“Small town, big beach.” That’s the mantra in Gulf Shores, the southern most settlement in Alabama. Folks say it has the “world’s whitest beaches” – 32 miles of them to be exact – made almost entirely from washed quartz grains of the Appalachian Mountains centuries ago. Beach rentals in Gulf Shores expose travelers to bright turquoise waters and sand so soft that it squeaks under your feet.

Some argue that the best part of a beach vacation isn’t the beach, but the ocean. Condo rentals in Gulf Shores are surrounded by opportunities for watersports and other oceanic activities. The Gulf Adventure Center at Gulf State Park has four ziplines humming high above Lake Shelby. The Down Under Dive Shop has guided snorkeling, diving and scuba trips. Kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, dolphin watching and more are steps away from your beachfront vacation rental.

The land offers as much as the sea in Gulf Shores. Vacation rentals here are perfect for the kids, with attractions like The Track Family Recreation Center, offering bumper boats, go-karts, mini-golf and other thrilling rides for all ages. Condo rentals off Gulf Shores Parkway are minutes from Waterville USA. Families and friends alike will marvel at the lions, tigers and bears (oh my!) at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

History buffs will love how close the Gulf Shores condo rentals are from Fort Morgan, the site of the Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay. And the Gulf Shores Museum located right in town offers exhibits dating back to World War II. Artsy folks should look at vacation rentals during the month of May, where the massive three-day “Hangout Music Festival” takes place on the public beaches of Gulf Shores, featuring top acts from genres like indie, rock, hip-hop and electronic dance music. Beach rentals along the sandy ridge place you right in the action.

Condo rentals in the heart of downtown offer savory dining options with locally sourced ingredients and catch-of-the-day entrees. Beach rentals are surrounded by oceanfront hotspots like King Neptune’s Seafood Restaurant and Doc’s Seafood Shack and Oyster Bar. The open-air style of most establishments, along with live entertainment and play areas for children, make the nightlife scene fun for the whole family.

Vacation rentals in Gulf Shores let you have a laid-back beach experience with adventure when you want it. Beach rentals from villas to condos to cottages abound in this eccentric Alabama town. TripAdvisor Vacation Rentals has the best deals and specials on all Gulf Shores properties.