Things to Do in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach (2023)

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan are where amazing vacations happen! From relaxation to adventure, you'll find something special here for everyone in the family. With an endless array of sights, activities and natural beauty, the clear blue waters and white-sand of the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores beaches provide the ideal spot for fun and relaxation. Experience the Gulf Coast today!

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Packed with beach vacation tips to help you plan your trip!

Attractions

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are also largely defined by our many points of interest! Plan a visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Fort Morgan, a local waterpark, or even a Segway tour. For history-lovers, you can also visit a museum or Fort Morgan to experience coastal Alabama’s past.

Gulf State Park bike trail Hugh S Backcountry Trail

Natural Beauty

One of the biggest attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is our boundless nature. From the moment you arrive, the magnificence of the Gulf Coast thrills your senses. Diverse ecosystems line the Alabama coastal region. From freshwater marshes where alligators bask in the sun to coastal hardwood swamps, the region's abundant natural beauty and Gulf State Park may leave you speechless.

Parasailing

Soar into our blue skies when you go parasailing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Once you glide above the white sand shoreline and gaze in awe at a horizon where turquoise waters dissolve into the blue sky, you may never want to return to earth. Best of all, parasailing requires no special skills or training, making it an ideal family activity.

Sail Wild Hearts Dolphin Cruise Gulf Shores Orange Beach Alabama

Dolphin Cruises

Take an intimate look at one nature’s most beautiful animals with one of our many dolphin cruises. Playful one instant, skimming majestically over the surface of the water the next, the native bottlenose dolphins are a marvel. You can even take an Orange Beach or Gulf Shores sailing cruise and experience the world of the dolphins under wind power.

Fishing

The waters off Gulf Shores and Orange Beach provide some of the best fishing in Alabama. For deep-sea fishing, try an Orange Beach fishing charter to hook a giant grouper. If you'd rather relax in the sand, cast a line off the beach in search of flounder, pompano, or sheeps head. Don't forget The Gulf State Park Pier either! With over two thousand feet of rail space to cast a line, plus concessions and shops, it's a prime destination for anglers.

Diving

Crystalline turquoise waters make Gulf Shores and Orange Beach diving a delight for all deep-water enthusiasts. Not a diver yet? You can become one on your vacation! Register for a certification course during your stay so you can dive during your current Gulf Shores trip and then next time you visit as well.

FAQs

What are Gulf Shores and Orange Beach known for?

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are know for their 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise waters, Southern hospitality and family-friendly atmosphere.

What is the best time of year to go to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama?

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are located in a subtropical area where the temperatures are mild year-round. Popular times to visit include summer, spring and fall. Learn more about the weather in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

What are some free things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama?

There are many free and inexpensive things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, including exploring public beaches, Gulf State Park, nature trails, museums and more. Browse our list of cheap and free activities today!

What is there to do on a rainy day in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama?

If it happens to rain during your vacation to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, there are plenty of things to do including escape rooms, a trampoline park, art centers, movie theatres and more. Explore our list of rainy day activities to be prepared.

How far apart are Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are adjacent to each other and an easy drive to visit restaurants and attractions in either city during your stay. View our maps for more information.

What are family-friendly activities to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

There are many family-friendly activities for all ages, from baby to toddler to teen, found throughout Gulf Shores & Orange Beach including the beaches, multiple attractions, family dining experiences, and more.

What activities are there for couples in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

Couples getaways in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are easy to plan, so much so that we have done the work for you and created a couples getaway page with plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay!