Considering a winter beach vacation to experience Gulf Shores? With moderate weather, plenty of opportunities to explore outdoor activities, and even availability to celebrate Valentine's Day and Superbowl Sunday, there is still time to book a winter getaway to escape chilly winter weather and enjoy the mild climate of Gulf Shores.
Mild Winter Weather in Gulf Shores, AL
Visitors to Gulf Shores, Alabama, during the winter season can expect to enjoy mild temperatures ranging between the 60s and high 40s. Visitors can expect weather that invites time spent outdoors, even when winter weather rages on in other parts of the country. From a day on the golf course to exploring local state parks, Gulf Shores is a perfect place to visit to enjoy mild, pleasant temperatures during winter vacation.
Winter Gulf Shores Activities
Fishing is a year-round activity in Gulf Shores, Alabama. From casting a fishing line from a pier in Gulf State Park to inshore and deep sea fishing, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to fish. Book a fishing charter to have a professional captain lead you on a fishing expedition or set yourself up with fishing gear at a lake or bay for a relaxing day.
More outdoor fun can be found on the golf courses scattered around Gulf Shores, Alabama. Book a tee time at the Kiva Dunes Golf Course or the Gulf Shores Golf Club to enjoy practicing your golf game. Visitors can even cross off a course along the Robert Trent Jones Trail at the Lakewood Club or Magnolia Grove, both of which sit outside of Gulf Shores.
Another family-friendly attraction perfect for a mid-winter visit is the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The zoo is home to over 118 species and has the mission of connecting visitors with wildlife and conservation efforts. The Gulf Coast Zoo is an optimal destination for enjoying outdoor fun even during the winter months!
Not sure what you want to do this winter in Gulf Shores? When you stay with Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals, you get to enjoy free activities during your stay! Whether you do something you love or want to try something new, there's a variety of activities you can pick from, many of them already mentioned above.
And if you work up an appetite for partaking in outdoor adventure and fun, you won't want to miss the many delicious restaurants that can be found in Gulf Shores! Even if the weather doesn't call for a beach day, you can still find a tasty bite to eat at a beachfront restaurant. For seafood in a casual atmosphere, try Sea N Suds. With oysters, fried shrimp, and even gumbo, this beachfront gem is a perfect destination for lunch. Or for a fine dining dinner experience, head to Perch. Dine on a meat and cheese board, a filet mignon, seared scallops, and more. Exploring local cuisine is the perfect way to enjoy a cold day during the winter season.
Gulf Shores Events
With the festive season approaching and the cooler weather, the winter months in Gulf Shores make it the perfect time of year for events! Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer retreat, here are some can't-miss events to add to your itinerary:
November Events:
- Annual Gumbo Festival at COASTAL Orange Beach (Nov 1): Kick off the season with rich, savory gumbo and coastal vibes.
- Frank Brown International Songwriters' Festival (Nov 6–16): Celebrate storytelling through song with performances from talented artists across the country.
- Experience the Oyster (Nov 7–8): Dive into the Gulf Coast’s oyster culture with tastings and educational experiences.
- Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival (Nov 8–9): Savor local flavors and brews in a lively outdoor setting.
- Veterans Day Parade & Concert at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park (Nov 11): Honor our heroes with a patriotic celebration.
- Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show (Nov 14–15): Witness thrilling aerial performances by the legendary Blue Angels.
Seasonal Fun at The Wharf:
- Gameday on the Green (Saturdays, Nov 1–29): Catch college football on the big screen with family-friendly activities.
- Ice Skating (Nov 14–Jan 19): Glide into the holiday spirit on the seasonal ice rink.
- Photos with Santa (Weekends Nov 14–Dec 21 + Dec 22–24): Make magical memories with Santa Claus.
- Christmas Tree Lighting (Dec 2): Join the community for a dazzling kickoff to the holiday season.
Holiday Magic:
- OWA Holiday Activities: From festive shows to twinkling lights, OWA offers holiday fun for all ages.
- Magic Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens & Home (Nov 27–Jan 5): Stroll through over 3 million lights in a breathtaking garden display.
- Flora-Bama's Annual Santa Drop (Dec 6): Watch Santa skydive onto the beach—yes, really!
- Lulu's Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade (Dec 13): Enjoy a parade of illuminated boats cruising the Intracoastal Waterway.
New Year & Beyond:
- The Big Beach Marathon (Jan 24–25): Run along scenic coastal routes in this popular winter race.
- Mardi Gras Parades (Jan 17–Feb 17): Catch beads and celebrate Gulf Coast-style with colorful parades.
- Orange Beach Seafood Festival (Feb 28): Indulge in fresh seafood and local crafts.
- Annual Fort Morgan Oyster Festival (Feb 28–Mar 1): Wrap up the season with oysters, music, and family fun.
Book a Vacation Rental to Experience Gulf Shores in the Winter
Winters in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are a magical time of year. Our spacious Gulf Shores vacation rentals are the perfect place to stay. With a 2-night minimum during the winter months, you can book a stay to enjoy the weekend and make the most of the off-season on Alabama's Gulf Coast!
Frequently Asked Questions about Winter in Gulf Shores
What to do in Gulf Shores in the Winter?
There are a number of things to do in Gulf Shores in the winter, including fishing, golf, dolphin cruises, and more. Be sure to check out our free activities that are included when you stay in our Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals.
How cold does gulf shores get in the winter?
At night, the lows can get down into the mid-40s during the winters, while the highs stay in the 50s to 60s