Spend Fall Break in Orange Beach, Alabama

Though a pleasant destination throughout the year, Alabama's Gulf Shores are at their best in autumn. The waters are warm, the temperature and humidity are mild, and several festivals are planned each year. That's why fall break in Alabama is a bucket list item for anyone with a love of the Gulf Coast.

From fishing to kayaking, hiking, biking, and beyond, there are infinite activities to enjoy. Come down for a stay at Sun Outdoors Orange Beach , and have a great fall break in Alabama.

Activities for Fall Break on Alabama's Gulf Shores

1. Swim in the Ocean

You heard us right. Even in September and October, the ocean along the Gulf Shores of Alabama is plenty warm for swimming. If you're coming from a landlocked or colder state, there's nothing better than taking a dip in mid-autumn. The water is warm and the weather is pleasant, with an average high of 80 degrees most days.

Some great spots for swimming include:

• Gulf State Park Beach
• Gulf Shores Public Beach
• Perdido Key State Park

2. Hike at Gulf State Park

Fall break in Alabama is a great time to go hiking at Gulf State Park. The heat and humidity of summer is tempered in autumn, making it much more comfortable to exert yourself outdoors. We've covered all the best trails in our post about hiking and biking in Gulf State Park. Check it out and find a trail for yourself!

3. Bike the Branyon Backcountry Trail

While there are plenty of trails to bike at Gulf State Park, you might also want to try the Backcountry Trail, or BCT for short. The BCT provides gorgeous scenery, winding through lush forests of pine, palmetto, and scrub oak. Make sure to keep your eyes open as you bike the trail to spot otters, alligators, osprey, bobcats, deer, and coyotes along the way. Though close to the beach towns, the BCT feels a world apart from everything.

4. Fish From the Piers

Fishing is a popular pastime during fall break in Alabama. There are plenty of species out and about during the season, just waiting to be caught. Try heading to one of the local piers, like the one at Gulf State Park or Orange Beach Waterfront Park.

You might also try charter fishing in Gulf Shores. They can offer the opportunity to catch even more species, plus you'll be able to hit deep water.

5. Hit the Green at Local Golf Courses

The Gulf Shores of Alabama are laden with golf courses. This area offers everything from straightforward courses for newcomers to challenging championship layouts. Either way, there are plenty of options for golfing in and around Orange Beach.

Read our roundup of the seven best golf courses near Gulf Shores to start your list.

6. Attend a Local Festival

Fall is typically peak festival season. One of the most popular is the Shrimp Festival, where anything and everything crustacean can be found, fresh from the Gulf. Another option is the annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest, where bird watcher's flock from afar to spot migratory species passing through Gulf Shores.

Even if you can't attend this year, you can plan and look forward to visiting these festivals in the future. When the time is right, you're sure to have a blast.

7. Explore Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Looking for a little history along with your beaches? Then take a day of your fall break in Alabama and head to Fort Morgan State Historic Site. Situated on Mobile Point, this 19^th century fort dates back to the Civil War. Though it's been battered by storms over the years, it remains standing and ready to be explored.

8. Kayak Along the Coast

During your fall break in Alabama, there are so many outdoor activities waiting to be discovered. One favorite is kayaking along the coast around Gulf Shores, with many places available nearby to enjoy this activity:

• Gulf State Park
• Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
• Wild Native Tours

Plan your Fall Orange Beach trip HERE.

Already know who should accompany on your fall break in Alabama? Share this post with them and suggest ideas for things to do!

Related Posts

• Four Festivals on Alabama's Gulf Coast
• Gulf Shores Outlets and Shopping Centers
• 11 Kayaking Tips You Need to Know