Top 10 Gulf Shores, AL Winter Activities
Table of Contents
- Is It Too Cold to Swim in Gulf Shores in Winter
- Is Gulf Shores Nice in the Winter?
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- Fishing
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- Visit the Zoo
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- Boat Tours
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- Dolphin Cruises
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- Sunset Cruises
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- Enjoy a Jumping Experience
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- Ziplining
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- Visit The Wharf
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- Learn Some History
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- Go to the Park
- Top Attractions Year-Round
Is It Too Cold to Swim in Gulf Shores in Winter?
Pictured above is the Gulf Shores coastline.
Yes. The Gulf waters are too chilly for swimming. The average temperatures range from the low 50s to the mid-60s during the winter months. While some adventure seekers may opt to wear heat-retaining swimwear and enjoy the water, most travelers will opt to spend their time ON the water, not IN it. This makes boat tours, boat rentals, and fishing trips ideal for the winter months.
Is Gulf Shores Nice in the Winter?
Pictured above is an aerial view of Gulf Shores.
Yes. Gulf Shores has mild winters making it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities such as fishing, dolphin cruises, zip lining, and more. A winter in Gulf Shores yields dry, sunny weather with average daily high temperatures in the 60s.
The town also offers annual events during winter months that inspire joy and celebrate the holidays. Check out a calendar of events for all the fun going-ons around town.
Top 10 Gulf Shores, AL Winter Activities
Check out some of the best activities to try during cold weather in Gulf Shores.
1. Fishing
Pictured above is a man fishing during sunrise.
It may be chilly, but winter is the perfect time for fun Gulf Shores, AL winter activities like fishing. The summer isn’t the only time to reel in great fish and the winter brings great fishing opportunities along the Gulf Coast. During the winter, the waters are filled with various species of fish such as pompano, redfish, and sheepshead. You can cast a line from the dock or head out on a fun fishing trip with one of the local charters.
Discover all there is to know about the fish of coastal Alabama by checking out our indepth article covering which fish are biting.
{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Fishing Charters Online}
2. Visit the Zoo
Pictured above is Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Image courtesy of alabamagulfcoastzoo.com.
When you’re looking for Gulf Shores, AL winter activities during your vacation, visiting the zoo is a great way to spend the day with your family. It’s a big hit with kids of all ages. In addition to the many types of animals, there are also tons of fun things for kids to do.
Just 6 miles from the beach, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo offers up-close animal encounters that give you the opportunity to gain insights about the fascinating animals in a supervised and safe environment. Some of the exhibits and attractions you will find at this zoo include The Reptile House, The Petting Zoo, and Animal Encounter Exhibits.
3. Boat Tours
Pictured above is a sailing charter journeying through the waters.
During the winter months, boat tours are one of the most popular Gulf Shores, AL winter activities. The boats are comfortable and spacious, so you can enjoy yourself even if it’s cold outside. There’s plenty of room for everyone in your group—including small children! Learn more about the local wildlife as you take in the beautiful sights and sounds while on an exciting adventure. There are plenty of boats to choose from, and the most popular include private boating excursions and dolphin cruises.
{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Boat Tours Online}
4. Dolphin Cruises
Pictured above are dolphins jumping through the waves.
If you’re looking to add to your list of exciting Gulf Shores, AL winter activities, a dolphin cruise will not disappoint. During the winter, these cruises are an ideal way to spend an afternoon with your family! You’ll get a chance to see dolphins up close and personal, and you can learn more about them from your guide. Relax in comfortable seating while listening to an engaging narrative on the local waterways.
{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Dolphin Cruises Online}
5. Sunset Cruises
Pictured above is a woman watching a sunset from a balcony deck.
A sunset cruise gives you the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful waterways. Not only will you see a beautiful sunset dip into the horizon, but you can also learn about the local wildlife. Cruises, like the Orange Beach Private Sunset Cruise, are a great way to spend an evening with the family, and it’s especially popular during the winter months.
{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Sunset Cruises Online}
6. Enjoy a Jumping Experience
Pictured above is a game of air dodgeball at The Factory in Gulf Shores.
A jumping experience is a perfect indoor activity to do during the winter while vacationing in Gulf Shores, AL. This is a great way to get your adrenaline pumping while also having fun. If you’re looking for an activity that will allow you to experience something new and exciting, then this is it!
You will be able to jump from a platform or high dive without having any prior experience. The Factory in Gulf Shores features more than 50 trampolines where you can show off acrobatic tricks, experience air dodgeball, dunk a basketball like a professional athlete, and soar through the air.
{Read Reviews & Book The Factory Jump Experience Online}
7. Ziplining
Pictured above is a zipline ropes course.
Ziplining is a great way to get outside and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Gulf Shores, AL. You can zipline at different locations around the area, including the Hummingbird Zipline Course. This is an experience that you will never forget! You’ll be able to see stunning views from high above the ground. Ziplining is a fun activity that everyone can do whether you are new to rock climbing or have done it before.
8. Visit The Wharf
Pictured above is The Wharf in Orange Beach. Image courtesy of alwharf.com.
The Wharf is the hub of all things entertainment. A popular spot for locals to hang out, you can find a variety of unique shops and delicious Gulf Shores restaurants. Not only can you have an amazing shopping and dining experience, but you can also take a train ride, catch a great movie, or play fun arcade games. Be sure to check out the nightly Spectra Laser Light Experience show.
9. Learn Some History
Pictured above is the Fort Morgan Historical Site.
Gulf Shores, AL is filled with history which can be explained at a variety of museums and historic sites. One of the most well-known museums is the Gulf Shores Museum, which has exhibits that explain the rich history of this area and is one of the top things to do on a rainy day. It is a great place to learn about how Gulf Shores came to be and what life was like in the past. The museum has exhibits that show what life was like in the past. There are also many historic buildings around Gulf Shores that you can visit. One of the most popular is Fort Morgan which is known for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay.
{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Museums Online}
10. Go to the Park
Pictured above is Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Image courtesy of the National Recreational Trails Database.
A visit to the park in the winter gives you the opportunity to connect with nature and get a break from the hustle and bustle of life. The park is also a great place to spend time with your family and friends. There are many things you can do at this park such as biking, exercising, or just enjoying the local nature of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers miles of paved trails where you can enjoy a wealth of outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, jogging, and going for a walk.
Top Attractions Year-Round
For the best attractions in winter, spring, summer, and fall, view our entire list of things to do in Gulf Shores. We also have a full list of helpful articles featuring local hacks, tour info, money saving tips, and up-to-date travel guides covering everything you need to know for your coastal Alabama vacation.