Does anything sound better than a relaxing getaway to a beautiful beach on the Gulf Coast? You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in Fort Morgan, a secluded and charming vacation destination just 30 minutes from Gulf Shores.
There are numerous awesome things to do in Fort Morgan and the surrounding area, including hitting the beach, enjoying nature, and experiencing the community’s rich history.
Our Fort Morgan vacation rentals are ready to welcome you to the natural beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast and the historic Fort Morgan area.
Here are the top 13 things we think you should do during your Fort Morgan vacation.
1. Dine at Tacky Jack’s
Tacky Jack’s offers delicious waterfront dining for dinner at a fraction of the cost. The restaurant is open for three meals a day and is a favorite hangout for locals.
This no-frills, family-friendly eatery is one of our favorite restaurants in the Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan area. Expect tasty Southern seafood dishes with a side of stunning ocean views.
2. Take a Class at Sand Castle University
Take your sandcastle building skills to the next level with a lesson at Sand Castle University. These expert sandcastle builders meet you on the beach with their specialty sand tools to create unique and memorable sculptures.
Sand Castle University is a mobile business, which means you can choose the stretch of Fort Morgan beach where you want to learn, and they’ll meet you there. Going to school has never been so fun!
3. Explore the Fort Morgan Road Trail
Strolling this 5-mile converted rail line is one of the best free things to do in the Fort Morgan area. We recommend starting in the morning at the trailhead, which lies near the Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club, and walking or biking east, where a tasty breakfast pastry awaits you at Cafe Beignets in Gulf Shores.
There are lots of other hiking opportunities to be enjoyed in the area surrounding Fort Morgan. Head to Gulf State Park, Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge, and Dauphin Island for picturesque nature trails.
4. Visit the Fort Morgan Historic Site
Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators
At the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, you’ll find the Fort Morgan Historic Site, a Third System masonry fort first used during the Civil War. There are also plenty of events to check out at the fort, including guided tours, photo exhibits, and arms demonstrations.
The fort is open every day and is also pet-friendly, making it the perfect stop for the history buff in your family. While this is a gem for history enthusiasts, it’s a fun activity that the whole family is sure to enjoy.
5. Enjoy a Fort Morgan Sunset
If you want to fully appreciate beach life in Fort Morgan, you can’t miss out on watching a sunset. We recommend parking past the Mobile Bay Ferry terminal and walking down to the beach in the evening. Bring a blanket, sink your toes into the sand, and watch the sun dip into the water.
You’ll have an excellent view of Mobile Bay to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. An idyllic moment to enjoy the sun painting the sky pink and sinking behind the ocean.
6. Hit the Town for Some Live Music
Evenings on the Gulf Coast take on a mellow, coastal soundtrack, with live music flowing through many local venues and festivals. During events like the Fort Morgan Oyster Fest, you can tap your toes to performances by regional artists on outdoor stages as the sun lowers over the Gulf.
Although local Fort Morgan’s bar Tacky Jack’s often hosts live music, for a bigger night out, take an easy drive west to the likes of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Perdido Key. There’s a wide array of seafront bars and lounges dotted along the coast, including the famous Flora‑Bama Lounge, which lies right on the Alabama-Florida border.
8. Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Gulf Coast Restaurants
The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to some great restaurants, many of which are just a short drive from Fort Morgan.
Sassy Bass Amazin’ Grill offers a variety of seafood dishes in a casual setting, while Jesse’s on the Bay provides waterfront dining with stunning views. For a sweet treat, stop by Pelican Scoops for homemade ice cream and desserts.
For even more dining options, check out our guides to Dauphin Island restaurants, romantic eateries in Orange Beach, and seafood in Gulf Shores.
9. Hit the Links
Photo Credit: sandsun
Golf fans will find some excellent options near Fort Morgan, thanks to the area’s cluster of high-quality courses.
The nearest course is Kiva Dunes, which offers scenic fairways that wind through marshes, dunes, and coastal landscapes. Further east, you’ll find Gulf Shores Golf Club, Gulf Links Golf Course, Orange Beach Golf Center, and Lost Key Golf Club, to name just a few.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just want a relaxed round near the beach, these courses deliver a mix of challenge and beauty. Many courses offer rentals, practice facilities, and tee times for visitors, making it easy to slot in a round between beach excursions.
10. Take the Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island
For a unique adventure, hop aboard the Mobile Bay Ferry and cross the bay to Dauphin Island. It’s a great way to explore more of the Gulf Coast’s natural beauty and wildlife.
This short, quick-access ferry ride offers scenic views and leads to attractions such as the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and the Alabama Aquarium.
11. Visit Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Photo Credit: Danny E Hooks
Nature lovers will appreciate the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a 7,000-acre sanctuary located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula.
The refuge offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and access to pristine beaches for fishing, snorkeling, and sunbathing. It’s a haven for migratory birds, providing a peaceful environment for visitors to connect with nature.
12. Relax on Pristine Beaches
Fort Morgan and the nearby towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach boast some of the Gulf Coast’s most serene and uncrowded beaches. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, or shell hunting, the soft white sands and clear waters provide a peaceful retreat.
The area is also known for its dog-friendly beaches, allowing your furry friends to enjoy the coastal beauty with you.
13. Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities
Fort Morgan is a great place for families seeking to blend laid-back beach fun with adventure. Kids and adults alike will enjoy building sandcastles and shell‑hunting along the pristine shores, spotting dolphins on a local cruise, or visiting the historic fort itself to explore its cannon batteries and bunkers.
For a change of pace, take a bike ride along the quiet beach roads or enjoy picnic time under shady palms. Relaxing afternoons by your vacation home also make ideal low-key options when little legs need a break from all the family fun.
Find Your Perfect Fort Morgan Vacation Rental
After you’ve experienced the best things to do in Fort Morgan and the surrounding area, come back and relax at your indulgent beach rental.
Want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a luxurious vacation? We have a wide variety of vacation rentals to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect place for your family to stay in beautiful Fort Morgan.