We had been planning to take a vacation the last week in January and into February, and we had the Gulf Shores in mind (thanks to my friend Sara Broers and her travel blog Travel with Sara. I’ve followed her posts about her vacations there but what really sold me was the pictures she posts on her Instagram page of the soft white beaches and blue skies. 

Those beaches are something else. 

And in Alabama! Just a short 17 hour car ride away.. (see how to survive a car ride with a one year old)

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit, and within a day of being there, I already said we WILL be back. 

A few of my highlights/suggestions:

When you get there, I recommend visiting the Welcome Center to get information and brochures on things to do and see. They were so inviting and very helpful.

Despite my resistance to bring the bikes, Dave threw them in, and I'm glad he did. We spent a wonderful afternoon biking through the Gulf State Park. (note to self: maybe Dave is right sometimes.. maybe.)

There were tons of trails and a huge campground that’s got us thinking about coming back with our camper next time.

We mostly just hung out while we were there, but we did sneak in a quick drive to Fort Morgan. If it wasn't so windy that day, we would have spent a lot longer exploring!

On my birthday, I enjoyed a lovely yoga flow at Glow Yoga. They were so welcoming and warm. Literally. It was hot yoga. It felt so good to start my 35th year off with a sweat sesh and good vibes.  

One of the last days, we spent a few hours walking through the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Holtan LOVED it! 

We stayed right on the beach in a condo, this view was steps from our door. Very inviting.

While the weather wasn't tropical, it was MUCH warmer than Iowa, and was mostly in the 50s and 60s while we were there.

The rest of the vacation was spent reading books, walking along the beach, some fishing for Dave, and playing in the sand. We had such a fun time, we can't wait to go back!