Whether you’re a ‘snowbird’ heading south for the winter, or just finally taking that well deserved vacation, everyone deserves to have a nice, relaxing stay at Gulf Shores: a home away from home. Here are a few fun things that seniors can look forward to on their vacation to a 'whole different state of amazing’.
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What to do in Gulf Shores: A Guide for Seniors
1. Golf on the Gulf
Golf is a great activity for you to relax and stay active at a low-impact level. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer a variety of different championship golf courses to check out. At Rock Creek Golf Club, you can golf like the pros, or even take lessons on a hilltop practice tee. Bringing the family along? Not a problem: Rock Creek offers a complete lunch menu and a banquet picnic area. If you aren’t feeling a full day of golf, you can head over to the Orange Beach Golf Center & Driving Range to go out for 9 holes, all set a par three.
2. Hit the Beach
Not a big fan of the cold? Head down to Gulf Shores to spend the winter in the warmth. Gulf Shores offers many fun events for ‘Snow Birds’ including Mardi Gras events, and beach trips and tours. You can even check out one of the Senior Centers in the area to participate in card games, and even make new friends! Take a walk down the beach with people who have traveled south for the same reasons as you have. You’ll bond, and form great friendships that make it hard to return home in the spring!
3. Shop 'Til You Drop!
At Gulf Shores, you can find souvenirs for the grand kids, some artwork for the house, or even a nice new necklace to wear. There are a multitude of shops in the area that offer everything from seafood to sporting goods. You and some of your new friends can get in a van, and spend the day out at the shops! It’s a great way to bond, as well as discover some places that may draw you back to the area next year.
4. Boat Along the Coast
Still got your sea legs? Orange Beach Marina Inc. has everything you’ll need for day trip out on the water. You can take your own boat out, or you can hop on one of the sightseeing tours they have running that day. Once it’s time to eat, you can head back to shore and enjoy food from one of the two restaurants they have on site. Need a place to keep your boat? ICC Marine is ready for you. They offer a boat ramp, dry storage, and even do repairs and services. A nice day out on the coast is a great and safe way to relax in the sun.
5. Fish at the Pier
If you don’t want to spend your days out on a boat, Gulf Shores State Pier is the place for you. There’s plenty of room outdoors for you to relax and set up your fish hut, as well as a nice indoor seating area that holds concessions, and a retail store that offers more tackle and some cool souvenirs. You’ll be catching those anglerfish along the pier within minutes!
6. Relax at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
The Bon Secour refuge is open year round, and serves as a great place to clear your mind and enjoy the serenity of nature. Whether you are feeling active and want to go on one of the guided hikes through the refuge, or just want to observe your surrounds and take pictures of wildlife, you will be sure to enjoy your time at this refuge. This refuge is one of Alabama’s last remaining undisturbed habitats, so be sure to check this out when you go visit.
7. Explore the Gulf Shores Museum
Get in touch with the history of Gulf Shores by checking out this nice house museum. You can experience life in a hurricane with the “hurricane hunters” and their interactive display, or walk around and look at the wonderful permanent and special exhibits. There are events made for adults and kids, so if you decided to bring the family along, there is fun ensured for everyone!
This article was written by Kellyn Nettles.