From top places to stay in Orange Beach to must-see attractions, here are different ways to enjoy this coastal haven in Alabama.
Sitting on the Alabama Gulf Coast, Orange Beach offers a perfect mix of beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, vibrant local culture, top-notch family-friendly entertainment, and delightful cuisine. From swimming and sunbathing on pristine shores, enjoying water activities on Wolf Bay, trying your luck at deep-sea fishing, taking dolphin cruises, and exploring the must-visit Wharf, Orange Beach is the full package when it comes to fun in Alabama.
Planning a visit to Alabama’s Gulf Coast? In this blog’ we’ve curated a list of the best Orange Beach has to offer.
But before we start, a little bit about us…
At Luxury Coastal Vacations, we offer several options of houses in Orange Beach AL for rent, along with exceptional customer service and attention to detail in every aspect of your vacation experience. Here, you’ll find the best place to stay in Orange Beach. Our Orange Beach vacation rentals provide everything you need for a complete and unforgettable vacation in Alabama.
Want more tips on the Gulf Coast? Head over to our destination blog! We’ve covered a variety of topics, including the top pet-friendly spots, kid-friendly activities, the best breakfast places, and tips for a perfect beach day.
Let’s dive into it!
Bask in Nature’s Beauty at Alabama Point East Beach
For nature lovers, Alabama Point East Beach provides over 6,000 feet of pristine beach in Orange Beach. It’s a great place to swim in the warm, emerald-green waters and explore the stunning coastal scenery and wildlife from boardwalks cutting through the dunes.
Referred to by locals as Point East, the beach is just a short distance from Perdido Pass Bridge, providing a beautiful vantage point of the bridge. Surfers are often seen tackling the waves, while families relax with picnics. Stay until dusk for an unforgettable sunset, as the golden hues light up the scenic surroundings.
Experience the Excitement at The Wharf
The Wharf stands out as one of Orange Beach’s most popular spots. Known for its lively entertainment scene, it offers a variety of activities that promise fun for all ages, making it the city’s entertainment hotspot.
Along with a diverse mix of bars, restaurants, and boutiques, you can unwind by watching the latest film at the theater or challenge your loved ones to a game of mini-golf. If you have kids in tow, don’t miss the Arena the Next Level Arcade, which offers interactive games like Laser Tag and Bazooka Ball for an exciting group experience.
The Wharf Ferris Wheel, the tallest on the Gulf Coast, is undoubtedly the star of the show and a must-see landmark in Orange Beach. The ride promises unforgettable views of the cityscape. Additionally, from The Wharf marina, you can embark on a dolphin or sunset cruise for more epic adventures in Orange Beach.
Unwind by the Water at Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Set against the scenic backdrop of Wolf Bay, Orange Beach Waterfront Park is the perfect spot to enjoy peaceful views and unwind with relaxing activities.
Explore the park’s scenic walking paths, enjoy one of the seven picnic shelters with grills, or head to the pier for fishing, dolphin spotting, and breathtaking sunsets over the bay. The playground, complete with slides, swings, and climbing areas, ensures plenty of fun for children, too.
Expert tip: One of the best activities while visiting Orange Beach Waterfront Park is renting a kayak and exploring Wolf Bay, where you might spot dolphins, herons, and other wildlife.
Soak in Creativity at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach
Located within Orange Beach Waterfront Park, the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach is a must-visit for those seeking a dose of local culture.
This cultural hub showcases a wide range of local and regional artistic talent through rotating exhibits of painting, sculpture, and photography, and it also hosts workshops and art classes. One of the center’s highlights is The Hot Shop, where you can watch glass-blowing demonstrations and even try it yourself. After immersing yourself in art and craft, take a stroll through the beautiful outdoor sculpture garden by the bay, where artistic expression blends with stunning natural surroundings.
Dive into Local Heritage at the Orange Beach History Museum
Speaking of culture and the best Orange Beach has to offer, we can’t go without mentioning the Orange Beach History Museum.
Located in a historic schoolhouse, this museum showcases fun and fascinating exhibitions centered on Native American culture and the area’s fishing history. With stories from local families, a variety of artifacts, and well-preserved memorabilia, the museum provides a deep dive into the community’s history. Highlights include a 500-year-old dugout canoe, 19th-century textbooks, antique typewriters, and WWII memorabilia. After a visit, you’ll definitely look at the town with renewed eyes.
