Avoid crowds at Gulf Shores beach by doing these 5 things

*please call ahead to book reservations and inquire about COVID19 closures and restrictions

This article is going to:

1) discuss ways to stay safe while visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach this summer.

2) give you important resources and services that will help you during your visit to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

3) highlight things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach this summer.

Destination: Gulf Shores, AL

Drive time from Nashville to Gulf Shores: 7.5 hours

What are some things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

There are a variety of Gulf Shores activities! From ziplining to miniature golf to petting lemurs at the Gulf Coast Zoo, there are many activities for all ages. Did we mention it’s one of the closest beaches to Nashville? There’s even a great full-service family resort located here — want to see pictures?

Is it safe to head to the beach?

We partnered with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach as a part of their #ALBeachNearcation summer campaign to tell you about all the fun things to do this summer on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. We know so many of our readers love the beach! So, we were excited to bring fun tips and ideas to help Nashville travelers plan their trip.

However, with COVID cases on the rise, many travelers are asking, “is it safe to head to the beach this summer?”

You have to make the call.

Travel is complicated nowadays. We get it. You have to do what is right for you and your loved ones. But if you do plan to head to the beach, we want you to do it as safely as possible! So, we compiled a list of 5 things you can do when you’re at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to avoid crowds and socially distance.

Besides staying six feet apart, do these 5 ADDITIONAL things to socially distance and avoid crowds at the beach.

1.Order groceries online.

Grocery stores at the beach are notoriously busy during the summer season. Avoid the crowds by ordering curbside pickup or delivery from local stores like Walmart, Rouses and Publix. Better yet, bring grocery supplies with you from home, at least nonperishable items. During these times, you never know if Gulf Shores’ grocery stores will be running low on items. To really limit your exposure,, try using concierge services like The Beach Moms. They pick up your groceries AND put it all away. Imagine arriving to your condo with a fully stocked fridge?!

2. Book solo excursions, tours or classes.

Hike or bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails or hike the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. If beaches get crowded, book other watersports activities, like kayaking and standup paddleboarding, cat boating, boat rentals, and jet ski rentals. Private glass blowing lessons are another option; check out The Hot Shop!

3. Order take out and use delivery services.

We’re a firm believer that 80%, okay maybe 90%, of the fun of traveling is eating! New restaurants are always a highlight of our traveling experience. That doesn’t have to change. There are local services in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach like GulftoGo and Waitr that bring local favorites to you! Bonus: make your take out experience a fun picnic at the beach!

4. Be mindful when choosing your accommodations.

Does your hotel have additional cleaning protocols during this time? Contactless check in? How many elevators does the condo have? You want to do your best to avoid waiting in a crowded area for an elevator, or being packed into busy elevators with other people? Can you find a place that requires no elevator ride at all? Should you stay in a single beach home instead of a big condo building? Have you considered camping in the fresh outdoors instead? Ask these questions during your booking process to ensure that you are avoiding crowds as best as you can.

5. Skip the main beach access areas and look for a quiet spot instead.

Skip the crowded beach access areas, and head for mellow beachy areas, like Fort Morgan. You may have to drive about 15 -20 minutes from the central area of Gulf Shores, but it’s worth it! And when you find a spot, sshhhh…don’t tell anyone else.