For entertainment, locals and visitors head to the Orange Beach Islands, also known as the Islands of Perdido Pass, consisting of Bird Island, Robinson Island, Gilchrist Island, and Walker Island. All 4 islands of the Perdido Pass are located within minutes of each other. There is no safe way of getting to the Orange Beach Islands by foot, and the currents make it unsafe to swim. The best way to get to the Orange Beach Islands is by boat, kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski.According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 15.9 square miles (41.3 km), of which 14.7 square miles (38.1 km) is land and 1.2 square miles (3.2 km), or 7.83%, is water.Orange Beach offers a wide selection of family beach vacation opportunities, from condos directly on the beach to just across the street, dolphin cruises, recreational centers with tennis and basketball courts, golf course condo communities, beach houses and everything in between.Orange Beach is part of the Orange Beach City Schools system. Orange Beach Elementary School is the city’s only school and serves students in grades kindergarten through sixth grade. Students in grades seven and twelve attend Orange Beach Middle and High School.
Previously residents were zoned to Gulf Shores Middle School and Gulf Shores High School in neighboring Gulf Shores. In 2019 those schools separated into the Gulf Shores City Schools district. For the 2019-2020 school year Orange Beach grade 7-10 students and grade 7-10 students in unincorporated areas had a choice between remaining with Gulf Shores schools or attending temporary classrooms established by Baldwin County schools. Orange Beach Middle and High opened in 2020.
The city of Orange Beach hosts many sporting events and tournaments at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. The Sportsplex, located north of the Gulf State Park and a short distance from The Wharf, comprises a football/soccer stadium with a seating capacity of 1,500. The facility also has several baseball and softball fields. The Backcountry Trail system through the Gulf State Park has a trailhead located at the Sportsplex.As of the census of 2010, there were 5,441 people, 2,492 households, and 1,544 families residing in the city. The population density was 370 per square mile (140/km). There were 11,726 housing units at an average density of 737.5 per square mile (284.8/km). The racial makeup of the city was 94.3% White, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.8% Asian, 1.4% from other races, and 2.2% from two or more races. 2.6% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.
The Sportsplex has hosted the SEC Women’s Soccer Tournament on numerous occasions, in addition to the NCAA Division II men and women’s soccer tournament. The facility once served as home to the Alabama Lightning of the North American Football League.
There were 2,492 households, out of which 21.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.2% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.0% were non-families. 30.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.18 and the average family size was 2.70. Orange Beach is located along the Gulf of Mexico, and is the easternmost community on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, with Florida’s Perdido Key bordering it to the east. The city of Gulf Shores is to the west. Columbia Southern University is a private online-only university that is located in Orange Beach, with a campus in Orange Beach on Canal Road and a larger campus on the Beach Express road.In the city, the population was 18.7% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 23.7% from 25 to 44, 31.7% from 45 to 64, and 19.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45.5 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.1 males. The median income for a household in the city was $66,656, and the median income for a family was $69,964. Males had a median income of $54,806 versus $47,019 for females. The per capita income for the city was $40,153. About 1.2% of families and 3.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 0.0% of those under age 18 and 2.8% of those age 65 or over.
A one-tank trip for Atlanta residents, Orange Beach, and neighboring Gulf Shores, occupy the same route from the central area of the Peach State: I-85 to I-65 and then over to AL59 for a straight shot to the beach.
The Orange Beach Seafood Festival and Car Show is held in February and is a major fundraiser for Orange Beach schools. The festival is a full day of delicious food, arts and crafts vendors, and music for the whole family. This is an alcohol-free event. The festival includes a silent auction, car show, a Kids Zone with a climbing wall, inflatables and games, and also a children’s performance pavilion. The festival is free, but a $2 donation per car is requested.
Yes, Orange Beach Alabama is definitely worth a visit! This charming beach town is full of fun adventures both on and off the water, along with great restaurants, fantastic lodging options, and unique attractions.
The Flora-Bama Lounge is not only famous for the Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s greatest beach party, but also as an American roadhouse where friends meet, order drinks and watch the sun set. The Flora-Bama straddles the Alabama-Florida state line creating conversation just with its very name. Enjoy live music, favorite cocktails and a good time.
Is there anything better than dolphin cruises? I think not! Try a cruise with Cetacean Cruises to see friendly dolphins, beautiful sunsets, or the wildlife that’s in the area.
The Wharf is one of this seaside community’s most happening spots. It offers unique shopping, entertainment, dining, a marina (with a watersports outfitter), and an amphitheater where headliners are quite the draw.Soar 400 feet in the air above Orange Beach! The boats at Chute Em Up Parasail can accommodate up to 3 flyers and 15 passengers total, for a safe and comfortable ride in the sky.
Is Orange Beach a real beach?
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach gives you plenty to do for your next beach family vacation or romantic weekend getaway along the Gulf area. Whether you’re in the mood for adventure or lazy days on the beach, you can do it all in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
You’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the Gulf, while dining on sustainable seafood creations, locally-sourced vegetables, and organic meats. The menu here changes seasonally, so you’re always sure to get the best.
Cetacean Cruises offers a Dolphin & Sailing Cruise, a Dolphin Eco Tour, Sunset Sailing Cruises, a Dolphin and Nature Sunset Cruise, or a daytime Dolphin and Nature Cruise.
The Arts Center offers many awesome artistic experiences, plus amazing views! (It overlooks Wolf Bay.) Visit their Fine Arts Gallery where you’ll see the work of Gulf Shores artists. The Hot Shop is Alabama’s premier glass blowing studio, where you can make your own piece. Or maybe the Clay Studio is more your style — you can throw on the wheel or hand-build your own creation.
You can also learn about the Orange Beach ecosystem with a Water Warrior Eco-tour, as well as other excursions, like the Sunset Peaceful Paddler Experience.Sunset sails on Wild Hearts are among my favorites in Orange Beach. We also love this Orange Beach Daytime Sailing Tour and the Orange Beach Sunset Sailing Tour (click for discounts).
Best Indoor/Outdoor Pools: Also located close to Adventure Island, the Hampton Inn & Suites features a private oceanfront beach, indoor and outdoor pools, and a hot tub. They also offer a FREE breakfast, so you can fuel up before your day in the sun!
Lost Bay Helicopters, located in nearby Gulf Shores, grants you a birds-eye view of the beauty of Orange Beach and the surrounding area. They’ve got several different flight options and tours to fit exactly what you’re looking for. Also, for family-friendly selections, Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar is a good choice. Kids are welcome in this relaxed restaurant where gumbo, oysters and seafood platters rule! Wear your flip flops and eat where the locals do! A bustling destination for spring breakers and summer vacationers, this family beach retreat is also perfect during the more affordable shoulder season (the spring and bookends to summer).
Best Family Resort: Turquoise Place is our go-to every time we’re on the Alabama Beaches! Run by Spectrum Resorts, you know the property and the service will be top notch. HUGE rooms, gorgeous patios with a hot tub, the clean bed guarantee. (Seriously, after you learn how much better they clean the bedding you won’t want to stay anywhere else.) See our full review here.
Is the Orange Beach open?
The beaches of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach are OPEN and ready to welcome you for a fall beach getaway.
Known for blue-green waters that rush upon soft, white-sand beaches, Orange Beach in Alabama presents a myriad of accommodations, an amazing culinary scene, and lots of adventure and water recreation.
Freshly brewed coffees and such start your day with a bang and are great with breakfast dishes like the Strawberry Belgian Waffle. Also, choose from fresh fruit, bagels or biscuits to round out the breakfast menu. This cute little coffee shop also serves lunch and dinner, and offers free WiFi in an eclectic setting.
Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail runs through parts of Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and the Gulf State Park. It is an intricate design of seven trails that observe six different ecosystems spanning over 15 miles. You can read more about this complex, Gulf State Park, and great eco-tours in our Gulf Shores Best Beach Vacation Guide.
Happy hour at Ginny Lane Bar & Grill is open every day 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. with awesome drink specials! Located at The Wharf, Ginny Lane also serves some delicious food in a sophisticated environment.You and your group will love cruising the water in your own private tiki hut. The cruise includes your very own tiki bar and captain, so you can sit back and relax in the shade.
Is Orange Beach expensive?
Out of 30 cities, Orange Beach ranked third for having the most expensive homes.
Also known as the “Little Zoo” because of its starring role in Animal Planet’s The Little Zoo That Could, this zoo is located only 6 miles from the beach, and takes up 25 acres.
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Orange Beach, Alabama, is best known for its white sandy beaches and family-friendly activities. Orange Beach is one of the most popular getaways in the South.
Create your own adventure as you zip through Wolf Bay, exploring nearby coves at high speeds. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, and fish!
With services available at various points in Orange Beach, Perdido can arrange for you to go on a parasailing adventure, rent kayaks and paddleboards, ride on a Hobie Cat, or learn to surf!
Best Beach Resort: Perdido Beach Resort offers beachfront accommodations in Orange Beach. With three pools and four restaurants on site, you’ll never have to leave! But if you want to visit the Orange Beach Waterfront Park or Adventure Island, this resort is only 1.5 miles away.Cobalt The Restaurant offers contemporary coastal cuisine in an awesome setting right underneath the Perdido Bay Bridge. With water views and outdoor heaters, you can dine outside year-round.
Fish off the shore, or head over to the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier to try your luck. Make sure you have a fishing license. (Note: The Pier was damaged in Hurricane Sally. It is currently open past the halfway point. The restrooms and fillet table are still available.)
A little town of its own, The Wharf is designed for you to park your car and walk or bike around. Bring your sticks and hit the golf course, spend time on the water with a chartered boat excursion, check out hammock island by the pool (my favorite hangout), and whatever you do, don’t miss the Ferris Wheel with fantastic aerial views of the Orange Beach area.Enjoy all sorts of body treatments like my favorites: the Hot Stone Massage and the Island Breeze Facial. Additionally, they offer hair and nail services, along with a fabulous relaxation room complete with a whirlpool and complimentary mimosas. Explore OWA’s in-park shops or cool off at the splash pad. No matter what you decide, OWA’s classic southern-style amusement park experience is sure to impress both adults and kids alike! Orange Beach Waterfront Park is a nice place for walking, fishing on the 400-foot pier, picnicking under covered pavilions (they have grills), and letting the kids play on the amazing playground.
Water Warrior offers stand up paddle boarding (SUP) lessons to get your family engaged in one of the fastest growing water sports trending across the world!
Looking for something totally unique? Try the crowd favorite Dolphins & Blue Angels Sail, where guests get to see the Blue Angels practice their flights right over the Pensacola Lighthouse. Breakfast is provided on this sailing, and it’s sure to be something you and your group will remember for a lifetime.The Spa at the Beach Club is a resort-style spa with full-service amenities. This spa is part of the beautiful Beach Club on the Fort Morgan Peninsula in nearby Gulf Shores.
Tacky Jack’s on the water in Orange Beach couldn’t be more perfect for families! With outdoor dining, a laid-back atmosphere and kid-friendly foods, Tacky Jack’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. I love their appetizers and could make a meal off of the Gator Bites and the Smoked Tuna Dip.
Photo packages are available for purchase, so you can remember the experience. Up to three people can fly at once. Children 4-17 can parasail if accompanied by an adult, but children 3 and under are not allowed.The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo takes you for a walk on the wild side with more than 500 exotic animals, daily keeper talks & shows, a petting zoo, aviary, and picnic area.
Orange Beach Festival of Art has been held in the spring for more than 40 years. The location on Wolf Bay guarantees a spectacular backdrop as folks celebrate the arts (visual, performing, musical and culinary). The art festival is FREE but the parking shuttle from The Wharf to the festival is about $5. Take the little ones and visit the Art Alley for Kids with fun activities like: t-shirts, bug jars, clay art, sand in a bottle and more!
Is there a Orange Beach?
Orange Beach is located along the Gulf of Mexico, and is the easternmost community on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, with Florida’s Perdido Key bordering it to the east.
Charter your own Tritoon Pontoon Boat for a half-day excursion that you’ll love. This boat is the ultimate party machine, complete with seating for 11, premium stereo, and a cabana that provides plenty of shade.Your kids can act like pirates, get their faces painted, and learn some pirate lingo. Once onboard, your little ones will get to defend the ship in a gun battle, sing along with the pirate crew, hear stories of pirate attacks, and hunt for the Captain’s lost gold and a treasure chest. There are musical games and Pirate Limbo too!
Rent an Orange Beach Full-Day Slide Pontoon Boat, and you and your group can enjoy an entire day of fun in the sun — while sliding down a slide into the water!
All articles belong to 365 Atlanta Family LLC, and all photos belong to us as well, unless otherwise noted. It’s all copyrighted. Please don’t repost anything elsewhere without asking me first. All rights reserved. This site uses cookies to enhance your experience.Serenity at the Beach is a full-service Aveda salon and spa located in Orange Beach. They offer spa services, like massages, facials, body treatments, or enjoy a spa package. They also have salon services like haircuts and color, make-up, and manicures and pedicures. You will leave a visit here feeling refreshed.
If you’re looking for a charter fishing boat to take you out, Orange Beach has quite a few options. Orange Beach Fishing Charters and Saltwater Guides, Distraction Charters, Cool Breeze Charters (offers deep sea fishing too), and Brown’s Inshore Guide Service are just a few of many companies that call Orange Beach home.
