Ah, Spring Break. It is seemingly a rite of passage for college aged kids, and sometimes a nightmare for parents of littles who just.need.a.break.
Choosing the best place to bring your family, that involves minimal chances for exposure to the crazy party scene can be a difficult task.
Unless you plan a Spring break trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast. We talk about Gulf Shores, a lot and for good reason. It is one of our favorite spots to travel, and while over the years it seems that more and more people have discovered our go to beach destination, it still remains a laid back beach town.
Here’s what you need to know about Spring Break in Gulf Shores:
- Alcohol is not allowed on the beach during the months of March and April.
- The Spring Break season is actually still considered the ‘off season’ for the area, so you won’t see rates jump like some other popular destinations.
What is the temperature like in Gulf Shores in March and April?

Typically schools have Spring break anywhere from mid to late March well into April. A question that is asked very frequently, especially from people who are just hoping not to have to wear a heavy winter coat for at least a few days, is how warm will it be?
The answer to that question is that it is typically in the low to upper 70s, which for most of us is a welcomed break from the seemingly endless Winter.
My theory is any time I can be at the beach, is a good time. Regardless of the weather.
The best things to do in Gulf Shores with Kids
Sandcastle University
Ever wonder how people build such beautiful sandcastles while they are on the beach? We learned all the secrets in this awesome class. Best part? They travel to where you are staying, so once you are beach ready you are also ready for your sandcastle making class. Read more about our experience here.
Go Karting and Miniature Golf
This is almost too embarrassing to share, but we are all friends here right? There are a multitude of options when it comes to these two activities, but I must confess, when we’ve been in town, my family hasn’t enjoyed these…yet.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The zoo is a very special place and the caretakers who work there, even more special. In fact, you need to hear the story of the ‘little zoo that could’, seriously, it is worth taking the time to look that up!
They have animal encounters available for an additional purchase and we got to have some up close time with lemurs. It was so cool!
The best part about the zoo is that it isn’t so large that you feel as if you need to stay all day. There is lots to do and see while you are visiting.
Best Places to Eat In Gulf Shores:

I love the food scene in Gulf Shores so much that I have written about it twice. You can read about our favorite places to eat in Gulf Shores, here and here.
We love finding new and different places to eat, that in and of itself can be like a vacation hobby! I know it is for us!
Gulf Shores Rentals
There are a wide number of places to stay when you visit Gulf Shores, but I am asked most often about a beach rental. There are so many great condos that are available. We most recently stayed at The Turquoise Place and fell totally in love! Prior to that we have stayed many times at the Beach Club, both places are fantastic in their own rite.
Of course if a condo rental isn’t what you are looking for, there are many fantastic hotels in the area.

Gulf Shores is fantastic, no matter the time of the year, but if you are looking for a place to have a low key Spring Break, this is the spot for you and your family!
