Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, are not just known for their beautiful beaches and warm summer days. The fall season brings a unique charm to this Gulf Coast paradise, with milder weather and a variety of activities to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip to the area during the autumn months, you’re in for a treat. Our family has enjoyed the perfect weather that comes this time of the year. Explore these nine fantastic things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach during the fall season. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Explore the Beaches and Lake Shelby
The beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are stunning year-round, but fall offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience. With temperatures in the 70s and 80s, the weather is perfect for long walks, picnics, and beachcombing. You can even dip your toes in the still-warm Gulf of Mexico waters or simply relax on the sugar-white sands. We stayed at Eagle Cottages at Gulf State Park, and Lake Shelby is stunning this time of the year.
Wildlife Watching
Fall is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The area is home to diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and marshes, making it an ideal habitat for birds and other wildlife. Visit the Gulf State Park, where you can view the eagles or even some warblers. My favorite treat was seeing my first armadillo ever! If mobility is an issue or you are short on time, you can also drive the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail along the coast with binoculars and see a plethora of wildlife and birds.
Deep Sea Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, the fall season is a great time to visit. The waters are teeming with a variety of fish, including redfish, flounder, and speckled trout. You can charter a boat and go deep-sea fishing or try your luck from the many piers and docks in the area. The Gulf State Park pier is less crowded in the fall but still one of the best places to cast a line from the shore. We have fished from the pier but have not gone deep-sea fishing in the Gulf yet, however, it is on my Gulf Shores, Alabama, bucket list!
Check Out the Fall Festivals
The fall season in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offers a wide range of festivals and events. Check out the Annual National Shrimp Festival, where you can enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and, of course, delicious Gulf shrimp. Additionally, there are oyster cook-offs and Oktoberfest celebrations! Fall Festivals in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Go Biking and Hiking in Gulf State Park
Explore the natural beauty of the region by taking a bike ride along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. This extensive network of trails winds through various ecosystems and is perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. This is one place you will find me at least a few times while I am visiting Gulf Shores, Alabama. Stunning surprises await around every corner and ecosystem in the park. Rent a bike from Beach Bike Rentals or use one of the free bikes peppered throughout the state park.
Grab a Tee Time and Go Golfing
The Gulf Coast is home to some fantastic golf courses, and the cooler fall weather is perfect for hitting the links. The Craft Farms Golf Resort and the Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club are just a couple of the options for golf enthusiasts. While I am not a big golfer, I love the beautiful courses that are found here. Best golf courses in Gulf Shores are listed here.
Get Wet with Watersports
It might surprise you that fall is a great time for watersports in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. You can try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet-skiing. The calmer waters and pleasant weather make it an excellent season for enjoying these activities. Kayaks can be rented at Lake Shelby, and if you want to go on the gulf, rent from Happy Harbor Watersports.
Best Dining and Seafood on the Gulf
The local cuisine in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a must-try, and fall is the perfect time to indulge. Enjoy fresh Gulf seafood at waterfront restaurants, and don’t miss the chance to savor dishes like shrimp and grits, gumbo, and delicious oysters. If there is one thing that keeps me returning to this part of Alabama, it is the food scene. No trip is complete until I have had some smoked fish dip from Lulu’s or a basket of crab claws from GT’s on the Bay.
Relax and Unwind on the Gulf in Southern Alabama
Getting away in the fall in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach provides an opportunity to unwind and take in the beautiful surroundings. Whether you choose to lounge on the beach, enjoy a sunset, or simply take a leisurely drive along the coast, the serene atmosphere is sure to rejuvenate your spirit. Take a dolphin cruise with Cetacean Dolphin and Sailing Cruises to see these sweet mammals playing in the backwaters, or get your Jimmy Buffet vibes going on with Hammock Time Tiki Tours.
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, offer a unique and vibrant fall experience that goes beyond the typical beach vacation. With cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and a wide range of activities and events, this Gulf Coast destination is perfect for a memorable autumn getaway. So, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking to relax by the water, there’s something for everyone during the fall season in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Plan your trip and experience the magic of the Gulf Coast in the fall.
Happy Road Trips!
Brandy
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