Things to Do in April in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Cute, friendly lemur at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

1. 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, on-site dining, theme-park rides, and the chance for an up-close meet and greet with some of the animals. You'll also want to take advantage of the zoo's kangaroo, lemur, and sloth encounters for an unforgettable close-up experience with these friendly animals.

2. Escape into Nature at Bon Secour

Encompassing some of the state's last remaining undisturbed coastal habitat, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge (BSNWR) 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.

3. 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 12. This event promises a great course and a post-race party with food and fun. The Mullet Swing Golf Classic is held a few weeks later, on Wednesday, April 23. 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 25 through 27 as participants compete to see who can throw a mullet furthest over the state line.

4. 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 in Gulf Shores, 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. On the weekends, the brewery hosts the locally-owned food truck Nom Nom and live music.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. Cast Your Line on a Fishing Charter

Deep-sea, inshore, pier and surf fishing - we've got it all. From the Gulf of Mexico to the back bays, lagoons and freshwater lakes, there are countless waterways to cast your line when fishing on the Alabama Beaches. With the largest charter fishing fleet on the Gulf of Mexico, the fishing options are endless on Alabama's coast. 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.

8. 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.

9. Cruise Over to The Wharf for Classic Cars

If you love cars, head to The Wharf on April 24 and 25 for the 16th 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. This event is free to the public and includes free parking.