Top 10 Must-Do Activities for an Unforgettable Girls’ Trip to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama

Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama, are the perfect destinations for an unforgettable girls’ trip. From relaxing on the beach to enjoying delicious cocktails at beachfront bars, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking to unwind with a beach picnic or get creative with a painting class at Coastal Makers, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore Gulf State Park, indulge in brunch at the Ruby Slipper Cafe, or dance the night away at Flora-Bama. For the ultimate girls’ trip experience, book a stay at the luxurious Turquoise Place and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Stay at the Luxurious Turquoise Place

Address: 26302 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Looking to plan the perfect girls’ trip filled with luxury and relaxation? Look no further than The Turquoise Place in Orange Beach, Alabama. This stunning resort offers beautiful balcony views with hot tubs, a lazy river, and direct beach access.

From spacious and elegantly furnished condominiums with top-of-the-line appliances to the resort’s poolside tiki bar and fitness center, every detail is designed to enhance your relaxation and rejuvenation experience. Indulge in the outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms before unwinding on the pristine white sand beach just steps away.

The balcony was hands down one of our favorite spots. We enjoyed greeting the sunrise with a warm cup of coffee and relaxing in the hot tub overlooking the Gulf in the evenings. It is a splurge that is well worth every penny.

Have a Glamorous Beach Picnic

Upgrade your beach experience by surprising your friends with a darling beach picnic set up by the fantastic Beach Moms. They thought of everything, and we had the most fabulous time soaking up the sun, snacking on delicious food, and laughing until our stomachs hurt.

Tip: The Beach Moms offers more than just beach picnics. They can deliver groceries to your unit before arrival, book excursions, make restaurant reservations, and so much more.

During our beach picnic, the Beach Moms arranged an ornament-making class with Coastal Makers. Coastal Makers is an art studio that offers a variety of art projects that you can do in the studio, or they can bring to you! The ornaments made the perfect souvenir to commemorate our trip, and it was easy to travel with.

A Few Helpful Tips:

• Bring sunhats and sunscreen, especially if you are having a lunch picnic. It can get bright!
• The Beach Moms can provide your meal for an additional charge, or you can opt to bring your own snacks.
• Water is provided, but you and your guests must bring additional beverages. Note that glass is prohibited on the beach.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood

Indulge your taste buds in the culinary delights of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores by sampling the array of fresh seafood offerings at local restaurants. From succulent shrimp to flavorful fish tacos to mouthwatering crab legs, the coastal cuisine here is a seafood lover’s paradise.

Enjoy waterfront dining while savoring the catch of the day at Jesse’s on the Bay, a laid-back atmosphere at The Gulf, or grab an order of BBQ Oysters at the Flora-Bama Yacht Club.

Don’t miss out on CoastAL, located right on the beach! There are two different restaurant options here: CoastAL Restaurants offers more traditional dining, and the CoastAL Beach Bar offers a casual atmosphere with live music.

Go Shopping at The Wharf

Take a break from the beach and explore the charming boutiques and souvenir shops in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Discover one-of-a-kind treasures, locally-made crafts, stylish beachwear, and specialty items to commemorate your girls’ trip.

Shopping therapy awaits at The Wharf! Whether you’re searching for a fashionable beach cover-up, handmade jewelry, or the perfect coastal keepsake, you’ll find plenty of options at this shopping hot spot!

Situated on the Intercoastal Waterway, The Wharf is home to dozens of unique boutiques and restaurants. Take the view from the top of the Ferris Wheel, or visit at night to enjoy the SPECTRA Sound and Light Show!

Tip: Check the concert schedule at The Wharf Amphitheater. Big names often perform there, and you may want to snag a ticket to see them! During our recent visit, Post Malone played!

Bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail at Gulf State Park

For a refreshing change of pace, immerse yourself in Gulf State Park’s unspoiled beauty. Embark on a nature-filled adventure with your girlfriends by hiking the scenic trails or biking through the diverse ecosystems.

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail takes visitors through 6,150 acres of Gulf State Park. The trails take guests around Lake Shelby Lakes to the Interpretive Center by the beach and take you by vibrant plants and wildlife. Be on the lookout for alligators!

Tip: The Lodge at Gulf State Park, Woodside Restaurant, and the Interpretive Center have FREE bike share racks. You must download the Bloom app on your phone to unlock the bikes. Arrive early as the bikes tend to go quickly on the weekends.

Relax Onboard Hammock Time Tiki Tours

Address: 28101 Perdido Beach Blvd. Orange Beach, AL 36561

Looking for the ultimate relaxation experience in Orange Beach, AL? Look no further than Hammock Time Tiki Tours. Captain Glenn offers a unique experience where you can swing in hammocks on board a tiki-inspired pontoon boat while taking in the beautiful sights of the bay.

You have the freedom to choose your trip – whether you want to go bar hopping at Avenue Pub and Flora-Bama Yacht Club, visit the islands in the bay, go swimming, or simply relax in the hammocks with your favorite drinks and snacks. Plus, with a bathroom on board, you can enjoy your day on the water worry-free.

We had fallen in love with the Bushwacker, the area’s signature drink, which resembles an adult Frosty from Wendy’s. Therefore, we decided to have Captain Glenn take us to the nearby bars and restaurants on our own Bushwacker tour. My personal favorite was the Blonde Bushwacker from Avenue Pub!

Know Before You Go

• There is a BYOB Tiki Bar. Bring anything you wish to drink onboard. I would also recommend a few snacks!
• Tours can be 2 or 4 hours long, with the option to book a private tour.
• The Tiki Time Tours can only accommodate up to six guests.
• Departs from Caribe Marina, you will NOT have to pay for parking.
• The onboard bathroom is a huge perk!
• A portion of the pontoon is covered.

Go Dancing at the Flora-Bama

Address: 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Perdido Key, FL. 32507

Dance the night away at the most famous beach bar in the country, The Flora-Bama. This honky tonk is located uniquely on the Orange Beach, Alabama, and Perdido Key, Florida line and has been a staple in the community since 1964.

Sip on one of their famous Bushwackers while singing along with one of the many bands featured at Flora-Bama each evening. With five stages, there is plenty of variation in the music, or unwind with a beverage at one of the many beach-front bars.

Tip: Listen to Kenny Chesney’s famous “Flora-Bama” song before you go!

Right across the street is the Flora-Bama Yacht Club, a perfect spot to grab dinner before heading to the Flora-Bama Lounge. Many boats pull up, along with paddleboarders, kayaks, and more! Don’t worry; there is a parking lot for those coming by car!

Grab a table in the sand, order the Greek Shrimp Nachos, and listen to the music from local and visiting musicians. I would also recommend ordering BBQ oysters!

Have a Fabulous Brunch

Did you even have a girl’s trip if you didn’t go to brunch at least once?! The good news is there are plenty of great spots throughout Orange Beach and Gulf Shores that are ideal for a fabulous brunch.

Grab a mimosa flight at the Ruby Slipper Cafe before nibbling on their candy bacon and famous benedicts. Head to the Sunliner Diner and step back into the 1950s for a more unique brunch! This retro diner embraces its American heritage, from eggs served over easy to tunes blaring out of the jukebox. Grab a booth, mug of coffee, and spend the morning reminiscing over old times with your friends!

For a more casual brunch spot, head to The Southern Grind. This specialty coffee shop has two locations: the Indigo Hotel near Gulf State Park and the other in the Wharf. Each time I have been here, I get the waffles; you will not be disappointed. Southern Grind also offers a great selection of pastries, egg dishes, coffees, and treats.

9. Visiting historical sites and museums

Explore the numerous historical sites and museums in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores to immerse yourself in the area’s rich history. Visit landmarks such as Fort Morgan or the Gulf Shores Museum to discover the fascinating stories behind the region’s past.

Uncover the heritage and culture that have shaped these coastal communities, adding a touch of cultural enrichment to your girls’ trip. Delve into the past and gain a deeper appreciation for this destination’s unique charm.

10. Partying it up at lively beach bars and clubs

Whether you prefer a beachfront lounge or a lively club setting, the nightlife scene here caters to all tastes. Let loose, enjoy the company of your friends, and soak in the energetic vibe of these popular hotspots to conclude your trip in style.

The Wharf is home to an incredible nightlife scene with many restaurants and bars. However, there is a hidden speakeasy for those brave enough to find it. Known for their Expresso Martinis, 8 Reale OBAL is a hidden speakeasy attached to a jewelry store! Find the secret code to enter on their Facebook Page; it changes daily.

High Tide Daquiri and Mimosas offer a more low-key setting with charming paddleboats, New Orleans-inspired daiquiris, and charcuterie boards. Savor a mimosa flight while swinging on the patio before hopping into a floating flamingo for a paddle around the pond. They even have Daiquiri Jugs ready to take TO-GO.

Plan your unforgettable girls’ trip to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores today!

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, this destination has something to offer every type of traveler. Gather your besties, pack your bags, and get ready for an experience filled with fun, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t wait any longer – your dream getaway awaits!

Check out these related articles for even more great things to do while visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, AL.

Why You Need To Visit Fort Morgan

Budget-Friendly Tips For Visiting Gulf Shores and Alabama

Top Things To Do In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach during Spring Break

Save This Post For Later