Our Favorite Summer Activities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Guests at The Beach Club Resort & Spa have many onsite amenities and activities to keep the family busy. However, sometimes wanderlust sets in and there’s a need to explore. We have some ideas to help you navigate the best summer activities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Happy Trails

Gulf State Park is a fantastic place to go to get face-to-face with nature and enjoy a little exercise as well. Head over to the Park’s Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system where you will find 26 trails within nine distinct ecosystems making up over 28 miles of paved pathways. Connecting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, these trails offer opportunities for hiking, biking, skating, rock climbing, watching wildlife, plant and tree identification, nature photography and more!

Aside from the trails, Gulf State Park offers adventure on the Fishing and Education Pier—the largest pier in the Gulf of Mexico and the state’s only public pier in the Gulf. Wet a line and enjoy fishing as a family knowing everything you need is available right on the pier. Purchase a saltwater fishing license, bait and tackle, snacks from the concession area and take home some neat souvenirs from the retail store. Want more? Consider attending Angler Academy, a two-hour signature experience where you’ll be thoroughly introduced to saltwater fishing.

Also check out Coastal Segway Adventures for guided Segway tours on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. It’s an exciting way to enjoy and learn more about Gulf State Park. Save time by signing waivers online and please note you must be at least 12 years old to participate.

Get on the Water

There’s no place better than Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for finding things to do on the water. There are lots of places scattered throughout the area that rent paddleboards, kayaks, jet skis, cat boats and other water toys. You can also rent watersports equipment directly on the beach at The Beach Club!

Try your hand at something new like snorkeling. Get an close-up view of marine life thriving in Alabama’s Gulf Coast waters. You might see stingrays, crabs, jellyfish, sea turtles, and more! Don’t own a mask and fins? No worries! You can find them at retailers or local dive shops. And, don’t overlook the fun experience of a guided snorkeling tour.

Parasailing is another great way to spend time on the water and have a thrilling experience! Imagine yourself soaring high above the turquoise Gulf of Mexico waters, feeling the breeze and adding a new perspective to your view of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. 

Take a sunset cruise, search for dolphins, or maybe go deep-sea fishing. No matter your preference, there’s a boat for you. For boating, cruising, fishing or sailing excursions, booking early is best to ensure a spot for your family. (Pro tip: Consider a concierge service like The Beach Moms to book all of your reservations from dining to activities. You’ll have one less thing to remember and peace of mind for your vacation.)

Family-Friendly Fun

History buffs will love touring historic Fort Morgan. Spend an afternoon walking the grounds, hearing the stories, climbing the walls (yes, really!) and imaging where the battles actually took place. Save some time for the onsite museum and check the Fort Morgan website for daily/weekly events.

What’s a vacation without some friendly competition in a round of mini-golf or laser tag? Visit Adventure Island for fun in the sun riding bumper boats or go-karts, or some arcade shenanigans. (Pro tip: Look for a discount coupon on their website and print it at home.)

You just can’t beat a day at the award-winning Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo with exhibits, animal encounters, a carousel, and a cool new location! Make memories for a lifetime with experiences like holding a baby kangaroo, playing with a lemur, or hanging out with a sloth. Be sure to dine onsite at the Safari Club, Alabama’s first Green Certified restaurant. The décor is beautiful and fun, and the menu is spectacular.

No matter what special activities or experiences a vacation day holds, make sure your planning starts with booking a fabulous condo with plenty of room for your family. Comfort at the end of every day is key to a successful trip.