9 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Orange Beach

Summertime means building sandcastles, floating in a lazy river, hunting ghost crabs and laughing until your belly hurts. It means family vacations and creating lifelong memories. Make tons of memories and keep the kids busy with our handy rundown of kid-friendly things to do in Orange Beach.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Kids love animals. On the Alabama Gulf Coast we have all types, as well as reptiles and mammals. There are several ways to enjoy the wildlife in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Book a special one-on-one at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. For an additional small fee ($5 to $10), the Zoo offers the opportunity to cuddle with a kangaroo, hold a snake, touch a sloth or hang out with a lemur. The program provides interactive experiences in a safe, zookeeper-supervised environment.

Take a Dolphin Cruise in Orange Beach

Seeing dolphins in their habitat makes everyone a little giddy – even the adults in your group. Reserve your spot on one of the many dolphin cruises in Orange Beach that get you up close to these fascinating creatures. A cruise always ranks high on the list of kid-friendly things to do in Orange Beach during vacation.

Hike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Located at Gulf State Park, near Turquoise Place, these seven trails wind along more than 26 miles of distinct ecosystems. Walkers and bicyclists have spotted deer, bobcats, lots of birds and even the occasional alligator. Rent bikes at Beach Bike Rentals located near the Rosemary Dune trailhead.
Beach Bike Rentals
22989 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL
251-968-1770

Kick Back at the Beach

Relax while the kids play on the spacious beaches at Turquoise Place. It’s the place where childhood memories are made. Fly a kite. Build sandcastles. Wade in the water. Look for sea treasures. It’s all right there. Leave the beach chairs at home and rent them directly on the beach. You’ll also find watersports rentals, including kayaks and paddleboards in front of Turquoise Place Orange Beach.

Kayak the Bays and Bayous

Several outfitters in Orange Beach rent kayaks, canoes and standup paddleboards. R&R Watersport Rentals will even deliver the gear to you. Or book with Perdido Beach Services for a paddle out to one of the islands in Perdido Pass. Choose an easy paddle through the back bays and consider renting a double kayak if you don’t think your little will be able to keep up. When you’re looking for kid-friendly things to do in Orange Beach, this is among our favorites.

Go Fishing

Cast a line in the water at Gulf State Park Pier. Daily rate is $9 and you can even rent a rod and reel if you don’t pack your own. You’ll need an Alabama fishing license, which you can purchase at the pier. Cross the street on the new pedestrian bridge and fish freshwater at Lake Shelby. Kids will love reeling in their first catch at the beach!

Ride the Ferris Wheel at The Wharf

There’s not a higher view of the coast than on the Ferris wheel at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Plus, it’s just plain fun for the whole family, making it another favorite for kid-friendly things to do in Orange Beach.

Hit the Arcade

While at The Wharf head to Arena The Next Level for laser tag and arcade games. Or back near the beach, there’s Fat Daddy’s and Adventure Island for fun and games.

Plan an Escape

Breakout Games at The Wharf in Orange Beach offers an adventure where participants solve puzzles, find clues and work together to get out. Scenarios include Kidnapping, Operation Casino and Hostage, all sure to intrigue older children and teens.

Looking for more kid-friendly things to do in Orange Beach for your next vacation? Download a copy of the Ultimate Vacation Guide for family-friendly restaurants and even rainy-day activities.