Labor Day Fun
In Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
We know you’re headed to the beach this Labor Day weekend, September 4 through 7, 2026, to dig your toes into the sand, feel the coastal breeze, and relax by the water. How about adding a few exciting activities to your itinerary while you’re here? Here are some of the best ways to enjoy your long Labor Day weekend on Alabama’s Beaches.
Labor Day Weekend Events on Alabama’s Beaches
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach host several Labor Day events to celebrate the long holiday weekend, including family entertainment, spectator events, and leisure races.
Attend the MBGFC Labor Day Invitational
If you’re an avid angler, check out the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club’s Annual Labor Day Invitational at Orange Beach Marina. This annual fishing tournament is the last of the season and includes three days of competitive sport fishing on the Gulf. The tournament will begin on Thursday, September 3 and conclude on Sunday, September 6. Even if you aren’t participating, you’ll want to attend the weigh-ins each evening to see some massive catches at the Orange Beach Marina!
Run the Bloody Mary 5K
Get a little exercise during the holiday weekend at Tacky Jack’s Bloody Mary 5K on Saturday, September 5, 2026. Participants will race through the scenic coastal streets of Gulf Shores, and cash prizes will be awarded to top runners. The race also gives team spirit awards to those who represent their favorite football team, so be sure to wear your favorite jersey, shirt, or hat!
Watch Fireworks at Light Up Labor Day at The Wharf
Orange Beach is celebrating the long weekend with a free, family-friendly celebration at The Wharf. The night kicks off with live music from local artists at Portside from 5-9 pm and a DJ spinning tunes on Main Street from 6-9 pm. At 8:45, the sky will light up with a vibrant Labor Day fireworks show. At 8:30, 9, and 9:30 pm, the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience illuminates Main Street, the perfect ending to a fun night.
Catch the Miss Flora-Bama Bikini Contest Finale
On Saturday, September 5, the iconic Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar hosts its final bikini contest of the year. Winners from the Mullet Toss, Memorial Day, and Independence Day contests compete for the title of Miss Flora-Bama 2026 and a $5,000 cash prize. The competition begins at 2 pm, but guests can enjoy more fun on the line before and after the pageant. In addition to the bikini contest, Flora-Bama offers a lively, memorable atmosphere, live local music, and cold drinks.
Best Things to Do During Labor Day Weekend on Alabama’s Beaches
The weather in early September makes this time of year perfect for so many water and outdoor activities. Add these fun Labor Day activities to your beach weekend itinerary!
Go Offshore Fishing
Fishing is world-class on Alabama’s Beaches, and our seasoned charter boat captains are experts at taking you there. Your captain will have everything you need for a day filled with fishing and will know exactly where to go for the best experience. This time of year, red snapper, amberjack, Jack Crevalle, and blackfin tuna are all up for grabs. After you’ve reeled in your bounty, take it to one of the many cook-your-catch restaurants, where you can enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch or dinner. It truly doesn’t get any fresher than that!
Take a Local Tour
Explore the beauty, wildlife, and cuisine of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach with a guided tour. Paddle through the calm back bays as a guide shows you the area’s natural wonders from the seat of a kayak. If you want to see some of the cutest residents of the Alabama Gulf Coast, set out on a dolphin cruise to spot these friendly marine creatures and other wildlife during your excursion. More of a foodie? Hop aboard The Surfside Shuttle and try four of the creamiest cocktail creations on the island with the signature bushwacker tour.
Spend a Day on the Beach
The weather and water on the Alabama Gulf Coast during September are ideal for long days on the beach. Temperatures aren’t as hot as they are in summer, and Gulf waters are still warm enough to swim, making this a great time of year for beach activities like shelling, building sandcastles, and picnicking. Book a beachfront place to stay for easy access to the shoreline or head to one of the 15 public accesses in the area. Be sure to check the daily beach conditions before venturing into the water.
Experience Gulf State Park by Segway
Hiking and biking are popular in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, with beautiful trails like Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park, but have you ever experienced the area on a Segway? With Coastal Segway Adventures, you can explore all that Mother Nature has to offer in a new and exciting way. You’ll have an expert guide creating a safe and comfortable eco-tour experience during your visit.
Enjoy Live Music & Coastal Dining
Dinner on Alabama’s Beaches isn’t complete without live music, and there are plenty of fantastic local spots where delicious meals come with a side of tunes. From local bands to solo acoustic performers, the restaurants and bars in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach feature the best musicians around. Fresh seafood + stunning views + live music = the perfect beach meal.
Hit the Golf Course
With 15 championship golf courses in and around Alabama's Beaches there’s no shortage of places to get in a few rounds while visiting over the holiday weekend. Labor Day is all about relaxing, and what’s a more relaxing activity than golf? You can bask in the area's natural beauty while teeing off and enjoying the coastal breeze. Be sure to hit up the restaurants at the course clubhouses to grab a bite to eat after you’re finished.
Cheer on Your Team
Labor Day weekend marks the official beginning of the college football season! Alabama’s Beaches are home to plenty of lively game-day restaurants and sports bars that broadcast live sports, so you don’t have to miss a single kickoff while visiting. Cheer on your favorite team while enjoying fresh coastal cuisine paired with a cold beer or refreshing tropical cocktail.
Break to the beach for an unforgettable Labor Day weekend in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan!
Explore Rentals on Alabama's Beaches
Whatever your vacation style, Alabama’s Beaches have the perfect spot for you. Start planning by choosing your dates and group size, and explore the best vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, comfortable places to stay in Orange Beach, or the charming rentals of Fort Morgan. With verified listings, secure payments, and real support, there are plenty of reasons why you should book with us.
Book Your Labor Day Stay
Alabama's Beaches
These blogs are written by the destination experts at Alabama's Beaches. From the best restaurants and hidden gems to tips and tricks for making the most of your stay, our knowledgable team has the lowdown on our area.
