The pristine white sands and turquoise-blue waters of Gulf Shores are some of the most beautiful in the country, but that is not all the Coastal Alabama area has to offer. Although it may be tempting to sit on the balcony of your rental all day, or curl up with a book on the beach, if you really want to get to know Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, get outdoors and explore!
Hit the Trails
Catman Road, which runs through the Gulf State Park into Orange Beach. Part of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, the road is so named for the Native American legend of the Catman that is said to inhabit the woods surrounding the paved nature trail through the park.
Many have traveled the trails by foot and bicycle and have never seen this Catman, but what they do find is beautiful winding trails meandering under towering live oak trees, past sand dunes, plus a lake suitable for canoeing. These trails are peaceful, easily-accessed, and perfect for anyone wanting to discover the real beauty of Gulf Shores away from the beach. There is no charge to enter the park and enjoy the trails—so bring your camera and comfortable shoes because the Backcountry Trail is a beautiful destination that is not to be missed.
Hit the Water
If you want above-the-water fun, Southern Rose can send you soaring with a parasailing thrill. You can soar solo or in tandem with a friend or even a triple ride as you reach heights up to 800 feet. Be sure to call first to discussion the age and weight restrictions. And then get ready to see the coast from a truly special vantage point.
Kayaks, jet skis and paddleboards, banana boat rides, and water trikes – the water sports list just keeps going at Southern Rose. Basically, if you want to have fun on the water, they are your one stop shop for all your rental needs and for your dolphin cruises. Oh… and dinner cruises. Truly, the list keeps going.
Hit the Stores
Just a quick drive north from the beach, you can spend an entire day shopping at Tanger Outlets in Foley. Want to update your wardrobe? There are more than 50 apparel stores to explore. Need shoes to go with those new clothes? Tanger Outlets has more than 25 shops with shoes! Shopping for the kids? You’ll find plenty of places for children’s apparel and toys, too. Need something for the house? Jewelry? Cosmetics or perfume? Bath items or candles? You can find them all at Tanger Outlets.
If you haven’t booked your vacation yet, be sure to check out our Hot Deals on beachfront condos.