Alabama's shores offer vacations for many types of tourists.
Vacations on Alabama's shores can satisfy all sorts of visitors from the avid golfer to the expert birdwatcher.The 60-mile coastline along the Gulf of Mexico is the heart of a $2 billionyearly tourism industry.Travelers from throughout the United States visit Alabama's shores for their sugar-sand beaches. But the 600 miles along inshore areas such as Mobile Bay also offer plenty of historical attractions, cultural opportunities and outdoor adventures.
Beaches
Alabama's beaches are known for their pure, white sand and clear turquoise water. Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, two cities on the water, have dozens of individual beaches, each with its own character. Some cater to families by offering conveniences such as changing rooms, concession stands and playgrounds. Other beaches are more youth-orientated, welcoming volleyball games and offering activities such as parasailing. Beaches located in state parks often have parking fees while those situated on coastal roads are usually free. Along the trail of Gulf Coast beaches, visitors can also find lodging that ranges from major four-star chains to tiny bed and breakfasts.
Trails, Parks and Streams
Alabama's shores are home to a variety of natural environments.The U.S. government established the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge to protect the fragile dunes and their water oaks covered with Spanish Moss. Bellingrath Gardens is a 65-acre estate garden surrounded by a semi-tropical forest filled with wildflowers. Dauphin Island is a hub of scientific research on estuary systems as well as a world-class birdwatching site.Tourists can explore the different habitats and wildlife along the Alabama shoreline from the water, on kayaks, canoes, motor boats or guided cruises. They can also hike along established trails or drive along coastal roads.
Fishing
A rich variety of fish inhabit Alabama's gulf coast waters and inshore bays, and many visitors make some type of fishing trip part of their stay. Dozens of charter boats run private and group trips. Anglers can head offshore and test their strength against powerful yellow-fin tuna and sailfish, or they can stay closer to shore and hook red snappers or amberjacks. Boats on the bays usually land speckled trout, redfish and flounder. Anglers who prefer to stay shore-side, can try surf casting for blue fish, red drums and amberjacks at several beaches.
History and Culture
History and culture are also mainstays of vacations on Alabama's shores.The Civil War Trail links attractions such as Fort Gaines, Fort Morgan and Magee Farm, all major sites in the Battle for Mobile Bay. Historic homes such as the 19th century Bragg-Mitchell Mansion and the Conde-Charlotte House Museum offer a glimpse of coastal Alabama's past. The Gulf Coast Museum showcases exhibits on hurricanes and fishing villages, and The Carnival Museum traces the history of Mardi Gras. The Mobile Museum of Art houses a permanent collection of more than 9,000 works by regional, national and international artists. The Mobile Opera and the Mobile Symphony present a new slate of performances every season.
Nightlife
Seafood is the specialty of the many restaurants that line Alabama's shores. However, tourists will find many other choices, including Cajun and creole cuisine and the local favorite, barbecue. Plenty of chain and fast-food restaurants offer variety in cities and towns along the coast. Nightlight on the shores is also richly varied. Mobile audiences favor jazz, and the city has a choice of several clubs and concert halls. Nightspots on the Gulf Coast feature local performers, comedy and dancing.
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