Things to do With Kids in Orange Beach

Planning a trip to OBA and wondering how to keep those energetic kiddos busy? 

As a parent of a teen now, I remember those early years well. 

Looking for activities ahead of time is key!

So, I’m here to give you a hand by laying out kid-friendly activities in Orange Beach for you to pick from. 

From magical sea encounters to playful park outings, these are tried and tested pastimes for every type of family. 

Ready to make some epic memories? 

Let’s make this trip a WIN for everyone! 

Kid-Friendly Activities in Orange Beach 

1. Rent a boat. 

rent a boat

Alright, first up: renting a boat

Picture this: 

You, your kids, and the wide, open sea… 

That’s pure bliss right there. 

They’ll feel the thrill as they watch the waves, spot marine life, and pretend to be mini-explorers on the open water. 

It’s a hands-on experience that will encourage their sense of adventure. 

And you get to be the captain at the helm!

As you glide over the waves, you can share your skills and teach them the basics of navigation. 

This could also be a teaching moment about keeping calm and appreciating nature. 

So, grab the opportunity to steer your family into an unforgettable coastal adventure. 

It’s not every day you get to literally be the captain of your own ship! 

Here’s a list of the top boat rental services in the area. 

2. Go parasailing. 

go parasailing

Got kids who are easily bored? 

Well, take them parasailing and see what they’ve got to say about it! 

You and your kids will be safely strapped in, and before you know it, you’re gliding high above the sea. 

The view from up there is incredible —

You’ll see OBA’s sugar-white sands, emerald green waters, and coastal terrain, all from an unmatched perspective. 

And don’t worry; 

The services around here are all about safety, making sure every detail is checked for a secure and enjoyable experience. 

Kids are welcome to join in as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. 

This is a fresh way to experience the beach and share an exciting story when you get back home! 

Check out the best parasailing services in OBA. Some of them offer banana boat rides, too! 

3. Hang out at The Wharf. 

hang out at the wharf

The Wharf is the lively centerpiece for family fun on the Gulf Coast. 

It’s a hub of entertainment, dining, and shopping, all set against a backdrop of scenic waterfront beauty. 

Start your adventure with the iconic Ferris wheel, offering panoramic views of the coastline. 

It’s a great way to get a sense of the area’s natural charm. 

Inside, check out the Arena The Next Level Arcade, and Outer Limits VR for virtual and interactive fun. 

Little ones will love the Wharf Express train rides, and parents can shop at the many stores along Main Street. 

If the weather turns, the AMC Theatres and Cool Shots Selfie Museum will keep you entertained as you wait for the sun to come out again. 

End the day with the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience, a dazzling free show to cap it all off! 

Where: 4550 Main St, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Call: (251) 224-1500

4. Go biking or walking. 

go biking or walking

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park is a natural gem. 

It’s a network of trails just minutes from the beach. 

USA TODAY named it 2023’s best recreation trail! 

It’s got over 28 miles of paved paths, perfect for biking or walking. 

You don’t need to bring your own; the park lends out free bikes

You’ll pass through nine different ecosystems, from pine forests to freshwater marshes. 

See towering pines, palmetto, and wildlife like deer and alligators. 

The trailheads are easy to access, with parking, restrooms, and water. 

Kids will love the Butterfly Garden and Bouldering Park

Plus, there’s Al’s Parkour Challenge for some fun agility tests. 

To take a break, you can take a picnic by the scenic Lake Shelby

This is the perfect way to get some exercise in and get up close with OBA’s diverse wildlife

Where: 3801 Orange Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Call: (251) 981-1063

5. Go on a helicopter tour. 

go on a helicopter tour

A step beyond parasailing, a helicopter tour will give you and your family an unparalleled aerial perspective. 

It’s incredible, really. 

You think you’ve seen Orange Beach from up high, but seeing it from a chopper is something else. 

And don’t worry about safety. 

These tours are designed with families in mind. 

The pilots are pros, and the rides are super smooth, making it accessible even for those a bit nervous about heights. 

And from a helicopter, you’ll most likely spot marine life like dolphins or rays! 

