5 Ways to Entertain Your Teen
Along Alabama's Beaches
Turn off the electronics, and get your teen (or tween) excited to be on the Alabama Gulf Coast!
Teens can be tricky. We get it. As parents on staff at Alabama's Beaches Sports & Events, we can relate to kids just wanting to stare at their phones or learn the latest TikTok trends throughout their entire vacation.
We are here to tell you – THERE IS HOPE!
We’ve outlined a few teen-worthy excursions below that are sure to score you some brownie points, and as a bonus, you’ll enjoy these activities, too!
1. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a must‑do for teens looking to add adventure and hands‑on fun to their beach getaway. Known as the “Little Zoo That Could,” this family‑friendly attraction in Gulf Shores offers up‑close animal encounters that go far beyond simply walking exhibits. Teens can see everything from lions and kangaroos to sloths, lemurs, and reptiles, and learn about wildlife conservation in an engaging, interactive way. Behind‑the‑scenes experiences, shaded walking paths, and plenty of photo‑worthy moments make it an easy break from the sand and surf—while still keeping the excitement level high.
2. The Wharf in Orange Beach
The Wharf in Orange Beach comes alive as soon as you arrive, blending coastal style with nonstop entertainment that teens love. Stroll Main Street lined with trendy boutiques, sweet shops, and cool coffee and dining spots, then turn the day into an adventure with immersive escape rooms or Top Golf Swing Suites. As the sun sets, the Wharf’s iconic Ferris wheel lights up the waterfront, offering soaring views that make for unforgettable photos. Stick around after dark for the dazzling SPECTRA Laser Light Experience, when music and color transform Main Street into an electric nighttime show.
3. Waterville USA in Gulf Shores
cranks up the fun in Gulf Shores with a mix of water‑soaked thrills and classic amusement‑park action that teens love. From racing down 55‑foot slides, floating the lazy river, and catching endless waves on the Flowrider to challenging friends on go‑karts, mini golf, escape rooms, and the arcade, there’s always something happening. Whether they’re chasing adrenaline, cooling off between beach days, or capturing standout social content, Waterville delivers an all‑in‑one adventure just minutes from Alabama’s Beaches.
4. Visit Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park is an outdoor playground where teens can balance beach time with fresh air and adventure. Cast a line from the iconic Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier—one of the largest on the Gulf—or explore beyond the shoreline with kayaking, miles of scenic biking and walking trails, and interactive exhibits at the Nature Center. With so many ways to move, explore, and unplug, the park delivers a full day (or more) of coastal fun along Alabama’s Beaches.
5. Spend a Day at the Beach
On the Alabama Gulf Coast, sometimes the best memories for teens and tweens come from a simple day in the sun. Stretch out on sugar‑white sand, grab a boogie board, pack a lunch, and let them burn off energy in the surf just steps from the shoreline. It’s easy, flexible, and one of the most budget‑friendly ways for parents and coaches to keep middle‑school and high‑school athletes entertained between games and events.
From high‑energy attractions to laid‑back beach days, Alabama’s Beaches offer plenty of ways to keep teens and tweens engaged, active, and having fun. Before building your game‑day or downtime itinerary, be sure to grab the Alabama’s Beaches Savings Scorecard—a free, mobile‑friendly pass that unlocks exclusive deals on attractions, dining, and experiences throughout the destination. Download the Savings Scorecard and start saving while creating unforgettable coastal memories for your team or family.
