Are you looking for something a little off the beaten path and different for your Alabama beach vacation? Here are our top 5 recommendations for unique things to do off the beach.

1. Shopping in Downtown Fairhope. If charming, picturesque streets and shopping are your fave then downtown Fairhope is the destination for you! Pack up the girls and make the short drive to shop ‘til you drop at boutiques, antique stores, and specialty stores. There are plenty of spots for a yummy lunch too. Once happy hour hits, take the scenic drive back South and make a pitstop at The Grand Hotel for a cocktail and appetizer at Bucky’s Lounge that overlooks beautiful Mobile Bay.
2. Bamahenge, Dinosaurs & Lady in the Bay. This excursion takes the cake for the most unique activity on our list! Take the short drive to Josephine to visit a life size replica of Stonehenge. This full-scale fiberglass replica of England’s prehistoric monument is located on the grounds of Barber Marina. While you’re there, drive a little further to see the Dinosaurs in the Woods. There are four lifelike dinosaur statues in the woods that your kids will love! Another local favorite is the Lady in the Bay located in the Marina. This giant sculpture of a woman appears to be using Bayou La Launch as a bathtub. Only her knees and head are visible above the water. Finish your trip with a stop at Pirates Cove for a burger and fries.
3. Ferry to Dauphin Island. If you’re tired of the sand but still want to enjoy the great outdoors- this day trip is for you! Take the scenic drive over to Fort Morgan to walk on or drive on the Mobile Bay ferry to take the short ride over to Dauphin Island. (Be sure to call first to make sure the ferry is running and their daily schedule. Sometimes fog and bad weather cause them to cancel.) If you walk on, the Audubon Bird Sanctuary is an easy walk to explore, look for birds, and enjoy nature. If you drove your car, ride around the island and explore at your leisure. Either way you’ll get a nice boat ride and see more of our beautiful area and nature.
4. Downtown Pensacola. For those that prefer a more urban setting, downtown Pensacola is the place to be. Take the short scenic drive along Perdido Key to Pensacola and park anywhere on Palafox to start your day. Enjoy wandering the streets that feature many shops, restaurants, bars, and specialty stores. You can stop by the art museum and many art galleries or see if there is a farmers market or festival to explore. After your day downtown, swing by Joe Patti’s World Famous Seafood Market to stock up on seafood delicacies that you can cook for dinner when you get back to your condo or beach house. They have a wide array of gourmet, ready to eat, specialty items as well.
5. Antiquing the Eastern Shore & Foley. Whether you’re a vintage thrifter or fine antiques expert, you’ll find plenty of shops to keep you busy in Baldwin County. Start your shopping adventure in Daphne and work your way south to Fairhope and then on to Foley. Some favorite antique stores of ours are Daphne Antique Galleria, Downtown Antiques, Southern Antiques & Accents, Simply Shelly, Tuveson’s Architectural Consignment, and Gift Horse Antiques. Happy Hunting!

If you try one of our recommendations, we’d love to see and hear about your experiences.  Email us at girlsonthegulf@gmail.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & Pinterest. Make sure to tell them the Girls on the Gulf sent you!

Xoxo,

Ginger & Crawford

Your go-to girls for food, fun, & sun on the Alabama Gulf Coast

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