Some paddlers love the challenge of kayaking in open water, others prefer the quiet of inland waterways. You can have it both ways with Orange Beach and Gulf Shores kayaking, with launches from the Bon Secour River and along the back bays of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores’ Little Lagoon.

Parasailing combines boating and flying all rolled into one. Wearing a parasail, you’re pulled along by boat until you reach an altitude of about 800 feet. Then you coast over all the beach action, taking in the spectacular scenery of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Coming down is a breeze as well. The captain slows the boat until you gently float back onto the boat. No stress included when you go parasailing in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores!

Riding a Jet Ski puts you in charge of a motorized water vehicle. Seat one or two passengers and zoom across the waves, creating a cool wake behind you. Those with the need for speed can go full throttle, or slow it down to look for dolphins on a Jet Ski tour.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are major capitals of Gulf Coast diving and spotting old wrecks. The waters of coastal Alabama are home to dozens of artificial reefs created by intentionally scuttled ships, tugs, barges and tanks. Not certified? No problem! Local scuba shops offer instruction and can get you certified in no time.

You’ll find boats of every size and style sailing through the waves with Orange Beach and Gulf Shores boat rentals available at local marinas. Families and friends can opt for double-decker pontoon boats (some come with slides) or party boats built for fun and relaxation as groups head out toward the horizon together. Explore the uninhabited gems of Robinson and Bird Islands only accesibile by boat.