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Originally Posted On: https://lodgeatgulfstatepark.com/plan-your-2025-family-beach-vacation-in-gulf-shores/
Plan Your 2025 Family Beach Vacation in Gulf Shores
There’s no better time to start planning your next family vacation getaway than right now—especially when your destination is Gulf Shores! With its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and jam-packed calendar of events, Gulf Shores has something for everyone, anytime of the year. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back vacation or an adventure-filled trip, here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect 2025 escape to our coastal gem.
Best Times to Visit Gulf Shores Alabama
When it comes to weather, Gulf Shores boasts a uniquely comfortable climate. Its subtropical flair makes it an ideal destination year-round, with each season bringing with it their own charm and exciting things to do.
Plan a Family Spring Break
With warm temperatures averaging around 75-85°F, spring is an ideal time to visit for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Not only will you avoid most of the high heat of summer, but also the crowds that come with it. (Unless, of course, it is peak Spring Break season, normally around late March and early April.)
In terms of activities, spring is one of the best times to engage in outdoor activities. Things like kayaking, fishing, and hiking can be a fun and accessible pastime for those who like adventure. Plus, with local lakes and waterways like Lake Shelby, there are plenty of places to explore that are off the beaten path!
Enjoy a Gulf Shores Summer
In the summer, beach season is in full swing at Gulf Shores. Expect temperatures to reach in the 90s, but don’t let that scare you away from some relaxing lounging out by our emerald green waters. There are also plenty of places to unwind along the Gulf, including our very own Dragonfly Pool Bar and Grill, serving cool cocktails and casual dining all summer long.
Keep in mind that the summer is peak travel season for many families, so be sure to book your Gulf Shores vacation early. And, if the beach crowds become too much, there are plenty of fun family activities to keep you entertained away from the coast. The Ferris Wheel at The Wharf is always an exciting ride with a great view of the surrounding marina and The Track Gulf Shores is the go-to place for some classic go-kart racing and more. Or, if you’re more of the adventurous type, this season is the perfect time to participate in some extreme watersports with jet ski rentals and parasailing opportunities.
Fall Season in Gulf Shores
Fall in Gulf Shores is truly a magical time. The temperatures cool down slightly, with highs in the 70s and 80s, making it an ideal time for families who prefer (or could simply use) a more relaxed pace. Fall also brings with it fewer crowds and more room to explore the beautiful surroundings or even historical sites like Fort Morgan.
There’s plenty to do in the fall, even away from the beach. You can always find live music in the fall, whether it be at the iconic Flora-Bama Beach Bar or tucked away at Woodside at Gulf State Park—a hidden gem that always has a stellar live music lineup! Or plan your trip around one of the many festivals that pop up around this time of year, like the Annual National Shrimp Festival or the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival!
Gulf Shores Winter Weather
While it might be too cool for swimming (with temps ranging from 50-65°F), winter is an incredibly underrated time to visit. The beaches are quiet, and it’s a great time to take advantage of offseason rates. Best of all you won’t have to worry about large crowds or long lines at popular attractions and restaurants.
If you’re after a relaxing adventure, Gulf State Park offers 28.4 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore at your pace. You can even take advantage of the Bike Share Program and rent bicycles for free! Plus, you’ll always experience a “white winter” at Gulf Shores, as our sugar white sands never go out of season!
Where to Spot Wildlife
One of the best parts about visiting Gulf Shores is the opportunity to connect with nature and spot local wildlife. Different seasons offer different opportunities, so here’s a few critters to keep an eye out for!
Birdwatching in the Spring
Spring is a prime time for birdwatchers, with many migratory species passing through the area. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful warblers and majestic shorebirds as they make their way north. The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot to, well, spot them, with over 7,000 acres of coastal land ranging from dunes to pine-oak forests.
Sea Turtles in the Summer
Sea turtle nesting season begins in May and runs through October. If you’re lucky, you might spot these incredible creatures nesting on the beaches at night or witness a hatchling release as baby turtles make their way to the ocean.
