Sharing the real scoop on what you need to plan your Spring Break getaway to Alabama’s Beaches.
From budget wizardry to curating chaos into core memories, planning a spring break trip can be a daunting task. Planning activities for everyone on your trip can feel like juggling flaming pineapples; that is when you head to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. An ideal spring break vacation that is family-friendly, free of rowdy crowds, and full of adventure.
In this article, we dive deep into everything that you need to plan the best spring break for your crew. We have been visiting the area since our daughter was an itty bitty, so we have learned A LOT! So let’s get your spring break on the books!
I’ve done the eleven-hour drive from Cincinnati to Gulf Shores with my toddler daughter (and yes, it was… an adventure), but if I’m being honest, I’ll always prefer to fly. The good news?! Allegiant has started service to Gulf Shores International Airport. Even better news?! They offer a nonstop flight from Cincinnati to Gulf Shores! That means I will be in the sunshine in less than two hours.
Because Gulf Shores International Airport is extremely small, there are not many carriers serving it. Therefore, most major airlines fly into Pensacola International Airport.
Planning Tip: If you’re flying into Pensacola, plan for a 40–45-minute drive to reach Orange Beach, AL. Keep this in mind for your return flight—you’ll want to allow enough time to drive back, refuel your rental car, navigate airport security, and make it to your gate without stress.
Budget Planning: When considering low-cost carriers, note that Allegiant serves Gulf Shores; Frontier, Spirit, Breeze, and Southwest serve Pensacola.
When flying into Gulf Shores, there are only four rental car companies: Alamo, Budget, Enterprise, and Turo. The rental car lot is steps from the airport, making it easy to navigate.
In Pensacola, you’ll find a wide selection of major rental car companies, making it easy to grab a ride and hit the road to Orange Beach.
The Beach Moms are a wonderful concierge service that will take the stress out of traveling. They can deliver groceries to your unit before arrival, book excursions, make restaurant reservations, and so much more. We even used them to book and set up a beautiful beach picnic during a visit with friends!
Don’t sleep on the Mullet Wrapper, the local paper that gives all the juicy details on things happening around Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. They are FREE and available throughout the city in spots like Walmart, Target, etc.
The mullet wrapper is refrence to mullet the fish and not mullet the hairstyle.
Hands down, one of my top spots to stay while visiting Alabama’s Beaches is Turquoise Place. I dream of those magnificent balcony views, penthouse vibes, and full-on luxury escape. The moment you arrive at Turquoise Place, you’ll realize it’s not your average beach condo.
This gated, high-end resort boasts stunning, spacious accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows, modern furnishings, and—wait for it—your very own private balcony hot tub. Yes, you read that right. Imagine sinking into warm bubbles while watching the waves crash along the shore. It’s pure bliss.
There’s never a dull moment at the resort—from the lazy river and indoor/outdoor pools to the fully equipped fitness center and tennis courts. Additionally, the resort frequently hosts activities such as live music and kids’ crafts, making it a perfect spot for families. During our recent visit, my daughter enjoyed making bath bombs during craft hour—and later enjoyed them in the large tub!
Read my full review on Turquoise Place and be sure to use my code CURIOUS to save 10% off your stay regardless of the season when you book through Spectrum Resorts.
Large Group Travel: A perfect place to rent if you are traveling with a large family or group is the Blue Parrot #7. This newly remodeled 5 BR beach home is just steps from the ocean, ideal for a complete luxury escape.
Budget-Friendly Options: Hotels are abundant throughout the coast. I recommend considering options you may be loyal to, or those that are not directly on the beach, for the best prices. A favorite has been Hotel Indigo in Orange Beach, which offers a beautiful stay at a more affordable price.
Hotel prices in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach can vary widely by season — off‑peak dates (late spring and fall) usually bring the lowest nightly hotel rates, so planning around those can make your getaway even more affordable.
Camping Options: Gulf State Park is probably the most iconic camping option on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. This large park offers RV and tent sites with amenities such as bathhouses, laundry, and a camp store. It’s just a short ride from the sugar‑white beaches and has trails, a splash pad, and plenty of outdoor fun.
Sun Outdoors in Orange Beach is a polished RV campground with full hookups, a pool, a hot tub, a clubhouse, and a pet area. It’s minutes from beaches and local attractions, making it a solid choice for families or longer stays.
Everything you need to know to stay sun-safe, sand-ready, and stress-free while enjoying Gulf Shores and Orange Beach this spring break season.
One key move Visit Alabama’s Beaches makes each year is to prohibit alcohol on its public beaches during spring break (March 1 through April 28, 2026). This keeps rowdy spring break crowds from overtaking the beach and allows it be a family-friendly environment.
Parking fills up quickly at popular spots such as Gulf State Park Beach and Orange Beach Public Beach. Getting there early (before 10 a.m.) ensures a good spot and less crowded sand. Some beach access points require parking permits or have limited spaces. Expect to pay $10–$15/day as of 2026.
These are mostly part of Gulf State Park’s beach access system, and parking is available at the lots near each access point (paid parking applies):
Come prepared with all your beach essentials, such as sunscreen, umbrellas, a change of clothes, sand toys, portable chairs, a cooler with drinks/snacks, additional snacks, and towels. Even in spring, the sun can be strong, and a shade setup keeps toddlers and adults happy.
