The Local’s Take on Orange Beach, Alabama: Where to Stay, Play, and Eat

Plan the perfect getaway to Alabama's Gulf Coast with this complete guide. From wide-open beaches to family-friendly attractions, local eats, and scenic trails, Orange Beach offers everything you need for a memorable coastal escape.

When you're planning a vacation—whether it's to the Smoky Mountains, the Outer Banks, or the Gulf of Mexico, having a local-style guide makes all the difference.

Are you headed to Orange Beach? Lucky you. Nestled on the Alabama coastline, this destination blends sugar-white sands, lively entertainment, and a relaxed small-town feel that keeps travelers coming back year after year.

TL;DR

• Bask in emerald waters and golden sunsets at Alabama Point East Beach
• Ride the Ferris wheel and catch live entertainment at The Wharf
• Picnic, paddle, or cast a line at Orange Beach Waterfront Park
• Watch glassblowers at work and stroll the sculpture garden at the Coastal Arts Center
• Step back in time with fishing heritage and local stories at the Orange Beach History Museum
• Spot playful bottlenose dolphins on a Gulf Coast cruise
• Play mini golf, race go-karts, and watch the volcano erupt at Adventure Island
• Head out with expert captains for inshore or deep-sea fishing
• Bike or hike 28 miles of lush scenery along the Backcountry Trail at Gulf State Park
• Feast on barbecue, fresh Gulf seafood, and Cajun flavors at local dining favorites

At Luxury Coastal Vacations, we know Orange Beach inside and out. Our vacation rentals range from bayside retreats to beachfront condos, each designed to help you relax and recharge. For more Gulf Coast tips, browse our destination blog, which covers everything from kid-friendly activities to the best eateries in town and much more.

Here's a local's guide to exploring Orange Beach, Alabama, from dolphin cruises to waterfront dining.

Now, let's jump into the details!

1. Alabama Point East Beach

For a classic Orange Beach day, Alabama Point East Beach has it all: soft sands, emerald-green water, and stunning boardwalk views. Families spread out for picnics, surfers ride the waves, and the sunsets are nothing short of spectacular.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 6,000 feet of shoreline near Perdido Pass Bridge.
• Scenic boardwalks through protected dunes.
• Surfing, swimming, and family picnics.
• Memorable sunset photography.

2. THE WHARF

Part shopping hub, part entertainment district, The Wharf is Orange Beach's answer to "What should we do tonight?" From arcades to boutiques and waterfront dining, it's fun for all ages. Don't miss the Gulf Coast's tallest Ferris wheel.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
• Mini-golf, arcade, and movie theater.
• Dolphin and sunset cruises from the marina.
• The Wharf Ferris Wheel with panoramic views.
  
  

3. ORANGE BEACH WATERFRONT PARK

Quiet and scenic, this park on Wolf Bay is perfect for unwinding. Kayak rentals let you explore local wildlife, while the pier is a favorite for fishing and dolphin watching.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Pier fishing and bayfront sunsets.
• Picnic shelters with grills.
• Family-friendly playground.
• Kayaking opportunities on Wolf Bay.

4. COASTAL ARTS CENTER OF O.B.

Art and coastal scenery meet here. Inside, find rotating exhibits, classes, and glassblowing demonstrations. Outside, sculpture gardens look out over the bay.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Painting, sculpture, and photography exhibits.
• The Hot Shop: live glassblowing demos.
• Hands-on workshops and art classes.
• Outdoor sculpture garden by the bay.

5. ORANGE BEACH HISTORY MUSEUM

Step into the past at this museum, housed in a historic schoolhouse. From Native American culture to fishing heritage, the exhibits highlight the stories that shaped Orange Beach.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Native American artifacts and fishing history.
• 500-year-old dugout canoe.
• WWII memorabilia and 19th-century schoolbooks.
• Community stories and preserved relics.
  
  

6. Dolphin Cruises on the Gulf

Orange Beach is dolphin country. Several local operators run daily cruises, with sunset tours offering the best mix of wildlife and scenery.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Bottlenose dolphin sightings year-round.
• Guided tours with local captains.
• Sunset cruises for photography and views.
• Operators like Sunny Lady and Fun Boats.

7. ADVENTURE ISLAND

Looking for family fun? Adventure Island delivers with bumper boats, arcades, and go-karts. The star attraction? A fire-spewing volcano that erupts with sound and light.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 18-hole mini golf and go-kart tracks.
• Indoor laser tag and arcade.
• Bumper boats for splash-filled fun.
• The famous Volcano Show.

8. Fishing in Orange Beach

With one of the largest charter fleets on the Gulf, Orange Beach is a top fishing destination. Choose from deep-sea adventures, pier fishing, or relaxed surf casting.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Inshore, offshore, pier, and surf fishing.
• Expert captains and charter boats.
• Options for beginners and pros.
• Top outfitters like Distraction Charters.

9. Backcountry Trail at Gulf State Park

Trade the beach towel for hiking boots or a bike. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail winds through marshes, forests, and dunes—28 miles of Alabama's natural beauty.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 28 miles of scenic trails.
• Forests, dunes, and wetlands.
• Wildlife spotting: bobcats, turtles, deer, and more.
• Trail connections to Gulf State Park beaches.
  
  

10. Dining in Orange Beach

Food here is as memorable as the views. From barbecue joints to upscale seafood, Orange Beach offers flavors to match every mood.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Moe's Original BBQ: Southern-style barbecue classics.
• Big Fish Restaurant & Bar: Upscale seafood and sushi bar.
• Bon Temps Poboys: Cajun and Creole dishes with local flair.

FAQ for First-Time Visitors to Orange Beach

Is Orange Beach family-friendly?

Yes—Orange Beach is one of the most family-friendly destinations on the Gulf Coast. Between calm Gulf beaches, kid-approved attractions like Adventure Island, and dolphin cruises that delight all ages, there's plenty to keep both children and adults entertained. Many Orange Beach vacation rentals also cater to families, offering spacious layouts, full kitchens, and pools.

What's the best time of year to visit?

The best time to visit Orange Beach is from late spring through early fall, when beach weather is at its peak. Summer brings warm waters, lively events, and plenty of sunshine, while fall offers fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and lower rates on vacation rentals. For travelers who prefer a quieter Gulf Coast getaway, fall and early spring are especially appealing.

Do I need a car to get around Orange Beach?

While many attractions are close together, having a car makes it much easier to explore Orange Beach and nearby spots like Gulf Shores and Perdido Key. A vehicle is especially useful if you want to visit The Wharf, bike the Backcountry Trail, or check out nearby Gulf Coast beaches. Parking is generally convenient and widely available at public beach accesses, restaurants, and shopping areas.

Are there family-friendly dining options in Orange Beach?

Absolutely. Orange Beach offers a wide range of family-friendly dining—from laid-back barbecue joints and seafood shacks to casual restaurants with water views. Favorites include spots serving fresh Gulf shrimp, po'boys, and Southern comfort food. Many local restaurants also have outdoor seating and kids' menus, making dining out an easy part of any Orange Beach vacation.

At a Glance Recap

Wondering Where to Stay?

Stay like a local with Luxury Coastal Vacations.

Our Orange Beach rentals range from chic condos to spacious family homes, all designed with comfort and convenience in mind. With top-tier amenities, prime locations, and thoughtful touches, we make it easy for you to relax and make lasting memories.