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Vicki Crumpton

Experience Parasailing Over Gulf Shores, Alabama

Parasailing in Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers an experience of adventure and beauty that is hard to match. As you soar high above, you will get a bird’s eye view of the white sand beaches that frame the Gulf of Mexico. Spotting local marine life from your aerial vantage point adds another delightful layer to the enjoyment. 

Staying in one of the vacation rentals offered by Young’s Suncoast in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area is like having your own slice of paradise along the Alabama Gulf Coast. Our rentals take your vacation experience to the next level, providing a perfect home base for exploring the area’s natural beauty on your outdoor adventures.

Top 5 Parasailing Tours in the Gulf Shores, AL, Area

  1. Orange Beach Parasail: Soar above the stunning Alabama Gulf Coast waters on a parasailing adventure! You’ll stay dry by taking off and landing on a boat. They also offer flight photo packages, so you can relive your experience for many years to come. With a near-perfect 4.9-star rating from over 150 Google reviews, it’s a must-try.
  2. Blue Sky Parasail and Watersports: Enjoy sky-high thrills during your Gulf Shores getaway by parasailing 800 feet above coastal paradise! With a 4.2-star rating from over 160 Google reviews, it’s a must-try experience whether you fly solo, in pairs, or as a trio.
  3. Chute for the Skye: They offer unbeatable parasailing prices in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Perdido Key. Plus, if you find a lower rate, they’ll match it! With a 4.7-star rating from over 230 Google reviews, it’s a top choice for adventure.
  4. Parasail Sky Surfer: Take a trip aboard a 35-foot boat designed for safe and thrilling water adventures. Their expert crew will safely launch you into the air, where you will have remarkable views of the marine wildlife and beaches below. With a 4.9-star rating from over 100 Google reviews, their tours are an unforgettable experience.
  5. Chute ‘Em Up Parasail: Since 2004, they have delivered unforgettable parasailing adventures in the Gulf Shores area. With the world’s largest parasail fleet, their 15 U.S. Coast Guard-approved boats can accommodate up to 15 passengers each. Departing from Gulf Shores, Perdido Key, and Fort Morgan beaches, you might even spot some local wildlife, such as dolphins or sea turtles, along the way!

Book your stay with Young’s Suncoast to experience parasailing over the Alabama Gulf Coast!

5 Things to Do During Halloween on the Alabama Gulf Coast

Calling all Goblins and Ghouls! If you are all about Fall, this one’s for you. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach isn’t just about sugar white sand and sparkling water. If you thought Summer on the beach was magical, wait until you see what spooky season along the coast has to offer. We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 things you must experience on your Fall beach vacation. 

1.  Fort Morgan After Dark Ghost Investigation

Take part in an actual ghost hunt! As seen on Discovery Channel’s Expedition X Series, Fort Morgan has been named one of the most haunted places in Alabama. Tour the fort after dark and learn all about this historic landmark. Constructed in 1819 and opened in 1834, Fort Morgan experienced major battle action throughout the Civil War. During the Battle of Mobile Bay, the Union set the fort ablaze resulting in many casualties. For years, paranormal activity has been recorded by thousands of visitors that tour the walls of this star shaped structure.

2.  Boo at The Zoo

Explore where the wild things are. Every year The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo hosts the wildest Halloween party for kids of all ages. Dress up in your most creative costumes for a chance to win a Golden Ticket for a prize and go trick-or-treating alongside some of your favorite zoo species. You may even get a chance to experience a meet-and-greet with some of your favorite zoo residents.

3.  Experience Fall on the Hugh S. Branyon BackCountry Trail

The changing of the season brings all kinds of beauty to the Gulf State Park’s nature trails. The area offers 28 miles of nine distinct ecosystems which were once inhabited by Native Americans thousands of years ago. With interpretive signs along the way, you will learn about the land and history of the beautiful backcountry that resides in the middle of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Make sure to wave at Lefty, the local alligator on your way to Catman Trail! 

