Best Eco-Friendly Attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Nestled along the Alabama Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer more than just sun-soaked beaches and sugar-white sands. Our area is home to a diverse range of coastal landscapes and ecosystems that offer vibrant opportunities to explore some of nature’s most stunning displays. Whether you’re looking to spot native wildlife, hike a scenic nature trail, or learn more about our unique coastline habitats, Spectrum Resorts invites you to explore the natural beauty of our coastal ecosystems through a variety of eco-friendly attractions and activities. These experiences not only provide unforgettable memories but also contribute to the conservation of our planet, offering family fun you can feel good about.

Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park is a true outdoor playground for every type of nature enthusiast. Spanning over 6,000 acres, the park offers an array of activities designed to immerse visitors in the beauty of our coastal habitats:

• Explore over 28 miles of scenic biking and hiking trails that wind through nine distinct ecosystems, from maritime forests to freshwater marshes.
• Take a wildlife walk to look for everything from local and migratory birds to sea turtles, alligators, foxes and other protected species. 
• Visit the Interpretive Center, Alabama’s most environmentally friendly building, to learn about the park through a series of engaging family-friendly exhibits.
• Enjoy weekly educational programs at The Nature Center, a living museum that offers a closer look at our native wildlife and coastal habitats.
• Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards to enjoy the peaceful freshwater scenes of Lake Shelby.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a serene escape that provides critical habitat for a multitude of wildlife, including several endangered species. Stretching across 7,000 acres, the refuge is a place where visitors can quietly observe the untouched beauty of coastal Alabama. Stop by the Visitor Center on your way in to chat with refuge staff, grab helpful maps and trail brochures, and learn more about the local landscapes. Join a guided bird walk or tour of the dunes, or hit the trails solo to wander through diverse ecosystems and spot the abundant wildlife species that call the refuge home. Best of all, it’s just a short 4-minute drive from The Beach Club Resort & Spa.

Guided Nature Cruises

Join Cetacean Cruises to set sail on a guided Eco Tour to explore the rich biodiversity of our back bays and lagoons. This 2-hour educational tour offers an up-close look at the marine ecosystems of our coastal waterways from the comfort of a catamaran. Learn about the importance of estuaries, encounter our resident dolphin pods, and discover the local efforts to protect these vital ecosystems. Along the way, your knowledgeable guides will point out interesting features from our local flora and fauna to osprey nests, herons, and the occasional bald eagle.

Wade Ward Nature Park

Located just two blocks north of Gulf Place public beach, Wade Ward Nature Park is a pedestrian access to a pocket of natural wetlands and waterways that connect Little Lagoon to Lake Shelby. Stroll along the spacious boardwalks to spot otters, pelicans, and the occasional alligator hunting and fishing in the shallow waters.

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Of course, you can’t miss your chance to visit the #1 Zoo in Alabama! The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo isn’t your typical small-town city zoo; this award-winning complex is home to over 200 species, including 8 endangered species that have a haven in our area. Visitors of all ages will love strolling the spacious exhibits (with plenty of shady spots to stop for a rest), attending an educational program, or enjoying a close encounter with our resident animal friends.

Join Us in Supporting Responsible Tourism

By choosing activities that respect and protect our coastal ecosystems, you contribute to a legacy of conservation. From the tranquil beauty of Gulf State Park to the educational journeys offered by guided nature cruises, your vacation in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach can be both enriching and environmentally responsible.

Our world-class resort – The Beach Club Resort & Spa – offers beachfront luxury close to the area’s best attractions and is located near the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge. Book your stay today and join us in creating memories that not only last a lifetime, but also make a difference for the future.