Orange Beach is one of the most beautiful destinations, located on the sparkling coastline of the Gulf Coast in Alabama. It’s famous for its soft and sugar-white quartz sand. These beaches can offer a retreat for travelers who are looking for a calmer, slower-paced atmosphere within world-class amenities. This beach area is a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and upscale resort living, where you enjoy the weekend trips, family vacations, and romantic escapes. The soft white sand and emerald-green waters create a perfect view which is good for relaxing and spending quality time with your partner. In this guide, we can cover the best things to do and what’s famous in Orange Beach, AL. Along with these outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions and more.
Note: Orange Beach and neighboring Gulf Shores together form Alabama’s Gulf Coast destination, the cities share beaches, trails, and attractions, and most visitors explore both in the same trip. Planning a group trip to Orange Beach? BUSXOXO offers charter bus rentals in Alabama, perfect for family reunions, school trips, corporate retreats, and wedding parties heading to the Gulf Coast.
Top Things to Do in Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach is one of the destinations, which offers exciting outdoor adventure and attractions. It is also known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. where you enjoy the beachfront lounges and see the beautiful scenic bay cruises. This beach is a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Below, we mentioned the best things to do activities which are famous in Orange Beach, Alabama.
Relax on the Orange Beach, White Sand Beaches
Orange Beach is the best option to feel relaxed, because there is soft, sugar-white sand and crystal-clear water. Where you can walk with your partner and take beautiful pictures. The most interesting thing is soft white sand is very clear, you see your footprints on the soft white sand. Orange Beach offers pristine shorelines, gentle Gulf waves and gives some space to set up an umbrella for relaxing and sunbathing.
Take a Dolphin Cruise
Take an eco-friendly dolphin cruise tour with experienced guides. This tour usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, your boat crosses the beautiful scenic waterways, where dolphins often swim and play around your boat.
Go Deep Sea Fishing
The Alabama Gulf Coast is an angler’s paradise. You can book a fishing charter, that offers half-day and full-day deep sea tours. Where you can catch the many different species like Red Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack and even Tuna. Remember, this fish’s availability depends on the season.
Visit Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park covers more than 6,150 acres and also offers endless outdoor activities. You can explore the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, including 28-mile long trail. Next, go to the Gulf State Park, known for its fishing pier and feel relaxed around the freshwater lakes.
Explore The Wharf Entertainment District
If you leave the beach, now, go to the Wharf. The Wharf is Orange Beach’s entertainment hub. Along with this, you can enjoy the massive Ferris Wheel, a 15-screen movie theater, an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and a variety of unique boutiques/ eateries.
Outdoor Adventures in Orange Beach
Orange Beach gives uncountable outdoor experiences. You can enjoy the outdoor activities, with their calm waters and scenic trails. It is the best moment while enjoying the Gulf Coast. Below are some of the best activities that are related to water and nature.
Water-Based Adventures
Here are some water-based adventures where you can go:
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most interesting and popular outdoor activities, famous in Orange Beach. Here, you can experience many things and visitors have several fishing options.
- Deep-sea fishing charter company like Zeke’s Marina.
- You can do inshore fishing in bays and backwaters.
- Visit the fishing pier at Gulf State Park Pier.
There are many charter companies like Zeke’s Landing Marina and Distraction Charters that provide tour-guided trips, equipment and local knowledge. These things make your fishing journey perfect and it’s good for beginners and seasoned anglers.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
You want to spend some time around the water, and kayaking and paddleboarding are good choices for you. Because these activities offer enjoyment in the middle and it’s surrounded by nature and feels relaxed in a quiet place. There are many famous locations such as Wolf Bay, for calm and beginner-friendly waters. Cotton Bayou is a short, easy paddle, ideal for beginners looking for calm, accessible water. The last one is the Gulf State Park lakes where the environment is very peaceful.
You get the paddleboards and kayaks for rental companies such as Beach Bike Rentals and Coastal Segway Adventures. Now, we can talk about outdoor activities that are connected with nature.
Orange Beach Parks
There are many well-maintained parks and outdoor recreation areas (it’s looking amazing), which can give some relaxing moments. Some parks are mentioned below, which are known for their features.
- Orange Beach Waterfront Park, which offers walking paths and picnic areas.
