Welcome to Alabama’s playground, the gorgeous and iconic, Orange Beach! Whether you’re daydreaming about a sun-soaked getaway to our sandy white shores or you’ve already booked a luxury vacation rental in this beachside paradise, Orange Beach has so many experiences on offer. From long stretches of white sandy beaches to thrilling water sports and family-friendly attractions, this charming coastal town has something to satisfy every visitor.
Read on as we explore the most exciting and memorable things to do in Orange Beach, ensuring your visit is as vibrant and fun-filled as the sunset over the Gulf. Whether you’re gracing our shores for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a fun friends trip, there is something to suit everyone. So, grab your flip-flops, stock up on your SPF, and let’s dive into the best that Orange Beach has to offer!
Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Orange Beach
Due to Orange Beach’s coastal setting and pleasant climate, it has a wide selection of amazing outdoor activities to choose from during your stay. For adrenaline junkies, there is scuba diving and jet-skiing, for the slower-paced visitors, paddleboarding, and bird watching, along with so much more. Let’s start the outdoor adventure;
Every Day’s a Beach Day
Orange Beach’s iconic coastline makes its beaches one of its primary attractions, and for good reason. Miles of white sandy beaches, filled with amenities, thrilling sports, and good vibes means a trip to Orange Beach is not complete without many beach days squeezed in. Whether you’re looking to unwind with some peaceful sunbathing and a book or dive into thrilling water sports, Orange Beach’s beaches offer the best of both worlds. The following deserve a spot on your to-visit list;
Cotton Bayou: Cotton Bayou, found at the intersection of Highway 182 and Highway 161 in Orange Beach, is perfect for those who enjoy a lively beach atmosphere. Surrounded by popular condominiums, and tasty restaurants, this area offers excellent opportunities for people-watching and partaking in fun beach activities. Amenities include restrooms, outdoor showers, and an ADA beach access mat at the east ramp, ensuring comfort and accessibility.
Romar Beach: A slightly quieter option, Romar Beach offers a more tranquil setting with basic amenities like parking but unfortunately no restrooms or showers. Perfect for a couple seeking a more chilled atmosphere to be together and maybe have a picnic, without the hustle and bustle of nearby beaches. Romar Beach is located just a five-minute drive west of Cotton Bayou, making these two options perfect if you’re interested in exploring multiple beaches in one day.
Alabama Point East: Located near the Perdido Pass Bridge in Orange Beach, Alabama Point East is a local favorite for its scenic stretch of sand, stunning views, and ample amenities. Truly an Orange Beach Hubspot, visitors at this beach enjoy fishing off the jetties, watching boats navigate through the pass, or spotting dolphins in the surf.
Looking to relax? Enjoy swimming in the clear Gulf waters or relaxing on the soft white sand, book in hand. The amenities at Alabama Point East include ample parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers, making it convenient for a full day of beach activities.
Explore Orange Beach from The Gulf
The Gulf’s crystal-clear waters make Orange Beach a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can partake in fun activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, and jet skiing. For a more unique experience, depending on your fear of heights, book parasailing to give you the best aerial view of Orange Beach. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, young or old, Orange Beach has an activity for everyone.
There are numerous nearby rental shops where you can easily hire equipment, and lessons are available if you’re looking to improve your skills or try something new. With facilities catering to all levels, Orange Beach is the perfect place to make a splash in your favorite water sports.
Cast a Line in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach is a favored pastime, with a variety of popular spots that cater to both casual anglers and seasoned fishers. The Gulf State Park Pier and Perdido Pass are prime locations, offering abundant opportunities to reel in a big catch. Common types of fish caught here include redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and snapper. Charter services are plentiful, providing guided experiences for offshore fishing where you might hook mahi-mahi or even a marlin.
Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour
Dolphin-watching tours are a classic Orange Beach activity, ideal for visitors of all ages because who doesn’t love dolphins? These tours offer visitors a chance to see these playful dolphins up close, frolicking in their natural habitat. In addition to the graceful dolphins, you might also spot a variety of seabirds and other marine life. For those seeking a more heart-pounding experience,Jet Ski dolphin tours are available. Both options provide unforgettable experiences, showcasing why these tours are a must-do when visiting Orange Beach.Dive Deep with Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Gulf further through snorkeling and scuba diving in Orange Beach.Popular diving spotsinclude the Perdido Pass jetties and the artificial reefs, which are teeming with marine life. Divers and snorkelers can expect to encounter a diverse array of species such as colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and occasionally dolphins. These clear Gulf waters provide excellent conditions and visibility, making Orange Beach a prime destination for both novice and experienced underwater adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in marine beauty.Hit the Trails – Hiking & Biking in Orange Beach
Hiking and biking are great ways to experience the natural beauty of Orange Beach, especially during the cooler months from October to April when the heat is less intense. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a highlight, offering over 15 miles of scenic paths that wind the Gulf State Park. Hiking through diverse ecosystems including marshes, forests, and sand dunes. Another popular trail is the Rosemary Dunes Trail, which provides a serene environment perfect for spotting local wildlife. These trails are well-maintained and suitable for all ages and skill levels, making them a great option for anyone looking to explore the outdoors while avoiding the summer heat. Another trail is theCotton Bayou Trail which is close to Cotton Bayou beach, meaning after your hike you can retreat to the beach for a well-deserved rest and refreshing sea swim.Teeing Off in Orange Beach
Planning on practicing your swing during your Orange Beach vacation? Well, you’re in the right place due to Orange Beach’s range of beautifully landscaped courses that blend challenge and charm. Challenge yourself at the Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club, which offers a mix of marsh and lakeside holes, as well as scenic vistas. Craft Farms Golf Club, designed by Arnold Palmer, features two 18-hole courses that are known for their meticulous maintenance and beautiful layout.
Additionally, the Kiva Dunes course combines a championship layout with stunning natural surroundings, making it a must-play for serious golfers visiting the area. These courses not only offer a strategic round of golf but also feature excellent facilities and services to enhance your golfing experience.
The Early Bird Gets the Worm in Orange Beach
Birders will love bird watching in Orange Beach, with so many opportunities to observe a diverse array of avian species in their natural habitats. Popular spots for birding include the Gulf State Park and the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, with dedicated trails winding through coastal and inland environments. Visitors can expect to see migratory birds like the osprey, pelicans, and possibly the rare and elusive Alabama beach mouse.
The best time of day to go bird watching is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as birds are most active during these cooler parts of the day, making them easier to spot and enjoy. These settings provide fantastic bird-watching opportunities as well as peaceful retreats into nature.
Fun Fact: The Alabama beach mouse is a nocturnal rodent native to Alabama’s coastal dunes, playing a vital role in seed dispersal and dune stabilization. Sadly, it is endangered, mainly due to habitat loss from development, highlighting the importance of its conservation for ecological balance.