Your kids will be talking about this excursion for years to come. 

You game? Book your flight here

6. Zoom around on a jet ski. 

zoom around on a jet ski

Jet skiing in Orange Beach is the ultimate family adventure out on the water. 

It’s like starring in an action movie, with your whole family as the crew. 

The kids will feel like explorers, zipping over the waves. 

Imagine the laughter! 

Parents get to indulge in a bit of youthful thrill, steering through the water with ease. 

Yup, jet skis are pretty user-friendly, and everyone with all skill levels is welcome to participate. 

And safety isn’t an afterthought here! 

Everyone gets fitted with a life jacket, and there’s always a quick yet thorough safety rundown. 

For the really small kids, they can hop on, too, as long as they’re snug and secure between two adults. 

Who knows? You might be able to race alongside a curious dolphin or two! 

So, rent your own with one of these jet ski/wave runner rentals in OBA. 

7. Go on a seaside food journey. 

go on a seaside food journey

Orange Beach is a haven for foodie families, especially those who love seafood! 

The area is dotted with many restaurants, each offering high-quality seafood that captures the essence of Gulf Coast cuisine. 

From casual beachside shacks serving fried shrimp to upscale eateries with gourmet fish dishes, there’s something the whole family will enjoy. 

And if you’re too busy to plan a food crawl, try this Private Bushwacker and Restaurant Cruise

This tour combines good eats with a peaceful boat ride through OBA’s waterways.

You’ll visit multiple locations to try the famous Bushwacker cocktail while the kids have milkshakes. 

This is perfect for families looking for a relaxing yet flavorful exploration of the area’s culinary scene. 

8. Go on a dolphin cruise. 

go on a dolphin cruise

Jump aboard a dolphin cruise in Orange Beach for a splash-filled family outing! 

This experience is perfect for kids who are intrigued by marine life. 

As the boat glides through the waters, you’ll witness dolphins in their natural habitat. 

Watch them leap and play around the boat, showcasing their natural grace and mischievousness. 

Plus, the crews of these tours share interesting facts about dolphins, making this excursion very educational. 

Here are the many options and vessels you can choose from! 

9. See a magic show. 

see a magic show

How about some magic and laughs? 

The Brandon Styles Variety Show is a one-of-a-kind spectacle for families. 

Kids will get a kick out of the tricks, leaving them wondering ‘how?’. 

Parents will appreciate the spot-on impressions

From Frank Sinatra to Justin Bieber, it’s a whirlwind of familiar personalities. 

It’s an hour of non-stop entertainment, packing in a lot of surprises!

By the way, he performs at OWA Parks & Resort, which is in Foley. 

It’s only a 20-minute drive from Orange Beach. 

Where: 101H S. OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535

Call: (251) 237-3330

10. Have a ball at the arcade. 

have a ball at the arcade

Fat Daddy’s Arcade is where the fun’s at! 

It’s the largest arcade on the island, with over 80 games

They have all the classics plus the latest hits. 

There’s The Giant Wizard of Oz and even Jurassic Park.

If your kids can’t be peeled away from their video games, this is an easy compromise. 

Parents, you’ll get a kick out of the nostalgia! 

Challenge each other at dueling basketball hoops or team up in interactive games. 

Set high scores, win cool prizes, and gorge on some classic arcade snacks! 

This’ll eat up an entire afternoon, easy! 

Where: 24565 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Call: (251) 980-1050

11. Go kayaking or paddle boarding. 

go kayaking or paddle boarding

Kayaking or paddleboarding in Orange Beach is a fantastic way to mix up your beach days. 

With kayaking, you get to paddle around, discover hidden spots, and most likely encounter lots of animals. 

Paddleboarding is another cool option. 

It’s a bit like walking on water. 

Just stand up, find your balance, and off you go! 

It’s surprisingly easy to get the hang of, even for beginners!

Both are great for kids and parents who are up for a bit of active fun. 

The views from the water are amazing, and it’s a peaceful way to connect with nature. 

The gear’s all set for you. Just pick a rental service and start your adventure! 

