Reviewed by: Grace Howard
Give the gift of experiences at Alabama’s Beaches—cruises, festivals + more
Reading time: 5 minutes
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Put down that wrapping paper—we have this year’s must-give holiday gift for any Birminghamian who loves fun, sun and adventure.
The gift? Unforgettable experiences at Alabama’s Beaches.
From scenic dolphin cruises to spring festivals, there is something for everyone on your shopping list. Read on for tips on how to gift an experience now.
Experience-based gift Ideas at Alabama’s Beaches
For the adventurer:
- Dolphin cruises
- If you’re captivated by majestic dolphins at a distance, just imagine how enchanting they’ll be up close. Dolphin tours let you experience these amazing creatures up close. They’re also a great family-friendly activity.
- More info + booking
- Sunset cruises
- A variety of activities awaits you in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, from sunset rides to dinner cruises. Not only are these experiences relaxing, but you’ll spot cool marine life while onboard and have the ultimate backdrop for a picture-perfect IG post.
- More info + booking
- Deep-sea fishing charters
- For the best fishing in the Gulf, join local Charter Boat Captains who can take you to the top spots to reel in an amazing catch.
- More info + booking
- Catch Your Cook experience
- Love to fish, but don’t enjoy cooking? A Catch Your Cook experience lets you provide a local restaurant with your day’s catch and they’ll turn it into an incredible meal for you.
- More info + booking
For the golfer:
- Weekend of golf
- Have a golf lover in your life? You’ll find an incredible list of courses in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, so give them the ultimate gift of a golfing weekend.
- More info + booking
For the one who loves to relax:
- Spa day with a Gulf view
- The beach is a great place to relax—on-sand and off. For the one on your list who needs some R&R, gift them a day at a local spa.
- More info + booking
For families:
Get all-day passes to local attractions like the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
- The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a great experience for families. It has 118 animal species, up-close encounters, a walk-through aviary and more.
- More info + tickets
Check out water sports rentals
- Alabama’s Beaches offer tons of activities, from kayaking and canoeing to parasailing and scuba diving. You can even rent jet skis for the ultimate experience.
- More info + booking
Spring 2025 events
Festival season kicks off on Alabama’s Beaches in early 2025. We’d rounded up 3 events that are perfect for the foodie, craft-lover or boat enthusiast on your holiday shopping list.
1. Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show
2025 marks this event’s 33rd year bringing good food and cool cars to The Wharf in Orange Beach.
Check it out for:
- 100 regional artists’ booths
- Kids’ zone
- Car + Jeep Show
- Live music by the Stickly Rivers, Platinum Premier Band + Funky Lampshades
- Specialty seafood + snacks
Event details:
- When: Saturday, Feb. 22 | 10AM-4PM
- Where: The Wharf, 23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Cost: Free admission
- More info
2. Orange Beach Festival of Art
There’s tons to see, touch, taste and hear at this wowing art festival in Orange Beach. Enjoy:
- 100+ art vendors
- Kids’ art gallery
- Music + songwriter’s stage
- Culinary arts featuring local fare
Event details:
- When: Saturday, Mar. 8, 2025-Sunday, Mar. 9, 2025 | 10AM
- Where: Orange Beach Waterfront Park, 26389 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Cost: Free admission
- More info
3. The Wharf Boat and Yacht Show
This event is a must-attend for boat enthusiasts and those who want to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
It features:
- 80 wet slip boats + yachts
- 300+ sport + console boats on land
- Live music
- Kids’ art classes
- + more!
Event details:
- When: Friday, March 21-Sunday, March 23 | 10AM
- Where: The Wharf in Orange Beach, 4550 Main St, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Cost:
- More info
How to gift experiences to Alabama’s Beaches
Wondering how to give an experience when it can’t be wrapped? We have the perfect solution: create a gift card or experience voucher.
Print it out and put it in a decorative box or holiday bag and tah-dah!, you have the perfect present.
You can also find helpful ideas and resources at AlabamasBeaches.com.
Are you ready to give the gift of joy and memories to those you love? Gifting experiences on Alabama’s Beaches is the perfect choice.
Plan your gift experiences now at Alabama’s Beaches.
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