Snowbird rentals in Alabama

Why you should snowbird in Alabama

Alabama's idyllic Gulf Coast offers you exactly what you need during the winter: mild temperatures in the mid-60s (18°C), white-sand beaches, and plenty of ways to stay active. From Orange Beach to Gulf Shores, you'll find miles of pristine coastline where you can play golf, go fishing, or just relax in the warm winter sun far away from the snow back home.

The social scene makes Alabama a natural choice for snowbirds, too. Friendly faces from across the Midwest and Canada land between January and March, with the same idea as you: to get away from the cold. Many communities organize regular meetups, from morning beach walks to evening potlucks.

Finding your perfect place to roost is easier than you think. Alabama's Gulf Coast offers lots of beachfront condos and homes with private pools, many at better prices than in neighboring Florida. Calmer spots like Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island give you a quiet beach experience, while Gulf Shores promises a livelier vibe with its shops and restaurants.

Top snowbird destinations in Alabama

• Gulf Shores: The white-sand beaches and emerald waters make Gulf Shores a top pick for snowbirds. The area has more than 20 miles of shoreline, multiple golf courses like Peninsula Golf Club, and plenty of spots for fishing off the pier.

• Orange Beach: Right next to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach is slightly quieter but still keeps you close to everything. The Wharf entertainment district has shops and restaurants, plus there's great deep-sea fishing in the winter months.

• Dauphin Island: This barrier island is ideal for a more laid-back winter. It's smaller and quieter than Gulf Shores, with beaches on both the Gulf and Bay sides. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is a great place to spot wildlife.

• Fairhope: On Mobile Bay's eastern shore, Fairhope gives you a small-town feel with plenty to do. The downtown area has art galleries and local shops, while the Municipal Pier stretches a quarter-mile into the bay.

• Mobile: If you prefer city amenities with your winter escape, Mobile fits the bill. The downtown area has theaters, museums, and plenty of historic architecture. Snowbirds can enjoy the city living and still be just 30 minutes from the beach.

What to look for in an Alabama snowbird rental

Location, type of home, and amenities shape your entire snowbird experience in Alabama, so think carefully about these factors when looking for your winter nest. Along the Gulf Coast, Orange Beach attracts folks who want to be near shopping and dining, with high-rise condos offering sweeping water views, while Fort Morgan is more relaxed, leaving you feeling like you're on a desert island.

When it comes to amenities, private pools are at the top of most snowbirds' wish lists. Luckily, most long-term beach villas and houses come with private pools that you can enjoy even in winter. After all, temperatures often reach the mid-60s (15.5°C). If you want to wake up to the sound of waves, look for beachfront condos with balconies facing the Gulf.

Planning to host friends or family? Many homes in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores come with extra bedrooms and open-plan living areas designed for hosting. Plus, fully equipped kitchens mean you can cook big family meals or invite your fellow snowbirds over for brunch or dinner.

Long stay snowbird rentals in Alabama

Long-stay vacation homes along Alabama's Gulf Coast come with all the amenities you need for an active winter. In Gulf Shores, you'll find monthly rentals with private pools and spacious decks perfect for morning swims and afternoon yoga. Over in Orange Beach, there are beachfront condos where you can step right onto the sand-ideal if planning brisk morning walks. If you love hosting, look for homes with open-plan living rooms, kitchen islands, and outdoor grills for BBQs and casual dinners. The best part? When you book a long-term stay, you'll typically save around 19%* on your rental. The discount is automatically built in too, so go ahead, enter dates and book your Alabama snowbird stay on Vrbo today.

*Based on analysis of Vrbo booking and occupancy data for 2024 stays.

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