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Sometimes spontaneous Christmas trips are the best. These are the trips that show you that you don’t need a ton of advanced planning to make something amazing come together. All you need is the right destination, and soon the plans start taking shape. That’s what happens when you start planning a last-minute Christmas vacation to Gulf Shores. The area has much to see and do during the holidays. Switch up your holiday routine and spend time with family and friends by the beaches of Gulf Shores this Christmas.

pet-friendly Gulf Shores vacation

Why Spend Christmas in Gulf Shores

The real question to ask is why not spend Christmas in Gulf Shores? Even though having a white Christmas is popular, there should be songs written about a Gulf Shores Christmas. Escape the winter chill and spend your holidays in the warm breezes of Gulf Shores.

The area has a variety of festivities happening, like light shows, parades and markets. But the crowds of summer have thinned out, and it feels like a scene out of a coastal Hallmark movie – you know the ones! Bring the whole family down and start making new holiday traditions. Spend a little time reflecting on the good things you have as the new approaches. Gulf Shores is the perfect destination for planning a last-minute Christmas vacation.

Packing for the Weather

The winter weather in Gulf Shores is mild, with the average high temperatures getting into the mid-60s. It’s usually dry and sunny, perfect for visiting holiday attractions, sitting by the beach, and checking out new restaurants.

When packing for your last-minute Christmas vacation to Gulf Shores, it’s wise to layer up. You don’t need a winter parka, but you should bring a warm coat and sweaters for the evenings. Don’t forget to consider some festive outfits for holiday dinners or activities. And if your accommodations include a hot tub (like many from Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals do) then you might want to throw in a swimsuit just in case!

Christmas Festivities in Gulf Shores and Beyond

Even if you’re planning this trip at the last minute, there’s much fun to be had during a Christmas in Gulf Shores. Visit the historic gardens of the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, which puts on a Magic Christmas in Lights show every year. During this event, over three million twinkling lights illuminate the walkways and greenery creating a spectacular sight.

Another favorite is the Christmas Tree Lighting and Drone Show at The Wharf. Drones take to the skies over Orange Beach to create amazing holiday scenes. Live music, holiday treats and other winter activities make this one of the top holiday attractions in Gulf Shores.

For an activity that’s unique to the Gulf Coast, visit the Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade. Here, a fleet of holiday decorated boats takes off from the Homeport Marina and glides along the canal. Find the right spot along the shore to watch as the boats light up the night.

And we can’t forget to mention the most amazing introduction of Santa ever happening at the Flora-Bama’s Annual Santa Drop. During this event, Santa literally drops to Gulf Shores from a parachute onto the beach. It’s a one of a kind, family-friendly event follows up with photos with Santa and live entertainment. The party doesn’t stop and continues with the Flora-Bama Christmas Day Potluck. This annual tradition brings the community together over homemade dishes and beautiful beach views.

Find the Perfect Christmas Rental in Gulf Shores

What really helps your last-minute Christmas vacation to Gulf Shores take shape is choosing the right accommodations. Last minute doesn’t mean you have to snag the only accommodations in town. Go with a vacation rental company like Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals that has an assortment of rentals available this Christmas.

These rentals are designed to feel like home. Decorate as you would your own. Exchange gifts on Christmas morning in the comfort of your living area or from your private balcony with a view. Cook your traditional Christmas recipes from inside the kitchen of your rental. Have a holiday movie marathon on Christmas Eve to get you excited for the following day. Not only will you get to enjoy all your personal traditions, but you’ll get to make new ones since your rental keeps you central to all the holiday events in Gulf Shores. What more could you ask for this year?

Book Your Christmas Getaway with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals

Give yourself and the ones you love the gift of new holiday experiences. Get started planning your last-minute Christmas vacation to Gulf Shores. Your Christmas traditions just got a whole lot more fun in Gulf Shores. Book your Christmas rental in Gulf Shores with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals today!