- The nearest route to reach this beach and see the beautiful scenic views is Alabama Point East.
- Backcountry Trail is the nearest point to Gulf State Park.
This park is good for families, casual walks and taking a quiet break from your busy schedule.
Hiking Trails
When anyone talks about hiking, one name comes to mind, which is the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. It is a popular trail in Alabama, covering 28 miles of paved trails, which can connect to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. You can walk and bike in the shaded paths, see the wildlife and the routes are very easy. This trail is a perfect mixture of different varieties, which are good for your trip.
Family-Friendly Activities in Orange Beach
We mention the best family activities, famous in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. There are many public access points, wildlife encounters at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Water Slides at Waterville USA. Here, you will see some family-friendly activities in Orange Beach:
Visit Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
The Gulf Coast Zoo is a perfect option to spend a quality time with animals, and also with your family. This zoo is located in Gulf Shores. They can provide animal-focused experiences, educational value and easy activities before lunch and after a quieter morning.
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is best for animal lovers and families with young children. You can see the different animals and learn about them. You can reach this place earlier in the morning to avoid the peak summer temperatures.
Splash around at Waterville USA
Waterville USA is a mixture of the water park attractions and amusement style activities in Gulf Shores. This place is filled with nature, so it is good for kids, teenagers and more. Because it is good for a summer day with its slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, mini golf, go-karts and more attractions in one place.
Note: Several top attractions are located in neighboring Gulf Shores, just minutes from Orange Beach. We have included the best of both areas below.
Discover The Wharf in Orange Beach
The Wharf is a family-friendly and entertainment hub, located in Orange Beach. It can host the concerts at The Wharf Amphitheater, local festivals and family events. Also, there is a Ferris wheel, train rides, arcade options and the nightly SPECTRA laser light experience on the Main Street. You can come in the evening, because at that time the environment will be changed with its beautiful lights and its views are outstanding. There are the biggest malls and restaurants, where you can enjoy a group dinner, shopping and post-beach entertainment.
Adventure at The Track and Adventure Island
The Adventure Track is a family fun park, which is located in Gulf Shores and the Adventure Island is the nearest to Orange Beach. It is a perfect picking spot where family plays many games like mini golf, arcade games, bumper boats and there are amazing vibes. This adventure is perfect for competitive families and rainy-day backups. If you visit here, there are some things that are needed, such as point cards, crowds and evening waits. Cap the day at these two attractions with a casual dinner nearby, no need to overload the itinerary.
Couples’ Activities in Orange Beach
Orange Beach offers a perfect coastal escape for couples with its highlights such as private sailing charters and waterfront dining. That offers fresh Gulf seafood with quiet sunset walks. Orange Beach is a perfect coastal escape for couples, from private sailing charters and waterfront dining to quiet sunset walks on white-sand beaches and luxury spa treatments.
Sunset Cruises
There are many places where you can spend a golden time as compared to the Gulf of Mexico and the Back Bays.
- Catamaran Sails: Sail Wild Hearts offers sunset cruises along the Alabama coast on a 52-foot catamaran, a perfect opportunity to spot dolphins and enjoy panoramic Gulf views.
- Floating Tiki Bars: You want an intimate and playful outing, try the 90-minute sunset excursion on the Cruisin Tikis, Orange Beach. Float through Perdido Pass on a private tiki boat as the sun sets, sipping drinks while the water glides past.
Waterfront Dining
When it comes to waterfront dining, Orange Beach delivers some of the Gulf Coast’s best options. Here are our top picks:
- Louisiana Lagniappe: It’s famous spot for its Creole-style seafood and for the marina views. This place is located at SanRoc Cay Marina.
- Voyagers: This restaurant gives you a true fine-dining experience, it’s located inside the Perdido Beach Resort. It can offer seasonal food items with panoramic Gulf views.
- Big Fish Restaurant: This restaurant gives you elegant atmosphere and award-winning service. It’s pairing fresh sushi and steaks with craft cocktails.
Beach Walks at Sunset
The white-quartz sand and emerald green waters of the Alabama coastline offer a natural and effortless backdrop for romance.
- Gulf State Park: Head to the uncrowded beaches at Gulf State Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful evening stroll and set up a small, permitted beach picnic with wine and local takeout.
