Pristine beaches, waterparks, waterfront playgrounds, seafood delicacies, and much more — discover Gulf Shores and Orange Beach's unmissable attractions and activities
Nestled along the stunning Gulf of Mexico on the Alabama coast, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the perfect low-key getaways compared to their bustling Florida neighbors. But don't let that fool you – these two coastal gems offer just as much natural beauty and fun.
Is it your first time visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? Lucky you! In this blog, I'll guide you through the must-see spots and activities in these Alabama gems.
Here's a sneak peek for you: 👀
| Activity/Places | Highlights |
| Gulf State Park | 28 miles of trails, Lake Shelby, dog-friendly |
| Gulf Shores Public Beach | White sands, volleyball, water sports, sunsets |
| Fishing (Various Locations) | Red Snapper capital, pier & surf fishing, charters |
| Waterville USA | 17 slides, lazy river, roller coaster, kids’ water playgrounds |
| Original Oyster House | Award-winning gumbo, fresh oysters |
| The Wharf | Ferris wheel, marina cruises, mini golf, arcades |
| Orange Beach Waterfront Park | Pier views, picnic shelters, art center, kids' playground |
| Orange Beach History Museum | 1910 schoolhouse, dugout canoe, fishing exhibits |
| Alabama Point East Beach | Boardwalks, sand dunes, clear water, boat-watching |
At Vacation Homes Collections, we offer a variety of holiday homes in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We're experts in the area, if I can say so myself, so be sure to check out our blog for tips on making the most of your trip. Whether you're looking for a guide to a great weekend or a bucket list of activities, we've got all in there.
Gulf Shores
Gulf State Park
Embrace nature and enjoy outdoor activities
Gulf State Park is the ultimate destination for outdoor adventures. With 6,150 acres of natural beauty, the park boasts 2 miles of unspoiled beaches, 28 miles of scenic trails, and a nature center.
Pro tip: Don't miss the beautiful Lake Shelby for kayaking, paddling, and fishing.
👍 Highlights:
- Nature lovers will enjoy the park’s trails, which offer great opportunities for spotting wildlife like alligators and birds.
- The Butterfly Garden is a hit among kids and it boats panoramic views.
- Paved trails that can be explored by electric bikes.
- Dog-friendly areas for enjoying nature with your furry friend.
- Picnic areas among the towering pines and swaying palmettos.
- Lake Shelby: This 750-acre freshwater lake is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Gulf Shores Public Beach
Relax on white sands and swim in turquoise waters
Gulf Shores Public Beach is a must-visit, whether it's your first time in town or you're a recurrent visitor.
Located just a stone’s throw from Gulf State Park, this beach showcases Alabama's dream-like beach scenery with its vast shore, crisp white sand, and dazzling turquoise waters.
👍 Highlights:
- The beach is equipped with volleyball courts and is a popular spot for windsurfing.
- Relax and soak in the sun, swim in the clear waters, or enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.
- In winter, take peaceful walks along the shore and beachcomb to your heart's content.
- Spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
- Public restrooms, showers, picnic areas, pavilions, and boardwalks for easy access.
Go Fishing
A must-try Activity in the "Red Snapper Capital of the World."
As the “Red Snapper Capital of the World,” fishing is a must-try activity in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The Gulf of Mexico offers high chances of hooking a big catch, including Redfish, Speckled Trout, Amberjack, Kingfish, and of course, Red Snapper.
Pro tip: Top fishing spots include Little Lagoon, Gulf State Park Pier, Cotton Bayou Public Pier, and Dixey Bar, a sandbar offering great fishing opportunities and stunning views.
👍 Highlights:
- Beginners and pros alike can enjoy various fishing methods such as charters, pier fishing, surf fishing, and kayak fishing.
- Communal experiences like joining a Party Boat Fishing trip.
Waterville USA Waterpark
Enjoy amazing slides and fun rides at this water park
Since 1986, Waterville USA has been a top spot for family fun in Gulf Shores. The waterpark features 17 slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and even a roller coaster—perfect for a fun-filled day with loved ones.
- Dune Racer and FlowRider, which simulates surfing and bodyboarding.
- For younger kids, themed water playgrounds with water cannons, sprays, and geysers provide endless fun.
- Go-karts, mini-golf, and state-of-the-art arcade.
- Escape room, and a roller coaster.
- Cabana Cove, a private shaded area with lounges and umbrellas where you can unwind and order food and drinks (be sure to reserve in advance).
Original Oyster House
Savor coastal flavors at this local gem
No visit to Gulf Shores is complete without indulging in fresh Gulf seafood. The Original Oyster House, a local institution that's been around since 1983, is one of the best spots to savor coastal flavors.
