Enjoy sunlight, sea wind, and extraordinary experiences! Find nine fun Orange Beach, Alabama activities here. This vibrant Gulf Coast location offers adventure, relaxation, and major beach vibes. With sugar-white sands, a laid-back local culture, and tons of activities for every type of traveller, Orange Beach deserves a spot at the top of your vacation list.
We wrapped up our week-long road trip through Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama right here, and it was the most relaxing stop by far. Who says Florida has a monopoly on stunning white-sand beaches? Alabama holds its own!
1. Gulf State Park – One of the Best Things to Do in Orange Beach
Gulf State Park offers Orange Beach’s best outdoor activities. A unique coastal trip awaits with 28 miles of lovely paved roads and boardwalks, including the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.
Despite being nervous, I hired a bike from Infinity Bicycles and enjoyed exploring the calm paths. Start your morning here to relax in nature by cycling, walking, or just admiring the view. Planning more nature adventures? Check out our guide to things to do in Portland, Maine.
2. The Wharf – Family-Friendly Things to Do in Orange Beach at Night
Looking for a lively, family-friendly hotspot? Head to The Wharf. This entertainment hub offers shopping, a marina, mini golf, laser tag, escape rooms, and even Ferris wheel rides. During our visit, we caught the Orange Beach Seafood Festival and Car Show—but the real showstopper was the Spectra Laser Light Experience that lights up Main Street every week.
The Wharf is a must for a night out with kids or just some good energy.
3. Tiki Boat Tours – Unique Things to Do in Orange Beach on the Water
Want a unique Orange Beach view? Take a Tiki Boat Tour! This relaxed cruise provides stunning coastline views, enjoyable cocktails, and amazing photos. It’s not your typical holiday boat trip, making it one of Orange Beach’s unique and exciting activities.
4. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo – Fun Things to Do in Orange Beach with Kids
Attention animal lovers. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has around 100 species, including 22 rare ones like the black leopard. The newly relocated and updated zoo is small, clean, and perfect for young families. It’s touching, instructive, and one of the area’s most fantastic low-key attractions.
5. Grab Coffee at The Southern Grind
All great vacations involve excellent coffee, and Southern Grind delivers. French vanilla cappuccinos, white chocolate caramel macchiatos, and gelato are available at this charming café. A store offering coastal jewellery, home décor, and local art adds to the beach feel. Enjoy lunch or a break on the beach here. Craving more charming spots? Visit our favorite coffee spots in Santa Fe while exploring New Mexico.
6. Try a Bushwacker at Tacky Jacks
If you’re new to the Gulf Coast, try a Bushwacker—a local boozy milkshake with a signature 151 rum float. Tacky Jack’s serves one of the best versions, with a funky, laid-back atmosphere where colourful tape covers the walls. Sip your drink, snap some photos, and enjoy one of Orange Beach’s most famous beach bar experiences.
7. Sample Local Seafood and Coastal Eats
Fresh seafood and Southern comfort meals are popular in Orange Beach. Beyond on-site eating, the region has great eateries serving prawn platters and hushpuppies. For foodies, trying the local cuisine is one of the most delicious things to do here. Hungry for more coastal flavors? Don’t miss our guide to the 15 best things to do in Destin, Florida.
8. Check Out the Craft Beer Scene
Visiting Gulf Shores’ Big Beach Brewing is a must for beer fans. This outdoor brewery serves innovative beers and is pleasant. I had the Fruiturama Sour, a delicious fruit-cheesecake cocktail, to enjoy the Alabama weather. Relaxing with drinks and live music? If you love craft brews by the beach, check out the best sports bars in Huntington Beach for your West Coast travel plans.
9. Paddleboard or Lounge by the Beach Bars
Round out your trip with a paddleboarding adventure on the Gulf. Rentals like the Orange Beach Tower deliver high-quality inflatable paddleboards right to your spot. And after your paddle, chill at top beach bars like The Hangout—with its daiquiri bar and live music—or The Gulf, a sunset-lover’s paradise.
These spots offer more than drinks—they deliver atmosphere, views, and that relaxed beach life feeling we all crave.
Conclusion
Overall, Orange Beach is the right mix of excitement and relaxation. This Gulf Coast treasure offers amazing experiences from white-sand beaches and gorgeous bike paths to distinctive cocktails and waterfront travel.
Whether travelling with family or friends, these 9 Orange Beach activities will fill your days and camera roll. Tiki boat trips, zoo visits, and sunset beach bars await your Alabama beach getaway. Pack your luggage, enjoy the wind, and start ticking off these Orange Beach must-dos!