Get Off the Beaten Path in Gulf Shores, AL

bonsecournationalwilldliferefuge

Gulf Shores is a great vacation destination because it's easy to find a place off the beaten path to explore and escape crowds. When you stay at Martinique on the Gulf you're already secluded along the white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast. Our spacious property is located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula, offering 55 acres of private space with community bike paths, private beach, and direct access to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. 

Secluded Places to Visit in Gulf Shores

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Located right next to Martinique on the Gulf, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a secluded and serene preserve home to a variety of native wildlife and pristine landscapes. Bon Secour features more than 7,000 acres of protected land where you'll find hiking trails, kayak and boat launches, spots for fishing, and more. 

Graham Creek Nature Preserve

The Graham Creek Nature Preserve is located in Foley, AL. Offering 500 acres to explore, the Graham Creek Nature Preserve is a great day trip from Martinique on the Gulf. You can go hiking, kayaking, canoeing, bicycling, wildlife viewing, and more. 

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Ideal for biking and birdwatching, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a 25-mile system of paved trails for walking, running, and biking through six distinct ecosystems. There are 15 total trails within this system, through Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. 

Things to Do Away From Crowds in Gulf Shores

Have a picnic

Grab groceries from the local market or pick up a to-go order from one of the many restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for an outdoor meal. Head to Wade Ward Nature Park, Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion, or just find a spot within the Martinique property to enjoy a picnic lunch.

Go for a walk

Walking is the perfect way to relax in Gulf Shores. Whether you want to just walk the community paths at Martinique, stroll the beaches, or meander along the many paths in the area, you'll find plenty to explore here. 

Go birdwatching

Did you know that the Gulf Shores is one of the best places to view local and migratory birds in the South? Birdwatching in Gulf Shores is a favorite pastime for locals and travelers alike. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for birdwatching, as well as the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.   

Explore the waters on a kayak or paddleboard

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer plenty of places to explore the calm waters on a paddleboard or kayak. Visit Lake Shelby, Wolf Bay, Little Lagoon, and, of course, the Gulf of Mexico. There are several rental options in the area for those who need equipment.  

Plan Your Gulf Shores Vacation at Martinique

Martinique on the Gulf is a vacation destination for those looking to get away from it all. Our 55-acre resort is located conveniently so that you can get to downtown Gulf Shores for any necessary errands, but far enough to feel like you've got enough space to simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Contact us today for more information about our rentals, or book our Gulf Shores vacation rentals online today.

Published on Tuesday, December 27, 2022