Pro tip: Pair your meal with a handcrafted cocktail for the full experience.
👍 Highlights:
- Award-winning seafood gumbo.
- Cheesy grits with blackened shrimp.
- Oysters Rockefeller.
- Joe and Dave's Favorite Oysters.
- Parmesan Garlic Oysters.
- Oyster Po' Boy.
- Whole Flounder.
- Salad bar is consistently fresh and well-maintained.
Orange Beach
The Wharf
Discover a plethora of entertainment venues for the whole family
The Wharf is one of the most famous spots in Orange Beach. Known as the entertainment district, it boasts a vibrant atmosphere and endless activities for the entire family. This is the full package when it comes to entertainment in the city.
👍 Highlights:
- Great variety of bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
- The Wharf Ferris Wheel — the tallest Ferris Wheel on the Gulf Coast offering breathtaking views of the city.
- Movie theaters.
- Mini-golf.
- Arena the Next Level Arcade, an expansive arcade packed with interactive games, including Laser Tag and Bazooka Ball.
- The Wharf marina, from where you can catch a dolphin or sunset cruise.
Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Relax, enjoy beautiful bay views, and picnic in this local favorite
Nestled against Wolf Bay, Orange Beach Waterfront Park is all about soaking in great views and engaging in relaxing activities.
👍 Highlights:
- Scenic walking paths.
- Seven picnic shelters with grills.
- A beautiful pier where you can fish, spot dolphins, and watch unforgettable sunsets over the bay.
- Kids Playground boasting slides, swings, and climbing areas.
- The Coastal Arts Center, located in a gorgeous white house, offers many art classes, workshops, and lovely exhibitions featuring local art.
Orange Beach History Museum
Learn about local history with quirky and fun exhibits
It’s always a good idea to understand a bit of the local history of the place you’re vacationing — it will make you experience the destination with renewed eyes. With that said, a visit to the Orange Beach History Museum is something you should definitely include in your Orange Beach bucket list.
Housed in a century-old schoolhouse, the museum features quirky and fun exhibitions focused on the Native Americans of the region and fishing heritage.
👍 Highlights:
- Housed in a 1910 schoolhouse, the museum itself is a piece of history, having served various community roles before becoming a museum in 1995.
- 500-year-old dugout canoe, textbooks and encyclopedias from the 1800s, antique typewriters, and WWII memorabilia.
- Vintage fishing equipment, photographs, and memorabilia donated by local families.
- Displays of fossilized marine life, including crinoids and shark teeth.
- Free admission.
- Extremely knowledgeable and friendly, always happy to answer questions and give extra information to enrich your experience.
Alabama Point East Beach
Swim in emerald waters and stroll boardwalks through sand dunes and wildlife
Providing over 6,000 feet of wide beach for nature lovers, Alabama Point East Beach is the perfect spot in Orange Beach to swim in warm emerald water and admire the stunning coastal landscape and wildlife from boardwalks cutting through sand dunes.
👍 Highlights:
- Just a few miles from Perdido Pass Bridge, offering a great view of the bridge and boats.
- Sand dunes and boardwalks.
- Memorable sunsets.
- Picnic areas.
FAQ: Top Things You Can't Miss in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, AL
Which spots are the most family-friendly in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?
Gulf State Park, Waterville USA, Gulf Shores Public Beach, The Wharf, Orange Beach Waterfront Park, Alabama Point East Beach.
Are the beaches and parks mentioned dog-friendly?
Gulf State Park (Dog Pond at Lake Shelby) and Orange Beach Waterfront Park are dog-friendly. Dogs aren't allowed on the beaches.
Is it safe to vacation in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?
Yes, with local police, emergency services, and lifeguards ensuring safety.
What is the best time to visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?
Spring: Warm, ideal for outdoor activities.
Fall: Warm, less crowded.
Summer: Hot, peak tourist season.
Winter: Mild, peaceful.
Wondering Where to Stay During Your Trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, AL?
With years of experience in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we at
Vacation Homes Collections don’t just know about the best things to do along Alabama's Gulf Coast — we’re also experts in crafting unforgettable experiences.
Our, vacation rentals, ranging from beachfront homes to high-rise condos, provide the perfect home base for your next Alabama Gulf Coast getaway. When you stay with us, all you need to do is soak in the coastal beauty and let it whisk you away — because it surely will!
Vacation Homes Collections don’t just know about the best things to do along Alabama's Gulf Coast — we’re also experts in crafting unforgettable experiences.
Our, vacation rentals, ranging from beachfront homes to high-rise condos, provide the perfect home base for your next Alabama Gulf Coast getaway. When you stay with us, all you need to do is soak in the coastal beauty and let it whisk you away — because it surely will!
