Gulf Shores, Alabama, located on the north central shores of the Gulf of Mexico, offers many activities for those seeking a vacation spot near the coast. Not only does the white sand beckon visitors, but the golf courses, shopping, bird watching and historical sites also entertain guests to the area. Family fun is plentiful here, as there is something for all age ranges and tastes.
For family fun, spend a few hours at the Pirates Island Adventure Golf. Much more than an average miniature golf course, here guests will play amongst treasure caves, waterfalls and caves full of hidden treasures. Beware of ghost ships and pirate hideouts.
Pirates Island
3201 Gulf Shores Pkwy.
Gulf Shores, AL
251-968-4653
piratesislandgolf.com
Just 17 minutes away from Gulf Shores, the Dolphin Cruises Aboard the Cold Mil Fleet guarantee that guests will see dolphins either jump, surf or roll every time they take their cruises. Ride aboard one of the 50-foot reconditioned navy boats for an hour and one-half tour in the inland waters of the Gulf coast. The goal of Dolphin Cruises is to have dolphins surf alongside the boat for guests' viewing pleasure. Guests are welcome to bring coolers aboard the boats, which are partially shaded and have restrooms aboard.
Dolphin Cruises Aboard the Cold Mil Fleet
5749 Bay La Launch Avenue
Orange Beach, AL
251-943-3510
dolphincruises.com
Open daily with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has more than 300 animals on exhibit. Just blocks from the beach, the zoo is conveniently located in Gulf Shores. Open since 1989, first under the name of Zooland Animal Park, there are now macaws, lions, bears, monkeys, tigers and many more species. There is a reptile house, aviary, animal shows daily in the summer season and a petting zoo for the children.
Several behind-the-scenes encounters are offered at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo to get guests even closer to the animals. Each encounter has an additional, yet reasonable, charge on top of the ticket price. In the Outback Encounter baby Red Kangaroos are brought out to meet visitors. The Tiger Encounter affords guests the opportunity to get close to Snowy Bengal tiger cubs. At the Wolf Encounter see baby wolves, and at the Lemur Encounter guests are greeted by four Ruffed Lemurs.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
251-968-4910
alabamagulfcoastzoo.org
