Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

🌊 Welcome to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Your ultimate coastal escape!
From sugar-white sands and dolphin cruises to unforgettable meals with Gulf views — these beach towns are packed with fun for all ages, all year long.

🏖️ Top Things to Do

🌿 Explore Nature

Wander or bike through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail — 26+ miles of scenic beauty through dunes, forests, and marshes.
Discover Gulf State Park, where you can kayak, hike, fish, or spot wildlife.
Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo for hands-on animal encounters.

🚤 Water Adventures

Take a dolphin cruise or eco tour and meet the locals (the friendly, finned kind!).
Try parasailing, paddleboarding, or jet skiing across sparkling waters.
Build your dream fortress with Sandcastle University lessons right on the beach.

🏰 Local History & Culture

Step back in time at Fort Morgan, with sweeping views and Civil War history.
Explore the Gulf Shores Museum and Indian & Sea Museum for a dose of coastal heritage.

🎶 Live Music, Festivals & Events

💙 Blue Angels Flyovers — watch the U.S. Navy’s precision flight team soar over the Gulf.
🎤 Hangout Music Festival (May) — huge acts, beachfront stage, and pure summer energy.
🎸 Sand in My Boots Fest — spring concerts with local flavor and Gulf views.
🎆 Seasonal Events — from fireworks and farmers markets to live bands at The Wharf and The Hangout.

☀️ What to Do by Season

🌼 Season	🎉 Best for Adults	👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families	💡 Tips & Highlights
Summer (May–Aug)	Sunset cruises, parasailing, beachfront dining, live concerts	Water parks, sandcastle lessons, zoo, go-karts	Book early, pack sunscreen, plan around midday heat
Fall–Spring (Sept–Apr)	Nature walks, quiet beaches, romantic dinners, birdwatching	Museums, nature center, calm beach days	Cooler temps, fewer crowds, off-season deals

🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink

🍤 The Gulf — Trendy open-air restaurant built from shipping containers; fresh seafood & cocktails right on the water.
🍹 LuLu’s Gulf Shores — Laid-back, family fun, coastal cuisine, and live music.
🦐 Wolf Bay Lodge — Local favorite for classic seafood and a cozy setting.
🍕 GT’s On The Bay — Family-friendly with pizza, seafood, and beautiful bay views.
🍽️ Voyagers — Upscale dining, local ingredients, and stunning Gulf views.
🌅 COASTAL Orange Beach — Breakfast-to-dinner beachside dining with live tunes.
🎉 The Hangout — Iconic spot for food, drinks, games, and nightly entertainment.

🐬 Insider Tips

📅 Check the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Events Calendar for live shows, Blue Angels dates, and festivals.
☀️ Book water activities early — they fill up quickly in summer!
🍂 Off-season perks: mild weather, lower rates, and quiet beaches.
🕶️ Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and bug spray for nature adventures.
📸 Capture sunset photos at Alabama Point East or Gulf State Park Pier — two of the best views on the coast!

💌 Share the Shore

Make your trip unforgettable — explore, eat, relax, and soak up the Southern sunshine.
Whether it’s your first visit or your favorite return, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach always welcome you back with open arms and ocean breezes. 🌊✨