Written by Terrance D.
Terrance writes for Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals, sharing favorite attractions, local events, dining spots, and things to do in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and beyond.
While a beach getaway may not have been your first thought for a holiday getaway, making a trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama, is one way to make that happen! With mild temperatures, slower foot traffic, and exciting holiday celebrations, this charming beach town offers plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday season. Whether you're planning a family Christmas vacation, a romantic stay, or a relaxing trip before the new year, you'll find plenty of things to do in Gulf Shores throughout December. To see how you can spend your holiday on the Alabama Gulf Coast, follow along as we take you through everything the area has to offer!
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In this Blog:
- Enjoy Cool Weather on the Beach
- Explore Gulf State Park
- Discover Local History at Fort Morgan
- Go Shopping and Dining at The Wharf
- Celebrate with Holiday Events in Gulf Shores
- Plan Your December Getaway to Gulf Shores
Enjoy Cool Weather on the Beach
One of the best reasons to visit Gulf Shores in December is the chance to enjoy its white-sand beaches without the peak-season crowds, giving you the feeling of having the beach to yourself! While December's cooler water makes swimming less attractivexf, the beaches are still perfect for sightseeing, photography, and leisurely walks along the shoreline. Gulf Shores Public Beach offers eight public access points and seasonal lifeguard services from March to October. Along with these amenities, it’s also a great place to walk along the shoreline, collect seashells, and watch the stunning coastal sunset. We suggest packing a light jacket for the beach, as the season is known for its Gulf breeze.
Explore Gulf State Park
If you're looking for a great place for outdoor adventures during your trip, Gulf State Park is a great start. This scenic park is home to miles of hiking and biking trails, along with beautiful coastal habitats that offer opportunities to see local wildlife. December's cooler temperatures make it especially comfortable to walk around and explore the park for extended periods. One of the most talked-about highlights of the park is the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system, which takes you through coastal forests, wetlands, and other natural landscapes, as well as ecosystems that make it easy to spot native birds and other wildlife along the way.
Discover Local History at Fort Morgan
Take a break from the beach and discover one of the Alabama Gulf Coast's most significant historic sites. Located at the western end of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, Fort Morgan Historic Site played an important role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. Explore the fort and its architecture while learning about its military history, with opportunities to see wartime artifacts and enjoy striking views of Mobile Bay. It’s a great stop for history enthusiasts or simply anyone interested in discovering another side of Gulf Shores.
Go Shopping and Dining at The Wharf
One of the biggest draws in nearby Orange Beach, The Wharf is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment year-round. During December, this entertainment center is dressed up in a festive atmosphere with seasonal decorations and holiday activities. Spend an afternoon browsing the shops for Christmas gifts while enjoying the seasonal ice skating rink, holiday markets, a tree lighting, a drone show, and more!
Celebrate with Holiday Events in Gulf Shores
December brings festive celebrations to Gulf Shores and the surrounding communities. From sparkling Christmas lights to unique coastal holiday traditions, these events offer memorable ways to celebrate the season.
Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens
Experience one of the Gulf Coast's most beautiful holiday traditions at Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home. This annual celebration transforms the 65-acre estate into a stunning festive paradise with thousands of lights and colorful displays. Visitors can stroll through the light-filled gardens, enjoy seasonal treats, and admire festive decorations throughout, making this a particularly great trip for couples and families. Adult tickets start at $24, and the attraction is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
Celebrate Christmas with a local twist at the Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade! This longstanding tradition in Gulf Shores sees a fleet of boats decorated with colorful holiday lights as they travel along the Intracoastal Waterway. Gather around the waterfront to watch the procession that rings in the holiday season at this free parade, where you can enjoy the area’s coastal atmosphere.
Noon Year's Eve at LuLu's
If you're staying in the area to ring in the new year, then head to LuLu's in Gulf Shores for one of the area’s biggest New Year's Eve celebrations. The family-friendly event offers a fun alternative to staying up until midnight, with activities including face painting, arts and crafts, balloon animals, and a sandcastle-building contest. The evening will culminate in the beach ball drop at noon, when hundreds of colorful beach balls fill the area to welcome the upcoming year.
Plan Your December Getaway to Gulf Shores
Featured: Kiva Grand
From peaceful winter beach walks to memorable Holiday celebrations, December offers plenty of reasons to visit Gulf Shores for a fun winter escape! Whether you're spending the holidays with loved ones or looking to escape the cold winter season, you'll find plenty of fun things to do all around Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Sweeten the deal even more with one of our properties here at Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals. Our collection of properties includes plenty of accommodations that are sure to have exactly what you’re looking for, whether that be a beachfront rental, a home with a pool, or a pet-friendly stay, so you can enjoy the coast with your four-legged friend. Browse all our rentals today and save big when you book direct with Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals for your next stay!