The Alabama Gulf Coast’s expansive, sugar-white beaches and sparkling water are reason enough for a summer getaway, but with all the activities new to the area this summer, you might want to stay an extra day.
Signature Experiences on Alabama’s beaches
In collaboration with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism, several area businesses have developed unique experiences you don’t want to miss.
At Gulf State Park, naturalists now host a free Guided Pier Walk where you’ll learn about the pier, marine wildlife and the park’s conservation efforts. Their Angler Academy is a hands-on introduction to saltwater fishing. This free activity includes instruction and all the necessary gear, and is fun for all ages.
Participants in the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo’s Animal Enrichment Program create an enrichment item that they then share with the animals. It’s a great learning opportunity for young and old alike, and a thrill to watch as the animals examine and explore your creation. The zoo’s existing Animal Encounters have been revamped for a more engaging encounter with a kangaroo, sloth, lemur or tamandua.
Hop aboard a tandem kayak for Wild Native Tour’s guided, three-hour Dolphins and Wildlife Kayak Tour. Explore the peaceful and scenic back bays in search of native wildlife, including playful dolphins.
At Orange Beach Concierge’s Chef’s Table, guests enjoy a multi-course meal of locally-sourced produce, seafood and meats. Chef David Pan presents each course personally.
Learn the how and why of conservation efforts at The Lodge at Gulf State Park during their Ecotourism and Sustainability Tour. See how this remarkable property is designed to protect the environment through conservation, green building practices and recycling.
Craft your own bath, body or home product at High Cotton Bath Company’s Bath Boldly experience. Made from all-natural, paraben-free products, your creation is a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your trip.
Two additional Signature Experiences will launch this fall: LuLu’s Gumbo Love Cooking and Mixology Class, and Fort Morgan’s Civil War-themed escape room, Espionage at Mobile Point.
More New Activities
Meet and swim with a mermaid on an unforgettable two-hour Mermaid Cruise with Caribe Marina and Watersports.
Four new snorkeling reefs provide opportunities for underwater exploration. Two are located near Gulf State Park’s beach pavilion, one is at Alabama Point, and the fourth is at Romar Beach.
Scuba divers will want to explore the New Venture, a 250-foot long former research vessel, sunk in 2018 about 20 miles off the coast of Orange Beach.
Choose to travel to a distant destination, fight off alien invasions, tour a historic landmark, or join in a game at Waterville USA’s Cyberville Virtual Reality Center.