The great outdoors of Gulf Shores, Alabama is calling all adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and naturalists.  Come discover the peaceful quiet of the backwaters or maybe an exhilarating day on the high seas, Gulf Shores has the perfect outdoor adventure waiting for you, even it is strolling on the boardwalk.  We have compiled ten great outdoor adventures to connect with nature and discovering a new side of Gulf Shores.  This post is in partnership with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism to encourage you to #KeepOnSummering.  As always, opinions are my 100% own.

Rent A Bike And Take On The Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trail

The Hugh Branyon Backcountry trail is the ideal way to experience the quieter side of Gulf Shores. The trail winds visitors through towering pines, around freshwater lakes and marshy swamps.  Interpretive signs can be found throughout the trail identifying local flora and fauna.  There are plenty of places to rent bikes in Gulf Shores, we recommend renting them here. The Rosemary trailhead is located roughly 30 yards away from the store.

Catch Sight Of Our Feathered Friends While Birding at The Audubon Bird Sanctuary

The serenity of bird watching is one enjoyed by many. Gulf Shores is known as a premier birding destination with over 400 species visiting the coast each year.  Birding is especially popular during migration in the spring and fall.  A visit to the Audubon Bird Sanctuary on Dauphin Island is a must for any avid birder. It’s time to grab those binoculars for a spectacular birding adventure.

Kayak the Backwaters of Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge

Take a morning spending time kayaking the backwaters of Gulf Shores at the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge. Escape the crowds by discovering this little piece of coastal wilderness.  A wide variety of wildlife can be observed including alligators so keep your eyes open. Kayaks can be rented by an outside company and dropped off at the location of your choice. Join a Wild Native Kayaking Tour to enjoy a guided tour of the backwaters.

Greet The Day With A Hike At Gulf State Park

Is there a better way to start the day than with a hike at Gulf State Park? Gulf State Park encompasses many ecosystems that are home to a variety of different wildlife and landscapes. With 2.5 miles of beach, a gorgeous nature trail and three freshwater lakes this is the ideal place to start any day.

Enroll In Sand Castle University To Wow Fellow Beachgoers

The white sandy beaches of Gulf Shores are what draw many to this area yearly.  Take your beach experience to the next level by enrolling in Sand Castle University. In no time you will be creating works of art that beachgoers will stop to admire.  This is not only entertaining but educational. You will now be able to take this newfound knowledge and apply it to any beach!

Play A Round Of Golf At The Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club

Looking for a great place to tee off during your visit to Gulf Shores? The Penisula Golf and Racquet Club is open to the public and welcomes golfers year-round.  Their 27-hole championship golf course has been featured in Golf Advisor as one of the top ten best-conditioned courses in the US.   Visit their website to schedule a tee time.

Step Back In History With A Tour Of Fort Morgan

Historians and military buffs will fall in love with Fort Morgan. This historic fort played a vital role in protecting the Gulf for many years up until the 1940s.  It is been transformed into a historic site and contains a park, beach, nature trails, and a museum in addition to Fort Morgan.  Take a guided or self-guided tour of the fort to learn more about its historic significance.  Here are some tips for visiting Fort Morgan.

Catch The Big One While On A Deep Sea Fishing Charter

Hop aboard one of Gulf Shores many fishing charters to catch some of the biggest fish in the Gulf of Mexico! Many of the fishing charters offer dolphin cruises and a variety of other great adventures if deep sea fishing isn’t for you.

Attend One Of Gulf Shores Renowned Festivals

It comes as no surprise that Gulf Shores is home to a great shrimp festival.  Many people flock to Gulf Shores to get a taste of the culinary delights that are being served. Seafood festivals, Oyster Bakes and Music Festivals happen year-round so be sure to check the Gulf Shores event calendar to plan accordingly.

Enjoy A Sunset Picnic On The Beach

A trip to Gulf Shores is not complete without spending an evening watching the sky come ablaze as the sun dips below the sea.  Make this memorable moment even more magical with a sunset picnic.  Swing by one of the many local markets, order carry-out or take advance of ordering an outdoor picnic from Picnic Beach.  This is a budget-friendly way to get waterfront dining without the wait.

There are tons of great outdoor adventures awaiting in Gulf Shores and Orange beach.  Be sure to check out our Gulf Shores Bucket List to add even more great attractions and activities to your itinerary.

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Outdoor Adventures In Gulf Shores