10 Relaxing Things to do on Your Beach Vacation

relaxing at beach_0

Planning a trip to Gulf Shores but not sure what to include on your itinerary? Beach vacations are meant for relaxation, and luckily Gulf Shores features plenty of attractions and activities to meet anyone's relaxation goals. Whether you're more of an active relaxer or you'd prefer to do as little as possible, you'll find a trip to Gulf Shores can help you detach from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Here are our top 10 favorite things for relaxation in Gulf Shores.

1. Have a Beach Day

Gulf Shores beaches offer the perfect setting to chill out. From your Gulf Shores rental, you have easy access to a stretch of white-sand beach that is just a few steps from your front door. This beach is quiet and secluded, and you'll never feel like you're on top of your neighbors. Grab some sunscreen, pack some drinks and snacks, and enjoy the pristine beaches near Martinique on the Gulf.  

2. Go Fishing

Head out on the open sea for a day of fishing. Gulf Shores fishing charters and cruises can accommodate most group sizes, or you can rent a boat for a more intimate experience. While there are plenty of on-shore spots to cast a line, like the Gulf State Park Pier, you may find these spots to be a little busy. Booking a fishing charter allows you to experience fishing in a whole new way. 

3. Be in Nature

Sometimes relaxation doesn't mean not doing anything. Gulf Shores is near two beautiful nature centers where you can unwind in the quiet and solitude. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and Gulf State Park boast hiking and walking trails, protected coastal land, and more. Cast a fishing line and enjoy the silence, watch the birds soar up overhead, or simply enjoy lunch surrounded by beauty. 

4. Visit a Salon

Pamper yourself at a Gulf Shores spa or salon. Vacations are for treating yourself in ways that you normally wouldn't, so book a massage, pedicure, manicure, or facial to completely immerse yourself in relaxation. Let yourself enjoy the quiet moments of being in a salon and you'll feel totally recharged.

5. Stay On-Site

Martinique on the Gulf has abundant on-site amenities to take advantage of, so you never really have to leave if you don't want to. Enjoy the two clubhouses, tennis courts, indoor/outdoor pools, whirlpool spa, and private beachfront without having to get into a car. 

6. Go to Dinner

Relaxation may mean being out of the kitchen, and lucky for you, there are plenty of Gulf Shores restaurants to visit. While our Gulf Shores rentals feature full kitchens, preparing, cooking, and cleaning can take up a lot of time. When you're ready to enjoy your vacation without the stress of cooking for the whole family, unwind for the evening at one of the many restaurants in Gulf Shores.

7. Do Nothing

Don't overthink it, the best way to relax on your beach vacation to the Gulf Shores is to do nothing. Stay in your Gulf Shores vacation rental at Martinique and enjoy the peace, quiet, and space. Many of our rentals feature private patios with views of the water, which is the perfect spot to read a good book or take an afternoon nap. 

8. Get Retail Therapy

Is your version of relaxation shopping at a leisurely pace in beautiful weather? If so, then you've come to the right place. Gulf Shores shopping centers like The Wharf, Pelican Place, and SanRoc Cay offer open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment. Spend the entire day shopping, enjoy a bite to eat at one of the dining options, or stay late for live music or a special event at one of these hubs. 

9. Float the Waters

There's something very peaceful about being out on the calm waters, and there are plenty of places near Gulf Shores to go paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing. Cotton Bayou is the perfect location in Gulf Shores for water activities because of the calm, warm waters. During the summer, dolphins populate these waters so keep an eye out for a pod playing in the area. 

10. Go Golfing

Gulf Shores is home to award-winning golf courses to suit all experience levels. Whether you're looking to golf 9 or 18 holes, or just get in some swing practice, Gulf Shores golf courses offer scenic landscapes and well-manicured grounds. 

Plan Your Gulf Shores Vacation Today

Ready for the ultimate relaxing vacation? Gulf Shores is the perfect place to experience both adventure and relaxation in one place. Our Gulf Shores rentals at Martinique on the Gulf offer access to a private beachfront and numerous on-site amenities. Plus, Martinique is just a short drive away from the center of Gulf Shores. It's truly the best of both worlds. Book your Gulf Shores vacation rental with us today. 

Published on Tuesday, December 27, 2022