From ferry rides and erupting "volcanoes" to hands-on museums and pirate cruises, here are the best ways to keep the kids active and happy across Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key, and Pensacola.
If you're planning a family trip to the Gulf Coast, you won't run out of ways to burn off energy and make memories. Beaches are the big draw, but the real magic happens when you mix in aquariums, water parks, arcades, and a few smart, educational stops.
In a hurry? Get a glimpse of what's ahead:
- Ferry to Dauphin Island + Alabama Aquarium: Scenic ride and marine science in one loop.
- Waterville USA (Gulf Shores): Slides, wave pool, rides, arcade, easy full-day plan.
- The Wharf (Orange Beach): Tallest Ferris wheel on the Gulf Coast, arcade, VR, and mini train.
- Adventure Island (Orange Beach): Five-story "volcano," mini golf, bumper boats, go-karts.
- Pirate Ship Cruise (Orange Beach): Sea shanties, mock battles, treasure hunts, plus dolphins.
- Perdido Key Beach by Day & Night: Sandcastles, kites, and kid-favorite night crabbing.
- On-the-Water Rentals (Perdido Key): Kayaks, SUPs, pontoons, jet skis for all-day splash time.
- Perdido Kids Park (Pensacola): Blue Angel planes, wooden racers, shaded picnic spots.
- National Naval Aviation Museum (Pensacola): 150+ aircraft, simulators, and Blue Angels practice.
- Pensacola Children's Museum: Hands-on galleries, history town, classroom, grocery, and clinic.
At Luxury Coastal Vacations, we offer a wide range of rental options along the Gulf Coast, paired with exceptional customer service and meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of your vacation. As experts in Perdido Key, Pensacola, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores, our destination blog covers everything from top pet-friendly spots and kid-friendly activities to must-try restaurants, local distilleries and breweries, and tips for the perfect beach day.
In this blog post, I've selected some of the best kid-friendly attractions and activities on the Florida–Alabama Gulf Coast so you and your entire family can have a great time while you're here.
Ready? Let's jump into the fun stuff!
1. Ferry to Dauphin Island + ALABAMA AQUARIUM
Fort Morgan
A two-part adventure that starts with a scenic ferry ride and ends with hands-on marine learning. Kids love spotting birds and boats on the crossing between Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island; adults get coastal views and glimpses of Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines. At the Alabama Aquarium (Dauphin Island Sea Lab), over thirty exhibits highlight coastal Alabama's habitats and more than 100 species.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Ferry accommodates vehicles, easy for road-trippers.
- Touch-friendly/interactive exhibits at the aquarium.
- Clear overview of coastal habitats and local species.
- A full morning or afternoon without extra driving detours.
2. WATERVILLE USA
Gulf Shores
A reliable all-ages crowd-pleaser since 1986. Expect 17 slides, a lazy river, wave pool, kids' splash zones, plus dry attractions (roller coaster, go-karts, mini golf, arcade, escape room). Parents can reserve Cabana Cove for shade, snacks, and downtime.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Duner Racer: head-first six-lane mat race.
- FlowRider: safe, repeatable bodyboard "surfing."
- Separate play areas for younger kids.
- Full-day option with food and shade on site.
3. THE WHARF
Orange Beach
Orange Beach's entertainment district ticks several boxes at once: the tallest Ferris wheel on the Gulf Coast, a lively main street, and family attractions. Start with the Ferris wheel for sky-high views, then head to Arena The Next Level (laser tag, Bazooka Ball), the Wharf Express Train along Main Street, and Outer Limits VR for kids 7+.
HIGHLIGHTS
- One stop for rides, games, snacks, and shopping.
- Easy pacing; mix short attractions with meal breaks.
- The wheel + train combo is great for younger children.
- VR and laser tag keep older kids engaged.
4. ADVENTURE ISLAND
Orange Beach
This family-owned park is anchored by a five-story, safely engineered "volcano" that rumbles, smokes, and "erupts" several times a day; kids never forget it. Add a redemption arcade, mini-golf, bumper boats, and go-karts for a classic afternoon of friendly competition.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Signature volcano show (sound, steam, fire effects)
- Indoors + outdoors for hot or rainy days.
- Ticket mix works for a quick stop or a multi-hour visit.
- Easy to pair with dinner at The Wharf nearby.
5. PIRATE SHIP CRUISE
Orange Beach
Turn your crew into buccaneers for a voyage of sea shanties, face paint, mock battles, team-building games, and a treasure hunt. The bonus? Frequent dolphin sightings along the route.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Fully hosted, interactive experience for kids.
