The Gulf Coast is one of the most vibrant, fun-filled destinations in the U.S. Whether you’re searching for high-flying thrills, the freshest seafood, or the best laid-back beach vibes, here’s a roundup of the top activities you can’t miss!
Top 5 Memorable Activities
- Skydive The Gulf. We’re gonna put our favorite activity up top – Skydive The Gulf is (obviously) the best thing you can do on the Gulf Coast! If you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime, this is the place to do it! Dropzones everywhere offer the adrenaline-surging rush of freefall, but we offer it with views of crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. Plus, we’re surrounded by tons of other awesome stuff to do – it can’t be beat.
- OWA Parks & Resort. This all-in-one amusement spot is in Foley – just a short drive from Gulf Shores. It’s a family-favorite with roller-coasters, a waterpark, and resort-style amenities. Once you’re done go-go-going, you can stroll around shops, watch live performances, and grab a bite.
- Waterville USA. Located in Gulf Shores, Waterville is the place to be for the best water slides, lazy river, wave pool, AND a decked-out arcade.
- The Wharf. If soaring through the sky or whipping around an amusement park isn’t your vibe, are you after the best shopping and dining? The vibrant waterfront of The Wharf in Orange Beach boasts boutique shops, fabulous cuisine, and live music. There’s a ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the coastline – second only to the views a parachute ride offers!
- Gulf State Park. From hiking trails and picnic-perfect secluded beaches to biking and fishing, this state park spans over 6,000 acres!
Top 5 Places To Grab A Beer
There’s no shortage of great places to grab an ice-cold brewski in our area, but here’s our top five:
- Flora-Bama. Pensacola is home to this world-famous bar. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re seeking a fun, beachy vibe and a classic Mudslide Milkshake. There’s never a shortage of live music, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy for anyone and everyone to fit in. Kick back with a beer – or a frozen daiquiri – and soak in the last rays of a stunning Florida sunset. PLUS, we offer beach landings from tandem skydives right in-front of the Flora-Bama – ICONIC.
- Pink Pony Pub. Located smack-dab on the beach in Gulf Shores, Pink Pony is easy-access after a long day in the sand. Imagine lounging on the beach all day and then mosying up to the Pink Pony for a piña colada. It’s a lively bar with open-air seating and dancing, and has been a Gulf Shores staple since the 50’s!
- The Hangout. Live music, live music, live music! The Hangout is home to the well-known annual music festival, but they’re open year-round. If you’re searching for that wow, everyone is happy here feeling, this is the place to be.
- The Gulf – Orange Beach. The Gulf is a more elevated beach bar – like you should wear a clean t-shirt, not a saltwater-soaked one. They have a selection of beachy cocktails and are known for their mojitos – you have to try the fresh seasonal berries signature!
- Tacky Jack’s. Another favorite in Orange Beach, Tacky Jack’s is super fun and casual. It’s the ideal spot to drop in after a long day of beachin’ it, crack a cold one, and jam to some live music. Plus, they offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner starting daily at 7 am.
Top 5 Places To Eat
From the freshest seafood to Southern classics, the Gulf Coast is full of options. Here’s our top five must-visit restaurants:
- Zeke’s Restaurant. Zeke’s is a top-choice in Orange Beach for tourists and locals, alike. They boast local oysters, seafood boils, and quintessential views of the marina. Located at Zeke’s Landing, you can also access fishing tours and sunset boat cruises from the same spot!
- Coastal – Orange Beach. Coastal is a bit more on the modern side and is a prime spot for a special night out. They have loads of seating with awesome beach views. Imagine enjoying fresh grouper bites and cheers-ing to a day well-spent in the glow of the Gulf sunset – MAGIC!
- The Gulf – Orange Beach. We promise we’re not redundant – we just know where the good stuff is! As much as The Gulf is a solid drink spot, it’s also top-notch for food. With a menu that follows the seasons, The Gulf doesn’t only serve up the best vibes, but also the best food. They have picnic tables overlooking Perdido Pass, poké bowls, and a dedicated gluten-free menu – we love to see it!
- Brick and Spoon. This Orange Beach brunch staple has create-your-own bloody mary’s … need we say more? They offer bananas foster french toast, beignets covered in powdered sugar, and killer shrimp omelets. If you’re waking up late (because you had a late night singing at the Flora-Bama) and need a delicious bite before you get hangry, this is the place to be.
- Ruby Slipper. Also located in Orange Beach, Ruby Slipper is another dazzling brunch spot. They have spiked-cold brew coffees, fried green tomatoes, and berry chantilly pancakes. Whether you’re after sweet or savory, Ruby Slipper has it all – and they’ll give you a hearty dose of genuine southern charm while they’re at it.
Top 5 Places To Stay
We hope we’re right in assuming you’ll be visiting our little piece of paradise for more than a day. Whether you’re after a luxury resort or cozy beachside cottage vibes, we’ve got ya covered with our top five places to rest:
- The Island House Hotel. Located in Orange Beach, The Island House is on the beach – you can watch the sunset glisten over the Gulf from the comfort of your own balcony! With spacious rooms and a relaxing pool, it’s perfect for families or anyone seeking a beach getaway.
- Perdido Beach Resort. This is the full resort experience – with multiple dining options and bars, beach access, and excursion services, this stay makes every piece stress-free.
- The Oasis at Orange Beach. The Oasis is a complex of luxury condos. They have lots of family-friendly amenities, as well as poker tables, an adults-only pool, a putting green, and pickleball courts! Traveling with kids or no kids, The Oasis is where it’s at!
- Phoenix V. This Orange Beach condo complex is great for families, too. They have multiple unique units, a basketball court, and a small pirate ship water park for the kids!
- The Lodge at Gulf State Park. As the name implies, this eco-friendly resort is located at Gulf State Park! Advertised as providing, “elevated comfort and Southern hospitality,” The Lodge is beachfront, has a stunning pool and great dining options, offers complimentary bikes and, of course, has easy access to the Park and its amenities.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Gulf Coast, and to share our slice of paradise from 10,000 feet up – book your skydive today! Blue skies!
