Flip-Flops, Fish Tales & Summer Trails: What’s Happening This Week at the Beach
From surf camps and movie nights to fishing rodeos, alligator encounters, goat games, live music, and mouthwatering coastal eats, summer officially kicks off across the Alabama Gulf Coast with a week packed full of family fun.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Well, would you look at that–summer has officially clocked in on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The backpacks are getting tossed aside, the beach towels are coming out of storage, and the calendar is suddenly open to all, with overflowing reasons to get outside and make those memories. This week’s lineup is serving up a little bit of everything: kids learning to shred waves and skate bowls, movies under the stars, chart-topping concerts, curious alligators, competitive–well, sort of anglers, acrobatic goats, local markets, and enough coastal flavor to keep your summer spirit fully fueled. Whether you’re a local mapping out the season ahead or a visitor squeezing every drop you can out of your vacation, consider this your official permission slip to get out there and enjoy what may be one of the best weeks at the beach yet—school's out for summer.
Monday, June 1st-
The Alabama Gulf Coast is filled with family-oriented events throughout the year. Still, the summer is especially geared towards fun for kids through camps, explorations, and, of course, open-air movie nights on grassy knolls. These events celebrate the start of summer in style, like Camp Shred, one of the raddest camps on the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re a local looking for a full summer experience or here for a week of holiday, this camp is a must-try for anyone who loves the water and enjoys staying active while learning new skills. Former competitive surfer Mike Tamberello, now a surf coach and shop owner, runs the camp, along with his excellent crew. Kids will learn the basics of both surfing and skating, and how to continue improving these skills with guidance from the pros. The camp is available for the entire summer or just a single week, with other personalized options so visitors can join and create an unforgettable summer. After a lively day at camp, families can head to Port Side on Main in Orange Beach for a free movie night under the stars from 6:30-9 PM — the perfect way to end a perfect island summer day.
Camp Shred surf and skate lessons
Tuesday, June 2nd-
Even a Tuesday during summer at the beach is full of exciting things to do, places to visit, and people to see, like Jelly Roll at the Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach. Spend the day enjoying the breeze with an open-air shopping experience at Tanger Outlets in Foley, then move on to an evening of fresh, salty air while listening to great tunes at one of the most popular outdoor concert venues around. You’ll want to have that quintessential outfit just right for the Jelly show and still enjoy some sunshine while getting it, without your toes in the sand. The show starts at 7 PM—don’t forget to pick out some accessories while you're there; the prices you’ll find at the outlet looking fly have never felt so good. Shop, show off, shake, and sing—summer is on in the Gulf Coast, and you're invited.
Jelly Roll Live @ The Amphitheater
Wednesday, June 3rd-
It’s not all beaches in Bahama Mamas here on the Alabama Gulf Coast. There’s plenty to do east, west, and even slightly north, such as the quaint little town of Foley, where you’ll find the perfect blend of hustle and bustle, shopping, dining, arts, and history, with plenty of public park spaces to explore, like Max Griffin Park, perfect for a family getaway picnic where kids can enjoy the playground after lunch. Bring a bat, ball, and glove, and play some catch on the softball fields. There’s even a skate park, too. Enjoy then, for a cool-down, some splashing, backstrokes, and more at the public pool. Our beach towns and surrounding areas offer so much that you’ll need to keep coming back to see it all. Spend the day at Max Griffin Park, and be sure to tell a friend—there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy.
Max Griffin Park-swim, play, skate!
Thursday, June 4th-
At the Gulf State Park, any ole day is National Alligator Day, so why not celebrate with them by observing and holding baby alligators, learning about them, and exploring some of their favorite natural areas — all from a humane, safe distance, of course. Alligator Adventures runs from 1 to 2 PM at the GSP Nature Center. Park naturalists and experts will guide onlookers through an hour of learning about these fascinating, prehistoric creatures and their habitats, and offer a peek at some of the spots in Gulf State Park where they call home and thrive, from tiny hatchlings to adults. This program is suitable for all ages. Registration is preferred but not mandatory. Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, an adventurous spirit, eager ears to listen and learn, and a camera to snap memories — not your fingers. After snagging a bite from Doc's Seafood and Steaks, where you'll find a wide range of coastal and American cuisine on the menu, from seafood to between-the-buns options, fried and grilled to your liking, with indoor and outdoor seating to add yet another experience on the coast you’re bound to enjoy.
