Things to Do in May

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s dozens of colorful hot air balloons! Don’t look down because you might miss the 40 hot air balloons coming to the Alabama Gulf Coast from April 30 - May 2 at OWA. The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival offers live local music, fabulous food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and fun children’s activities. If watching the balloons isn’t enough for you, take a trip up in the air with a tethered ride. The balloons take off each day at dawn and dusk (weather permitting). While here, be sure to take a spin on the thrilling rides at Tropic Falls!

The 4th Annual Gulf Coast Classic Fly Fishing Festival is back in Gulf Shores on May 1-2. This two-day event features just about everything fly fishing enthusiasts could hope for, including seminars, demonstrations, workshops, exhibitors, vendors, a film festival, and a fishing tournament. Anglers of all skill levels and ages are invited to attend this hands-on educational festival at the Learning Campus.

You came to the beach to get in the water, and we’ve got all the water activities you need to stay busy during your trip. Dive in and explore the area’s sea life by snorkeling and diving, or let the pros guide you on a cruise. If you’re looking for excitement, feel the wind on your face as you whip a Jet Ski around or fly high as you go parasailing over the Gulf. Those who just want to take it easy will enjoy paddle boarding and kayaking while experiencing the area's beauty.

Spring and early summer are the perfect times to hit the links, and there’s no better place to play a few rounds than Alabama’s Beaches. You have your choice of over a dozen golf courses in and around Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, allowing you to soak up the sun and feel the coastal breeze as you make your way through the fairways. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or new to the sport, you’ll love playing on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Pay Tropic Falls at OWA in Foley a visit this summer if you’re searching for nonstop excitement. Tropic Falls offers an exciting 23-ride theme park and the region’s largest indoor waterpark. Throw your hands up as you make loops on the Rollin’ Thunder rollercoaster or make a splash down one of the waterpark’s slides. If you prefer to take it slow, take a float on the lazy river or play a round of hoops or ring toss at Midway Games. Whether you prefer chills or thrills, Tropic Falls is the spot for you!

Flora-Bama is the place to be during Memorial Day weekend in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. In addition to live music and cold drinks, the bar hosts its Annual Miss Memorial Day bikini contest on Saturday, May 23. Sign-ups occur the afternoon of the contest, so anyone who visits that day is welcome to participate or watch. The winner will advance to the final pageant on Labor Day weekend and have a chance to be crowned Miss Flora-Bama 2026 and win $5,000. Think of all the bushwackers that money could buy!