12 Reasons Summers in Alabama Beat Every Other State

Summers in Alabama are hot and humid, with many scattered showers or thunderstorms throughout the season. But, because most days reach around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the state has some of the best summer activities available to residents and visitors. For example, Alabama offers incredible white sandy beaches, exhilarating waterparks, outdoor adventures, and more. Here are 12 reasons summers in Alabama beat every other state.

1. Beaches

The beaches in Alabama are notorious for their long stretches of sandy white shores and clear blue waters. There are several beaches you can visit while in the state, including:

• Gulf Shores Main Public Beach
• Dauphin Island
• Robinson Island
• Romar Beach
• Cotton Bayou Beach
• Orange Beach

2. Lakes

Summer in Alabama is the perfect time to cool off in one of many lakes in the state. Many residents and visitors relax in these calming waters during the sweltering summer heat. Some of the best swimming lakes in the state include:

• Weiss Lake
• Lake Martin
• Smith Lake
• Lake Jordon
• Lake Guntersville

3. Rivers

Alabama is well-equipped to deal with its hot and humid summers, as it has ways to cool off. Besides its many beaches and lakes, the state also has a few rivers perfect for swimming, kayaking, and tubing. These rivers include:

• Cahaba River
• Flint River

4. Outdoor Recreation

If you aren’t interested in cooling off in the water, Alabama also offers plenty of outdoor recreation to keep residents and visitors busy during the summer.

Graham Creek Nature Preserve

If you want to connect with nature, one of the best places you can go in the state is Graham Creek Nature Preserve. The preserve spreads over 500 acres and consists of tidal marshes, forests, and savannahs. Therefore, there is tons to explore. Graham Creek has a kayak and canoe launch site where outdoor enthusiasts can set out for Wolf Bay. In addition, the preserve also has a walking trail for cyclists and hikers, a bike trail, and a cross-country trail.

Visitors who aren’t as fond of physical activity can enjoy the three disc golf courses, bird watching, and several picnic spots. Furthermore, the preserve hosts many special events at its on-site pavilion and Interpretive Center. Many people choose this spot for a more natural wedding venue.

Gulf State Park 

This incredible park is located in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. It’s the perfect place to spend a summer’s day. Guests can book a Segway tour or rent a bike and explore the 6,150-acre park. Additionally, you can head to Lake Shelby, situated in the center of the park and is great for boating, swimming, or fishing. It is an ideal destination for dog lovers who can bring their furry friends to enjoy the great outdoors.

But one of the best things about Gulf State Park is the fishing pier, which has become quite popular over the last few years, attracting seasoned anglers from all over the country. Fisherman can catch a wide variety of species, including:

• Spanish Mackerel
• Florida Pompano
• Flounder
• Sheepshead
• Red Drum
• Cobia
• King Mackerel

Waterville USA

If you are seeking a thrilling adventure, head down to Waterville USA, in Alabama, during the summer. This amazing water and amusement park is located less than a mile from the beach and is loved by families looking to enjoy its countless water rides, escape rooms, and arcades. Learn how to surf on the simulated surfing attraction, or compete against your family on the six-lane mat racer slide called Dune Racer. Parents can relax at Cabana Cove while their kids enjoy everything the park offers. These private cabanas are available to rent, where you can order food and drinks while taking refuge in the shade.

5. Pleasant Weather

Summer in Alabama begins in June, with maximum temperatures rising above 92 degrees Fahrenheit. Thunderstorms are common during mid-July, and the amount of rain significantly reduces by August. However, the heat persists throughout the month.

6. Vibrant Festivals and Events

Alabama comes alive in the summer with its many festivals and events. The state has many cultural celebrations that showcase its traditions, arts, and entertainment, including:

• Southern Fried Film Festival in Huntsville
• CreekFest in Mobile
• Alabama Blueberry Festival in Brewton
• Helen Keller Festival
• Rock the South
• SummerNight Downtown Art in Auburn

7. Natural Wonders

Alabama is home to several natural wonders, from towering mountaintops to free-flowing rivers. There is so much to see and do in the state. Here are some of the best natural wonders in Alabama:

Mount Cheaha

The highest point in Alabama is a 2,799-acre mountaintop retreat called Mount Cheaha. The top of Mount Cheaha has unbeatable views, as it is surrounded by miles of Talladega National Forest.

Dismals Canyon

This canyon is truly magnificent and one of Alabama’s most incredible natural wonders. But, before you can experience this haven, you need to hike 1.5 miles until you encounter deep caverns, cascading waterfalls, diverse plant life, and moss-covered rocks. Furthermore, this canyon derives its name from the Dismalites found at the site, which is a type of glowworm that give off a bright blue-green light. So, you can only imagine how breathtaking this canyon is at night.

Cathedral Caverns

If you like geology, you will be fascinated by the Cathedral Caverns, named after its cathedral-like appearance. Once inside the caverns, you will be treated to some of the most amazing rock formations. These natural works of art are enhanced by the echoing of the Mystery River. Some notable attractions in this cavern are the frozen waterfall, and stalagmite forest, containing one of the largest stalagmites on the planet.

8. Culinary Delights

Like many southern states, Alabama is notorious for its barbecue and even has its own White BBQ Sauce made from mayonnaise, tangy vinegar, horseradish, mustard, and several spices. However, the state is also known for other southern delights like classic southern smothered pork chops, fried green tomatoes, fried chicken, collard greens, tomato pie, and shrimp and grits.

Alabama also has many delicious desserts for those with a sweet tooth, including homemade banana pudding and classic southern pecan pie. But, the official state dessert is Lane Cake, which is a four-layer, bourbon-spiked cake with raisin filling.

9. Family-Friendly Activities

There are plenty of places in Alabama that provide families with memorable experiences. Your kids will never be bored during summer vacation in this state. Activities and attractions include:

• Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure
• Pirates Bay Waterpark
• Tropic Falls
• Water World
• Adventureland Theme Park

10. Cultural Heritage

Alabama’s deep-seated history has resulted in the state brimming with cultural events, bringing to life its deep-seated history, diverse arts, delicious cuisine, and vibrant music. Locals celebrate this history with numerous events and festivals, especially in the summer, including:

• Birmingham Folk Festival
• Southern Appalachian Dulcimer Festival
• Woodstock Music Festival
• African Heritage Festival 
• Central Alabama Caribbean Food and Music Festival
• Anniston Heritage Festival
• Independence Day Celebration at American Village
• J2A Cultural Arts Street Festival
• Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival

11. Scenic Drives and Road Trips

Alabama has a diverse landscape, and there is nothing better than enjoying everything this state has to offer by taking a scenic drive or road trip. So, if you really want to enjoy the simpler things in life, jump in the car and drive down:

• Natchez Trace Parkway
• Alabama’s Coastal Connection
• Talladega Scenic Drive

12. Welcoming Atmosphere

Alabama is notorious for that southern hospitality everyone is always talking about as long as you are friendly in return. Locals are happy and love to help. Whether opening the car door for you, carrying your groceries, or giving directions, you can rest assured that you are in good hands when visiting the state.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Gustavo Frazao/Shutterstock.com