- Alabama Point East: This area offers a beautiful scenic view of the water and rock jetties, it’s a favorite place for couples to spend a golden hour. The Alabama point east is situated at the nearest Perdido Pass.
Spa and Relaxation Experiences
If you’re visiting Orange Beach, you can’t go to the spa salon and your journey will be incomplete. It offers some discounts for newlywed couples with its special retreat.
- Eden Spa and Salon: It provides the full-service with its customized massage therapies such as hot stone treatments and aromatherapy. This salon is located at The Wharf.
- The Spa at the Beach Club: It specializes in couples treatments and facials, where you can feel relaxed. If you want to gift for yourself, it is perfect for you, that’s located in Gulf Shores.
Free Things to Do in Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach is covered with pristine sugar-white shores and coastal natural trails, making it’s good for enjoyment. This beach is counted among the best beaches of Alabama. Enjoy the beach trip by exploring the backcountry trail systems and feel relaxed near to the water without spending a dime.
Public Beaches
- Alabama Point East: Alabama Point East is situated within Gulf State Park, near Perdido Pass, and offers a 6,000-foot stretch of pristine white sand. It is a favorite free public access point with its excellent features such as dune crossovers and restrooms.
- Romar Beach: This beach is very popular and has a smaller public beach access point, situated on the right side of the Perdido Beach Boulevard. That is perfect for a quick and free beach day with easy boardwalk access to the sand.
Scenic Drives
- Perdido Beach Boulevard (AL-182): If you come by own car your east to west there are coastal stretches for sweeping and uninterrupted views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s one side beautiful coastal homes and maritime forests.
- The Fort Morgan Road Scenic Byway (AL-180): It is a short way approx 22 miles, but it’s beautiful and beneath giant live oak trees. Along the historic peninsula toward the fort, it offers the beautiful views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf.
Sunset Watching Spots
- Orange Beach Waterfront Park: This park is a large pier that is perfect for watching the sunset over the calm waters. It’s located in Wolf Bay.
- Alabama Point East: While popular for daytime swimming, it faces westward along the pass. That makes it a spectacular and quiet vantage point to watch the sky change colors above the water.
Walking Trails
- Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail: This is a massive and long paved trail approx 28+ miles, it cross the multiple distinct ecosystems. That is completely free for walking and biking. They can connect various parts of Orange Beach to Gulf State Park. And the interesting thing is, you can use the free bike-share program which is available in the park.
- Catman Loop Trail and Rosemary Dunes: Located in the Backcountry Trail network, these shorter and shaded walking loops are in Catman. But gives many opportunities like viewing wildlife and hiking in peaceful environment.
Best Food & Restaurants Near Orange Beach
There are many best seafood restaurants in Orange Beach, Alabama, mentioned below.
Cobalt, The Restaurant
Cobalt gives you real experiences and allows you to enjoy its favourite dish, which is Contemporary Coastal Cuisine. It is famous in Orange Beach because it is an authentic dish that is crafted by chefs in three distinct kitchens. Cobalt is located at the Caribe Resort in Orange Beach, just beneath the Perdido Pass Bridge, where every table offers a spectacular view of the bay. The next one is Caribe Resort, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the bay from every table. If you want to go boating, there are numerous boat slips available for small boats as well as medium-sized yachts.
If you’re in Orange Beach to visit this restaurant, Cobalt offers a casual and relaxing atmosphere with waterfront dining, live music and superior service. They can create extensive menus that are combined with our waterfront dining experience, because they add Gulf Shrimp and Grits, Pecan Catfish and Bronze Gulf Grouper. Visit between 3–5 PM for Cobalt’s happy hour, discounted draft beer, house wines, and appetizers. Because at that time they can offer special drinks like draft beer, house wines and awesome appetizers.
Coastal Orange Beach
Coastal Orange Beach is an amazing restaurant and Bar, which offers epic views, delicious food and refreshing cocktails. You’re visiting this restaurant, located in the heart of Orange Beach, with sugar-white sand beach and the Gulf of Mexico. Because the restaurant’s food is so delicious, with its epic beach views and indulgent desserts. You must try the aged white cheddar pimento cheese appetizer and chicken sandwich. Its menu is filled with seafood, salads, burgers and local specialties. Don’t miss the signature cocktails and desserts, they round out the meal perfectly. Now, talk about the Coastal Beach Bar, offering jumbo Gulf Shrimp, Yellowfin Tuna Dip, fresh Gulf Grouper, etc. Outdoor dining gives the spectacular views of the beach.