Looking for something more luxurious? Try renting a Luxury Pontoon Boat from OB Watersports. These boats are equipped with bimini tops for sun protection, and state of the art stereos for a rockin’ good time.The Sea & Wildlife Tour will take you out above the Gulf of Mexico in search of dolphins, the State Park tour takes you above Alabama Gulf State Park, or just take a quick, 8-minute flight down the coast! Whatever you choose, you’re guaranteed to love it.Voyagers, an upscale restaurant located inside of Perdido Beach Resort, has lovely entrees prepared by award-winning executive chef Brody Olive is the spot for fine dining.Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have spectacular accommodations and rentals, award-winning restaurants, and amazing events. Our paradise is brimming with Southern hospitality, featuring one-of-a-kind attractions like championship golf, nature trails, water sports, and amusement parks (like the well known Waterville USA). Gulf Shores and Orange Beach gives you plenty to do for your next beach family vacation or romantic weekend getaway along the Gulf area.
Why is it called Orange Beach?
Orange Beach was named after the short-lived success of locals who attempted to grow oranges, grapefruit and satsuma trees on the shores.
Warm temps and fresh seafood make the Alabama Gulf Coast the perfect beach destination for a sizzling summer vacation. From fireworks over the beach to fun runs sure to have you craving a cool dip in the Gulf, there is no shortage of holiday events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.Bring your family to explore the waterways, relax on the beach, eat your fill of fresh seafood, visit Gulf State Park or practice your golf swing at one of our beautiful courses nearby. It’s all waiting to be discovered. Plan your vacation and make unforgettable memories on Alabama’s Gulf Coast today.Here, you’ll find everything you need to plan your vacation! Keep up to date with the daily beach safety report and learn how to play it safe while swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. Plus, getting here is easy whether by car, airplane or ferry. Visit our Welcome Centers, call, text or chat with us to answer your questions, learn more about the area and discover tips and tricks for a perfect beach vacation.
Whether you’re in the mood for adventure or lazy days on the beach, you can do it all in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Stroll the sugar-white sand or spot dolphins on a dolphin cruise. For an adventure location experience, cast your line into one of the country’s largest artificial fishing reefs during a deep-sea fishing trip. Discover history and travel back in time when cannons protected the waterways, and explore the nearly 200-year-old Fort Morgan.
Nestled on four acres facing beautiful Wolf Bay we offer a waterfront art experience for everyone as well as a stunning destination wedding location. Peruse the gorgeous fine arts gallery featuring Gulf Coast artists, blow your own glass in our Hot Shop, or make your own clay creations in our Clay Studio. Original art for sale. No admission fee; but all classes require an appointment and have fees starting at $85.00. We also offer summer art camps and after-school programs.
Explore the Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach, Alabama to find inspiration in the local artists’ works, and hands on classes. The center overlooks scenic Wolf Bay and offers many artistic experiences with a breathtaking view. The stunning 10,000-square-foot fine art gallery features a spacious two-story building displaying works by Gulf Coast artists.
The campus is also home to The Hot Shop, Alabama’s premier hot glass blowing studio where you can make your own glass piece! Or, come play in the clay at the Clay Studio, where you can throw on the wheel or hand build your own creation.
Adult art classes are available at various times of the year. The center cherishes its place in the rich history of our area while bringing new and innovative ideas in the arts — all in a warm and welcoming environment of Southern hospitality.One of the best things to do in Orange Beach is to take a fun dolphin cruise. There’s nothing like feeling the wind against your skin and watching the dolphins playing and swimming alongside the boat. Both of these beach towns are also great for fishing opportunities both inshore and offshore. 🎣 Charter fishing trips are also readily available. You’ll find most of these are also located in Orange Beach. Orange Beach also has plenty of rental shops available for equipment and guided adventures. There are also plenty of marinas to start your adventure from!
The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, is a beautiful beachfront resort in Gulf Shores, Alabama. It’s known for its eco-friendly approach and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
However, both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores have beautiful beaches, friendly people, family-friendly activities, water sports, and delicious seafood. So, no matter which one you choose, you’re sure to have a wonderful time!So, while Gulf Shores has a more “busy” feel, Orange Beach has a more relaxed and serene vibe. Orange Beach is perfect for those seeking a more peaceful and tranquil beach getaway.The clearest water you will find in Alabama is going to be in Orange Beach. However, the color of the water in Orange Beach can fluctuate. Some days the water will be a very clear green-blue color and other days the water will be a darker blue color.If you’re looking to do some serious shopping while in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, then you must go to the Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama. The Tanger Outlets are located only a few short miles from the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast beaches.
