Dive In: 7 Fun Water Activities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

March 13, 2024

If you’re craving a relaxing beach vacation with opportunities to explore the coastal waters, you’ve come to the right place. From thrilling adventures to laid-back activities, we know the best ways to soak up the sun and have fun on the Alabama Gulf Coast! Best of all, the water activities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are suitable for all ages and abilities. Whether you prefer quiet mornings on a kayak or more adventurous watersports like jet skiing and parasailing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Here are a few ways to enjoy your vacation in, on, or above the water on the Alabama Gulf Coast!

Kayaking

If you want to just “dip your toes in” and are searching for a beginner-friendly water activity, kayaking is just that! Learning is a breeze, and with numerous picturesque spots to explore in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you’ll quickly find yourself paddling through stunning waterways like the Bon Secour River, Lake Shelby in Gulf State Park, or Little Lagoon. Kayaking is an excellent way to relax and take in the surrounding scenery, and you might even get lucky and see some wildlife along the way. It’s also a fun water activity to enjoy with family and friends, so grab your waterproof speaker and some cold drinks and set off on a day of exploration!

Paddleboarding

Is it a workout? Is it a leisure activity? Is it easy to learn? Paddleboarding is all of the above! Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has become popular in recent years, and for good reason. This water sport offers an exhilarating and enjoyable experience for all ages and a fun way to explore the natural waterways along the Alabama Gulf Coast. Calm inland waters provide an excellent introduction to stand-up paddleboarding, but you may notice more experienced and adventurous paddleboarders head straight for the Gulf. We recommend exploring Little Lagoon or Wolf Bay and enjoying fun on the water before taking on the waves! Local companies like Ike’s Beach Service and Perdido Beach Services make it easy to participate in this water activity by offering paddle board rentals perfect for a day of fun!

Jet Skiing

Are you looking to cover a little more ground? Zip across the coastal waterways and explore the stunning shoreline of the Alabama Gulf Coast on a jet ski or wave runner! With the wind in your face and the thrill of vast open waters, it’s an exciting water activity and perfect for adventure lovers. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to numerous jet ski rental companies ready to provide the equipment for an hour, half-day, or a full day of fun on the water.

Fishing

No matter when you visit, you’ll find plenty of fishing opportunities in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Whether you’re interested in hooking redfish, flounder, cobia, or snapper, you’ll find plenty of local fishing spots to get in some inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing. And you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy fishing along the Alabama Gulf Coast. With reputable companies like Reel Surprise Charters offering fishing charters, fishmongers of any experience level, from beginner to expert, can enjoy the experience. Here are a few of our favorite spots to cast your line!

Alabama Point Jetties

Located on the west side of Perdido Pass, Alabama Point is one of the most popular fishing spots in the area. Anglers of all skill levels can snag pompano, sheepshead, redfish, speckled trout, and more while watching boats drift in and out of the Pass.

Bayou St. John Reef

For inshore fishing, visit Bayou St. John Reef, a barrier island located southwest of Bear Point and northeast of Perdido Key. One of 30 inshore artificial reefs along the Alabama coastal waters, Bayou St. John Reef has depths that vary between 11 and 25 feet. You’ll find locals fishing for trout, redfish, and flounder in these clear waters.

Sailing

If you just want to soak up the sun, sit back, and relax, let someone else take the helm and set out for a day of sailing! Experience some of the most beautiful views you can imagine along the Alabama Gulf Coast with Orange Beach Sunset Sailing. It’s a fun experience to share with your family, and you can take your pick from several options, including a two or four-hour luxury cruise and an all-day fun package. Set off on a sunset cruise and experience the coastline like never before. Look for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, jellyfish, pelicans, ospreys, and more!

Parasailing

Thrill-seekers, this one is for you! More than just an exhilarating ride, take in breathtaking views of the coastal landscape and marine life below from a new vantage point above the Gulf of Mexico! No experience is required, and local licensed operators are happy to show you the ropes, provide all the gear, and offer your entire group a safe, enjoyable experience. Sail high above the Gulf of Mexico, take a few selfies, and enjoy the thrill of a lifetime!

Snorkeling

Shallow depths, diverse sea life, and clear visibility make the 80 miles of Alabama coastline a snorkeler’s paradise. Requiring little equipment and even fewer skills, snorkeling Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a great way to introduce the kids to local marine life! It’s an excellent, family-friendly activity that everyone will enjoy, and the abundance of marine life in the Gulf will surely provide an unforgettable experience under the water. Here are a few places to check out!

Whiskey Wreck

Located just 150 yards from the beach, the Whiskey Wreck is a favorite snorkeling spot for locals and visitors alike. This 1920s 200-foot sunken rum runner boat encompasses 300 square yards and offers a unique snorkeling experience.

Paddle Wheeler

A depth range of 8 to 20 feet makes this a popular snorkeling spot for beginners. Located just west of Lagoon Pass in Gulf Shores, the area is home to abundant marine life, including horseshoe crabs, stingrays, and sea turtles.

After an exhilarating day on the water, there’s no greater comfort than returning to luxurious accommodations that feel like home. Sit back, relax, and trust that the team at Kaiser Vacation Rentals has thought of everything, ensuring your home-away-from-home is everything you envisioned and more. Dive into the fun and book your stay today!

Kayaking

Paddleboarding

Jet Skiing