Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge: A Coastal Haven
Discover Alabama's pristine coast: hike, birdwatch, and explore diverse habitats at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.
Explore Alabama's coastal beauty at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for migratory birds and endangered species. Hike scenic trails, spot diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural oasis on the Fort Morgan Peninsula.
A brief summary to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
- 12295 AL-180, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
- +1251-540-7720
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-1 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-1 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-1 pm
- Thursday 9 am-1 pm
- Friday 9 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be more crowded [7].
- Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching [1, 7].
- Check the refuge's calendar for special events and seasonal programs [7].
- The Visitor Center is open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 1 PM [4, 14].
- Trails are open from sunrise to sunset [4].
Getting There
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Driving
From Gulf Shores, drive west on AL-180 for approximately 13 miles [7]. Turn left onto Refuge Headquarters Road. The Visitor Center and trailheads will be on your left. Parking is free. Note that the Mobile Street Parking Lot is currently closed, with a temporary beach access point available just west of the new boardwalk construction site [13].
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Public Transport
Public transportation options to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge are limited. The closest bus stop is in Gulf Shores, requiring a taxi or ride-sharing service for the remaining distance to the refuge. A taxi or ride-share from Gulf Shores to the refuge will cost approximately $25-$40.
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Walking
If you are staying at Martinique on the Gulf, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is located right next to the property [9]. You can easily walk to the refuge via the beach or along AL-180. Please exercise caution when walking along the highway.
Discover more about Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WildNative Tours
8.4 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Gulf Shores with WildNative Tours, your gateway to unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Seacrest
9.6 km
Beachfront condos in Gulf Shores, AL, offering stunning Gulf views, a pool, and easy access to local attractions for a perfect coastal getaway.
Swift-Coles Historic Home
10.7 km
Explore the historic Swift-Coles Home in Bon Secour, Alabama – a captivating journey through time with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
Gulf Shores Alabama
11.0 km
Discover sugar-white beaches, turquoise waters, and family-friendly fun in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Your perfect Gulf Coast getaway awaits!
Souvenir City
11.8 km
Gulf Shores' iconic souvenir emporium with a giant shark entrance, offering a vast selection of beach-themed merchandise and memorable photo opportunities.
Pottery Central World Headquarters
12.8 km
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Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals
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Gulf Shores Welcome Center
13.1 km
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BeachFlight Aviation
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Grass Island
13.5 km
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Harris Vacations
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Gulf State Park Pavillion
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Gulf State Park Nature Center
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Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Rosemary Dunes Trailhead
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Gulf State Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Centennial Trail
1.4 km
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Observation Tower
1.6 km
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Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
1.7 km
Discover Alabama's Coastal Beauty: Explore diverse habitats, spot migratory birds, and find serenity at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Pine Beach Trail
1.7 km
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Gator Lake Trail
2.4 km
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Jeff Friend Trail
2.7 km
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Mo's Landing Park
9.4 km
Discover a peaceful retreat on Little Lagoon in Gulf Shores, offering boating, trails, and scenic views in a revitalized natural setting.
Gulf Shore
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Wedgewood Marble Kids
11.1 km
Experience family-friendly fun and tranquility at Wedgewood Marble Kids Garden in Gulf Shores, Alabama, a perfect escape into nature for all ages.
Kids Park
11.5 km
A vibrant and inclusive playground in Gulf Shores, offering a safe and fun environment for kids to play, explore, and make lasting memories.
Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion
11.7 km
A versatile outdoor venue in Gulf Shores, perfect for picnics, reunions, and community events, located within the scenic Johnnie Sims Park.
Gulf Shores Public Beach
11.8 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Gulf Shores Public Beach, where sun-kissed sands and azure waters await every traveler in Alabama's coastal paradise.
Wade Ward Nature Park
11.9 km
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Gulf Shores Museum
12.0 km
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Waterville USA/Escape House
12.1 km
Experience endless fun and adventure at Waterville USA, the premier amusement park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, featuring water rides, escape rooms, and family-friendly attractions.
Essential places to dine
Peninsula Restaurant & Grill
3.9 km
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The Beach House Kitchen and Cocktails
9.3 km
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Janino's Pizza
10.0 km
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The Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar
10.6 km
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The Oyster House
10.8 km
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Bahama Bob's Beach Side Cafe
11.0 km
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Lauria's by the Beach
11.3 km
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Burro Azul
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Sassy Bass Amazin' Grill
11.7 km
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De Soto's Seafood Kitchen
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The Steamer Baked Oyster Bar
11.8 km
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Shrimp Basket
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Original Oyster House Boardwalk
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Papa Rocco's
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The Hangout Gulf Shores
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Village Mercantile
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Island Outfitters
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Gulf Shores Souvenirs & Gifts
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Purple Octopus
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T Shirt Factory Inc
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Alvin's Island - Gulf Shores #19
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Gulf Shores Jerky Store
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Gulf Shores Beach Trading Company
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Surf Style 206: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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Island Girl Jewelry & Souvenirs
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Geez Louise Boutique
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Tiki Island Boutique
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One-Stop-Fun-Shop
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Surf Style 207: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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Gulf Shores Beach Supply
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sassy Bass Island Grill
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The deck
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Ice House Taproom
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High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas LLC
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Mudbugs Dive Bar
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Hooters
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The Galway Irish Public House
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Big Beach Brewing
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Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar
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Roasted Oak
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Bar 45
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The Tavern of Bon Secour
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BierShackTaproom
16.1 km
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50/50 lounge
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Foley's 50/50 Lounge, where locals and tourists meet to unwind and socialize.
Tacky Jacks Fort Morgan
17.5 km
Explore Tacky Jacks Fort Morgan for an unforgettable seafood dining experience with stunning Gulf views and a lively atmosphere.