Cruise with Dolphins on the Gulf
Did you know that Orange Beach is known for its large population of bottlenose dolphins? With that in mind, an unmissable activity while in town is taking a dolphin cruise to enjoy the incredible wildlife and scenery of the region.
Several local tour operators in town offer fantastic dolphin-watching cruises, with experienced guides who know the best spots to see these playful creatures. Some of the top-rated companies in Orange Beach include Jet Boat Orange Beach & Gulf Shores, Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises at The Wharf, and The Fun Boats Dolphin Cruises.
Dolphin cruises typically run multiple times a day, but we highly recommend the sunset dolphin cruises. Not only can you spot these captivating creatures, but you’ll also witness a memorable sunset from a unique perspective.
Embrace Family Fun at Adventure Island
For some of the best family-friendly entertainment in Orange Beach, you shouldn’t miss a visit to Adventure Island. With a wide range of attractions, this spot may just be one of the highlights of your trip.
Some of the most popular attractions at this local gem include a fun 18-hole mini-golf course, go-kart tracks for different age groups, bumper boats for some water-based excitement, an indoor laser tag arena, and a large arcade featuring a variety of games, from classic favorites to the latest video games. However, the showstopper that will impress every visitor is the Volcano Show. Adventure Island boasts a massive, man-made volcano that “erupts” with fire and sound effects, creating a thrilling experience for all.
Cast a Line for Adventure in Orange Beach Fishing
Fishing in Orange Beach is a popular year-round activity, thanks to its abundant marine life and access to both inshore and offshore waters. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the area offers a variety of fishing experiences.
You can enjoy inshore fishing, which is great for families and beginners, deep-sea fishing for more adventurous anglers, pier fishing, and surf fishing for a more relaxed experience.
Orange Beach is known for its extensive fleet of fishing charter boats, led by experienced captains who know the best spots for a successful fishing trip. Most charters offer options for both private and shared trips, so whether you’re with a group or going solo, there are choices available. Top-rated fishing charters in town include Distraction Charters, Hooked Up Fishing Charters, and Redline Inshore Fishing Charters.
Explore the Scenic Backcountry Trail at Gulf State Park
The Orange Beach section of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers beautiful paths for walking, jogging, or biking through lush landscapes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore some of the best nature has to offer in the Heart of Dixie.
With over 28 miles of scenic trails winding through diverse landscapes, you can immerse yourself in stunning forests, marshes, and coastal dunes. The trails are also excellent for wildlife viewing — keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, bobcats, deer, and a variety of bird species. Additionally, one of the unique features of the Backcountry Trail is its connection to the beautiful beaches of Gulf State Park, making it easy to combine a nature walk with some time by the water.
Savor Coastal Flavors Across Orange Beach
Any visit to Orange Beach is not complete without exploring its vibrant culinary scene. From fresh Gulf seafood and mouthwatering barbecue to international cuisine and more, you’ll enjoy a feast wherever you go.
Here are our favorite spots in town for an excellent dining experience:
- Moe’s Original BBQ: is a beloved local spot known for its laid-back atmosphere and mouthwatering barbecue. Founded by three Alabama natives, Moe’s serves up authentic Southern BBQ with a unique twist.
- Big Fish Restaurant & Bar: Big Fish Restaurant & Bar is a top dining destination known for its upscale yet casual ambiance and a menu that emphasizes fresh, high-quality seafood. They even have a sushi bar with a great selection of sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi.
- Bon Temps Poboys: Specializing in authentic Cajun cuisine, this is the go-to spot in Orange Beach for fantastic Creole dishes. Indulge in well-crafted burgers and sandwiches, or have a blast trying their Louisiana-boiled crawfish.
Where to Stay on the Gulf Coast?
Looking for an extra idea to make the most of your weekend on the Gulf Coast? Booking your stay with Luxury Coastal Vacations. We offer the finest selection of luxury rentals on the Gulf Coast, spanning Alabama and Florida.
When you choose to stay in one of our homes or condos, you can anticipate a 5-star experience that you’ll cherish forever. Browse through our options and discover what awaits you on the beautiful Gulf Coast.
