Top 8 Places to Do It for the ‘Gram on Alabama’s Beaches

Vacations are our time to sit back, relax and maybe get a few (or a hundred) cute pictures to show our friends and family when we return to the daily grind.

May 21, 2021

If you’re wanting to share your adventures in real time on social media, head on over to our top eight spots to do it for the ‘gram in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach! And if you’re a foodie, you definitely want to read up on our most Instagrammable restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

On a Boat

Get your swim trunks and some “flippie floppies” because for this first one you’re going to be on a boat! Whether you’ve rented a pontoon for the day, are out in the Gulf for a deep-sea fishing trip or on a sunset sail with a local charter company, nothing says you’re on island time like a picture of you cruising and enjoying the breeze only a boat can bring.

Gulf State Park Pier

With a length of 1,540 feet and a width of 20 feet, there is plenty of room for an Insta-worthy nature adventure on the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier. It is the largest pier in the Gulf of Mexico, boasts more than 2,000 feet of fishing space, and provides a vivid vantage point to snap pictures of native fish, birds and other unique coastal wildlife.

The Hot Shop

Nelly had it right when he said “it’s getting hot in here;” but he didn’t know the real hot spot is The Hot Shop at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach, Alabama’s premier public glass blowing studio. Their professional glass blowers allow guests to come in and try their hand at this unique art form to create a one-of-a-kind piece of their own.

With the fire going, diverse array of colors and urban-style workshop, the studio also makes for a pretty cool background for a likable Instagram photo.

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

With 28+ miles of paved trails that travel throughout six unique ecosystems, it’s no secret why the Backcountry Trail has made it on our list. Whether you’re an active adventurer looking to spend hours biking or someone wanting to get up-close to nature, this area is the ideal spot for all Instagram lovers. Plus, you might even be able to post a quick ‘gram or Insta-story of an alligator or bald eagle in their natural habitat.

Parasailing

Experience our 32 miles beaches and the Gulf of Mexico from several hundred feet in the air on a parasailing adventure. This activity is a two for one when it comes to getting fantastic Instagram shots. You’ll capture awe-inspiring pictures of our coastline from high above; and many parasailing providers are happy to take photos of you in action so you can show off your inner adrenaline junkie to all of your friends at home.

The Ferris Wheel at The Wharf

No trip to Orange Beach is complete without taking a ride (and a photo) on the Ferris wheel at The Wharf. At 112 feet tall, it is one of the largest in the southeast and has become a destination within the destination for visitors from all over the country. Especially for families and couples, this is a super fun place to capture some photos while enjoying a fabulous view.

Gulf Place - Gulf Shores Main Public Beach

Life’s a beach, and this list would not be complete without a visit to one of our beaches! Gulf Place is Gulf Shores’ newly-renovated public beach area. This spot is filled with a ton of Instagrammable attractions including our sugar-white sand, pristine turquoise waters and a grassy green area ideal for having a picnic or doing a quick yoga routine.

Cool Shots Selfie Museum

Located at The Wharf is the Cool Shots Selfie Museum. With 4,900 sq. ft. of space, Cool Shots is one of the largest selfie museums in the southeast. This space and its 50 attention-grabbing backdrops are here to make all of your Instagram dreams come true.