When searching for the perfect place to relax along the banks of a stunning body of water, consider the numerous opportunities for excitement and entertainment that Gulf Shores, Alabama has to offer. With its gorgeous expanses of sand and abundance of outdoor pursuits that are sure to keep the entire family occupied for the duration of your trip, you simply cannot go wrong with a vacation to beautiful Gulf Shores.

For those times when all you want to do is kick back on a pristine beach, head to Gulf State Park and take advantage of its majestic two and a half miles of shimmering white sand. Here, you can catch some sun as you lie on the beach with your favorite book or make your way into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico for an enjoyable afternoon of swimming. Those who want a more active day at the beach, however, can hike along the lush nature trails in search of wildlife or fish off of the 825 foot pier.

When a day at the beach is simply not enough, make your way to the exciting Waterville USA for an afternoon filled to the brim with water adventures and amusement park attractions the whole family can enjoy. The water park is bursting with numerous water slides, an enormous wave pool, a float river, raft rides, and a special section for the little ones while the amusement park includes a roller coaster, go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, and a few other dry land ways to keep everyone in your group smiling.

A true day of adventure is around the corner when visitors head to the 6,200 acre Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge for a glimpse of its unique inhabitants. Home to the endangered beach mouse and a nesting place for loggerhead, green and Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, the refuge is an excellent place to view the unique animals of the Gulf Coast. Take a walk along the scenic Pine Beach Trail or the shorter Jeff Friend Trail and you may just come across any of these creatures in addition to the red fox, armadillos, coyotes, and over 370 species of birds.

Another exciting day of family fun can be found at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, where animals abound and plenty of attractions await to appease the animal lover inside of us all. With over 290 animals, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and bears, in addition to a petting zoo, a reptile house, and aviary and animal shows during the summer months, everyone will be running from habitat to habitat for an up-close view of the spectacular wildlife throughout the day.

History buffs and those looking to compliment their vacation with a well-rounded feature will want to stop by Fort Morgan for an educational experience the whole family can enjoy. This historical site was occupied during the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Spanish American War, and both of the World Wars and is now home to an informative museum and the remains of the fort itself.

Golf enthusiasts who want to spend a relaxing day hitting the links will find several exceptional options in the Gulf Shores area that will certainly take their breath away. The Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend golf courses are two to consider with their large greens and vibrant rolling fairways that are perfect for any duffer who wants to work on their game. The Kiva Dunes Golf Club, however, is a challenge for players of all skill levels by rewarding those who are powerful and accurate off the tee while penalizing anyone who drifts near imposing bunkers and hazards.

For a relaxing retreat with easy access to everything you love about this area, consider Gulf Shores rentals for your accommodations needs. Whether you choose to stay along the shores of a sugar white sand beach or within a stone's throw of a challenging golf course, your vacation rental will make it easy to participate in your favorite activities while placing all of the amenities of home at your fingertips. Begin your search for a Gulf Shores condo or home rental today and experience the coastal getaway you always imagined.