10 of our Favorite Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Activities that aren't just Sitting on the Sand

If you’re not somebody who is okay with sand in places it shouldn’t be, you most likely don’t want to spend your entire vacation on the beach. You’re going to need to find other activities to do instead. Luckily, we have provided a list to help you discover 10 awesome activities (that aren’t the beach!) in the Orange Beach/Gulf Shores area.

1. Spend a day under the sun at OWA Parks + Resort

Located in Foley, about 20 minutes from Orange beach, OWA has everything you need to have the perfect summer day. From kiddie rides to roller coasters to water park attractions, the whole family is sure to win a thrill. If rides aren’t up your alley, don’t worry, many dining and shopping options are available to you at OWA.

Summer rates (June-Sept 6) for OWA are as follows:

Tropic Falls indoor waterpark + theme park general admission ticket: $74.99 Monday-Thursday and $79.99 Friday-Sunday

Theme park only admission: $29.99

Various discounts are offered such as military, senior, 3 years and under (free), family 4 pack, 2-day admission and twilight (after 4pm)

2. Explore the excitement of Adventure Island

Adventure Island is a family-owned and operated family fun park. It uses a purchased point system to participate in various activities, with 1 point being $1. If you’re feeling competitive, there are two 18-hole mini golf courses and one 9-hole glow-in-the-dark course. Go-karts, bumper boats, kiddie rides, and arcade games are sure to keep a smile on everybody’s faces.

Adventure Island runs free point specials based on your original purchase:

• Buy 40-99 points, get 5 free points

• Buy 100-199 points, get 10 free points

• Buy 200+ points, get 20 free points

Visit Adventure Island for more information on points. Points do not expire, so feel free to go back another time during your trip!

3. Check out the world-famous beach bar, Flora-Bama

This landmark is located on the Alabama/Florida State line. There are 5 stages for live music, so don’t count on it being a quiet place! Flora-Bama includes three restaurants: the Oyster Bar, Ole River Grille, and Yacht Club. In addition to the restaurants, there is a marina, liquor store, and coastal cruiser boat. Keep in mind that after 6pm, it is restricted to 18+. With all of its attributes, Flora-Bama is sure to be a good time!

4. Soar to new heights with Lost Bay Helicopters

Lost Bay is veteran-owned and operated. They offer different types of services, such as beach tours, flight training, and custom events. Regarding tours, there are many different options to choose from. The history buff may enjoy the Battle of Mobile Bay Tour, nature-lovers should try the State Park Tour, and the beach bum might like the Sea and Wildlife Tour or Beach Tour. Lost Bay also provides a Gulf Coast Experience Tour, Sunset Tour, Island View Tour, and Intro Beach Tour.

The prices of these tours range from $65 to $260.

5. Admire new marine life with The Fun Boat Dolphin Cruises

Join Captain Dean and his crew for a two-hour dolphin cruise! Cruises can be taken either during the day or at sunset. Dolphins frequent the waters, and there has never been a Fun Boat cruise that did not spot dolphins. After the dolphin sightings, a water fight will take place followed by the chance to see other marine life and creatures.

On daytime cruises, admission for passengers 12+ is $26 plus tax. Ages 2-11 is $21 plus tax, and under 2 is $12 plus tax.

On sunset cruises, admission for passengers aged 12+ is $30 plus tax and aged infant-11 is $21 plus tax.

6. Spend some $$$ at the Wharf or Tanger Outlets

The Wharf is a great family-friendly hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Concerts are often held at the Wharf Ampitheater and movies in the AMC theater. There are over 60 shops, restaurants, and entertainment acts. A bit further outside of Orange Beach, approximately 25 minutes, are the Tanger Outlets. With significant deals in over 100 stores, the Tanger Outlets are a great option to grab some brand-name merchandise for cheaper.

7. Strike a hole-in-one at Craft Farms Golf Resort

Just a 20-minute drive from Orange Beach, Craft Farms features two 18-hole courses, Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend. These courses are the only Arnold Palmer Signature Design Courses in Alabama. The resort offers many different rates and special offers, and rental clubs are available for $70 plus tax. The newly renovated clubhouse has a delicious bar and grill and a quality golf shop. If you are new to golf, don’t worry, Craft Farms offers instruction classes!

8. Feed the giraffes at Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Home to over 199 species, 31 sub-species, and 8 endangered species, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is just six miles from the beach. “The Little Zoo That Could,” was the name of the 2006 Animal Planet series that featured this popular family attraction. Up-close interactions with friendly animals set this zoo apart from others, making it the #1 zoo in Alabama for two years straight!

Admission rates are as follows:

Adults (13-61): $22.95

Seniors + Military: $19.95

Children (3-12): $14.95

Children under 3: free

9. Explore nature on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Go for a jog, walk, or bike ride to blow off some steam on your vacation! The beautiful views of Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail are a part of the 28-mile paved trail system of the Gulf State Park. This trail, named 2024’s best recreational trail in the country by USA Today, is sure to aid in relaxation and exercise. To come by the easiest access to the trail, book your stay at the Beach Village Resort in Orange Beach!

10. Try out life on the water with Blue Sky Parasail + Watersports

Blue Sky offers a few different services to help spice up your vacation. Soar 800 ft into the sky, looking down at marine life and emerald green waters, with a parasailing trip. If you’re afraid of heights, a banana boat or jetski ride might be more up your alley. Bouncing through the waves at high speed will give you a smile like no other.

Pricing is as follows:

30-minute jetkski rental: $90

60-minute jetski rental: $145

Parasailing per person: $85

Parasailing observers: $39.99

Banana boat rides per person: $30

The Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area is extremely versatile in all areas. These ten activities will keep you and your group entertained for hours!

Published on Friday, May 17, 2024