Why is called Orange Beach?
Orange Beach was named after the short-lived success of locals who attempted to grow oranges, grapefruit and satsuma trees on the shores.
“Which is better?” between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a lively and bustling beach atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options, Gulf Shores may be the ideal choice for you.The biggest difference you will find between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is going to be in the atmosphere and vibe. And the atmosphere can make or break a trip! So this is very important!!
Is Orange Beach a good place?
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are charming beach communities alive and vibrant, with a good mix of the young and old bringing excitement to the area. You’ll find unique attractions, incredible dining experiences, fantastic lodging options,and adventure on and off the water.
Tropic Falls at OWA is an amusement park and an indoor waterpark! At Tropic Falls there are rides for all ages, from kiddie rides for the youngest toddlers all the way to extreme thrill rides. And let me just tell you this park is pristine and super clean!
What is so special on Orange Beach Alabama?
Explore Orange Beach. A great family beach vacation spot, Orange Beach, Alabama, offers offer wonderful dining experiences, dolphin-sighting cruises, championship golf courses, fishing charters and nature hikes. Choose from national hotel and motel chains, camping or a variety of beach houses for your stay.
It’s unique in that the restaurant was built using repurposed shipping containers. They serve delicious items such as hamburgers, fries, fish tacos, and shrimp tacos in a beautiful outdoor beach Gulf front setting.
What is Orange Beach known for?
What is Orange Beach best known for? Orange Beach, Alabama, is best known for its white sandy beaches and family-friendly activities. Orange Beach is one of the most popular getaways in the South.
Orange Beach boasts pristine, uncrowded beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. Enjoy the tranquility and soak in the beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast in Orange Beach. Gulf Shores tends to have a larger concentration of high-rise condominiums and hotels along its coastline, while Orange Beach offers a more natural and less crowded beach experience. If you’re visiting the Gulf Shores or Orange Beach area with kids, then OWA is a must! And if you’re not visiting with kids either, go to OWA! Because it is just that amazing!!
Also, located at The Wharf is The Wharf Amphitheatre. Some of music’s biggest acts perform here, so make sure to check to see if anyone is performing during your vacation to the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Explore Gulf State Park while in Gulf Shores. Gulf State Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, a fishing pier, a nature center, and a beautiful campground.They are famous for throwing hot rolls to customers, adding a fun and interactive element to the dining experience. Lambert’s offers hearty Southern dishes, including their unlimited “pass-around” of delicious sides. In Orange Beach, you’ll also find Souvenir City, along with Alvins Island. In addition to these, they also have an amazing Ron Jon Surf Shop in Orange Beach. At the end of May, Hangout Music Festival happens right on the beautiful beaches of Gulf Shores. This is a huge weekend music festival with some of the biggest acts in entertainment! However, if you prefer a quieter and more serene beach experience with a focus on natural beauty and fishing opportunities, Orange Beach might be more to your liking. Orange Beach occupies about 8 miles of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. This stretch of coastline starts just after the Gulf State Park Pavillion in Gulf Shores and goes all the way to the world-famous beach bar, Flora Bama. (Located on the Alabama/Florida state line.)
I could go ahead and tell your my favorite, but I don’t want you to rule one out just yet. So, continue reading to find out which is the perfect beach town for YOU!
Both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer an abundance of water activities. You’ll find many companies that rent boats, kayaks, and jet skis. You could even go para-sailing! 🚤
The rooms are comfortable and come with balconies or patios. The resort offers great dining options with local and sustainable ingredients. Guests can enjoy the beach, pool, fitness center, and bikes.I would also say Gulf Shores has a more lively and energetic atmosphere too. Right, where Highway 59 meets the beach road you’ll find the popular fun restaurant The Hangout and the famous bar The Pink Pony Pub.
When visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast, a dolphin cruise is a must. Seeing dolphins jumping in and out of the water alongside you is just amazing! 🐬 You’ll find companies offering dolphin cruises depart from various marinas in Orange Beach.
Gulf Shores occupies about 23 miles of coastline (including the Fort Morgan area too) starting from the Gulf State Park Pavillion in Gulf Shores all the way to the end of the island in Fort Morgan.
Here you’ll find unique clothing, accessories, coastal-themed decor, and more. The Wharf also hosts live concerts, events, nightly laser light shows, a movie theatre, and a Ferris wheel.
