Condos & Vacation Rentals in Gulf Shores

By Air

The nearest major airport to Gulf Shores is Pensacola International Airport, which receives domestic flights from Florida and other nearby destinations. The airport lies 40 miles from Gulf Shores' city center. The second major airport is the Mobile Regional Airport, which is 70 miles from Gulf Shores.

By Car

1. Interstate 65

This highway intersects with Alabama Highway 59, which leads directly to Gulf Shores. If you are driving from Bon Secour, it is best to use the West Interstate 65 highway. It will take you just over an hour to reach Gulf Shores.

2. The Baldwin Beach Express

This four-lane road which begins at Interstate 10 can be accessed via Exit 10 and leads to a toll bridge to Gulf Shores.

3. Interstate 10

If you are driving from Daphne, you can access Gulf Shores through Interstate 10 which also intersects with Alabama Highway 59 and leads directly to Gulf Shores.

When it comes to seafood, the cuisine in Gulf Shores 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 favorite when it comes to oysters is the lovely, family-owned Murder Point Oyster.

The best time to visit Gulf Shores is during the shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall. 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 being less crowded compared to the 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.

In Gulf Shores, the possibilities are practically endless when it comes to natural attractions. 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 just a beginner, why not fit in a few rounds as part of your vacation? Shopaholics will be kept busy in Gulf Shores, where 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.

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.

1. Dauphin Island

Even the journey to Dauphin Island is memorable, as you'll take a short ferry ride from Fort Morgan to this Alabama barrier island. Vacationers come here to escape it all and to enjoy the miles of unspoiled beaches. You'll also find the informative Estuarium Aquarium and the peaceful Audubon Bird Sanctuary, making this a top choice for wildlife lovers and families.

2. Gulf Shores Public Beach

This beach is a big hit with locals and vacationers who flock here to relax, sunbathe and enjoy games of volleyball.

3. West Beach

This is a great choice for people looking for a quieter beach to relax on. There's plenty of space for kids to explore, while the beach is within walking distance of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Combine the zoo and beach to make a fun family day out.

4. Orange Beach

This eight mile beach is ideal for families, being a hub for water sports. The beach features an artificial reef and a picnic area at the Waterfront Park. Kids and grown-ups alike will love fishing from the pier.

5. Fort Morgan and Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge comprises miles of rolling dunes, white sand beaches, nature walks and trails which make it an ideal choice for nature lovers. Alligators, birdlife, sea turtles, and the rare Alabama Beach Mouse are amongst the wildlife here.

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 if you bump into foxes, coyotes, bobcats, or even 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 rental and get ready for an unforgettable trip with beaches, history, delicious cuisine, and more. A Gulf Shores condo rental also gives you comfort and privacy, so that you can concentrate on having a great, stress-free time in the sun.

1. Mardi Gras

Taking place early in March of each year, Gulf Shores' Mardi Gras is a festival that you have to experience at least once in your lifetime. The family-friendly festival features colorful parades and if you want to, you can dress up and dance along to the amazing live performances.

2. National Shrimp Festival

A mainstay on the Alabama events calendar for almost 50 years, the National Shrimp Festival is a four-day entertainment extravaganza that takes place each October. Expect live music, children's entertainment, crafts stalls, races and of course, shrimp served in various forms.

3. Hangout Music Festival

This exciting three-day live-music festival takes place each May and sees the public beaches of Gulf Shores transformed into a paradise for fans of pop, indie, electronic dance music and rap. Dance to your favourite acts while soaking up the sun and friendly atmosphere.

1. The Park at OWA

Thrill seekers will love rides such as the Rollin' Thunder roller coaster and the adrenaline-inducing Twister ride that will have you spinning 360 degrees in various directions. Small children are kept entertained too by the abundance of fun rides for little ones, including the Happy Haulers truck ride. You'll also find a number of classic family rides too.

When you feel like taking a break from all the thrilling rides, be sure to catch one of the exciting live performances, which fuse music, magic, comedy and more.

2. 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.

3. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Bon Secour, meaning "safe harbor" 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.

4. 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.

5. Gulf State Park Fishing Pier

The second longest pier on the Gulf of Mexico is also Alabama’s only public pier on the Gulf. There's enough space for fishing along the rails, making it a popular spot for anglers.

6. Gulf State Park

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