| While everyone knows that Florida boasts | | | | while taking a leisurely stroll, sand-castle building, |
| beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, make | | | | and fishing in the Gulf are other possibilities for |
| this the year you get off the beaten path and | | | | your day at the beach. |
| experience similarly striking sandy stretches in Gulf | | | | Although Gulf Shores does not draw visitors en |
| Shores, Alabama. Boasting sparkling white sand, | | | | masse like the nearby beaches on Florida's |
| emerald-green water, and more recreational | | | | Panhandle, you will still find some crowds at Gulf |
| adventures than you ever imagined, Gulf Shores | | | | Shores Public Beach when the sun is shining and |
| is a veritable wonderland of utter relaxation and | | | | the weather is warm. However, one way to |
| family entertainment. | | | | make Gulf Shores more of a personal hideaway is |
| Most of Gulf Shores' appeal rests directly on the | | | | to head to the uncrowded sands of Gulf State |
| fine sand beaches, and it is easy to see why | | | | Park. More than just a place to swim and soak up |
| since they are comprised of 95 percent quartz | | | | some sun rays on its 2.5 miles of beaches, |
| and one hundred percent breathtaking beauty. | | | | visitors can also enjoy scheduled beach walks, |
| The white sands almost appear too white as they | | | | hiking trails, and nature films to learn more about |
| slide gently into the green water and invite you to | | | | the ecosystem of Alabama's Gulf Coast. |
| throw down a towel for an afternoon under the | | | | While there is no better place in Gulf Shores to |
| warm summer sun. While it is easy enough to | | | | kick back and enjoy a lively, upbeat atmosphere |
| lose track of time simply soaking in the scenery | | | | than on the beaches, the great outdoors have |
| and the unbelievable quality of the beach, Gulf | | | | plenty more to offer for a truly memorable |
| Shores requires that you take advantage of all | | | | getaway. Throughout the community, there are |
| the excitement it has to offer. | | | | paved and unpaved trails where bicyclists, |
| A memorable day in the sand can always be | | | | rollerbladers, hikers, and runners can enjoy |
| found at Gulf Shores Public Beach, where you can | | | | breathtaking views and experience the cultural, |
| join in a rowdy volleyball game, hang out at the | | | | historical, and environmental significance of this |
| beach bar, grab a quick bite to eat at a seaside | | | | waterfront wonder. If the pull of the water is too |
| restaurant, or people-watch in the shade under a | | | | much to resist but you want something more |
| picnic pavilion. Although these are exceptional | | | | than a day of relaxation, fishing charters, |
| beach facilities that you should certainly exploit, | | | | dolphin-watching cruises, scuba diving excursions, |
| they are merely side notes to the activities in and | | | | and jet ski rentals are all at your beck and call for |
| around the water. The gentle surf means | | | | a truly lively and entertaining vacation. |
| swimming is great for adults and children alike, | | | | |