Alabama delivers an idyllic vacation experience thanks to its gorgeous natural landscape, easy access to the Gulf, and charming southern hospitality. Whether you’re looking to surprise your partner with a romantic escape or treat your family to a laid-back holiday, the Yellowhammer State has something for every occasion. Here are three of the state’s most beloved vacation spots and what each offers.

Gulf Shores

Lulu’s Gulf Shores

Treat your taste buds to sumptuous coastal culinary delights at Lulu’s Gulf Shores. Enjoy several starters and snacks, such as fried crab claws, spinach & artichoke blue crab dip, and smoked tuna dip. The restaurant’s favorites include the Key West bowl, tacos, and a shrimp and grits combo served in Tasso with tomato cream sauce. Explore seven entrees, including jumbo shrimp, Mahi Mahi, fried oysters, and chicken tenders, then finish the meal with a tasty slice of key lime pie, a brownie, or Krispy Kreme bread pudding. There’s also a kids’ menu with cheeseburgers, fried fish, fried shrimp, and macaroni & cheese.

Parasailing on the Gulf

Parasailing is one of the most exciting water activities in the Gulf, allowing you to soar hundreds of feet, creating the perfect vantage point to take in the lovely coastal views. Blue Sky Parasailing and Watersports offers heart-throbbing two or three-person parasailing flights off Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The company’s United States Coast Guard captains employ modern equipment, ensuring a fun and safe experience for you and your loved ones. Each flight lasts six to eight minutes, offering enough time to relish the gorgeous sights. Kids as young as three can enjoy the flights, making it ideal for wholesome family fun.

Orange Beach

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Traverse through Alabama’s beautiful landscape on the famous 28-mile Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter nine unique ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, coastal dunes, hardwood swamps, sand ridges, and freshwater marshes. The easiest way to explore is on two wheels as you meander through lovely lanes lined with majestic oaks, pines, and denser deer moss. While peddling through, you may see several local wildlife species, such as bobcats, whitetail deer, bald eagles, or alligators.

Fat Daddy’s Arcade

Treat your little ones to an exciting day at Fat Daddy’s Arcade and relish the thrill of one of Orange Beach’s most beloved attractions. The arcade has over 80 of the newest game options, in addition to classic favorites, offering a fun-filled and interactive gaming experience. Choose from four card offers, including the 250, 115, 55, and single-point cards, allowing you to enjoy any game. Choose from favorites like Jurassic Park, Terminator Salvation, Fruit Ninja, The Walking Dead, and Fast Track. Fat Daddy’s Arcade opens daily from noon to 9 PM and features a kid-friendly menu of fountain drinks, pizza, and ice cream.

Fort Morgan

Gulf State Park

Connect with Alabama’s lovely outdoors at Gulf State Park and indulge in multiple riveting activities. Hit the beach via the Romar Beach Access and enjoy a day by the water’s edge, then settle down for a delightful picnic at the Lake Shelby picnic area. Test your exploration skills on a geocaching adventure, or unleash your inner angler at Lake Shelby. The park has 29 miles of well-paved routes and boardwalks, allowing for relaxing bike rides or strolls in distinct ecosystems. If you’re looking for a riveting night in Alabama’s beautiful open-air, Gulf State Park offers 496 campsites with modern bathhouses, full hookups, water, electricity, and pedestal grills.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Spend time at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and meet over 300 animals in several exhibits. Get up close with sloths at the Animal Adventure exhibit, view gigantic snakes at The Reptile House, or meet Chuckie, an American alligator who’s the zoo’s most senior inhabitant. The zoo spans over 25 acres, offering ample animal space and other amenities, including an on-site restaurant, picnic areas, and a gift shop. Whether you want a laid-back stroll with your little ones or an informative experience with older kids, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has the perfect blend of fun and educational adventures.

Book Your Alabama Vacation Rental Today

Alabama promises the vacation experience of a lifetime, thanks to its abundance of indoor and outdoor attractions. As you prepare for your Alabama escape, look to Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals for the best holiday lodging. We offer numerous luxurious vacation properties, from one-bed rentals for solo travelers or couples to large five-bed properties that accommodate up to 17 guests. Our vacation rentals feature ample amenities, including cozy, well-decked living rooms, plush bedrooms with clean bedding, modern bathrooms, and easy beach access, promising a hassle-free vacation adventure. Contact us today to secure your Alabama vacation rental and enjoy a memorable escape to this cherished holiday spot.