Louisiana Lagniappe
Louisiana Lagniappe is a famous waterfront restaurant that offers the Gulf seafood with a Creole flair. It’s located in the SanRoc Cay Marina, which providing casual- attire setting for families. This restaurant gives amazing vibes with its waterfront dining for a relaxed atmosphere and its casual dress code which is different from the other restaurants. Its menu list is different, they can add traditional Creole-style seafood dishes and steaks. It’s known for its romantic and memorable sunset views, which are seen above the water. The menus of this restaurant are different, they add varieties of fresh seafood dishes, handcrafted pasta and classic southern fare. These dishes are prepared with a touch of Cajun Flair. Lagniappe seafood platter is so fresh and its signature dishes are so good, that’s providing mouthwatering blackened redfish, shrimp and grits. Also, try the decadent desserts like bread pudding with rum sauce.
Ginny Lane Bar & Grill
Ginny Lane Bar & Grill restaurant is a great option for couples and families, they try many food items such as soups, salads, pasta and fish dishes. Its taste is so amazing, but its lunch and dinner menus are different, they can provide Gulf Shrimp and Grits, add pork belly, cheddar grits and give Spinach Artichoke Dip, which can increase the taste level. There are many more items, you must try these dishes. You’re vegetarian, don’t worry about this, there are multiple gourmet spinach artichoke dip and pasta dishes.
They can also offer the creamy Alfredo sauce pasta with spinach, which tastes so amazing. You can try these dishes on both sides, the indoor seating gives the ethnic vibes, to his combination of tables and booths. There are many spaces to enjoy a meal with your family and your partner. There inside a large bar area with countless chairs, multiple pool tables and some arcade games. You can enjoy the Lavender Martini, Lemon Basil Martini and more. These drinks make your day perfect and create an entertaining atmosphere while playing exciting games. But, their outdoor seating is so amazing to see The Wharf Marina and enjoy the food and see the large yachts and boats, which makes your day amazing.
Tips for Visiting Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach is a good place for vacation, with its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Where you feel relaxed, also do fishing on the beach and explore the local attractions. Orange Beach is a mixture of these things, which makes it special. Here are some tips for your Orange Beach vacation.
Choose the Right Time to Visit
Orange Beach is full from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You can choose the shoulder season which is April to May and September to October. At that time, you avoid the crowds and get the best rooms at the lowest price.
Choose the Right Place to Stay
There are many options available in Orange Beach, such as resorts and condos for vacation. It comes under your budget and it provides the necessary amenities.
Plan Your Activities
Orange Beach offers many attractions, includes water sports, fishing charters and wildlife preserves. Prepare activity list of what you want and book in advance best tourist guide, provide the availability to avoid disappointment.
Pack these Necessary Items for the Beach
- Sunscreen, beach towels, hats, sun lotion, sunglasses and beach umbrella and tent. All tents, canopies and EZ- Ups must be placed behind the white Leave Only Footprints flags when set up on the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach public beaches. You can set up your umbrella anywhere along the shore. These things protect your body from the sun.
- You’re going swimming, carry these things such as swimsuits, sandals/watershoes, reusable water bottles and beach bags. Also, take a waterproof camera to capture special moments.
- You’re visiting with your children, a small cooler, beach chairs, sand toys, and extra snacks.
Consider Transportation
Orange Beach route is mostly driving destination, so consider renting a car, or you can come in your own vehicle to explore this area. You’re not interested in driving, use the taxi and Alabama charter bus services, gives a comfortable journey.
Be Mindful of the Environment
Orange Beach is a beautiful destination, and to maintain its beauty. When you are visiting here, so only use the eco-friendly products and recycle cans/bottles. This beach is well clear, you put your foot there, show only your footprints, to protect this special place for your future.
Conclusion
Orange Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Alabama, which is known for its white sand and clear water. It provides the best things to do in Orange Beach, Alabama. You can do anything that you like, such as swimming, hiking in Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry and enjoying the waterfront dining. This beach offers everything like outdoor activities and attractions which are good for your vacation.