Couple relaxing on the beach watching the sunset in Orange Beach

Couple's Activities

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Published on: January 8, 2021

Updated at: May 20, 2026

A romantic escape to the beach starts with long walks on the beach, hand in hand as you listen to the waves crash against the shore. Lay a blanket on the sand and watch water birds swoop down over the waves to catch their dinner. Whisper a quiet good night to the day as the sun slips away into the dark.

Sounds great.

But, if you’re ready to kick the romance up a notch, I’ve got eight great ideas to get you started!

Things to Do for Couples on Alabama's Beaches

couple biking along the paved trails in gulf state park

Slow Down & Tour the Beach by Bike

Everyday life is so hectic. We get used to the go-go-go pace. While vacationing on Alabama's Beaches, rent bikes and explore everything Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have to offer at a relaxed pace. You might just meet a friendly alligator in Gulf State Park along the way.

Key lime pie dessert at LuLu's Gulf Shores restaurant

Indulge in Something Sweet

Reminisce about sweet moments or make new ones as you share a sweet treat. Some of the best ice cream and dessert spots in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are:

The Yard Milkshake Bar, where hand-crafted, gourmet milkshakes big enough to share top their delectable menu.
Chocolate Corner, where you can enjoy homemade chocolates, truffles, and coffee drinks — or more ice cream if you prefer!
Or make a week of it as you follow the Key lime pie trail, a specialty all along the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Couple enjoying a massage at San Roc Cay in Orange Beach

Pamper Yourselves at The Spa

There are several spas in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach where couples can go to be pampered and forget the cares of the world. Add aromatherapy or hot stone treatments for a special indulgence.

sail wild hearts sailboat cruising through the waters of Orange Beach

Take a Dolphin Cruise

There’s something about dolphins frolicking through the waves on the wide open Gulf that brings out childlike joy in all of us. Take a dolphin cruise with Sail Wild Hearts in Orange Beach to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. The cruise includes everything you need, except sunscreen and towels, for a truly carefree experience.

Glass blowing demonstration at The Hot Shop at the Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach

Make Your Own Souvenir

Create a memento of your time away together by throwing a piece of pottery together or create glasswork at The Clay Studio or The Hot Shop. The Coastal Arts Center takes care of everything. Just schedule your class and enjoy making memories.

Chase The Sunset

Sure, you can walk into the night along the beach, but chasing sunsets on the water is incredibly romantic. The Sunny Lady Sunset Cruise at The Wharf in Orange Beach takes guests on a 90-minute cruise to see dolphins and the sunset. Tickets for this popular cruise often sell out, so book in advance online — and save.

Couple riding the Ferris wheel at The Wharf during sunset

Ride the Ferris Wheel

The Ferris Wheel at The Wharf is one of the tallest on the Gulf Coast. Sweep your sweetheart off their feet and ride into the night sky. The experience offers fantastic views of The Wharf and Intracoastal Waterway. Who says you can’t feel like a kid again?

Couple dining on the outdoor deck at Jesse's on the Bay fine dining restaurant in Fort Morgan

Linger Over a Gourmet Dinner

A romantic getaway for two means you don’t have to eat burgers and fries, chicken tenders or mac ’n cheese. Linger over a fine dining dinner where you have time to chat between courses and truly enjoy the food you eat.

These restaurants are great options:

Cosmo’s, the place the locals go to celebrate, serves eclectic dishes from hand-cut steaks to local seafood and pasta.
Voyager’s at Perdido Beach Resort offers delicious entrée’s, an extensive wine list, and beach views that are hard to beat.
Jesse's on the Bay serves expertly crafted dishes and drinks in a stunning waterfront setting.

Alabama's Beaches is a wonderful, romantic place to reconnect. It all starts with long walks on the sand, hand in hand. But, there’s a lot more to do that’s not on the beach, too. Try something new and rekindle the fun of discovery together with a couple's getaway on the coast!

Karen Dawkins is a freelance travel writer who has been featured in print and online markets and on radio broadcast. She is a family travel expert with a passion to help families experience the world for less. As she says, “Budget doesn’t mean cheap. It’s smart!”