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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!

How to Choose Between Orange Beach vs Gulf Shores

Vacationing in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, Alabama, offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and Southern charm. The soft, sugar-white sands and warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico make these ideal vacation destinations. If you are trying to choose between Orange Beach vs Gulf Shores, this guide from Young’s Suncoast should help you out! We have a lovely selection of vacation rentals in both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, so we can help you have your dream vacation no matter which one you choose. 

4 Things to Consider: Gulf Shores vs Orange Beach

1. Orange Beach vs Gulf Shores: Beaches and Water Activities

  • Orange Beach: Known for its lovely white-sand beaches, Orange Beach is perfect for those seeking a more serene beach experience.
  • Gulf Shores: Gulf Shores also boasts beautiful white-sand beaches, but tends to be busier, especially during peak seasons. Gulf Shores offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere while you enjoy numerous beach activities vs Orange Beach that has a more laid-back feel.

2. Orange Beach Wins in Family-Friendliness

  • Orange Beach: Because it’s generally less crowded, Orange Beach can be ideal for families with young children vs the bustling Gulf Shores. The area has family-friendly attractions like Adventure Island and The Wharf.
  • Gulf Shores: Even with more crowds, Gulf Shores still offers a wide range of family-oriented attractions such as the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Waterville USA. It’s great for families looking for a variety of activities and entertainment options.

3. Plenty of Outdoor Activities and Attractions

  • Orange Beach: This beach vacation spot is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is home to the award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, where you can hike, bike, and spot wildlife.
  • Gulf Shores: In addition to beach activities, Gulf Shores offers numerous parks and nearby recreational areas like Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and Gulf State Park. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of nature and recreational activities.

4. Join in the Alabama Gulf Coast Events and Festivals

Whether basking in the sun, diving into water sports, savoring fresh seafood, or exploring hiking trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in these beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast destinations. Book your stay with Young’s Suncoast! 

Top Water Activities in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are known for the stunning beaches and vibrant coastal atmosphere, and offer a wide range of water activities that cater to adults and kids alike. Staying in one of the Gulf Shores vacation rentals offered by Young’s Suncoast is more than just having a place to sleep; it’s about creating lasting memories. The combination of home comfort and vacation luxury makes these rentals perfect for those seeking an escape from daily life to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

7 Fun Water Activities on the Alabama Gulf Coast

  1. Fishing Charters: Fishing is one of the major water activities, with numerous charters available for both inshore and deep-sea fishing. Anglers can catch top game fish such as snapper, grouper, and king mackerel. Popular charters often include experienced guides who provide equipment and local knowledge, ensuring a successful and enjoyable trip.
  2. Dolphin Cruises: Dolphin cruises are a popular water activity for families, allowing them to see these playful creatures up close in their natural habitat. Many Gulf Shores and Orange Beach dolphin tours promise sightings and take passengers through the scenic waters of the Gulf, often providing educational commentary about local marine life.
  3. Jet Skiing: Jet skiing is one of the best water sports activities for an adrenaline rush. Rentals allow visitors to zip across the waves and explore the coastline from a different perspective. Some companies also offer guided jet ski tours.
  4. Parasailing: Parasailing provides a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Gulf Shores coastline. Participants are tethered to a parachute and towed by a boat, offering an exhilarating experience with stunning shoreline views.
  5. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The clear waters of the Alabama Gulf Coast provides plenty of exploratory water activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling adventures. Local dive shops offer rentals, lessons, and guided excursions to the best underwater sites, including artificial reefs and natural formations teeming with marine life.
  6. Water Parks: If you want a break from the Gulf’s natural waters, consider visiting water parks like Waterville USA. They offer a range of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, making them perfect for families seeking a day of water-based fun and excitement.
  7. Boat Rentals: Renting a boat is one of the most exciting water activities for exploring outdoor wonders. Visitors can rent equipment and explore at their own pace or join guided tours that navigate through estuaries and coastal habitats, offering a closer look at the area’s rich biodiversity. The calm waters of the Gulf and surrounding bays are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Sailing provides a serene way to experience the Gulf. Sunset sails are particularly popular, offering a peaceful and picturesque end to the day on the water.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Ft. Morgan all offer a variety of water activities to enjoy its beautiful coastal environment. Book your stay today with Young’s Suncoast!