Local's Guide to Orange Beach, AL

The Local's Guide to Orange Beach

Orange Beach sits just east of Gulf Shores but feels like a different world — more laid-back, marina-centered, and with some of the most beautiful backcountry water on the Gulf Coast.

What Makes Orange Beach Different

While Gulf Shores is more commercial and activity-focused, Orange Beach is built around its stunning marinas and waterways. The Terry Cove and Cotton Bayou areas are gorgeous, and the backcountry fishing and kayaking here is world-class.

Local Beach Favorites

• Gulf State Park (Orange Beach side): The eastern section of the park is less crowded than the Gulf Shores entrance
• Perdido Pass area: Beautiful beach, stunning views of the pass, and excellent fishing from the jetties
• Romar Beach access points: Several smaller public access points along Perdido Beach Blvd offer less crowded alternatives to the main beach

The Marina District

Locals spend as much time on the water as on the beach. The area around the Orange Beach Marina and the Wharf is gorgeous — rent a pontoon boat, catch a sunset cruise, or just walk the docks and admire the sport fishing boats.

Insider Tips

• Cobalt Restaurant: Make reservations well in advance for dinner — it books up weeks ahead in summer
• Cosmo's Oyster Bar: Arrive right at opening (4pm) to avoid the inevitable line
• The Wharf Amphitheater: Check the schedule before you arrive — some of the best concerts happen here in summer
• Perdido Pass at sunset: Park near the Flora-Bama and walk to the jetties — one of the most spectacular sunset spots on the coast

Getting Around

Orange Beach is very spread out along Perdido Beach Boulevard. Renting bikes or a golf cart is a great way to get around without fighting traffic. Many rental companies deliver to your condo or beach house.

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Orange Beach is one of our favorite areas to photograph families. The marina sunsets and pristine Gulf beaches create incredible portrait opportunities — book your session!