Quick Solo Getaway to Alabama Gulf Shores

 

Recently, I experienced a short little escape to Gulf Shores, Alabama for a solo vacation full of restoration, peace, and spectacular nature. Upon returning from my adventure, I felt quite revitalized. The time alone enjoying nature was just what I needed.

Stunning white sand beaches and dunes along
the Gulf of Mexico during a smoky sunset at Gulf Shores, Alabama.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel

For my first big solo travel adventure, I honed in on The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel for its location on the Gulf of Mexico and amenities including fantastic onsite dining. The Lodge is located inside the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park providing a little more secluded resort experience as well as access to the park's trail system.

View of Lake Shelby and Gulf State Park from a patio at The Lodge at Gulf State Park.

Upon arriving, I was pretty eager to check out the Gulf of Mexico beach views. However, I had to check in and settle in my room first. Check in was pretty smooth. Rooms at The Lodge have either a park view or a gulf view. I delighted in a lovely park view with a patio perfect for eating breakfast on. On my floor, there also was a deck area where anyone could sit and enjoy a panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico.

The view of the Gulf of Mexico from a shared patio at The Lodge.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park is an eco-friendly hotel. Signage throughout the resort details the environmentally friendly innovations of the property. Additional signs explain the ecology of the region. Of particular interest is Sea Turtle Season - May - October. Sea turtles nest and hatch along the gulf at the property. The Lodge has special lights that helps protect nesting.

Signage throughout The Lodge's property detail the ecofriendly aspects of the resort.

Five restaurants at The Lodge and inside Gulf State Park present a plethora of dining options for guests. Since I was traveling alone, it was nice to have easy options for meals. Foodcraft features delicious coastal favorites. Perch offers a bit of a more refined dinner experience. Roasted Oak is coffee shop by day, wine bar by night. Dragonfly Pool Bar & Grill has delightful snacking options for days by the pool. Located in another section of Gulf State Park, Woodside features sandwiches, salads, appetizers, entrees, and more as well as backyard games and live music.

The pool at The Lodge sparkles in the evening.

Other resort amenities help you truly escape including a pool, gift shop, and fitness room. Of course, the stunning Alabama white sand beach captivates!

Wandering the Trails of Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park unfolds a wealth of natural treasures right along the Gulf of Mexico. The stunning Alabama preserve welcomes adventurers to explore nine different ecosystems including coastal dunes, pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes and more. 28 miles of hiking trails invite hikers, bikers, and runners alike to enjoy the nature preserve. Trails are very well marked and signage throughout describes the landscape and flora and fauna.

Spanish moss gracefully drips from a tree at Gulf State Park.

The trail system known as the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is renowned and has been designated the nation's best recreational trail for 2023 by USA Today. The trails are a mix of paved and boardwalk with a few natural offshoots. During my hikes, I discovered some truly incredible naturescapes.

A boardwalk crossing over a lake at Gulf State Park.

Plus, Gulf State Park certainly is alive with wildlife. I spotted quite a number of birds including pelicans, great blue heron, gray catbirds, willets, osprey, killdeer, and so many more. There also is a resident pair of bald eagles within the preserve.

Great blue heron at Gulf State Park.

While exploring the preserve, be on the lookout for alligators. I did not see any on my visit, but they may be seen from observation areas on your visit. If you do not see them by hiking, you will see some at the Nature Center. 

Leaving Rejuvenated

After just a mere few days staying at The Lodge and experiencing Alabama's white sand beaches and the trails of Gulf State Park, I felt complete rejuvenated. If you are looking for your own solo escape, I highly recommend visiting The Lodge at Gulf State Park and Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Traveling to Gulf Shores, Alabama

There are direct flights from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Pensacola Airport. To travel from Pensacola to Gulf Shores, you can either hire a ride in advance or rent a car.