The Best Things to Do in Orange Beach & Gulf Shores, Alabama
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
"Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon."
Living and working along the Gulf Coast allows me to explore some of the most unique experiences our region has to offer—and I love sharing those with you. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend, searching for your next coastal property, or simply craving adventure, Orange Beach and Gulf Shores offer something special at every turn. Here’s my personal list of must-see places and things to do—some local favorites, some hidden gems, and all close to home.
Take in the Views with a Helicopter Tour
There’s something breathtaking about seeing the coastline from above. Helicopter tours over Orange Beach, Perdido Key, and Pensacola Pass offer a one-of-a-kind view of our sugar-white beaches, turquoise waters, and historic sites. I often suggest this as a fun and unique way to kick off your trip—or surprise someone with an unforgettable coastal experience.
Boat to Fort McRee—One of My Favorite Places
Tucked away near the eastern edge of Perdido Key, Fort McRee is only accessible by private boat—and it's one of my very favorite places to visit. Surrounded by water and framed by unspoiled shoreline, it feels like stepping into another world. Locals often anchor nearby to explore the ruins, stroll the dunes, or enjoy a peaceful beach picnic. It’s a place where history and solitude meet, and I always feel recharged after a visit.
Visit Flora-Bama & Explore the Marina
The iconic Flora-Bama straddles the Florida-Alabama state line and offers more than just music and oysters. Across the street, the marina is a hub for water adventures with boat rentals, splash pads, and waterfront access to Old River. It’s always buzzing with energy—and one of the best places to catch a sunset or launch a fun day on the water.
Relax at Alabama Point East
If you’re looking for a wide, beautiful stretch of beach that feels a little more secluded, Alabama Point East is the place. Located at the western tip of Perdido Key within the Orange Beach city limits, this beach offers spacious picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and long boardwalks that lead to soft sand and clear water. It’s perfect for a laid-back beach day.
Enjoy Water Sports & Boat Days
Our back bays and coastal waters are made for adventure. From jet ski rides to pontoon rentals and guided cat boat tours, there are endless ways to explore the water. Marinas in Orange Beach offer easy access to the Gulf, the Intracoastal Waterway, and quiet coves ideal for dolphin watching or shelling.
Go on a Dolphin Cruise
There’s nothing quite like seeing dolphins up close. Several local operators offer dolphin tours departing from Zeke’s Marina and The Wharf, each with different routes and experiences. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly outing I always recommend—especially during golden hour when the light dances off the water.
Explore The Wharf District
The Wharf in Orange Beach is a lively entertainment hub with something for everyone. Enjoy waterfront dining, boutique shopping, an AMC theater, and the largest Ferris wheel on the Gulf Coast. Kids love the arcade and laser light shows, and music lovers will appreciate the amphitheater, which hosts major national artists year-round.
Spend a Day at OWA in Foley
Just a short drive north, OWA is an expansive entertainment district with a theme park, indoor water park, shopping promenade, and more. It’s great for families or anyone looking for a mix of thrills, shows, and bites to eat—all in a walkable setting.
Adventure in Gulf State Park
With over 28 miles of trails, Gulf State Park is one of the most diverse natural areas on the coast. Biking, walking, and exploring the backcountry trails give you a sense of the wild beauty that still exists here. The park also features RV sites, cabins, tennis courts, pickleball, and birding areas. It’s one of those places where you can spend a few hours—or an entire weekend.
Visit Fort Morgan for a Step Back in Time
Fort Morgan is a historic military site at the end of Highway 180 where Mobile Bay meets the Gulf. It’s steeped in Civil War history and offers tours, scenic views, and ferry service to Dauphin Island. If you're a history buff or just want to see another side of the coast, it's well worth the drive.
There’s truly no shortage of things to do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Whether you're flying over the surf, cruising past dolphins, or soaking up the sun on a quiet beach, this area offers experiences that stay with you long after the trip ends. If you're ever thinking about making this lifestyle your everyday reality, I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home.
Getting to the Alabama–Florida Gulf Coast: Smart Routes by Air and by Car
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