Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — From dolphin tours to hot dog contests, the Alabama Gulf Coast is offering a diverse slate of activities this week for residents and visitors alike. As mid-July arrives, families, anglers, and art lovers will all find something on the calendar to enjoy. Events span from Orange Beach to Foley and Gulf Shores, showcasing community programs, live performances, hands-on workshops, and major sporting events. With opportunities to learn, compete, create, and connect, the week reflects both the seasonal vibrancy and local character of the region.

Whether it’s launching water cannons aboard a dolphin cruise, exploring the magic of theater in Foley, or gathering for a community block party behind Orange Beach City Hall, the coming days offer a snapshot of coastal life in full swing. Several events also emphasize education and philanthropy, such as science demonstrations at the Orange Beach Recreation Center and the Blue Marlin Grand Championship’s continued support for St. Jude. Together, these activities highlight the unique blend of recreation and purpose that defines Gulf Coast summer culture.

Monday, July 7th — Nothing says summer fun like a dolphin tour with “The Fun Boats” in Orange Beach. This is not your average dolphin tour; it features a second fun boat, and at some point during your adventure, everyone aboard or those participating will gather at the stern and back up to your fun boat and engage in an epic water cannon battle. The only rule is “Let’s soak ‘em for Crutchy!” Meaning you’re aiming to win—no tears, just the joy of a classic boat-to-boat water cannon battle! Before or after cooling off with a neighboring fun boat, guests and crew will explore the back bays and possibly the shores of the Gulf in search of local dolphins in their natural habitats, where they’ll be splashing around and posing for tourists. While cruising, expect to see birds soaring around their island sanctuaries along with beautiful waterfront homes and restaurants. You may even learn some history about Orange Beach along the way.

The view from a boat offers a different perspective on paradise, making it an experience everyone should enjoy while visiting or living here. It’s always a good idea to bring a towel, beverages, and sun protection when taking a boat ride, although The Fun Boats do offer a few items for sale aboard the ship in case anyone forgets something or needs more. Happy Summer!

The Fun Boat Dolphin Cruises

3900 Bayou Rd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

The Fun Boats™  — Dolphin Cruises 

Tuesday, July 8th — Tacky Jacks continues to offer an engaging "Summer of Fun" programming across all its locations, with a special event happening this week in Orange Beach. Participants will have the opportunity to create a unique wearable art piece during a hands-on workshop focused on custom Polymer necklace design. The session is scheduled to begin at 11 AM, and attendees are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in process. The cost for this lunch-and-learn experience is $25, which encompasses all necessary materials for the project, as well as a $10 gift card redeemable for dining. The one-hour class will be led by local artists skilled in Polymer techniques, providing insight into the creative process, as well as the intricacies of crafting a personalized piece. Participants can appreciate the picturesque marine views typical of one of Orange Beach's premier lunch venues while also exploring the marina and adjacent local attractions. The relaxed educational environment fosters a unique opportunity for creativity, allowing individuals to learn without the constraints of traditional instructional pressures. Attendees are also encouraged to explore the extensive dinner and breakfast menu, utilizing their gift cards at their convenience.

Tacky Jacks Grill and Tavern

27206 Safe Harbor Dr.

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Tacky Jacks Summer of Fun (Orange Beach)

Wednesday, July 9th — Travel down the yellow brick road, over the bridge, and past the shores to the Land of Oz! The Gulf Coast Rep and Arts & Education Alliance proudly present their own showing of the original production that toured across Tennessee, Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, and now here in Foley, