The Ultimate Guide to Summer Vacations in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Discover the best of summer along Alabama’s Gulf Coast—from beach days and festivals to hidden gems only locals know.
When summer hits, the Gulf Coast transforms into a vibrant hub of sunshine, surf, and Southern hospitality. Whether you're visiting for a week or lucky enough to call this place home, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach serve up the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement all season long.
Ready to make the most of summer on Alabama’s white-sand shores? Here’s your local-approved guide.
1. Summer Weather: Sunshine, Sea Breezes & Warm Gulf Waters
Summer on the coast means long days of sun, with average highs in the upper 80s and a salty breeze that keeps things comfortable.
What to expect:
With temps hovering around 80°F and rising, the water is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and boating adventures all day long.
Expect the occasional brief summer shower—just enough to cool things down and make way for a refreshing breeze.
Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets between 7:30 and 8:00 PM, casting a golden glow over the shoreline—ideal for evening strolls or beachside dinners.
Check today’s weather in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
2. Best Beaches: From Family Favorites to Quiet Escapes
Not all beaches are the same, and summer is the perfect time to explore them all.
Top picks for the season:
Gulf Place Public Beach – Right in the heart of Gulf Shores, this beach has it all: lifeguards, restrooms, shaded picnic spots, and quick access to food and shopping. It’s lively, family-friendly, and great for first-time visitors.
Cotton Bayou Beach – A local go-to for its easy parking and laid-back vibe. It’s ideal for quick beach trips, paddleboarding, or catching a calm morning on the water.
Romar Beach – Quieter than the main beaches but just as stunning. Soft white sand and wide open space make this a great pick for relaxing or strolling at sunset.
Alabama Point East – Offers dramatic views of Perdido Pass, massive jetties, and turquoise water.
Shell Beach – East of Perdido Pass Bridge, Shell Beach offers easy access to white sands and dunes—great for shell hunting and relaxing.
Explore all the beaches in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
3. Can't-Miss Summer Events
The Gulf Coast comes alive in summer with festivals, concerts, and local traditions that make this season unforgettable.
Mark your calendar—here’s what’s happening:
4th of July Fireworks at Gulf State Park Pier – Celebrate Independence Day Gulf Coast–style with fireworks lighting up the shoreline in one of the area’s most iconic displays.
Blue Marlin Grand Championship –(July 10–13, 2025). Head to The Wharf to watch giant sportfish roll in during the "Greatest Show in Sportfishing." It’s thrilling, high-energy, and a must-see summer tradition.
Sunset Series at Gulf Place –.Live music, ocean breezes, and sunsets you’ll never forget—this free weekly concert series brings big names and good vibes all season long.
Featured Lineup Highlights:
June 7 – Hank Williams Jr. with Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
June 14 – Satisfaction: The International Rolling Stones Tribute
June 30 – Kansas with 38 Special
July 5 – Clay Strays with Blackberry Smoke
July 11 – Bret Michaels’ Parti-Gras Tour
July 26 – Riley Green with Randy Houser and Ella Langley
August 2 – Little Big Town with Sugarland and more
October 24 – A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett & the Coral Reefer Band
View the full concert calendar at The Wharf Amphitheater
LuLu’s Hot Summer Nights – Kid-friendly fun with music and games
For the Full Orange Beach & Gulf Shores summer events calendar
4. Outdoor Adventures: Land, Sea & Everything In Between
This summer, don’t just visit the Gulf Coast—live it.
From kayaking through hidden waterways to biking scenic trails, sailing with dolphins, or simply sinking your toes into the sugar-white sand, every corner of the coast invites adventure.
Whether you're exploring by land, sea, or sky, the Gulf Coast delivers moments you’ll never forget.
Get moving with:
Biking the Backcountry Trail - Pedal under shady pines, past freshwater swamps, and through quiet woodlands on 28+ miles of scenic trails in Gulf State Park. Nature lovers, this one’s for you.
Dolphin cruises Set sail from The Wharf Marina and watch dolphins play beside your boat as you glide through serene bays and bayous. A must-do coastal classic.
