Things to Do

Alabama’s Beaches are home to plenty of family-friendly attractions that make vacation easy to plan and fun for every age. Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, zoom down the slides at Waterville USA, or race go-karts at The Track. When you need to step out of the sun or escape the rain, there are plenty of fun indoor activities and attractions in Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, such as arcades and escape rooms.

Local Tip: Buy tickets online in advance during the peak summer season to skip the lines!

All Attractions

A beach trip doesn’t have to break the bank, as there are plenty of free and affordable things to do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Play a few rounds of mini golf, rent complimentary bikes in Gulf State Park, or watch the free nightly laser light show at The Wharf. For history lovers, step back in time at Historic Fort Morgan or visit the free Gulf Shores Museum and the Orange Beach History Museum to experience coastal Alabama's past. 

One of the biggest attractions in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores is the boundless natural areas and outdoor adventures. From the moment you arrive, the magnificence of the Gulf Coast thrills your senses thanks to the diverse ecosystems that line the Alabama coastal region. From freshwater marshes where alligators bask in the sun to coastal hardwood swamps, the area’s abundant natural beauty and the 28 miles of trails at Gulf State Park that are great for biking, hiking, and birdwatching may leave you speechless.

There are plenty of off-the-beach things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, too! Take a break from the sand to explore local boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores, perfect for finding a coastal souvenir. When you’re ready to wind down for the evening and keep the fun going, you’ll find plenty of beach bars serving sensational sips with a side of live music and scenic views.

While many guests come to the area for the fresh seafood and gorgeous shorelines, Alabama’s Beaches is also a premier golfing destination with a total of 117 holes. From championship courses designed by golf legends to state-of-the-art practice facilities and high-tech driving ranges, there are six coastal courses and two golf simulators across Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

Looking for memorable and fun things to do during your Alabama’s Beaches vacation? Watersports are among the best activities in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores for kids and adults alike. Glide across the calm back bays on a kayak or paddleboard, or ride the Gulf waves with a surf lesson. If you’re up for thrills, fly over the shoreline on a parasail or zip around on a Jet Ski rental. The possibilities for exploring the Alabama Gulf Coast waterways are endless!

More Water Activities

Alabama’s Beaches is a boater’s paradise with so many beautiful waterways to explore. Cruise to a local dock and dine restaurant and grab a bite to eat or drop anchor at the Orange Beach islands and spend a day under the sun. There are plenty of marinas and boat launches in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, as well as boat-friendly accommodations.

Take an intimate look at one of nature’s most beautiful animals with one of our many dolphin cruises. Watch these incredible marine mammals thrive in their natural habitat. You can choose from a relaxing sunset catamaran cruise, a glass-bottom boat tour, or a sailing cruise to experience the world of the dolphins under wind power.

Discover More Cruises

The waters off Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan Beach provide some of the best fishing in Alabama. For offshore and inshore charters and deep-sea fishing, book a charter to hook a prized species. If you'd rather relax in the sand for some surf fishing, cast a line off the beach in search of flounder, pompano, or sheepshead. With over two thousand feet of rail space to cast a line, plus concessions and shops, the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier is a prime spot for anglers of all ages.

More Fishing Opportunities

Crystalline turquoise waters make Gulf Shores and Orange Beach diving a delight for all deep-water enthusiasts. Dive sites like the famous LuLu shipwreck or Poseidon's Playground are a delight for certified divers. Not a diver yet? You can become one on your vacation! Register for a certification course during your stay so you can dive during your current beach trip and then next time you visit as well.