What's to do

I have never fished the Gulf Shores pier although I am thinking about it in Oct. Is there anything else to do close by when not fishing (like a good watering hole). I usually fish the Navarre, FL pier and there is nothing to do in Navarre if you are not fishing. I've finished Panama City and it's a little too touristy for me.

Depending on your definition of "close", some choice watering holes include the FloraBama about ten minutes to the east, Sea 'n Suds a short hop to the west and the Pink Pony Pub a short additional hop to the west. There are plenty of others, but it has been quite some time since I made the rounds. There is other stuff from golf, Waterville and ziplines all the way to the Spear Hunting Museum several miles up the highway.

If you are married or otherwise bringing a significant other you can send her/them to Fairhope shopping. That's one un interrupted day of fishing. The outlet malls in Foley, good for another day. Spending time on the pier shooting the breeze with Haywire, Slim, Fin Chaser, Rockinchef, ect is priceless!!!

Not sure it's down your alley but when I'm not fishing I play live Poker at Pensacola Dog Track about 30 mins from the Pier

when I'm not fishing, I am getting ready for the next day of fishing :D ....but I am an old fart and need my rest after a day on the pier....dinner, shower, and vacuum seal up the fish(if lucky to bring some back) and then bed....dang that sounds soooo good to me:D
sorry I can't help any more

A trip to the Naval Air Museum is well worth the 40 minute drive!
Welcome - National Naval Aviation Museum

I agree with Fin, the Naval Aviation Museum is a MUST see, not far from GS/OB and you can't argue about the admission price, my family and I visit it at least twice a year, oh ye, on Wednesdays you can see the Blue Angels if they are in town.

If you are coming down in October shrimp fest is going on, lots of music, seafood and one gigantic "watering hole" I usually make it a point it a point to come down then, cause it gives you a break between fishing.

If you like hooters, there is a Hooters about half way between Sea 'n' Suds and the Pink Pony. :drunk

Lower case h and upper case H. Nicely played Fin!