Things to Do in March
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
March on the Alabama Gulf Coast is full of fun! Mark your calendar because the beginning of spring brings warm weather back to Alabama's Beaches. Whether you’re coming for spring break, a family vacation, or just a weekend getaway, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your stay.
Check out these things to do in March in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Ready for a spring getaway? Here are our favorite things to do in March on Alabama's beaches!
1. Discover Art, Music, & Culture at Ballyhoo
The month begins with the Annual Ballyhoo Festival at Lake Shelby on March 1-2. This two-day cultural event features fine art, live music, competitions and demonstrations, and local heritage. The highlight of the festival is the Poarch Creek Indians' impressive performances of their original tribal dances.
2. Cast Your Line
It’s no secret that the Gulf Coast is a prime location for fishing, and with the largest charter fleet in the area, Alabama’s beaches are the best place to drop a line. During March, anglers can catch bluefish, cobia, pompano, and many more species that are prominent during the spring season. Whether you prefer inshore, nearshore, or deep sea fishing, you’re bound to reel a fish tale you'll share for years to come. Take your haul to one of the area's many restaurants that will cook your catch for you.
3. Let the Good Times Roll
We let the good times roll here during February. The family-friendly Mardi Gras celebrations kick off on March 1, with the The Marshalls and Mystics of Pleasure rolling down Perdido Beach Boulevard that evening. Then, don’t miss the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach parades the following Tuesday. You’re sure to see decorated floats, festive costumes, and loads of beads!
4. Celebrate Arts with the Whole Family
This year marks the 51st Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art from March 8-9. At this popular event, you’ll find over 100 vendors showcasing incredible art, local food trucks, live performances and art demonstrations, and a kid’s art gallery. To top it all off, the festival takes place at Waterfront Park, giving attendees beautiful bayfront views and a comfortable breeze.
5. Admire Extravagant Boats & Yachts
Whether you’re looking to buy a boat or just like marveling at lavish yachts, you’ll have a blast at The Wharf’s Annual Boat and Yacht Show on March 21-23. This event is known for bringing the best pricing of the year for boat buyers, as well as showcasing the latest technology in world-class marine electronics, fishing gear, and more. In addition to the impressive yachts, you'll find many other types of boats on display--skiffs, pontoons, and cruises, to name a few.
6. Step Back in Time
Add a little history lesson to your trip and discover the unique role Historic Fort Morgan played during the civil war. This third masonry fort has guarded our coastal waters for almost two centuries and stood tall through several wars, including the famous Battle of Mobile of Bay. Visitors can explore the tunnels, battery bowyer, magazines, and more iconic spots in and around the fort. It’s the perfect way to learn about the history of the area!
7. Race on the Beach
Flora-Bama hosts its Annual Beach Run for America’s Warriors on Saturday, March 15. The race includes a 5K and half marathon, and racers will run/walk along the scenic beach road, beginning at the oyster bar. All proceeds benefit the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. This race is a perfect way to enjoy our beautiful white-sand beaches while supporting a great cause.
8. Explore Gulf State Park
You can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and kayaking all year round on the Alabama Gulf Coast. However, the comfortable weather spring brings to our beaches makes March a perfect time to experience the natural beauty of the area, and with 6,150 acres and nine distinct ecosystems, the beautiful Gulf State Park is a great place to get out and explore.
9. Go Searching for Dolphins
While plenty of charters and guided tours are available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, some of the most exciting are dolphin cruises. If you’ve ever wanted to see dolphins up close in their natural habitat, this is your chance. You’ll have the opportunity to watch these friendly creatures swim around the coastal waters and pop out to say hello. The guides know where the dolphins hang out and will share their knowledge of dolphin life with those on board.
10. Hit the Mini-Golf Course
Mini golf is the perfect spring break and family vacation activity, and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have plenty of spots to play, like Shrimpy’s, which offers 18 holes and a great ice cream shop. Over at Beachside Mini Golf, you’ll discover an 18-hole, handicap-accessible course, while Tiki’s Mini Golf offers $5 games and bike rentals. Watch out for the erupting volcano as you putt through the course at Adventure Island, or follow in the footsteps of renowned pirates like Blackbeard at Pirate’s Island. If you’re looking for a truly unique mini-golf experience, check out Jurassic Golf and play a glow-in-the-dark game among dinosaurs!
