Alabama’s Romantic Gulf Coast: 8 Activities for Couples
Located less than 60 miles from Mobile, Alabama, couples find two top beach destinations: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. These areas offer the chance to explore the romantic Gulf Coast, which features miles of sandy beaches, serene water views and lots of places to spend time together. For some ideas, check out these top activities for couples who can’t get enough of the romantic Gulf Coast.
Alabama’s Romantic Gulf Coast: Couples Activities in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach
Book a Vacation Rental With a View
The start to any romantic vacation in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach begins with comfortable accommodations with a view. Both destinations house a variety of hotels, but for a more intimate experience consider a vacation rental.
Among the top-rated condo resorts, couples will find Crystal Shores, Lighthouse and San Carlos. Many of these rental condos feature balconies overlooking the Gulf Coast, with seating indoors and out. And what better way to reconnect than watching a sunset or the waves roll onto shore?
Get a Couples Massage
Couples vacationing in Alabama’s romantic Gulf Coast area have a dozen places offering massages and spa services. Schedule a couples massage and enjoy quiet relaxation while stress melts away.
Top options include Serenity at the Beach, Austin Massage, and Eden Spa and Salon. Couples who have more time should plan an aromatherapy session or facial after the massage to rejuvenate the senses.
Walk on the Beach
With over 30 miles of white-sand beaches, walking along the beach ranks as a top thing to do for couples and helps them unwind. There are more than a dozen public beach access points, or couples enjoy a quiet walk in proximity to their vacation rental.
To make a full day of it, visit Gulf State Park, where couples relax, go fishing, play golf, kayak and paddleboard.
Take a Sailing Cruise
Unwind on a romantic cruise through the Gulf Coast. Several charters offer sailing in the area, but guests can also book a private sailing tour. Orange Beach Sailing Charters offers both private and small group tours for couples. Private tours provide an intimate setting with loved ones, while other sunset cruises cater to three couples at a time.
For something more lively – and filling – book a dinner cruise. Hudson Marina hosts Perdido Dinner Cruise, which includes a full buffet, live entertainment, and space for dancing and dining. These cruises operate rain or shine, and reservations are recommended.
Drift in a Hot Air Balloon
Gently lift off for an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride over the Gulf Shores-Orange Beach area. Taking Off, a tour company in the area, offers private flights for couples that last one to two hours. Each balloon ride offers a different experience as couples fly over the countryside and water. In addition, hot-air balloon rides provide a romantic proposal idea.
Visit The Wharf
The Wharf in Orange Beach stays busy throughout the day, but also has fun things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. This entertainment district houses dozens of stores and restaurants, but when the sun sets, stars come out. Located on-site, the amphitheater hosts big names in music, such as Kenny Chesney, Green Day, Alabama and many more performers.
In addition to concerts, The Wharf hosts firework shows, street parties, festivals, movie nights and world-renown events, all perfect for a date-night. To enjoy romantic nighttime views of the Gulf and district, ride the Ferris Wheel, one of the tallest on the Gulf Coast.
Plan a Romantic Dinner
Sharing a romantic dinner ranks as a top way to enjoy Alabama’s Gulf Coast, and the area offers dozens of waterfront restaurants. Whether part of a night out or a simple break from the day’s activities, dining out helps couples reconnect and sample local flavor.
In Gulf Shores, try Original Oyster House, Bahama Bob’s, Sea N Suds and Tacky Jacks. If staying in Orange Beach, head to Flippers, Cobalt, The Gulf and Cotton’s. No matter which restaurant couples visit, all offer fresh seafood, waterfront views and welcoming atmospheres.
Visit Fort Morgan
Located less than 45 minutes from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, couples can take a day-trip to Fort Morgan. The attraction showcases the area’s history during the War of 1812 and Civil War. Couples are welcome to take guided and unguided tours, and enjoy outdoor recreation opportunities.
Fort Morgan houses beaches, nature trails and a boat launch, doubling as a park. Other fun activities at Fort Morgan include fishing, wildlife and bird-watching, and strolling hand-in-hand on the beach. For those who prefer to stay near Fort Morgan, there are affordable rentals available as well.
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