Spring Travel Guide to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach AL

Plan Your 2024 Spring Getaway to the Shores of the Alabama Gulf Coast

There's a reason why Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are two of Alabama's most popular spring break destinations. The miles of pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico are ready to enjoy this time of the year, and the weather is just right to get outside. Whether you enjoy a vacation filled with adventure, history, culture, or relaxation, you'll love the Alabama Coast. You'll find tons of things to do here all year round, and spring is no different. 

Plan Your Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Spring Break Vacation 2024

 

aerial view of Orange Beach Alabama with the waterway and gulf of mexico in sight

Beaches

Enjoy miles of shoreline about the Gulf of Mexico in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Alabama. Stay in one of our beachfront rentals for easy access to the sandy shores of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Of course, if you're staying in any of our other vacation rentals, you can still enjoy the miles of pristine beaches here. 

 

Other beaches to visit include:

 

  • Gulf State Park
  • Fort Pickens Aquatic Preserve
  • Perdido Key State Park
  • Orange Beach
  • Dauphin Island

 

Learn more about the Beaches and Parks along the Alabama Gulf Coast

Ideal Weather

During the springtime, the weather along the Alabama Coast is about as perfect as it gets. The temperature sits at highs around 75-80, while the nights cool off slightly to enjoy a bonfire or a cozy evening inside. 

 

There's a small chance of rain this time of the year, so come prepared with proper attire in case of a shower. There are plenty of indoor activities in the area to enjoy on those days as well. 

Things to Bring

  • Pack clothing that you can layer
  • Flip flops
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Light rain jacket
  • Beach essentials (sunglasses, sunscreen, suits, etc)

 

young family of four playing on a beach at sunset
young kid and dad on a tandem kayak that is blue with blue and red ores on a river

Enjoy the Outdoors

If your family or group likes to be active on vacation, spring is the best time of the year to travel to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. With the temperatures much lower than the summer, and the foliage brightly in bloom, springtime offers the perfect backdrop for a day of exploring. 

 

If you enjoy biking, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a must-visit. This trail features more than 25 miles of paved paths and is great for bird watching. 

 

Kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and boating are also hugely popular activities all year round along the Alabama Gulf Coast. By May, the waters are even warm enough to swim in! 

Parks and Trails to Visit

  • Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
  • Gulf State Park
  • Wade Ward Nature Park
  • Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway
  • Eastern Shore Trail
  • Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Spring Events & Festivals

Several big annual events take place during the springtime. Here are a few of our favorites:

Orange Beach Festival of Art

Date: March 9-10, 2024

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Annual Outdoor Art Show at the Eastern Shore Art Center

Date: March 15-16. 2024

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National Collegiate Beach Volleyball Championship

Date: May 3-5, 2024

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Orange Beach Billfish Classic

Dates: May 14-19, 2024

Learn More

woman at festival booth with brightly colored necklaces and jewelry