Parent Tip: Dress your children in matching brightly colored swimsuits. This will help you monitor them more easily.
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach aren’t just about soft sand and sparkling water—though that’s definitely part of the magic. From dolphin cruises and nature trails to swashbuckling mini golf, there’s an adventure waiting for every member of the family.
Set sail for Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf, where you’ll putt your way through waterfalls, caves, and enough pirate lore to make Jack Sparrow jealous. It is our favorite mini-golf in the area and is full of swashbuckling pirates.
Tip: Take the Captain Kidd course to putt through the pirate ship, go up by the waterfall, and through the cave. It’s the best course!
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has been a family staple for years. Tucked right in Gulf Shores, this family-friendly zoo is walkable, interactive, and packed with personality—from feeding giraffes at eye level to watching lemurs leap overhead in Destination Madagascar. It’s clean, easy to navigate, and perfectly sized so you can see a lot without feeling overwhelmed (major win with kids).
A unique option that guests can add to their day at Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an animal adventure. From hanging out with sloths to feeding lemurs, these experiences get you up close with these adorable creatures. Keep in mind that these encounters are 15 minutes long and cost $24.95, plus the zoo admission fee. (2026)
Tip: My personal favorite was feeding the lemurs, as they are more active and likely to engage.
One unique family-fun attraction that has become a staple is the Bumper Boats at The Track. Each boat is equipped with a water sprayer to bump and spray competitors. After attempting to drench the rest of the family, we dry off with a few laps around the go-kart track.
Tip: The Track operates by purchasing points that can be added to a card. You can then use that card for bumper boats, go-karts, putt-putt, rides, and arcade games.
One of the top things to do in Gulf Shores is to take a day trip out to the Fort Morgan Historic Site. The majestic old fort has stood guard over Mobile Bay for over a century. Although it is no longer in commission, the fort and its grounds are worth exploring, offering picnicking, nature areas, and swimming.
The fort played a vital role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in August 1864 and remained in military use until the end of World War II. During World War II, German U-boats were operating in the Gulf, with constant sightings and debris washing ashore.
The garrison was active in patrols and debris removal. In 1944, the garrison was withdrawn, and the fort was transferred to the state of Alabama and designated a historic site. A self-guided tour takes guests through the fort’s history and throughout the grounds. Text panels are located throughout the park and are packed with interesting details. If you are lucky, there may even be volunteers dressed in period costumes role-playing as soldiers.
Entertainment takes center stage at The Wharf, where family fun is available at every corner. Trendy boutiques, great restaurants, bars, and exciting activities line Main Street, making The Wharf a top attraction in Orange Beach.
Grab breakfast at the Southern Grind, but beware: This coffeehouse is full of marvelous home decor that will inspire a home remodel. Afterward, take a scenic spin on The Wharf’s popular Ferris Wheel. It is an iconic feature of Orange Beach, offering tree-top views paired with the Gulf breeze.
In the evening, The Wharf becomes a mecca for families with the free nightly SPECTRA Sound and Light Show. Kids will want to hop aboard The Wharf Express Train to experience the sights and sounds of The Wharf at night.
Tip: For those over 21, pay a visit to the hidden speakeasy 8 Reale for craft cocktails and cozy vibes
Right outside the Gulf Shores area is OWA Parks and Resort. A new destination that features a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the Tropic Falls Theme Park. Tropic Falls is home to roller coasters, rides for small children, and a water play area.
Other attractions in OWA include Downtown OWA, which is home to shops, Murder Creek Distillery, and tons of restaurants.
Budget Tip: Save money by finding OWA admission savings here.
Have you ever learned to build a sand castle for a sand castle artist? Sand Castle University offers fun, educational classes that teach you to master the art of sand castle making right on the beach. Read all about our Sand Castle University experience and book yours today.
Tip: You will need to book this in advance, as it does fill up quickly. In the event of bad weather, your class could get cancelled or rescheduled.
Gulf State Park is a paradise for nature lovers, with miles of trails, a beautiful beach, and family-friendly amenities. Some budget-friendly highlights include:
Set sail on a dolphin cruise and get up close with these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Several tour companies offer guided boat rides that allow you to see dolphins leaping in the waves. Many cruises also feature fun extras, such as eco-tours and sunset views, making this an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Landlubbers won’t want to miss out on these family-friendly pirate sailings that will help you earn your sea legs. Offering three different cruise options, families love the Pirate Adventure cruise, which features putting out a fire on the ship, catching cannonballs, reading and folding a treasure map, earning pirate punch, singing songs, dancing along, and hearing true stories of pirates before us that lurked the Gulf.
Paddle through the scenic waters of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge or the coastal back bays of Orange Beach. Kayaking is a fantastic way to see marine life, spot birds, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Many places offer guided tours or rentals for families looking for a fun and relaxing water activity.
There’s just something wildly freeing about parasailing over the Gulf — one minute you’re on the boat, the next you’re lifting into the sky with the shoreline shrinking beneath you and that endless stretch of emerald water unfolding in every direction. Thrill-seekers, this one is for you!
