Bon Secour

Things to Do in April

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

People always say, "April showers bring May flowers," but on Alabama's Beaches, the month brings lots of fun! The weather is warm, the water is comfortable, and spring events are plentiful. Here are the best things to do in April in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

Best Activities & Events in April on Alabama's Beaches

Boy petting a lemur during an animal encounter at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
1

Go Wild at The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Go Wild at The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Have you ever wanted to hold a sloth or feed a giraffe? At the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo in Gulf Shores, you can! This 25-acre zoo is home to over 300 animals. Spending a day here includes interactive shows, theme-park rides, premium animal experiences, and the chance for an up-close meet and greet with some of the zoo's residents. You'll also want to take advantage of the lemur and sloth encounters for an unforgettable close-up interaction with these friendly animals.

Hiking trail in Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge natural habitat in Fort Morgan
2

Escape into Nature at Bon Secour

Escape into Nature at Bon Secour

Encompassing some of the state's last remaining undisturbed coastal habitat, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts vacationing along our shores. The refuge has four distinct trails of varying lengths and terrains. On the trails, you're likely to encounter various flora and fauna, some of which are endangered species. One of the most popular trails is the Jeff Friend Trail, an ADA-compliant, one-mile loop offering gorgeous views and plenty of rest areas. 

Woman throwing a fish across the stateline at Flora-Bama's Annual Mullet Toss event in Orange Beach
3

Get Your Flora-Bama Fix

Get Your Flora-Bama Fix

April is a massive month for the famous Flora-Bama as the restaurant hosts three events. First up is the Annual Mullet Man Triathlon on April 18. This event promises a great course and a post-race party with food and fun. The Mullet Swing Golf Classic is held a few days later, on Wednesday, April 22. A 4-person scramble, this tournament is a favorite among golfers. Lastly is the Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf’s Greatest Beach Party. This weekend party runs from April 24 through 26 as participants compete to see who can throw a mullet furthest over the state line.

a glass of craft beer on the bar at Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores
4

Celebrate National Beer Day

Celebrate National Beer Day

Did you know April 7 is National Beer Day? There's no better way to celebrate than sipping on a cold craft beer at a local brewery, and at Big Beach Brewing Company, you can do just that. This open-air taproom serves up a dozen beers on any given day, including sours, cream ales, IPAs, and more. 

People paddling to Bird Island in a glow kayak from Sea View Tours in Orange Beach
5

Rent Clear Kayaks

Rent Clear Kayaks

Paddle through the back bays and observe the water below you in a clear kayak from Sea View Tour. You'll venture to Bird Island after picking up your paddles and life vests. After a quick lesson, these self-guided tours allow you to explore the area around the island at your own pace. You can also opt for a night glow tour where you'll search with a guide for ghost crabs on Bird Island. Colorful lights line the kayaks, making the tour extra fun.

Dolphins seen swimming in the Gulf from a dolphin cruise in Orange Beach
6

Embark on a Dolphin Cruise

Embark on a Dolphin Cruise

There's only one thing that can top cruising around the beautiful coastal waters of Alabama, and that's spotting dolphins during your excursion. Multiple dolphin tours are available that take guests out into the waters where these friendly creatures hang out. You'll not only see dolphins during these cruises, but the knowledgeable tour guides will tell you all about their lives and habitat. If you want to make your tour extra special, opt for a cruise at sunset!!

warbler at fort Morgan bird banding demonstration
7

Learn About Migratory Birds

Learn About Migratory Birds

Birds of a feather flock together on Fort Morgan for the Annual Alabama Coastal Birdfest! This four-day event runs from April 23-26 and offers bird lovers and outdoor enthusiast a chance to experience the spectacular spring migration along the Gulf Coast. Attendees will enjoy guided birding tours, workshops, and trips to the bird-banding station.

Family racing go-karts at The Track Family Fun Park attraction in Gulf Shores
8

Fulfill Your Need for Speed

Fulfill Your Need for Speed

Just as its name suggests, The Track Family Fun Park in Gulf Shores offers fun for the entire family. Here, you'll find exhilarating rides such as the Skycoaster and Spinning Coaster, as well as exciting activities like mini-golf, bumper boats and kid's rides. However, its signature attraction is its multi-level Wild Woody go-kart track. Drivers can race each other up and down over three stories around the park before embarking on a thrilling drop back to the bottom.

fishing rod on a charter boat
9

Cast Your Line on a Fishing Charter

Cast Your Line on a Fishing Charter

Deep-sea, inshore, pier and surf fishing - we've got it all. From the Gulf to the back bays, lagoons and freshwater lakes, there are countless waterways to cast your line when fishing on Alabama's Beaches. With the largest charter fishing fleet on the Gulf, the fishing options are endless. Choose from inshore or offshore excursions with options for a short four-or six-hour trip or an all-nighter. There's something for everyone and every skill level. 

Cars lined up at The Wharf for Bama Coast Cruisin' Car Show in Orange Beach
10

Cruise Over to The Wharf for Classic Cars

Cruise Over to The Wharf for Classic Cars

If you love cars, head to The Wharf on April 23 and 25 for the Annual Bama Coast Cruisin'. This family-friendly event includes incredible cars, lots of entertainment and Southern hospitality. At the event, unique and spectacular classic cars line Main Street at The Wharf as spectators admire them from up close. The weekend also includes live music, door prizes, vendor booths, cash giveaways and a parade cruise. If you get hungry, you can enjoy a bite to eat or drink at any of the fabulous restaurants at The Wharf. 

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.

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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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