Reviewed by: Callie Morrison
5 unique experiences you have to try this summer in Gulf Shores + Orange Beach
Reading time: 6 minutes
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Summer is on the horizon, which means it’s time to hit 65 South from Birmingham for a new experience in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
From dolphin tours to sunset cruises, read on for five unique experiences that will give your beach vacay an exciting boost. Plus, find out where you can reserve your stay just minutes away from the fun.
Save 15% on your entire stay when you book with Brett-Robinson Vacation Rentals.
1. See dolphins play during a Gulf Coast Dolphin Tour
Have you ever witnessed dolphins jumping out of the Gulf in a lovely arch before diving back into the water below? It’s magical, isn’t it?
If you’re captivated by these majestic creatures at a distance, just imagine how enchanting they’d be up close.
You can experience these incredible animals nose-to-nose by going on a dolphin tour in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Here are just a few reasons you’ll love going on a Dolphin Tour:
- It’s a great family-friendly activity for all ages.
- They are educational + entertaining.
- You’ll witness dolphins swimming + playing just inches away in their natural habitat.
Where to book a Dolphin Tour:
- Southern Rose Dolphin Trips: 27212 Marina Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Dolphins Down Under: 28101 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- The Fun Boats Dolphin Cruises: 3900 Bayou Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Discounts are available for many of these great experiences through Alabama Beach Deals.
2. Book a cruise and sail the Gulf Coast
Gulf views are always beautiful from the shore. But they get even better when onboard a unique cruise.
From sunset rides to dinner cruises, you’ll discover a variety in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Here are some reasons you’ll enjoy it:
- It’s relaxing.
- You’ll spot cool marine life.
- You’ll have the ultimate backdrop for picture-perfect IG posts.
Where to book your cruise:
- Back Bay Sailing Adventures: 5749 Bay La Launch Ave, #4138, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Cetacean Cruises :4673 Wharf Pkwy W, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Sail Wild Hearts: 27075 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Save 15% on your entire stay when you book with Brett-Robinson Vacation Rentals.
3. Rent a jet ski and ride the waves
Whether you spend your days staring at a computer screen for work or driving your kids everywhere they need to go, the day-to-day routine can become a snooze.
My suggestion? Step out of your everyday routine and do something that will get your heart pumping like renting a jet ski and riding the waves of the Gulf.
Why jet skiing?
- You’ll discover the Gulf Coast’s many coves, small islands + hidden treasures.
- It’s fast with thrilling maneuvers like quick turns, jumps + spins.
Not into jet skiing, but still want to try something adventurous? Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offers tons of activities, from kayaking and canoeing to parasailing and scuba diving.
Where to rent water sports gear:
- Cobalt + Caribe Marina + Watersports: 28101 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Flora-Bama Marina & Watersports: 29603 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Sea View Tours: 28101 Perdido Beach Blvd, B1, Orange Beach, AL 36561
4. Book a Fishing Charter for the ultimate catch
Do you like fishing? I’ve heard countless positive reviews from family and friends who have gone on fishing charters in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Based on the exciting stories, the stunning photos and the coolers full of impressive fish caught during these trips, I highly suggest you try it.
Here are some reasons to book a fishing charter:
- All equipment/supplies are included, from rods to bait and, of course, the boat.
- Fishing guides onboard will take you to all the best spots to make an amazing catch.
- You’ll learn new fishing tips + tricks from deep-sea fishing experts.
- It’s fun! Whether you go with a group of friends or a family member or two, it’s a great way to spend the day.
Where to book a fishing charter:
- Off the Hook Charters: 1577 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Reel Surprise Charters: 27267 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Zeke’s Landing and Marina: 26619 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
5. Go on an epic bike riding adventure
One of my favorite beach activities is renting bikes for fun family rides. And let me tell you, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a biking paradise!
It features bike rentals on nearly every corner, accessible sidewalks and gorgeous nature trails ranging in difficulty levels from easy to experienced.
Where to rent bikes:
- Beach Bike Rentals: 4 Market St, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Infinity Bicycles: 4575 Orange Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Pedego Electric Bikes Orange Beach: 25405 Perdido Beach Blvd 21, A, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Where to ride bikes:
- Gulf State Park: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail—Rosemary Dunes Trailhead: 24037 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Stay just minutes away at these amazing spots
What’s great is all of these fun activities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are within walking distance or just a quick drive from awesome condos.
Check out the three below + some nearby spots to grab a good meal.
Phoenix VII—26802 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Amenities:
- Gazebos + outdoor charcoal grills
- Tennis + pickleball courts
- Putting green
- Fitness room + saunas
Nearby restaurant:
- Zeke’s Restaurant—26619 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Features waterfront dining, specialty cocktails + live performances.
- Serves daily lunch specials + dinner with scrumptious dishes like pan-seared salmon, chargrilled lamb lollipops, shrimp sandwiches + burgers.
Phoenix IX—29488 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Amenities:
- Fitness center
- Outdoor Gulf-front pool + bay-view indoor pool
- Tennis + pickleball courts
Nearby restaurant:
- Flora Bama—17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL 32507
- Features the Ole River Grill, Oyster Bar + Lounge—each featuring a unique menu, from fried ship and oysters to burgers + Bushwackers.
Phoenix West—23972 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Amenities:
- Fitness center
- Indoor pool
- Indoor/outdoor tennis + pickeball courts
- Pool with lazy river, kiddie pool, waterslide + separate zero-entry pool
Nearby restaurant:
- Wolf Bay Restaurant—24131 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, Alabama 36561
- Serves made-from-scratch recipes including hand-battered seafood made-to-order.
- Happy hour takes place daily with domestic, seltzers + IPAs on tap.
Save 15% on your entire stay when you book with Brett-Robinson Vacation Rentals.
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