Things to Do with Teens
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
From thrills and one-of-a-kind activities to delicious dining, here are a few things teens will enjoy while visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Alabama's beaches are the perfect destination for a family vacation. With beautiful beaches, exciting outdoor adventures, and unique attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy – even teenagers.
1. Zip Around The Track
Searching for adrenaline-pumping fun, The Track in Gulf Shores is the place for you. You'll race across the multiple go-karts courses, including the Wild Woody, a three-and-a-half-story winding wooden track. After zipping around the park you'll want to check out the SkyCoaster and take in the views from 110 feet in the air. If thrills aren't really your style, head inside the arcade and enjoy an array of classic and interactive games.
2. Find Thrills at Tropic Falls
A short drive to Foley will lead you to Tropic Falls at OWA, which features an award-winning theme park and the region's largest indoor waterpark. Both the theme park and waterpark include thrilling rides perfect for those looking for heart-racing fun. You'll love throwing your hands in the air as you zoom up and down on the Rollin' Thunder roller coaster and holding onto your tube as you twist and turn on the Forbidden Falls slide.
3. Take a Beach Helicopter Ride
Alabama’s beaches look exquisite from the ground, but wait until you see them from above. Take a ride in the sky with Hang Ten Helicopters to get an amazing aerial view of the area. The highly skilled pilots will point out notable spots during your tour and ensure you and your gang have a safe and memorable ride.
4. Dine Tiki-Style by the Water
If you've ever dreamed of hanging out inside a tiki hut, here's your chance. Barometer Tiki and Raw Bar at Safe Harbor Sportsman Marina in Orange Beach offers guests incredible views and open-air dining alongside its tasty eats. Play a game of cornhole and listen to the tunes from local musicians as you enjoy a burger or wings. This waterfront restaurant also serves nonalcoholic drinks like virgin daiquiris and piña coladas, so you can sip on a frozen treat while taking in the laid-back atmosphere.
5. Have Big Fun at Mini Golf
Mini golf is a quintessential vacation activity, especially at the beach, and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to numerous courses to test your and your teen's skills. Make your way across waterfalls, streams, bridges, and more challenges as you putt-putt through the courses around the beach. If your crew wants to take their mini golfing up a notch, visit Jurassic Golf in Gulf Shores and experience its 5,000 square feet of glow-in-the-dark fun.
6. Skimboarding
Show off your skills at the beach by skimboarding across the shoreline. All it takes to master skimboarding is a board and some practice. The surf on our beaches is usually perfect for this watersport as it’s not too aggressive. You can bring your own board or pick one up at a local outfitter or grocery store.
7. Weave through Gulf State Park on a Segway
The beautiful Gulf State Park lies in both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and is an outdoor paradise filled with local wildlife, lakes, trails, and more. With over 28 miles of trails, navigating the entire park can be tricky. One of the best ways to explore the park is with a guided tour from Coastal Segway Adventures. These two-hour tours allow you to easily cruise through the park and fit in lots of sightseeing. If you've never ridden a Segway, don't worry; each session begins with a riding lesson.
8. Hit the Pool
You don’t have to leave your accommodation to experience the perfect vacation day. There’s nothing like heading downstairs at your hotel or condo and relaxing by the pool. Our beaches are home to lots of lodging options with on-site pools, and some even have lazy rivers and hot tubs, too. Whether you’re jumping in or just sunbathing, hitting up the pool is a must while you’re on Alabama Beaches.
9. Hang Out at The Hangout
There's no better place to grab a bite to eat and hang out than The Hangout in Gulf Shores. This beachfront restaurant combines delicious food, great entertainment, and fabulous views to create the perfect atmosphere for chilling out and dining. Running through the bubbles from the foam machine, dancing on top of the tables, and snapping a picture in front of the Shaka are just a few of the unique things to do at this Gulf Shores staple.
10. Ride the Waves with Watersports
You came to the beach to see the water, and the best way to do that is by trying your hand at one or a few watersports. Whip through the waves on a Jet Ski or fly across the water on an eFoil board. If you prefer to be in the air rather than the water, go parasailing and feel the rush of the coastal wind brush over you as you soar over the Gulf.
11. Cast a Line
Our beaches are a dream come true for the fishing enthusiasts in your crew. You'll discover plenty of angling opportunities, from surf and pier to freshwater and charter fishing. Experienced anglers will love hopping aboard a deep-sea charter and venturing out into the Gulf to search for various species. Those who prefer to keep their feet grounded should visit the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier, as it's a great spot for fishing and sightseeing.
12. Cruise the Beach
Grab your sunnies and soak up the rays with your crew at the beach. Take a dip into the water or walk the beach in search of new vacay friends. A great beach access for teens is Gulf Place Public Beach in Gulf Shores. Here, you’ll have access to several restaurants and stores within walking distance of the beach. Don’t forget your portable speaker and a football to toss around while you’re out there.
13. Shop, Eat, & Play at The Wharf
The Wharf in Orange Beach is the ultimate spot for all things entertainment. Immerse yourself in the vibrant gaming world at Outer Limits VR, then play a game of laser tag or bazooka ball at Arena Next Level Arcade. Keep the party going and visit the Axe Hole and Breakout Games for even more fun. Afterward, grab a giant slice of pizza from Vinny's Pizzeria or a piece (or two) of homemade fudge at Kilwins. On top of all the cool attractions at The Wharf, there are plenty of fantastic shops and restaurants to keep the fun going.
