- Best Family Attractions Around Gulf Shores
- Make Time to Relax at Your Rental
- Book Your Trip to Gulf Shores!
Plan Around the Beach!
Gulf Shores boasts 32 miles of white sand along its shoreline, with eight public access points, making trips to the beach very convenient for large groups. The open space and environment make it easy for the whole family to build a sandcastle, swim around, sunbathe, or fly a kite.
Before you head to the beach, please be aware of some of the local rules. Tents and shelters are allowed, but they must be within 7 by 7 feet and no taller than 4 feet. Pets are not allowed on any of the Gulf Shores beaches. Finally, please remember to pick up any belongings as they will be removed after sunset.
Best Family Attractions Around Gulf Shores
We’re sure you planned plenty of time at the beach, but it’s always nice to try something else whenever you’re ready to wash off the sand. Gulf Shores has plenty of easy options for families, including wildlife viewing, go-karts, outdoor adventures, and more.
Visit The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Ranked the #1 zoo in Alabama for the last two years, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo houses around 118 species, 22 of which are critically endangered. Animals in their care include mammals, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates, giving you plenty of time to interact and explore. They also offer unique experiences, such as tortoise and giraffe feeding, and Destination Madagascar, where you can get close and interact with ring-tailed lemurs.
- Address: 20499 Oak Rd E
- Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Price: $23.95 for Adults (13+) | $15.95 for Children 3-12
- Website
Mini Golf and Go-Karts at Waterville USA
Ride a go-kart, hop down a water slide, and so much more at this amusement and water park! You can also play some mini golf, play some games at the arcade, or splash down over to the water park, where you can ride a simulated 5-foot wave, hop in a wave pool, or plunge down several massive water slides. Maximize your family fun at this 2-in-1 park!
- Address: 906 Gulf Shores Pkwy
- Hours: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Website
Spend the Day at The Wharf
Just under 20 minutes from the shore is this shopping center and entertainment complex! The Wharf houses just about every type of store the whole family could want, from a Build-a-Bear to distilleries, luxury apparel shops, and local goods retailers, just to name a few. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many dining options, and when you’re done, you can check out the rest of what the Wharf has to offer, like its movie theater, laser light show, dolphin cruises, and VR experience. If you pick just one family outing in the Gulf Shores area, this would be your pick!
- Address: 23101 Canal Road
- Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Website
Make Time to Relax at Your Rental
One of the best things about renting a home for a family trip is the comfort and space it can offer. After you return from the beach or outdoor adventures, your rental can provide a nice backdrop for some quality family time.
Quiet moments back at the home base can be just as important as the bigger plans, after all, it’s still a part of the Gulf Shores Vacation experience! Make the most of that downtime for a more fulfilling trip.
Enjoy a Fun Family Meal
Most of our rentals come with fully equipped kitchens, giving you plenty of opportunities to whip up a small feast! Use the kitchen to prepare small bites, snacks, or even large meals at any time of the day.
If you really want to get into the local spirit, take advantage of Gulf Shores’ coastal location and check out some of these fresh fish markets ahead of a seafood dinner:
Plan a Movie or Game Night!
Make some time for your rental amenities and relax with some in-home entertainment. Several of our rentals make it easy for you and the family to enjoy board games, video games, and movies!
Book Your Trip to Gulf Shores!
Featured Properties: Memory Maker at West Lagoon Cottages
Now that you know what the area has to offer, all you have to do is book your stay. Here at Bender Vacation Rentals, we’ll handle all needs around your accommodation, giving you and your family time to form unforgettable memories along the Gulf Coast.
Take your pick of condos by the water, beachfront homes, or a dog-friendly rental! Whatever you’re looking for, we’ll be happy to provide. Book direct with us and take advantage of our latest deals and specials!