Friday, June 5th- From catfish to billfish, and from mini to big game anglers, the time has come for the everyman and woman's game fishing rodeo at Flora-Bama. This much-loved thirteenth annual event quickly earned a reputation as one of the funniest fishing tournaments on the coast. In true Bama style, everyone is invited to join the fun and compete—no fancy boat needed—but they are also welcome! Feel free to come if you want to participate or spectate. The tournament lasts three days, starting on Friday. It kicks off on the line with two thrilling weigh-ins from 2-7 PM, followed by a lively beach party leading up to the grand finale beach party on Sunday at 11 AM, when the awards ceremony takes place. Kids 12 and under will have their own division with 13 categories, including bluefish, redfish, ladyfish, and even tuna, all awarding first-, second-, and third-place prizes. Those aged 13 and under can enter a 30-category tournament, again with first-, second-, and third-place prizes. There will be adult angler divisions for both inshore and offshore; you’ll see hauls from boats, and even kayak fishing; all winners’ circles will host prizes for both male and female anglers in each one. So, if you've ever wondered what it’s like to star in your own fishing tournament, this is the place to start. There will be an infectious blend of both serious and silly business happening all weekend long. Sign up or show up to watch weigh-ins and meet the pros and regular Joes—this here one’s for everybody. Check out the link below for more information—it’s time to get reel!
Saturday, June 6th-
Who’s ready for some goat agility training? Yep, you read that right—goats' agility and training, as if they need any. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has a summer series show for you. Not only is the Zoo itself a spectacular day trip stop when visiting or living in our area, with animals to view, hold, and even feed, but it is also where special shows featuring animals and their trainers take place. The zoo is now presenting a goat-training course for viewers to sit back and watch these guys in action, showcasing their agility for all to see and applaud. These clever goats will arrive to impress as the trainers guide us through the process, sharing some of their methods for getting these incredible creatures to respond on command as they jump, balance, and lean into these cues—providing a healthy, balanced physical and mental workout. Come early, walk some of the zoo grounds, and get a good spot for the 10 AM start of the show—a viewing area full of happy kids and goats, if you catch my drift. Once you’ve had your fill, head over to Market Day for the nationally recognized farmers market, where you’ll find everything from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to oven-baked goods, local honey, plants, gifts, lunch on site, and more in Foley.
Sunday, June 7th-
Broaden your coastal palate with Big Mike’s Steakhouse in Orange Beach, open for dinner from 3 PM daily, with a full parking lot right away, so plan ahead for this delightful treat. This isn't your typical steakhouse chain—what started as a family business with prime meats has grown into a seven-location venture, with an eighth thriving outlet that has not only maintained its quality and core brand but has surpassed it, attracting people from all over the country eager to experience the buzz. It’s no wonder they were voted Alabama’s Best Steak by the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association. They serve the real deal—certified Angus beef that will make your mouth water. Their steaks are all wood-fire grilled, perfectly seasoned, and so tender that you can slice each bite with a fork if you wish, though they are served with a proper knife. You may have smelled the goodness and seen the smoke rising and drifting down Canal Road just before opening hours and throughout the evening until the last ember dies out. It's an aroma that needs no advertising or convincing—just roll down your window, and you're drawn in. Although we highly recommend trying one of the best things ever—wood-fire grilled steak off the menu—Big Mike’s also offers a variety of seafood and other options for those who don’t prefer beef. Check out starters like crab cakes, tuna dip, and fried mozzarella wedges. For something lighter, you’ll find salads topped with steak, chicken, or shrimp, made-from-scratch soups, and a few sandwiches. With a menu like Big Mike’s, you can’t go wrong no matter how you order. Be sure to explore the beverage list, including a fine selection of wines—who says you can’t enjoy a great steak at the beach? Not us.
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