Boomer Destinations: Gulf Shores AL
By Tim Trudell
Sweet Home Alabama takes on a new meaning when talking about Gulf Shores.
Whatever your view of Alabama – college football power to epicenter of the civil rights movement – one trip to Gulf Shores and you’ll have a completely different view of the state.
Hugging the Gulf of Mexico, centrally located between Pensacola, Florida, and Mobile, Gulf Shores invites visitors to slow down and enjoy life, walking along the beach, peacefully watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon.
Sunsets are a nightly ritual. The sky shifts through shades of orange. Who needs Hawaii or the Caribbean when you can enjoy a quiet walk along the beach as waves wash on to shore and flitter back into the Gulf?
While sunsets are a perfect cap to each day, it doesn’t take long to understand why travelers return to the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area year after year.
The area blends beautiful beaches with wildlife experiences and outdoor recreation, as well as some mouthwatering delicious seafood.
Gulf Shores nature
When exploring the Gulf Shores area, the water is obviously the main draw. Besides walks along the beach, consider a Gulf cruise to view marine life, such as dolphins. The Gulf of Mexico’s temperatures attract dolphins, which can often be seen surfacing near boats, seemingly on cue. Birds of all types call the area home, including pelicans, loons, seagulls and herons.
Enjoy checking out more than 118 species of animals, including 22 on the endangered list, at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, which covers 25 acres. Named Alabama’s top zoo two years in the running, the 37-year-old Gulf Shores Zoo is home to unique animals, such as the Patagonian Mara. Resembling a kangaroo or wallaby, the Patagonian Mara, critically endangered, is the fourth largest rodent in the world, and only found in the Argentine grasslands.
Other animals at the zoo include spider monkeys, lemurs, Eurasia lynx, Red River hogs, camels, lions and Cuban iguanas.
Consider participating in one of the zoo’s five animal encounters. A memorable experience includes feeding lemurs as part of the Destination Madagascar Adventure. The playful primates eagerly accept grapes and biscuits, while guests learn more about the animals and their habitats.
Nature lovers will enjoy taking in views of birds, frogs and other animals residing at Gulf Shores Wetlands Nature Park. A gravel path loops around a fishing pond, complete with benches, gazebos and a fishing pier.
Enjoy a stroll along walking and bicycle trails, such as the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail – Cotton Bayou Trailhead. Offering scenic views, the park features miles of paved paths that wind through woods, wetlands and coastal landscapes.
The Jeff Friend Trail, where sounds of birds and rustling trees replace the hustle of everyday life, is an excellent choice for an E-bike experience. As you alternate between peddling and zipping along, the trail offers impressive views of the Gulf’s coast.
Beach culture
Of course, if a person wants to relax and enjoy time in the water, a visit to the beach covers those bases. Plant a blanket or chaise lounge, maybe pop an umbrella, and enjoy a refreshing drink as you soak in the rays and views. Want to build a sand castle?
Gulf Shores isn’t without its culture.
Art enthusiasts enjoy a visit to the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach. The center features an art gallery, along with several working studios, where visitors can watch artists at work. One of the highlights is the glass-blowing studio, where glass is shaped into colorful works of art. Visitors can even sign up for classes and create their own blown-glass pieces.
Local cuisine
A visit to Alabama’s coast wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local seafood.
Coastal delicacies, such as crab claws, shrimp and grits, top the menu at The Tin Top Restaurant and Oyster Bar. Another memorable eatery is OSO at Bear Point Harbor, a laid-back local favorite, serving great food with beautiful harbor views. For dining with a view and live music, Coastal Orange Beach offers beach access and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Enjoy a nostalgic experience at Sunliner Diner, where servers dress in 1950s-style uniforms, and classic cars are displayed both inside and outside the diner. Guests even have the option to dine while sitting a vintage vehicle.
Of course, touristy foods are available, including gourmet hot dogs, fresh donuts and shaved ice. Things we all seek on vacation.
With plenty of hotels, air bnbs and condos available to rent, you’ll be hard-pressed not to find a comfortable stay.
Getting there
Getting to Gulf Shores from Omaha has gotten easier. One of the perks of Omaha’s airport expansion is more flight choices. Instead of having to fly into Pensacola and then rent a car up drive to Gulf Shores, you can now fly directly to the community’s airport via Allegiant airline.
Mixing southern charm with a little Cajun feel and beach life, Gulf Shores is a great getaway for food, drink, activities and music.
Remember, regardless of what you do during the day, you’ve got the soft, white sands of the Gulf to enjoy a sunset stroll.
