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Entertainment for the Whole Family: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Edition

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama are known for being a top family vacation destination. The area’s wide array of activities ensure there is something for all ages to enjoy, no matter the pace of your vacation. 

From premier shopping and dining, to fishing, boating, and more, there’s no shortage of fun to be had on your Alabama Gulf Coast vacation. With all these attractions, you are bound to make some memories! 

Let us be your guide as you map out a vacation full of fun.

Explore The Wharf 

“I’m bored” is not a phrase you will be hearing at The Wharf! This is the ultimate family entertainment district. 

The Wharf features one-of-a-kind shopping, entertainment, and dining, as well as a marina where top fishing events take place and an amphitheater that hosts a number of big-name headliners each year. 

One of the first things you’ll notice upon arriving at The Wharf is the giant Ferris wheel. This landmark attraction is one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the Southeast and offers stunning aerial views of the Orange Beach area that make for great memories. 

Other popular activities to enjoy while visiting The Wharf include:

  • watching the free nightly light show, SPECTRA
  • walking along the marina boardwalk and viewing the beautiful boats and yachts
  • embarking on dolphin tours 
  • watching a movie at the AMC movie cinema
  • solving the escape room puzzles in less than an hour at “Breakout” Orange Beach 

Before your visit, don’t forget to check out the calendar of events. There’s always something fun happening at The Wharf!

Enjoy the Beach

While it might sound obvious, the main attraction here on the Alabama Gulf Coast is the 32-mile stretch of pristine, white-sand beaches. You will find beach bums of all ages hanging out along the sand. 

If sunbathing isn’t your thing, walk the shore to search for unique shells; build an epic sandcastle; or bring binoculars to spot dolphins playing in the surf. Depending on when you hit the beach, you might even see the Blue Angels practicing overhead!  

Whether you choose to kick back and relax all day in your beach chair or stay active on the beach, you’re sure to enjoy your time soaking up the Alabama sunshine (don’t forget your sunscreen!). If you stick around long enough, you’re in for a special treat when the sun starts to go down and a brilliant sunset paints the sky!

Hang Out at LuLu’s Gulf Shores

It’s hard to top LuLu’s when it comes to family-friendly dining. The popular eatery has a casual, laid-back vibe where you can enjoy live music, a little bit of shopping, a play area for the kids, and a whole lot of delicious food. The atmosphere brings all the family fun! 

When you arrive, one of the first things you’ll notice is the large gift shop. It is filled with beach accessories, cookbooks, clothing, and more. It’s a fun start to a memorable experience and a great way to pass the time as you wait for your table to be ready.

In this big spacious restaurant, you can sit in the open-air dining area by the stage, next to the bar, or beside the water where you can watch boats passing by. 

This much-loved eatery is also the ultimate Happy Hour spot, with delicious drinks served up alongside live music and fan-favorite appetizers, like the Lower Alabama Caviar, peel-and-eat shrimp, smoked tuna dip, and LuLu’s famous seafood gumbo.  

Go on a Fishing Adventure

There is always adventure to be had on the Alabama Gulf Coast—especially if you’re looking to cast a line in the mighty Gulf. Take your pick of inshore or offshore fishing with a local charter, or try your luck with pier or surf fishing—either way, you’re sure to reel in a good time!

Depending on the time of year and the type of fishing you choose to do, you can expect to catch a range of popular species, like Amberjack, Cobia, Mahi-Mahi, Grouper, Mackerel, Red Snapper, and more. 

A little planning can go a long way toward ensuring your fishing experience is everything you dreamed of and more. Check out the different fishing seasons and available charters in the area here. 

Visit OWA Amusement Park and Entertainment Destination

If you’re searching for thrills, games, great shopping, and fun dining, look no further than OWA! Home to heart-racing rides, games galore, and top-notch restaurants, it is the premiere amusement park on the Alabama Gulf Coast. 

The Park at OWA features nearly two dozen rides, from thrilling roller coasters to kid-friendly options, like spinning tea-cups, a flying carousel, and more. Downtown OWA is a hub for entertaining shows and concerts, shops of every kind, and dining options for every craving and palate. 

OWA is also a go-to for fun-filled events, from fireworks shows and street parties to fountain shows, and more. Watch for a variety of special events hosted here throughout the year that will impress both kids and adults. 

Rent a Pontoon

While sitting out on the beach all day is relaxing, you can’t beat the experience of getting on a boat and exploring the waters! Rent a pontoon boat from one of the area’s rental companies and you and your crew can enjoy an entire day of fun. 

From party barges to a more luxurious pontoon, you’re always sure to find the right boat that fits your needs! Grab your friends and family and make time to enjoy the beauty of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach on your own boat! Here’s a list of marinas and shops in the area offering boat rentals:

  • Caribe Marina & Watersports: (251) 980-8410
  • Happy Harbor Marina: (251) 981-6111
  • Hudson Marina: (251) 981-4127
  • Flora-Bama Marina: (251) 980-5222
  • OB Watersports: (251) 981-2527
  • Wahoo Watersports: (251) 981-1998

Prepare for a full day of fun by packing a picnic basket and loading up the coolers. You’ll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to take a break and refuel.

Discover New Places by Bike 

One of the best ways to experience the Alabama Gulf Coast is by bicycle. Biking is a great way to get around and take in the most incredible views of the beaches and local wildlife and discover a different side of Foley, Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Perdido Key. 

With so many bike-friendly spots along the coast, exploring by two wheels is a no-brainer! There are quite a few bike trails on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Gulf State Park is one of the most popular destinations for biking for its 28 miles of scenic paved trails and boardwalks.

Didn’t bring your bike from home? No worries! There are plenty of places to rent one in the area, including: 

  • Beach Bike Rentals: (251) 968-1770
  • Coyote Beach Sports: (251) 228-2080
  • Infinity Bicycles: (251) 974-1727
  • Pedego Electric Bicycles Orange Beach: (251) 213-1922
  • Tiki’s Bike Shack: (251) 240-0506

Visit the Welcome Centers

Stop in the local Welcome Centers to say hello and get the inside scoop on discounts, dining, shopping, and more. If you haven't already heard, they’re a hidden gem! 

Anyone who’s traveled to an unfamiliar area that wants to experience as much as possible knows how valuable the knowledge of a local can be. There is no better resource than the staff at the Welcome Centers!   

The incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to share helpful information and tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit! They also have an assortment of brochures; local maps; information on lodging, restaurants, attractions, and more; and plenty of pamphlets to take home that are filled with great deals and coupons.  

Head to The Hangout

Whether you’re bringing the kids along or just grandma, this is the perfect place for you to soak up the Gulf Coast atmosphere! Fun can be found at every turn, with line dancing, epic beach views, delicious food, and various photo ops!

There is also a kids foam party that runs every hour. Your kiddos can also play in the sand, climb through tunnels, and bounce on bungee cords, all while the adults enjoy tasty cocktails and listen to the live music playing in the courtyard. 

The Hangout also serves up a huge menu brimming with delicious choices! Some favorites include the Big Beach Burger, Hangout Jambalaya, Shaka Wrap, and the Cajun Campfire Steak. You can also find some delicious drinks with a frozen daiquiri from the daiquiri bar and a featured brew! 

Don’t leave before snapping a quick picture with the giant shaka hand and the iconic Hangout chair!