Have you ever felt like everything in you needed to get away somewhere? It’s like your body just won’t rest until you do it. I know that feeling all too well. Back in September, that is what I was going through, and then I got to visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama for a romantic couples get away. Now, I cannot wait to go back again.
Most couples getaways all have the same ingredients, including long walks on the beach and dinner together on the Gulf. But, what if you decided to take it up a notch and make it a romantic vacation to remember for years to come?
Here are five activities I think every couple needs to experience together. What better place than in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?
1. Take a pottery class together
How many romantic dates have you been on with your significant other and made pottery together? It may not be something you would normally do, but it’s a creative way to connect with your other half. My husband and I took a pottery class at the Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach. They gear the class just for you, and you get one-on-one time with the resident artist as well as time to work and create your own pottery. My husband and I laughed so much and had a wonderful time making memories.
2. Go diving to look at the underwater world
If you are looking for another out-of-the-box activity to enjoy on a romantic getaway, plan a trip to the LuLu, a sunken freighter 17 nautical miles south of Perdido Pass and Orange Beach. There are also several shore diving options that dot the Alabama Gulf Coast, including the Whiskey Wreck just off of Gulf Shores.
3. Take a bike ride on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails
No need to worry about bringing a bike for this fun adventure. Bike rentals are located near the Backcountry Trails, and rental shops will also deliver. Seven trails and six different ecosystems comprise the more than 15 miles of scenery. Hike, jog or bike the trails at your own speed to discover the other side of the Alabama Gulf Coast. The best part about this activity? It’s totally free if you bring your own bike or opt for a walk rather than bike rental!
4. Try something new with kayaking
Kayaking has always been on my bucket list. I am hoping to discover it this year when my husband and I return to Gulf Shores for another romantic getaway. By all accounts, kayaking is a great way to explore all that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach has to offer. There are several places to rent your vessel from, and I imagine that sitting in a kayak watching the sunset is one of the most romantic things you’ll experience on Alabama’s beaches. You can kayak Lake Shelby, located in the Gulf State Park, the back bays and even the Gulf itself.
5. Get a couples massage
Experience the perfect ending to your romantic getaway by scheduling a couples massage at places like The Spa at The Beach Club or Fusion Spa in Orange Beach. The Spa offers full service spa services for singles and couples, and each session comes complete with fluffy robes, a dip in the hot tub after your massage, and all the flavored fruit water you can drink. Just the right amount of lighting makes for a very special and romantic activity. There are more options for spa treatments sprinkled throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, too.
Don’t forget to have dinner somewhere special during your beach vacation. My husband and I splurged and had a candlelit dinner at the Villaggio Grille in Orange Beach at The Wharf. If you’re a foodie at heart, discover the Gulf Coast culinary scene and ask the locals for their favorite restaurant suggestions.
Whatever you decide to do on your next romantic getaway, be sure to celebrate the things you love about each other while spending time together in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. See how romantic beach getaways on the Gulf Coast bring out the best in your relationship.