We don't know about you, but when we are planning our beach vacations - we like to make sure we plan to spend time exploring local spots and restaurants. The local hidden gems you don't want to miss! It's always fun to think like the locals, and it might even have you planning to move down here yourself. Here are some of our favorites.
1. Visit Lake Shelby at the Gulf State Park
This 900-acre freshwater lake is perfect for swimming, paddling, fishing, and kayaking. Large oak trees shade picnic pavilions with nice, soft waves perfect for stand-up paddling. Try a little something different than a day on the beach and visit one of our favorite local freshwater spots.
2. Drink Coffee at the Southern Grind
One of the best spots for getting your caffine fix is Southern Grind in Orange Beach, a unique spot known for its colorful design, artisan coffee, and friendly vibes. You'll want to stay all day, chat with other visitors, and soak in the the atmosphere and freshly-brewed coffee. They even have an amazing selection for breakfast and lunch as well!
3. Slow Down & Take in a Round of Golf
While many tourists take the time to hit up the hot spots for putt-putt golf - instead join the locals by taking in a round of actual golf at some of our favorite spots.
4. Cook Your Catch
Catching fish is fun, but not everyone knows how to turn the day's big catch into a tasty dinner. If you've been out fishing, you can bring the day's big catch to many local chefs, and they will prepare it for you! Here are some of the best local restaurants that offer this option for you: Bill's by the Beach, Cobalt the Restaurant, Fin & Fork, Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina, Playa Restaurant, Villagio Grille, and Flora-Bama Yacht Club.
5. Explore the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
This trail has more than 15 miles of hiking, cycling, and running trails perfect for those of you with an inner explorer. Trails are paved - but each has a unique character. From tall pines and lovely magnolias to marshes, the trails run from Gulf Shores to Orange Beach. There's even a hub where the trails meet with a butterfly garden and a park!
6. Visit the Rum Sisters for Tasty Treats
You can't miss out on indulging in a slice of cake (or two!) from the Rum Sisters in Orange Beach. These award-winning cakes and treats are created with a special rum infusion, and they will be the most moist and delicious cake you've ever tasted. If you love it so much you want to take some home (and we're sure you will) - no worries! They ship nationwide all year long.
7. Pet the Sting Rays at Dauphin Island Sea Lab
The Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is an exciting educational public aquarium highlighting the Mobile Tensaw River Delta, Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands and the Northern Gulf of Mexico. It includes the 10,000 square foot Exhibit Hall, a 7,000 gallon sting ray touch pool, and the Living Marsh Boardwalk. It has 31 aquariums with over 30,000 gallons with more than 100 species.
8. Indulge in Ice Cream from COASTAL Gulf Shores
This family-friendly ice cream spot owned by the same owners of the Flora-Bama has unique and delicious flavors for everyone’s sweet tooth. From mason jar milkshakes to smooth sundaes and splits to waffle cones, you can’t go wrong with a trip to COASTAL.
What are you waiting for? Enjoy the beach like the locals and really take in Gulf Coast living!