Just a few of the brands you’ll find here include Nike, Gap, Old Navy, Under Armour, Columbia, American Eagle, Aerie, Ann Taylor, Kate Spade, and Polo Ralph Lauren.
They provide free breakfast in the morning and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. The hotel is in a convenient location close to attractions and activities. Overall, Hampton Inn & Suites is a wonderful place to stay for a beach vacation in Orange Beach.
Some of the most beautiful clear-water beaches in the world are located just a few miles further to the east in Florida. I have found that the water is always much more beautiful in the Florida Panhandle from Pensacola Beach to the Destin area.
Exploring The Wharf is one of the best things to do in Orange Beach. The Wharf is a vibrant waterfront entertainment district offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
If you like a busy beach with lots of activities, Gulf Shores is a good choice. But if you want a more quiet and calm beach experience, Orange Beach is a better option.But even if you’re not into amusement parks, go to OWA to walk around and enjoy the Downtown OWA district. Here you’ll find many restaurants and shops all in a super beautiful setting.
Which is better Gulf Shores or Orange Beach?
If you like a busy beach with lots of activities, Gulf Shores is a good choice. But if you want a more quiet and calm beach experience, Orange Beach is a better option. If you are on a budget, you most likely will find more budget-friendly options in Gulf Shores.
They also have bumper boats, mini-golf, kiddie rides, and an arcade. The Track is a lively and action-packed destination for fun and excitement in Gulf Shores.One of the best things to do in Orange Beach is to get out on the beautiful water and enjoy it! Kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing are all popular in Orange Beach.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is one of the best things to do in Gulf Shores with kids. They have a wide range of animals here including lions, tigers, giraffes, lemurs, reptiles, and kangaroos. 🦁 🐅 🐢 🦘
Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are located directly next to each other. Orange Beach is located towards the east of Gulf Shores and is the closest beach town to Florida. In fact, Orange Beach ends at the Alabama/Florida state line.However, there are some significant differences between these two beach towns. Let’s explore them, so you can decide which town is best for your Alabama beach vacation! Both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are wonderful destinations for a family vacation. They offer a wide variety of attractions, activities, and accommodations. The staff is known for their hospitality, and the restaurant is filled with unique memorabilia. Lambert’s is a must-visit destination for tourists to the Alabama Gulf Coast. They offer delicious food and an unforgettable dining experience.
Gulf State Park’s Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers more than 28 miles of paved trails great for biking and walking. This trail connects the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Adventure Island is a family-friendly amusement park in Orange Beach featuring go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf, black light indoor mini-golf, bumper boats, laser tag, and an arcade.If you are looking for plenty of space, and multiple bathrooms and are wanting to do some or all of the cooking, then renting a condo might be the best option for your family. Since Gulf Shores has more commercialized activity and is home to 2 big annual festivals, you will generally find crowd levels to be much higher in Gulf Shores. So, you’re always guaranteed to have beautiful white sandy beaches in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. However, the color of the water can vary greatly on the Alabama Gulf Coast. You really can’t go wrong with either for a family vacation. And whatever one you choose you can always go to the other to explore and enjoy. After all, they are right next to each other and only a short drive away! Orange Beach is located towards the east of Gulf Shores and is the closest Alabama beach to Florida. In fact, Orange Beach ends at the Alabama/Florida state line. The resort is in a great location for outdoor activities like water sports and fishing. Overall, Perdido Beach Resort is a fantastic place for a memorable and enjoyable beach getaway. Lucky for you, I know a lot about both of these popular beach destinations because I live in close proximity! I am super excited to share with you the similarities and differences between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach from a local’s perspective. I find that Orange Beach is the better spot for more fine dining experiences. Some of my favorite fine dining or upscale restaurants in Orange Beach that my husband and enjoy for a date night include Fisher’s Upstairs at Orange Beach Marina, Louisiana Lagniappe, and Voyagers. One of the best things to do in Gulf Shores is to get out on the water. Engage in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.Approaching the beach area of Gulf Shores from the main road Highway 59, you’ll also find an abundance of restaurants, souvenir shops, entertainment, and businesses. Gulf Shores is definitely very built up and there is a lot going on in one area.
The following are excellent options for things to do near Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. They are all located in Foley, Alabama just a short drive away from the beautiful beaches.The Pass is one of my favorite spots to enjoy the beach on the Alabama Gulf Coast because it’s such a beautiful, picturesque spot. Located right under the Perdido Bay Bridge, the water here is fairly calm and clear making it great for those with kids.