Orange Beach Waterfront Park is one of our absolute favorite spots to bring the family or take a stroll. This hidden gem features:
As we mentioned above, biking is one of the best outdoor activities along Alabama’s Beaches. Download the Bloom app to rent bikes for free inside Gulf State Park.
The Interpretive Center is located at the Beach Pavilion and is an open-air facility. Discover how the park is preserving the environment and natural resources, then learn what you can do while visiting and at home!
Get out and explore some of Alabama’s last remaining undisturbed coastal barrier habitats. Your first stop will be the visitor center to learn about the trails and diverse flora and fauna found in the area. Paddlers can see the refuge from Little Lagoon by accessing the canoe/kayak launch at the Jeff Friend Trail.
Step back in time and learn about the region’s Native American heritage and fishing industry. The museum is completely free and a great educational stop! The Museum is open Monday-Friday, 9 am-4 pm.
Are you interested in more budget-friendly tips for visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? I dive into visiting this popular destination on a budget in my Budget-Friendly Orange Beach Article.
A fun rainy-day activity during your Gulf Shores vacation is Fat Daddy’s Arcade. This massive arcade is full of the latest games for kids of all ages. Visiting the arcade is never complete without a few rounds of classic skeeball or hoops. With tempting prizes, the high ticket payout games were quite popular.
One of the best things to do in Gulf Shores on a rainy day is to visit the Factory. Home to a trampoline park, ninja obstacle course, and a climbing gym, it is the perfect spot for kids to burn off that pent-up energy.
The Coastal Arts Center offers a variety of special events that may interest families. From glass blowing and ceramics to browsing art galleries, the Coastal Arts Center is a hidden gem in Orange Beach.
When rainy weather hits head to a local escape room to test your groups puzzle solving abilities. With multiple rooms to choose from at different locations, you can find the level and theme that best suits your group.
Tip: Reserve you spot early, as many rooms do fill up on bad weather days.
Glow in the dark dinosaur mini golf is exactly what your family needs whene the weather turns bad! Putt your way through 18 holes of prehistoric family fun, and a must for dino fans.
Never underestimate the activities and programming happening at local libraries. Catch a storytime, join a hands-on workshop, or browse unique local collections—you might discover more than just books.
Nothing says family-friendly like a giant pirate ship and sandpit for kids to play in. It won me over instantly. Parents can sit and have a relaxing meal on the deck, sip a nice cocktail and watch their little ones turn into Captain Jack Sparrow. The food is spectacular and they have a great kids menu.
One of the ultimate kid-friendly places to eat in Gulf Shores is the Hangout! Located on the beach the Hangout is the perfect spot to swing in for a meal. With activities happening around the clock the Hangout is a place that you don’t want to miss out on with the kids in tow. It is easy to see how families can spend hours here.
From pirate and princess breakfasts, a DJ booth, competitions and of course their amazing outdoor space. Parents can have a relaxing meal while the kids can explore the sandpit and participate in the courtyard games.
Step back to the 1950s with a visit to Sunliner Diner in Gulf Shores, AL. Enjoy a classic breakfast, hamburgers, milkshakes, or a slice of cherry pie. Inside the diner, they have converted a classic car into a table. It is on a first-come-first-serve basis. One family said they arrived a half-hour before opening to be the first customers in the diner to get a table.
Another great spot to bring the kids is Tacky Jacks. This is a sight to behold as the entire restaurant is covered in colorful tape displaying endless names. Guests can grab a sharpie, write their name on the tape and place it on any surface in the restaurant. This is a great activity for little ones as they search for the perfect spot to place their names.
The food is casual and they have a great cocktail list. Be sure to try their signature drink, the Bushwacker! We got the grouper sandwich and their crispy Hawg bites which were awesome. Tacky Jacks is also open for breakfast and from what I hear it is pretty good!
Lulu’s is one of the best places in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Sitting along the Intracoastal waterway, guests can enjoy scenic views and great food, all in a family-friendly atmosphere. Where else can you hit a ropes course, visit an arcade, play in the sand, and grab a bite to eat?!
This is a must on every Gulf Shores itinerary whether you have kids or not. Skip the ice cream and go get a milkshake! The milkshakes here are a sight to behold. Quite honestly, a milkshake work of art. I would recommend sharing, as they are huge. No photo was taken as they were inhaled before I could get my camera out. However, a quick google search will show you just how marvelous this place is.
One of our favorite spots with spectacular views is the Gulf! Grab a spot in the sun, order a bushwacker and soak up the tropical vibes! Locals love it and they have amazing seafood along with a great kids menu.
A vacation isn’t complete until donuts are involved. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach has tons of great places to grab an amazing donut! We recommend trying City Donut but get there early. The donuts are made fresh daily and once they sell out they close up!
Another popular spot is Daisy Donuts, which even offer special seasonal flavors and iced lattes!
Looking for more great tips on visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? Check out these related articles:
Planning
31 Family-Friendly Activities to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
15 Bucket List Attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
10 Must Do Attractions For A Girls Trip in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
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