Pristine ivory beaches lined with rolling emerald waves characterize the coastal views of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Championship golf, water and amusement parks, deep sea fishing, sailing, kayaking, ferry rides, snorkeling, and scuba diving are just a few of the activities that visitors can enjoy, and an abundance of recreational facilities and public parks create a welcoming atmosphere that brings families back year after year.

With a year-round population of fewer than 5,000 locals, Gulf Shores, AL offers a taste of small-town Southern hospitality combined with all the amenities of city life. Gulf Shores' many boutiques, galleries, and other retail venues allow vacationers to take home "a piece of the beach," and no one should go home without trying the fresh seafood from one of the many locally-owned restaurants. Lobster, shrimp, salmon, oysters, and a vast array of other fish and shellfish are available at the restaurants, grills, lounges, as well as chain dining establishments in Gulf Shores. With a wide variety of cuisines ranging from Cajun to Asian to Italian, Gulf Shores has something to tempt every taste.

The mild winter climate makes Gulf Shores, Alabama a favorite destination for people trying to escape the winter chills. With average winter temperatures in the high 50's, you can be comfortable whether you're playing golf, tennis, sailing, hiking, bicycling, walking, or even just reclining on the pearly sand on one of the Gulf Shores' many public beaches. Accommodations such as beachfront condominiums, bed and breakfast inns, and hotels ranging from modest to luxurious provide the comfort and ambiance that makes vacations memorable. Short-term monthly condominium rentals are especially popular since they are usually close to all of the most desirable activities and sites and offer the privacy of a home away from home.

Alabama's Gulf Coast is separated into two primary beach areas, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Between the two is the 6,000 acre, resort-style Gulf State Park, which features a hotel, convention facilities, cabins, campgrounds, tennis, fishing, boating, golfing, hiking, and biking trails. And, of course, the main draws are the sugar-white sand and warm coastal waters drifting in from the Gulf of Mexico.

Surrounding towns and cities such as Mobile, Fort Morgan, Oyster Bay, Perdido Beach, Pensacola, FL, and Panama City, FL, offer additional shopping, restaurants, and cultural activities that families can enjoy as they tour along the Gulf coast. Ferry rides, museums, tours, and children's programs are available at most sites of interest. And since many families travel on a budget, a majority of the activities and events are very affordable - even during peak season.

Perhaps the most alluring attraction that the Gulf Shores, AL area offers is its rich cultural history. Long before Alabama was admitted to statehood in 1819, natives and settlers competed for its abundant natural resources and coastal access. Fort Morgan, just a little over 20 miles west of Gulf Shores, saw activity as early as the 1500s and was used to defend the US coastline through World War II. A popular attraction for historians and touring families, Fort Morgan offers visitors a glimpse of one of America's most famous defense strongholds.

The seasonal festivals and celebrations along the Gulf shores reflect the patriotism that develops with centuries of involvement in national defense. Gulf Shores' Memorial and Labor Day Bar-B-Q's held at the American Legion and multiple Independence Day festivals are holidays that inspire travelers from all over the country. The region's historical significance, striking landscape, varied activities and abundance of amenities for vacationers of every type make Gulf Shores a perfect year-round travel destination.

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