Things to do in Orange Beach, Alabama

Get an up-close view of the resident dolphin pod in Orange Beach on this dolphin cruise. Find out about their behavior, habitat, and relationships within the pod from your onboard guide. Head to the marina to board The Explorer, an eco-friendly boat, then set off into the back bays of Orange Beach where between 50 and 70 dolphins reside. By paying close attention to them over the years, the activity provider has named many of them. When you find them, your guide will introduce you to the dolphins by using their unique dorsal fins as identification. Listen to fun facts about the pod and enjoy guaranteed sightings of the dolphins in their natural habitat; if you don't see them, you can go on another cruise free of charge. During the cruise, stay refreshed and comfortable with a full-service cocktail bar and restroom on board. Once you’ve said goodbye to your new water-loving friends, return to the marina where this cruise ends.

Come to the meeting point and check-in. Then, board the catamaran and set sail to explore the bays of Orange Beach. Listen to interesting commentary about the local wildlife from the captain. Keep an eye out for wild birds, such as ospreys, herons, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks. Get up close to the banks to observe the animals. Explore some creeks and swamps that other boats can't access. Marvel at the dolphins splashing in the water, and watch a beautiful sunset. Buy some drinks or snacks aboard the boat to enjoy as you take in the amazing view. Finally, return to the starting point at the end, and get off the catamaran to finish the activity.

Sail away on an Alabama sunset cruise in the back bays of the Intracoastal Waterway. Unwind aboard a two-hulled, 52-foot Hawaiian catamaran, ensuring a smooth, stable ride as you rock gently toward the golden sunset. Skim along the back bays of Orange Beach, Alabama, and Perdido Key, Florida. Besides watching the stunning sunset, keep a lookout for marine life and coastal wildlife, including bald eagles, seagulls, herons, and osprey flying. Catch a glimpse of the schools of fish swimming underneath the boat or even a sighting of some of the dolphins in the local pod. Capture breathtaking photos as the sun melts over the horizon and take advantage of the full-service bar serving up cocktails on board (available for purchase).

Choose a 1 or 2-day pass to see some of your favorites or opt for a 5-day option for more time to visit all attractions. Do more as you experience a selection of the best attractions in Southern Alabama, all on 1 money-saving ticket. This curated collection of attractions is your ticket to enjoying the area. Your passport will act as your admission ticket to all of the venues included. Hop on the Wharf’s Ferris Wheel, a landmark for every Gulf Coast beach vacation. Meet the 300 animals at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo as you explore its 25 acres, including a walkthrough aviary and sustainable garden. Discover the City of Foley Depot Museum and Model Train Exhibit and view photos, tools, freight cars, and memorabilia documenting Foley’s history. Get up close to the WWII battleship USS Alabama and submarine USS Drum at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Explore one of the most diverse cultural and natural heritage tourism attractions of the Gulf Coast at Historic Blakeley State Park.

Have you ever experienced a sailing adventure aboard a two-hull sailboat? Two hulls provide stability, ensuring a smooth, relaxing ride. Come enjoy a sailing experience in Orange Beach aboard the Cetacean, a 52-foot Hawaiian catamaran. With the wind in our sails, the Cetacean skims along the back bays of Orange Beach, Alabama and Perdido Key, Florida. While out sailing, watch the mesmerizing sight of wildlife in their natural habitat as schools of fish surround the boat, our playful dolphins come to say hello, and marine birds dive into the water for breakfast or lunch. We also often spot bald eagles, egrets, herons, osprey, and seagulls flying by! This relaxing Alabama cruise is perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends. We stay in the back bays of the Intracoastal Waterway to ensure a smooth boating experience!

Rent a jet ski in Perdido Key and explore the serene waters of the Intercoastal. Choose from 1 or 2-hour options, or opt for a half or full-day package. Meet your guide at Galvez Landing, a public boat ramp in Perdido Key. No launching is required. Take delivery and return from the beach. Cruise around the calm Perdido Bay waters, soaking in the moment and the sunshine. Head north into Perdido Bay, opening up the ski across miles of calm vast waters, away from the common boat traffic and crowds. Head east, through Big Lagoon, along the sound side of Johnson’s Beach, all the way to Sand Island and Ft. McCree. Here you’ll find one of Pensacola’s top boating hangout spots. With miles of shoreline, you’ll have plenty of options to stop, catch some rays, look for dolphins, and maybe see the Blue Angels practicing.