You are here

5 Ways to Spend a Summer Day in Gulf Shores

Booked a Gulf Shores vacation rental and trying to start brainstorming some activities? Whether your ideal summer vacation includes spending days at the beach, at the water park, or exploring a local zoo (or all of the above), you're sure to find the perfect way to make memories with your family you'll never forget!

1. Spend a Day at the Beach

A gorgeous dune at Gulf State Park

Of course, when you think of Gulf Shores, you think of the beach! Throw on your swimsuit, grab the sunscreen, and pack a beach towel to enjoy a day on the white sand beaches that can be found in Gulf Shores. For the ultimate easy beach day book a Gulf Shores beachfront rental to have the sand just steps away from your door! Or, head into Gulf State Park to enjoy 2 miles of beaches along with Lake Shelby and trails for hiking and biking.

2. Learn About Wildlife at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

A little boy looks out at an exhibit in the zoo

If you have had enough sand and sunshine, then head to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo! Home to over 500 animals, this family-friendly attraction is the perfect place to get in tune with nature. Visit the petting zoo for an up close and personal encounter or attend a live show to learn more from the zookeepers themselves!

3. OWA Amusement Park

A mother and son ride an amusement ride

The whole family can enjoy thrills and rides at the OWA Amusement Park! From the more intense coasters like Rollin' Thunder to the family-friendly Southern Express ride, you're sure to enjoy a day exploring this local amusement park. The new Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park is opening in mid-summer 2022 and OWA anticipates even more water slides opening in the future. Head to this local amusement park for family fun and more! If you prefer to hit the shops rather than ride the coasters, explore the boutiques that can be found in downtown OWA! Grab a bite to eat at a restaurant like Suchi CO. and Trattoria Pizza & Italian or see a show at one of the theaters in downtown OWA!

4. Waterville USA

A man comes out of a water slide

Want to cool off with a ride down a water slide? Head to Waterville USA! A 20-acre water park complete with a lazy river, water slides, and a wave pool, this family-friendly attraction is a perfect activity for a hot summer's day! Hop on the Flowrider to try out surfing and bodyboarding or fly down one of the slides like Gold Rush. This attraction is a perfect destination for a summer's day full of family fun!

5. Shop and Dine at The Wharf

A view of the ferris wheel at the Wharf

Enjoy the end of any summer day by heading to the Wharf! An entertainment center filled with restaurants, bars, shopping, entertainment, and more, there are plenty of ways to enjoy an evening at the Wharf! Grab dinner and drinks at YoHo Rum and Tacos before grabbing dessert at The Sugar Shack. The Wharf Amphitheater is also host to plenty of live concerts which makes for a fun-filled night!