Gulf Shores is located on the Alabama coast along the Gulf of Mexico. Expect miles of soft sand, blue water and coconut-scented fresh air when you visit. Make plans to visit the Gulf Shore Museum or the Ferris wheel at The Wharf in nearby Orange Beach. For the health conscious, continue your physical regimen by conducting a variety of recreational activities.
Go Golfing
Gulf Shores has more than 200 holes along the coast to challenge various skill levels. Plan to arrange for a tee time at the 18-hole, par-72 Cotton Creek or the 18-hole, par-71 Cypress Bend courses at Craft Farms. You are only three miles from the white sandy beaches. There are plenty of rolling hills and fairways at Cotton Creek. The second and sixth holes are the hardest. You need to have a strategy to make it over the water. Cypress Bend has sprawling bunkers, staggered tee boxes and lush condition throughout the year. Watch out for the second hole, since your ball has to cross water.
Go to a Spa
Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul by making an appointment at Eden Spa and Salon. Taste the complimentary wine, juice or hors d'oeuvres while you wait. Whether you want a mud mask, body wrap or a facial, Eden Spa and Salon has a licensed staff member for you. Treat your muscle aches with an hourlong deep tissue massage for $90 (as of 2010). Or reduce stress with warm stones placed on your body for $90 (as of 2010). You can select from a variety of packages that include manicures, massages, facials and pedicures ranging from $140 to $325 (as of 2010).
Play Tennis
Play an hour of tennis at the 5,000 square foot George C. Meyer Tennis Center with 18 lighted courts. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. You can reserve to play on the soft courts at least two days in advance. If you desire to play on the hard courts, reservations are not required. If people are waiting to play, limit your court time to 1 1/2 hours. Turn off the lights when you are not playing. In addition, courts 1 and 2 are used by the city for lessons.
Go Swimming
You can swim, including lap swim, throughout the year at the David L. Bodenhamer Center. The Gulf Shores Swim Team meets at least three to five times a week and includes all levels, from beginners to the advanced. If you ache from arthritis, register for the water arthritis program taught in shallow water to improve flexibility, coordination and balance. Or strengthen your muscles and enhance your cardiovascular endurance by enrolling in the water aerobics class.
Work Out
Take time to exercise at the David L. Bodenhamer Center. Make sure you bring plenty of water, a towel and workout clothes to start. Watch television or listen to music while you exercise. Warm up with a quick ride on one of the bikes or a brisk walk on the treadmill. You will notice people using dumbbells weighing 3 lbs. to 125 lbs., jumping rope or the fitness balls. Other equipment available are medicine balls, vertical chest press, incline benches and barbells.
Member Comments