Friends cruising around the Gulf on a private charter boat in Orange Beach

Things to Do for Adults

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Beach trips aren’t just for kids. The grownups deserve to have a little fun on vacation, too, and there are plenty of fun things for adults on Alabama’s Beaches. Whether you’re here for a bachelor/bachelorette trip, couple's vacation, or solo trip, there is a lot to keep you entertained. From water excursions and thrilling adventures to cocktail tours, here are a few trip ideas for adults on vacation in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

Pro tip: If you want to avoid the family crowds, visit during January through March before spring break or in the fall and winter after Labor Day.

Adult Activities on Alabama's Beaches

bushwacker cocktail at Flora-Bama beach bar
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Boozy Bus Tour

Boozy Bus Tour

You’ve heard of a booze cruise, but what about a booze bus? Book a bushwacker tour with Surfside Shuttle and cruise around the destination bus style. You’ll stop at four different local bars and restaurants and sip on some of the best bushwackers on the island. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about finding a designated driver! Just make sure you don’t get a brain freeze.

Tiki boat cruise floating in the water near Perdido Pass Bridge in Orange Beach
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Cruise on a Tiki

Cruise on a Tiki

Speaking of booze cruises, hop aboard the floating tikis bars at Cruisin’ Tikis Orange Beach and tour the island by water. These boats can accommodate up to six people, each with a licensed captain who will lead your tour and steer your vessel. The boat is equipped with a cooler, cups, shot glasses, and a speaker, so bring your own snacks and drinks and get your best playlist ready.

People skydiving over Orange Beach with Skydive the Gulf
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Skydive onto the Beach

Skydive onto the Beach

Alabama's Beaches are absolutely gorgeous, but if you haven’t seen them from above, you’re totally missing out. Those with an adventurous side looking for thrills must take the leap over our turquoise waters with Skydive the Gulf. These certified instructors will ensure you have a safe and memorable drop. You’ll land directly on the beach in front of Flora-Bama, so you can grab a drink and a dozen oysters afterward to celebrate your daring feat!

E-Bike rentals in Gulf Shores
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E-Bike Adventures

E-Bike Adventures

Gulf State Park is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the destination. The beautiful natural wonders and unique wildlife make it a must-do on your vacation itinerary. Renting e-bikes is one of the easiest and most fun ways to explore all 28 miles of paved trails within the park. You’ll zoom through the park’s nine distinct ecosystems and have a chance to take in the outstanding scenery without even having to pedal too hard!

Couple with cocktails at a bar at The Wharf in Orange Beach
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Night Out at The Wharf

Night Out at The Wharf

The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes here on Alabama’s Beaches. If you’re still up for more excitement after dark, head to The Wharf. This nighttime hot spot has several great restaurants and fabulous bars. From a smart bar and secret speakeasy to live music joints and a wine bar, you’ll find the perfect spot to enjoy a few libations after a day on the beach.

Friends enjoying a beachfront picnic by Beachside Blankets in Orange Beach
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Insta-Worthy Beachfront Picnic

Insta-Worthy Beachfront Picnic

No kids = no cooking. For an actual beachfront meal, opt for a scenic picnic with Beachside Blankets or Southern Charm Picnic Co. These super charming picnics are the perfect way to celebrate special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, or girls’ nights out. Both companies provide a hassle-free experience. They take care of all the setup, food prep, and takedown, which means all you have to do is show up and look cute.

Couple with snorkel masks at Robinson Island in Orange Beach
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Take the Plunge

Take the Plunge

You don’t have to travel overseas to a tropical island to see sea life underwater. Strap on a mask, slip on a pair of fins, and explore the vibrant world of the Gulf below the surface with a snorkeling excursion. The area has several prime snorkel spots teeming with marine life hanging around reefs and sunken structures. You can rent gear from a local dive shop, and several will drop you off at your designated dive location.

Friends cruising in the Gulf on a private boat charter
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Private Charter

Private Charter

Take a curated island tour with a private charter with Island Time Private Boat Charters. Your charter will come with a captain, but you’re in charge of your adventure. Stop by a sandbar for a dip in the water, utilize the complimentary snorkel masks and search for marine life, or sit back and relax on the boat as you look for dolphins. Island Time Private Boat Charters offers cruises from 2 to 6 hours and sunset cruises from 2 to 4 hours. There is even a bushwacker tour, where you’ll cruise to a few local waterfront restaurants and pop in for a drink.

a flight of four craft beers at Big Beach Brewing local brewery in Gulf Shores
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Curated Coastal Tastings

Curated Coastal Tastings

You’ve probably got your meals and restaurants planned out so you can indulge in some of the best cuisine the Gulf Coast has to offer. Add a tasting at a local bar to your itinerary. Try a craft beer flight of local brews at Big Beach Brewing or a fancy wine flight at Lauria’s. If you prefer cocktails, try the incredible concoctions at High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas 3 with a bushwacker, daiquiri, or mimosa flight. Those who just want a few sips should stop by Kentucky Mist Distillery at The Wharf and sample some unique moonshine flavors.

screaming eagle boat tour in orange beach
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Screaming Eagle

Screaming Eagle

For adrenaline-pumping, high-energy fun, nothing beats a ride on the Screaming Eagle. This bright yellow jet boat is donned as Orange Beach’s “fastest boat.” Passengers will fly across the Gulf, twisting and turning at high speeds while waves splash all around them. It’s like a rollercoaster on the water. Be sure to wear your swimsuit because you are guaranteed to get a little wet.

Friends playing virtual golf at Tee Off TopGolf SwingSuites at The Wharf
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Tee Off

Tee Off

When it's time to bring a little friendly competition to the trip, head to Tee Off at The Wharf, powered by TopGolf. This lively restaurant and bar features multiple private SwingSuites where guests can play to their hearts' content. Not a golfer? Don't worry. These suites also have soccer, football, baseball, dodgeball, and carnival games. Servers will bring food and drinks to your booth, so you can relax and have fun.

Outdoor amphitheater-style seating at The Learning Campus in Gulf State Park
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Take a Class

Take a Class

The Learning Campus in Gulf State Park is the hub for all things environmental education. This hot spot hosts adults-only programs, "The Science of Nature," for outdoor lovers to learn more about the area's flora, fauna, history, and unique ecosystems. Each session is $35 and includes hands-on activities throughout the park.

Crowd listening to live music at Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar in Orange Beach
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Dance the Night Away

Dance the Night Away

When the sun goes, the fun is just getting started at the Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar. This iconic, honky tonk bar boasts live music 365 days of the year, making it the ultimate spot to two-step, boot scoot, and slide. Each room in the bar features a different performer, offering guests a range of vibes and music. Whether you want to dance the night away or sit back and listen to the tunes of local musicians, Flora-Bama is the place to be. After 6 pm, Flora-Bama is only open to those 18 and up.

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Sydnie Lee

Visit Alabama's Beaches Content Specialist

A Gulf Coast native and Travel Marketing Professional, Sydnie is Alabama's Beaches Content Specialist (AKA taste tester and destination researcher.) She spends time visiting restaurants, attractions, activities, and events in the area to get the inside scoop on all things happening in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

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