- Structured activities; parents can relax on the deck
- Photo-ready moments and "pirate persona" fun that lasts.
- Works as a standalone activity or end-of-day treat.
6. Beach Day & Night Crabbing
Perdido Key
By day, it's sandcastles, kites, and picnics on Perdido Key's powder-soft strands. After sunset, join the local tradition of night crabbing with flashlights; kids love the hunt (and the careful release).
HIGHLIGHTS
- Free, flexible, and easy to repeat.
- Day/night contrast keeps the beach fresh for kids.
- Built-in teachable moments about marine life.
- Low-gear option between bigger attractions.
7. Kayaks, SUPs, Pontoons & Jet Skis
Perdido Key
Rentals make the water the playground. Try kayaks/SUPs for calm-water exploring or go bigger with pontoons and jet skis. Handy hubs include Flora-Bama Marina and Watersports (pontoons, jet skis, parasailing) and Lost Key Outdoors(kayaks, fishing gear).
HIGHLIGHTS
- Choose your speed: paddle, cruise, or zip.
- Simple instructions for beginners and kids.
- Wildlife spotting opportunities along the way.
- Packable half-day or full-day plan.
8. PERDIDO KIDS PARK
Pensacola
A local favorite built for imagination. Little ones can enjoy slides, swings, climbing structures, wooden race cars, and Blue Angels–themed features for fun photos. Toddlers have a dedicated area, and shade and picnic tables make lunch easy, a great chance to gather everyone for an outdoor meal.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Separate toddler zone for stress-free play.
- Music corner with drums for sensory fun.
- Shaded seating and umbrella tables for breaks.
- Great pre- or post-beach stop.
9. NATIONAL NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM
Pensacola
A must-see in the birthplace of U.S. naval aviation. More than 150 restored aircraft and 4,000+ artifacts anchor the collection, with HD flight simulators for an immersive peek at combat and stunt flying. On select Tuesdays/Wednesdays (Mar–Nov), watch Blue Angels practice, some days include meet-and-greet opportunities.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Big, varied collection that holds kids' attention.
- Simulators add a hands-on thrill factor.
- Weather-proof, educational half-day.
- Time visits for Blue Angels practice.
10. PENSACOLA CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
Pensacola
Blend play with learning in galleries built for curious minds. Kids explore a mini Historic Pensacola, a vintage classroom, a Publix-style grocery setup, and a Kids' Clinic for role-play. Parents can co-learn or step back and let their imaginations lead.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Interactive exhibits for multiple age ranges.
- History, civics, and community life are woven together.
- Easy pairing with nearby parks or Old Pensacola.
- Rain-day winner with clear learning outcomes.
Quick FAQs: Kid-Friendly Gulf Coast Activities
1. What's the best time to visit with kids?
Spring and early fall: warm water, lighter crowds, milder temps. Summer = most programming, but hotter and busier.
2. Top picks for toddlers vs. bigger kids?
- Toddlers: Perdido Kids Park, beach mornings, Wharf train + Ferris wheel, Pensacola Children's Museum.
- Bigger kids: Waterville USA, Adventure Island (mini golf/go-karts), Pirate Ship Cruise, jet skis/SUPs.
3. Do we need reservations?
Yes for Pirate Ship Cruise, Waterville cabanas, and popular rentals (pontoons/jet skis). Weekend/holiday slots sell out.
4. Rainy-day backups?
National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola Children's Museum, Adventure Island's indoor arcade, Wharf arcades/VR.
5. Is the Fort Morgan–Dauphin Island ferry car-friendly?
Yes. Arrive early on busy days and check weather/service alerts.
6. Water safety musts?
Watch beach flags, wear life vests for rentals, reapply reef-safe sunscreen, hydrate, and follow operator briefings.
7. How much time should we budget?
- Ferry + Aquarium: half day.
- Waterville, USA: half–full day.
- Wharf combo: 2–4 hrs.
- Adventure Island: 2–3 hrs.
- Pirate Ship Cruise: ~1.5–2 hrs.
- Museums (Aviation/Children's): 1.5–4 hrs.
8. Stroller and accessibility?
The Wharf, museums, and aquarium are stroller/ADA-friendly. Use beach mats/boardwalk access points where available.
While you're on the Gulf Coast, stay in style
Looking for an extra idea to make the most of your vacation on the Gulf Coast? Book your stay with Luxury Coastal Vacations. We offer the finest selection of luxury rentals on the Gulf Coast, spanning Alabama and Florida.
When you choose to stay in one of our homes or condos, you can expect a 5-star experience that you'll cherish forever. Browse through our options and discover what awaits you on the beautiful Gulf Coast.