4.  A Fall Sunset Cruise is Like No Other!

The scenery of a sunset is beautiful, but nothing beats a Fall sunset on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Experience a sunset cruise aboard the 53-foot catamaran, Sail Wild Hearts, located in Orange Beach. Let them whisk you away into a world of sparkling water and unparalleled views. Their sunset cruise offers complimentary beverages and light hors d’oeuvres plus memories to last a lifetime. You may even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two!

5.  You Can’t Miss the Annual National Shrimp Festival

Anyone who’s ever been to Gulf Shores in October, knows you can’t miss your chance to taste some of the best shrimp dishes on earth! The Annual National Shrimp Festival is usually held during the second weekend of October and features live music, local artists and of course shrimp! Make sure to grab a cajun pistolette before you leave.All the magic of Fall is just a click away!

Young’s Suncoast offers accommodations that meet the needs of couples looking for a quick getaway, or a family with kids of all ages that just need a break from reality. No matter the reason for your trip, spending time along the Alabama beaches during the Fall season will not disappoint.

Have the Best Dolphin Cruise Experience in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is tucked along the Alabama Gulf Coast and is the best destination for a dolphin cruise. Watching these lively creatures in their natural habitat is a magical experience for the whole family. Staying in one of the vacation rentals offered by Young’s Suncoast in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach is an exceptional way to enjoy the beauty and charm of the Gulf Coast. Discover the ideal accommodation to suit your needs, whether it’s a beachfront condo with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico or a spacious house for a memorable family getaway.

Choosing the Best Dolphin Cruise in Gulf Shores for You

The Different Types of Dolphin Cruises

  • Standard Dolphin Cruises: These provide a straightforward experience with abundant dolphin-watching opportunities as you cruise through the waters in Gulf Shores, AL.
  • Sunset Cruises: Enjoy a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Mexico while watching dolphins. These cruises offer a more romantic and scenic experience.
  • Eco-Tours: These tours focus on the natural environment and wildlife of the area, providing educational insights along with dolphin sightings.

The Top 5 Dolphin Cruises Near Gulf Shores, Alabama

  1. Cetacean Cruises: Have the best day ever during a dreamy sunset, eco-tour, or standard dolphin cruise in either Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, AL. The Explorer is fully equipped and can navigate in just two feet of water. There’s an onboard bathroom, and the open bow area is great for taking lovely vacation photos. Cetacean Cruises is also the first tour in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to receive the Dolphin SMART designation, an important program designed to keep our local dolphin pods safe during commercial tour practices. Additionally, the captain often lets young passengers steer the boat.
  2. The Sunny Lady: Embark on a dolphin-watching adventure starting in Orange Beach’s delightful Wharf entertainment district. Step aboard the Sunny Lady for a cruise that offers unforgettable experiences for the entire family.
  3. Southern Rose Dolphin Cruises: This is one of the best companies in the Gulf Shores for a plethora of water activities, including a serene dolphin cruise. Other activities they offer include parasailing, jet skiing, and boat rentals.
  4. Dolphins Down Under: Embark on a memorable adventure along the Alabama Gulf Coast during a mesmerizing glass-bottom dolphin cruise in Orange Beach.
  5. Sail Wild Hearts: Set one vacation morning aside to plan a sailing adventure on this 53-foot catamaran. This tour takes advantage of calm and serene early morning waters that are perfect for spotting dolphins at play. A variety of other cruises are available when you Sail Wild Hearts. 

Book your stay with Young’s Suncoast to experience the wonders of the Alabama Gulf Coast!

The Ultimate Alabama Coast Fishing Trip

The Alabama Gulf Coast with its pristine waters and abundant marine life, is a fishing enthusiast’s paradise. The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area offers some of the best fishing trips on the Alabama Coast, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. This guide by Young’s Suncoast will help you plan the ultimate fishing trip, highlighting the best spots to make your adventure unforgettable.

Young’s Suncoast offers spacious vacation rentals with personalized amenities that give you easy access to the pristine beaches, vibrant local attractions, and natural beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast. Our vacation rentals in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area offer a delightful blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience.

The Best Fishing Spots Near Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf State Park Pier

Gulf State Park Pier is among the most popular fishing spots on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Stretching into the Gulf of Mexico, it offers ample space for anglers of all skill levels. Here, you can catch various fish, including redfish, Florida pompano, sheepshead, whiting, Spanish mackerel, and flounder.

