If you didn’t already know, kayaking is kind of a big deal on the Alabama Coast, particularly in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. So, if you consider yourself an avid kayaker or an outdoor enthusiast, you need to put us on your bucket list! Not only does Gulf Shores have a ton of rental places in the area, but there are several excellent spots for kayaking. The only small drawback to having such a robust scene is navigating the waters of where to go and who to rent from. But don’t worry, Brett/Robinson won’t leave you up the creek without a paddle!
5 Gulf Shores Kayak Rentals and Guides
If you don’t have your kayak, you’ll need to find a good rental or guide service—thankfully, that won’t be a problem. Here are some reputable professional kayak companies in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
- Gulf Shores Bike Rentals is on the main strip and conveniently located on a canal with a kayak launch and the gateway to Little Lagoon. The name sounds confusing, but trust us, they’re one of the best in the business!
- Pure Aloha Adventures features several services, including kayak rental, guided tours, and paddle board lessons, if you want to try that too.
- GoGo Kayaks provides drop-off and pick-up in addition to its primary rental service. They deliver seven days a week and let you rent for 24 hours, so you don’t have to worry about stopping in the middle of your adventure.
- Paddled By You boasts the lowest rates in Orange Beach and lets you rent in two, four, and eight-hour increments, which can make your schedule more flexible.
- WildNative Tours specializes in specialty and private tours and offers rental services. They have several departures besides Gulf Shores if you’re interested in venturing to Stockton or Mobile for some good old Alabama exploration.
The Top 3 Places to Go Kayaking in Gulf Shores
Coastal Alabama Back Bay Blueway
Although it’s a bunch of places in one (and mouthful to say), the Coastal Alabama Back Bay Blueway is made of four separate “water trails” with 21 launch sites along Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.
- The Fort Morgan Trail is your ticket to a lush paradise, revealing the wonders of Mobile Bay, Bon Secour Bay, and the historic Fort Morgan. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins and the graceful dance of migratory birds against the backdrop of this historical gem.
- Little Lagoon Trail attracts kayak anglers with its 10 miles of serene marshland, hiding prime fishing spots for redfish, flounder, and trout. It’s also a front-row seat to nature’s drama, where herons and pelicans showcase their hunting prowess.
- The Orange Beach Trail, a tapestry of coves, bays, inlets, and bayous, invites you to explore the hidden corners of Wolf Bay, Graham Creek, Terry Cove, and the enchanting Robinson and Bird Islands.
- Lastly, the Gulf State Park Trail unfolds a kayaker’s dream, traversing seven coastal ecosystems around Lake Shelby and Middle Lake.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
As one of Alabama’s last coastal barrier remnants, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, kayak adventurers will find a stunning collection of flora and fauna, including sea turtles, bird species, and native plants along the Bon Secour River, Oyster Bay, and the Intracoastal Waterway. You can’t help but feel like a voyager traversing these iconic waters.
Gulf State Park
Arguably the most popular public space in Gulf Shores, Gulf State Park needs little introduction. As some of the few inland freshwater kayaking destinations in the area, Lake Shelby and Middle Lake each have boat launches. Still, if you want to glide across the gulf before you head in, all of these waters are connected, making for an all-day excursion for those looking for an endurance challenge.
If you’re in the mood for such an adventure, you can launch from Mo’s Landing on Little Lagoon, head east towards the Gulf Shores Parkway Bridge, follow the narrow creek to Shelby Lake, and you’ll be set!
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Vacation House Rentals
Well, there you have it. Although finding the best kayaking in Gulf Shores is ultimately up to your imagination, we’re more than confident that you’ll have a good start with our little guide. After all, with such perfect places to do it, you really can’t go wrong—just so long as you stay out of the way of a hungry alligator.
To find out more about Brett/Robinson rentals and hotels, browse our collection today!