A camping trip on Alabama’s Gulf Coast is more than just an escape to the outdoors; It is an adventure to one of the most unique destinations in the US. Along the coast, you will find gorgeous beaches, abundant wildlife, and delicious cuisine. Entertainment and fun activities are copious, and you will find yourself running out of time to try everything. For that reason, we compiled a list of 10 must-do activities while you are here.
10 Things to Do While Camping on Alabama’s Gulf Coast
- Have a beach day
A trip to the Gulf Coast just isn’t complete without a relaxing day on the beach. Alabama beaches are known for being some of the best in the country, with stunning white sand and turquoise water. You’ll want to bring your beach chairs, umbrellas, a well-stocked cooler and a good book, and waste the day away.
The two main stretches of shoreline along the Gulf are Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Orange Beach is a quiet and peaceful beach for those who enjoy a laid-back vibe. On the west side is Gulf Shores, which is bustling with attractions and tourist activities. You can also find some beautiful beach spots within Gulf State Park, like Cotton Bayou or Romar Beach.
- Enjoy local cuisine
For fresh seafood, delicious cocktails, and stunning views, you will love Cobalt, Sea-n-Suds, or Ginny Lane Bar & Grill. Discover the ultimate beach dining experience at The Gulf.
Afterwards, you will want to indulge your sweet tooth and your Instagram feed at The Yard Milkshake Bar.
Looking for a fun night out? LuLu’s has arcade games, a ropes course, live music, and amazing food. Speaking of live music, you’ll want to check out the honky tonk landmark that is Flora-Bama, known as one of the world’s best beach bars. Before your trip is over, brunch-lovers will want to stop by The Ruby Slipper Cafe or The Southern Grind Coffee House.
- Go deep-sea fishing
The Gulf Coast is known for its coveted Red Snapper fishing season, but you can also catch grouper, Mahi Mahi, Tuna, and Amberjack. If you take a fishing charter further out, you might also reel in Cobia, Bluefish, and King Mackerel, especially during the hot summer months.
- Take a sunset cruise
If you want a truly romantic night, sign up for a sunset cruise in the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. You can sit back and relax with a drink in hand as you enjoy a blissful ride under the glowing rays of the setting sun. You may even see dolphins swimming in the waves alongside you!
- Visit Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
This natural oasis of wildlands is home to neotropical migratory birds, endangered species of sea turtles, and the Alabama beach mouse. Spend the day birdwatching, fishing, or just soaking in the sights amid thousands of acres of wetlands and beach dunes.
- Hike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
Nature-lovers will not want to miss the beautiful scenery and wildlife along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. There are seven total trails that take you through marshes, swamps, forests, and a flower-filled butterfly garden. The entire journey stretches about 15 miles, so you may want to rent bikes to cover more distance.
- Hang out at The Wharf
A full day of entertainment is awaiting you at The Wharf at Orange Beach. You can find everything from escape rooms to mini golf, virtual reality and arcade games, a laser light show, and plenty of shopping. You might even catch a concert at the amphitheater. We also highly recommend taking in the views from atop the 112-foot ferris wheel while you are there.
- Explore Gulf State Park
With miles of hiking trails, multiple lakes, and the largest fishing pier on the gulf, Gulf State Park has plenty of outdoor recreation. You can participate in the free bike-share program and explore the park by bike, or you can rent kayaks and paddleboards for a day out on the lake.
- Play at Adventure Island
Another spot filled with family fun, Adventure Island is an amusement park complete with rides, go karts, paddle boats, games, and a 5-story erupting volcano. You can even try your hand at their two 18-hole mini golf courses.
- Golf at Perdido Bay
Speaking of golf, golfers will fall in love with the lush rolling greens that meander along pristine shorelines at the Perdido Bay Golf Club. This course is actually right across the border in Pensacola, FL and is open to the public seven days a week. It has 18 challenging holes with four tees that range from par 3 to par 5.
Plan Your Stay
The gulf coast of Alabama is truly an outdoor paradise that draws people from all over the world. We believe camping is the best way to enjoy the coast, fully immersed in the warm and tropical climate. If you want easy access to all that the coast has to offer, Hwy 98 RV Park is centrally located to all our favorite destinations. The park is situated in the quiet town of Elberta, where you can avoid the beach traffic and relax underneath the stars.
If you would like to learn more about Hwy 98 RV Park or book your stay, please reach out or request to schedule a stay at https://hwy98rvpark.com/reservation-request/.