Perdido Pass

Perdido Pass is a great spot for inshore and offshore fishing located at the Alabama-Florida border. The pass is the gateway to the Gulf of Mexico and other bays, rivers, bayous, and the ocean. This attracts a wide range of fish species like redfish, speckled trout, red snapper, sheepshead, speckled trout, and king mackerel.

Little Lagoon

The Lagoon, stretching 8 miles in length, offers a unique mixture of saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico and tannin-rich water. The eastern half features sandy bottoms and sandbars, creating perfect ambush points for various fish species. For an unforgettable fishing experience, launch your boat from Mo’s Landing, conveniently located 1.8 miles west of Hwy. 59 on Fort Morgan Road.

Orange Beach Marina

Orange Beach Marina is a full-service facility in a protected harbor that offers open and covered slips with easy access from the Gulf, TennTom, Intracoastal Waterway, Mobile, and Pensacola Bay. Minutes away, the Gulf Coast’s waters are rich with mackerel, snapper, ling, and grouper. Further south, you’ll find a premier sportfishing area teeming with tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and billfish. For competition enthusiasts, the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club, located at the marina, hosts seven annual tournaments.Book your stay in Orange Beach or Gulf Shores with Young’s Suncoast to enjoy the best fishing trips on the Alabama Coast!

Explore the Gulf State Park Trails

The Gulf State Park which stretches from Gulf Shores to Orange Beach, Alabama, offers an award-winning network of trails that showcase the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of the Gulf Coast. This guide by the Young’s Suncoast will introduce you to the highlights of Gulf State Park’s trail system. We also offer a lovely selection of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach vacation rentals where you can find your home away from home while exploring the area’s wonders. 

Our 4 Favorite Gulf State Park Trails to Explore

1. Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a network of 28 miles of paved trails that traverse six distinct ecosystems in Gulf State Park. This trail system is named after Hugh S. Branyon, a long-time park superintendent who played a crucial role in its development. This award-winning trail system was a collaborative project of Gulf State Park, the city of Gulf Shores, and the city of Orange Beach. Highlights of this trail include:

  • Catman Road Trail: A 5.6-mile out-and-back trail with plenty of shade and lake views.
  • Rattlesnake Ridge Trail: A 3.2-mile out-and-back trail that offers views of dense forests, with a chance to spot native wildlife.
  • Gopher Tortoise Trail: A 2.2-mile out-and-back trail through paved asphalt and wooden boardwalks.

2. Gulf Oak Ridge Trail

This 5.5-mile out-and-back trail provides stunning views and a leisurely stroll. It is ideal for those looking to enjoy a peaceful hike with views of Spanish moss-covered water oak trees and other diverse landscapes. 

3. Rosemary Dunes Trail

Stretching 4.2 miles out and back, this is one of the best Gulf State Park trails for a unique coastal hiking experience. It is one of the most picturesque trails in the park, with wooden walkways over the bayous and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.

4. Lake Shelby Loop

Take a loop around one of the park’s central features, Lake Shelby. This trail is great for families and offers plenty of fun outdoor activities such as paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. There is also an option to take it easy with a guided segway tour of Gulf State Park that starts at Lake Shelby!

Wildlife and Nature Viewing on the Gulf State Park Trails

Exploring the Gulf State Park trails is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of species, including:

  • Bird Watching: The park is part of the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, making it a prime bird-watching location. Some bird species you might spot include Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, Great Blue Herons, American Coots, Great Egrets,  Ruddy Turnstones, and Royal Terns. 
  • Mammals: White-Tailed Deer, Fox Squirrels, and Bobcats are some wildlife commonly seen in the park.
  • Reptiles: The park’s wetlands are home to American Alligators, Yellow-Bellied Sliders, Gulf Coast Spiny Softshell Turtles, Loggerhead Sea Turtles, and various snake species.

Gulf State Park’s trail system offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the distinct beauty of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Find your ideal home base during your stay with Young’s Suncoast!