8 Tips for an Amazing Family Beach Vacation
How do you make the beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast even better? You bring the whole family for days full of fun in the sun!
We get it - planning a family trip can be stressful. But things are always better at the beach, and we’re here to help you treat your family to the best beach trip ever. With a bit of preparation and these eight helpful tips, you’ll soon be enjoying an amazing Orange Beach or Gulf Shores getaway your family will never forget.
Pick the right place…
There are three main beach areas on the Alabama Gulf Coast, each with a very different atmosphere. If you like lively crowds and lots of action, Gulf Shores is a great spot for your stay. If you prefer a more laid-back beach vibe, Orange Beach may be a better choice. Fort Morgan is good for young families who need peace and privacy.
…and the right rental. Nothing ruins a trip faster than picking the wrong rental. Be sure to choose a place that takes everyone into account. Do you need space to spread out? Do you want onsite activities or will you visit local attractions? Will navigating multiple floors be a problem?
With kids in tow, a condo at a family resort like The Beach Club or Gulf Shores Plantation can offer plenty of fun to keep everyone entertained. On the other hand, a private beach house can offer the space for kids to spread out without worrying about disturbing other guests.
Stay with Aqua Vacations.
Our full-service vacation rentals company is dedicated to providing families with great places to stay and helpful, friendly service. We even offer complimentary admission to some of the area’s most popular attractions so you can spend your trip having fun instead of booking it. Browse our portfolio of vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan to get started.
Book The Beach Moms.
These gals can help you have a hassle-free trip from start to finish. A full-scale concierge company, their services include things like grocery shopping and delivery (plus unpacking and put-up), beach chair and umbrella rentals, dinner reservations, transportation arrangements, personal chef bookings, and even more. Plus, they partner with Aqua Vacations to bring our guests a premium experience!
Plan some down-time.
Don’t overload your schedule with busy activities. You came for our world-class beaches, so plan to enjoy them! Set aside a full day (or two) to lounge on the beach, build sandcastles, swim in the surf, and take it easy.
Enjoy nature.
Make time to explore the coastal landscapes that lie beyond the beach. You can bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail to explore six distinct ecosystems; visit the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to see a protected sanctuary at work; or walk the unique wetland system at Ward Wade Nature Park.
Book a boating trip.
You can’t leave without earning your sea-legs (make that Gulf-legs). There are a variety of ways to boat our beautiful waterways, from family charter fishing to sailing adventures to dolphin cruises and more. You can even rent your own vessel and strike out solo – just be sure to drive carefully and follow all rules and regulations.
Enjoy lunch at LuLu’s.
Lucy Buffet’s LuLu’s is a large waterfront restaurant where the fun is just as great as the food. Every feature is made for families, from the kids’ play area and rope climbing course to the open-air design and diverse menu. Just be sure to pack your patience during peak season – there’s always a wait. Tip: Try their Beat The Wait feature to join the list before you arrive.