Jet ski rentals -– Crank up the speed and splash through the waves at Cotton Bayou. Whether you're racing the wind or just riding for the thrill, this is pure pulse-pounding fun.
Parasailing - See the Gulf from a bird’s-eye view as you soar high above the water. Perfect for thrill-seekers and anyone craving a sky-high selfie.
Your next adventure is waiting—see all outdoor activities here.
5. Where to Cool Off: Icy Treats & Local Hangouts
Sun’s out, fun’s out—and so is your sweet tooth! After a day of beachside bliss or outdoor thrills, nothing hits quite like a cold, creamy treat. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are scooping up the goods with local spots that serve everything from classic cones to froyo masterpieces.
Chill out at:
Matt’s Homemade Ice Cream (Gulf Shores)
Step back in time and savor the charm of this local favorite where every scoop is made fresh daily. Matt’s Homemade Ice Cream is known for:
Creamy, rich flavors crafted in-house—from classic vanilla bean to inventive seasonal specials
A warm, nostalgic mom-and-pop vibe that keeps customers lining up
Perfect spot to cool down after a sunny day on the beach
Sweet Cone Alabama (Orange Beach)
Beachside and bursting with flavor, Sweet Cone Alabama is a treat for the whole family. Here’s why it’s a must-visit:
Build-your-own frozen yogurt bar loaded with endless toppings for kids and adults alike
Relaxing shaded seating ideal for kicking back with smoothies or soft serve
Casual, colorful atmosphere right on the sand—perfect for a refreshing beach break
The Yard Milkshake Bar (Gulf Shores)
Ready to take your dessert game to the next level? The Yard serves jaw-dropping milkshakes that are as wild as they are delicious:
Towering milkshakes packed with cookie dough chunks, brownies, candy bars, and even slices of cake
Fun, indulgent creations perfect for celebrations, dates, or just treating yourself
A visual and tasty experience that’s guaranteed to wow both kids and adults
6. Want to Stay Close to the Coast
If you’re dreaming about turning those beach days into a lifestyle, these handpicked listings from Matt Creel – Signature Properties offer the best of coastal living — from Gulf-front condos to private island homes and charming beach cottages near exclusive access points.
Looking for the ultimate coastal escape this summer? Set your sights on Ono Island—a private, gated paradise in Orange Beach, Alabama—and discover luxury living at its finest at 31172 Oak Drive.
This 4-bedroom, 3-bath Mediterranean-style beauty boasts 3,900 sq ft of elegant living space designed for relaxing, entertaining, and everything in between.
Set within a gated, amenity-rich community, you're just minutes from the Gulf Coast's top beaches, marinas, and outdoor adventures—it’s all at your doorstep.
View Listing »
If Gulf-front mornings and beachside bliss are on your summer wishlist, Tidewater #901 delivers the dream. This fully renovated 3BR/3BA corner condo in Orange Beach offers luxury, privacy, and panoramic views from two balconies—yes, two.
This fully renovated east-end gem is loaded with designer touches—from shiplap walls and granite counters to custom blinds and coastal charm in every corner.
Whether you're here to vacation, invest, or stay forever, Tidewater #901 is where your best summer yet begins.
Dreaming of lazy days by the bay and sunset dinners on the deck? Unit E4 at Magnolia Key Townhomes is your bayfront escape—where stunning sunsets, salty breezes, and upscale comfort come standard.
This 2BR/2.5BA townhome offers light-filled living, breathtaking water views, and two private decks perfect for sunset watching and slow mornings.
This waterfront townhome in the heart of Orange Beach checks every box—luxury, location, and laid-back charm in .
Boater’s Bonus:
Deeded boat slip with 10,000-lb lift—ideal for fishing, cruising, or chasing golden-hour skies.
Tucked away next to Doc’s Seafood, this coastal retreat features panoramic Wolf Bay views from every room, upscale finishes, and all the space you need to unwind or entertain in style.
Looking for more?
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