No Plans, No Problem: Last Minute Beach Vacation in Gulf Shores, AL
Sometimes you just need to get away. A beach vacation in Gulf Shores, Alabama is the perfect last minute getaway if you enjoy the sand and sea. Even if you didn’t plan your trip in advance, you can still have a great time. With its warm subtropical winter and spring weather, it attracts people who want to escape the cold.
Saving Money With a Last Minute Gulf Shores Vacation
Spontaneous travelers sometimes save money by scoring last minute deals. Airlines, hotels, short term rental providers, and even attractions often offer discounts during the off season or even during the high season when they have vacancies.
If you are looking for deals on last minute flights, search for:
- Gulf Shores International Airport (JKA), also sometimes known as Jack Edwards Airport, is the closest. It’s just a couple of miles from the beach resorts; however, flights into JKA are limited, with routes from around eight major city airports.
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS), which is around one hour away
- Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) in Alabama, which is around an hour and a half drive
Summer and fall tend to see occasional hurricanes and tropical storms. Please check local safety advisories and social media for your favorite attraction, both for safety and to avoid disappointment in case an attraction is closed for repairs.
A Spontaneous Beach Vacation
The soft white sands and warm Gulf are the main attractions. A day relaxing on the beach, sunbathing, swimming in the warm Gulf water, or making sandcastles is always a hit. With the Gulf State Park and eight public access entrances to the beach within Gulf Shores city, getting to the beach is easy.
One of the best ways to enjoy the view is on a boat tour or cruise. If you enjoy watching marine wildlife, a dolphin cruise typically takes a couple of hours. Check to see if a sunset cruise is available since dolphins tend to be most active in the late afternoon and early evening. The softer lighting makes it a little easier to see them as well. There are several companies that offer dolphin cruises, so be sure to check Yelp and Tripadvisor listings when looking at last minute bookings. Fishing, paddle boarding, hiking, and snorkeling are also popular recreational activities in the area.
Hiking and Exploring Gulf Shore Nature
The warm climate allows lush vegetation to thrive year-round. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are favorites among hikers and bikers. The Gulf State Park’s Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail features 28 miles of paved trails open all year during daylight hours. In fact, USA Today named the park the top recreational trail in the United States in 2024. Hikers enjoy seasonal wildflowers, birds, tall pine trees, and an amazing overlook.
The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is another popular hiking destination, especially if you are interested in seeing local nature. With four hiking trails, including the popular Pine Beach Trail, it offers plenty of options year-round from sunrise to sunset. Always check the most recent advisories as sometimes a section may be closed for maintenance, as is the case for the Mobile Street Boardwalk.
Golfing Near the Gulf
Golfing and minigolf are both popular activities that are generally accessible to last-minute travelers. With more than nine top-tier courses nearby, you’ll find fairways designed by legends like Arnold Palmer and Jerry Pate. The coastal beauty and warm Gulf breezes provide the perfect backdrop.
Kiva Dunes, frequently ranked among Alabama’s best, offers a challenging 18-hole experience surrounded by natural dunes and wetlands. Craft Farms Golf Resort features two Arnold Palmer-designed courses and a distinctly coastal feel. The Gulf Shores Golf Club delivers a traditional, tree-lined layout with water features and wildlife sightings that make every round memorable. Check each facility for tee times and to join any waiting list if you are scheduling last minute.
Mini golf can be a fun day out with family or friends. Popular options include Pirates Island Adventure Golf and Shrimpy’s Grill and Golf. Both offer a whimsical, ocean-themed atmosphere to play.
Book a Home Away From Home
Sometimes the biggest challenge with a last-minute getaway is finding accommodation. Our partner Beachball Properties offers luxurious Orange Beach and Gulf Shore vacation rentals. You may find it easiest to search all their listings with your desired dates, when booking a last minute Gulf Shores vacation rental. While many of the homes are booked early, you may be able to take advantage of last minute cancellations.
Beachball Properties include everything from private beach houses to more luxurious condos. Amenities vary by the home but may include easy beach access, swimming pools, spectacular views, and more. With Beachball Properties, you’re never far from local dining, attractions, and the beach for a spur-of-the-moment trip and a memorable Gulf Coast experience.