To ensure the safety of them and their offspring, it’s important to keep the beach free of obstacles. Artificial lighting can pose a significant threat, disturbing the nesting process and disorienting hatchlings.
Dolphin Spotting in the Fall
The fall migration brings thousands of birds back to Gulf Shores, making it another great time for birdwatching. Dolphins are also frequently seen in the Gulf waters, so you may want to think about booking a Gulf Shores dolphin cruise. The cooler temperatures also make it a great time to explore nature trails and wildlife refuges. You can even grab a guide and take a wild native tour of Gulf State Park, where they will be able to point out some fascinating creatures that call the Gulf coast home.
Wildlife in the Winter
Though the weather is cooler, winter is another one of the best times to see dolphins, as they remain active along the Gulf Coast. There are also plenty of year-round wildlife excursions, whether it’s a visit to Alligator Alley, where you can see these magnificent reptiles any time, or take a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo to see some other wild animals from all over the globe!
The Best Annual Events
Gulf Shores hosts a variety of events throughout the year, many of which draw visitors from all over the country. Here are a few highlights to check out and maybe even plan your Gulf Shores family vacation around!
Annual National Shrimp Festival
Typically held in October, this four-day Annual National Shrimp Festival celebrates all things shrimp with live music, arts and crafts, and, of course, plenty of delicious seafood. It is one of the most popular events in the region bringing many to the coast to chow down on shrimp, cocktails, and more! There are fun games and activities for the little ones, as well as a 5K run, if you’d like to feel a little better about all the shrimp you’ll eat!
Sand in My Boots Music Festival
For music lovers, this Sand in My Boots is an absolute must. Featuring top artists from a variety of genres, it’s the perfect way to kick off summer. Every year the lineup gets bigger and better, not to mention the unique venue situated right along the Gulf Coast! Typically held in May, event is three days and is already SOLD OUT, however you can add yourself to the wait list.
Flora-Bama’s Annual Mullet Toss
Held in April, Flora-Bama’s Annual Mullet Toss is a quirky Gulf Coast tradition that always brings a crowd. Participants come far and wide to toss a mullet (the fish, not the haircut) over the state line between Florida and Alabama. This fun-filled event is paired with live music and lots of entertainment, so you’ll find plenty to do even if you aren’t the type who wants to sling a slippery fish!
Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival
Get an up-close and personal experience with some of the country’s most talented songwriters as they perform in intimate venues around the area. Held in November, the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival is a music lover’s dream, offering close-knit performances by over 200 acclaimed national and local songwriters and musicians all over the Gulf Coast. If you are a musician or a fan of original music, you are definitely going to want to check this one out.
General Tips for Visiting Gulf Shores
No matter what time of year you visit, these tips will help make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
How Early Should I Book My Gulf Shores Trip?
To ensure you’re able to stay at your ideal hotel and go on excursions or activities, it’s best to book early—especially if you’re visiting during peak summer season or around major events like the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival. We recommend planning at least 6-12 months in advance.
How Much is a Gulf Shores Vacation?
The cost of your Gulf Shores vacation can vary based on the season, accommodation type, and activities. You can find a range of hotels and places to stay, from budget-friendly condos, cozy cottages like our Eagle Cottages and Cabins, or luxurious beachfront houses. On average, you can expect to spend about $1,500-$3,000 for a week-long family trip, including lodging, dining, and fun.
What are the Best Local Eats in Gulf Shores?
No trip to Gulf Shores is complete without indulging in fresh seafood. Some favorites include shrimp po’boys, oysters, and blackened grouper. Plus, if you stay at the Lodge at Gulf State Park, there are plenty of dining options like Foodcraft, Perch, and Woodside for a taste of some true coastal flavors.
With so much to see, do, and experience, Gulf Shores is the perfect destination for your 2025 getaway. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, spot local wildlife, or enjoy one of the many annual events, Gulf Shores offers something for everyone. So why wait? Start planning your vacation today and get ready to enjoy the best of the Gulf Coast!