Try this Crab Grab Tour, where you get to Bird Island in a neon clear kayak! 

12. Spend a day at Adventure Island. 

spend a day at adventure island

Adventure Island in OBA brings nearly 30 years of family recreation with its mix of attractions. 

Enjoy the excitement of two 18-hole golf courses, and watch the volcano add a spectacular touch to your game! 

The Go Karts are a thrilling rush, perfect for those tiny speed junkies of yours. 

New this year is the Glow Golf, an indoor black light mini-golf experience. 

The Bumper Boats offer a splash-filled escapade, ready for epic family water battles.

Nearby, the Kiddie Rides will delight the little ones with amusement tailored just for them. 

And for a unique experience, try the Max Flight Roller Coaster Simulator at the Alligator Alley Arcade

It’s one of the 100+ games to get lost in! 

Where: 24559 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Call: (251) 974-1500

13. Take sandcastle classes. 

take sandcastle classes

Spice up your beach day with a lesson from Sandcastle University!

Whether you’re staying at a cozy rental or a breezy condo from Airbnb, they bring all the fun and learning to you. 

In their 101 class, lasting an hour, you’ll learn to sculpt amazing sand creations. 

Choose from a traditional castle, a turtle, or a hammerhead shark. 

An expert instructor will guide you and the kids through each step. 

For those who need a bigger challenge, the 201 class is a two-hour session in creativity. 

You’ll build more impressive structures like a sea serpent!

It’s recommended for ages eight and up. 

You just need to bring your refreshments, sunglasses, towels, and LOTS of sunscreen. 

They provide all the sculpting equipment. 

Where: Sandcastle University is a mobile service. They will come to you! 

Call: (251) 600-9771

14. Go on a pirate cruise. 

go on a pirate cruise

Ahoy, landlubbers! 

Climb aboard the American Star for a swashbuckling journey on Terry Cove

Little pirates will love acting the part —

There’s face painting, pirate lingo, and even treasure hunting

It’s a blast for kids who dream of high-seas adventures. 

Parents, you’ll be part of the crew, too. 

Learn pirate skills, like putting out ship fires and catching cannonballs. 

Hear real pirate tales and learn about the history of pirating in the area. 

The cruise is a thrilling 1.5 hours of interactive fun

Be ready for some playful water battles — it’s a great way to cool down on the sunny deck. 

Of course, your safety is of utmost priority. 

The experienced captain and crew on this Coast Guard-certified vessel will care for your family. 

They have life vests of all sizes, ensuring a worry-free outing for all. 

Where: 4575 S. Wilson Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Call: (251) 981-4127

FAQs

Is Orange Beach good for kids? 

Definitely! 

Orange Beach is great for kids. 

With fun educational boat tours, arcades, good eats, and nature trails, there’s no end to the adventures. 

Kids will love the variety of activities, and there’s a lot for parents, too. 

It’s an ideal destination for family getaways. 

Does Orange Beach have an amusement park? 

Yup, there’s Adventure Island, offering a variety of attractions like mini-golf, go-karts, and an arcade. 

Nearby in Gulf Shores, there’s Waterville USA and The Track Family Fun Park

And not far from OBA, there’s Tropic Falls in Foley, another exciting destination with amusement rides. 

Can I take my toddler to the beach? 

Absolutely, you can take your toddler to the beach!

It’s a great place for little ones to play in the sand, splash in the shallow waters, and experience new sights and sounds. 

Just remember to bring sunscreen, proper beachwear, an umbrella, and maybe some toys for sandcastle building. 

Or you could try a baby beach rental package that takes care of all the bulky essentials for your beach day. 

Related Reading: Boat rental in Orange beach – Check Them Out Here

Final Thoughts 

Ready to hit Orange Beach with the kids? 

Trust me, you won’t run out of fun things to do

It’s the perfect spot for families to bond and have a blast. 

You’ve got sun, sea, and a whole lot of adventure waiting for you. 

So pack up, head down here, and get ready to make some amazing memories. 

Orange Beach is waiting to welcome your crew! 

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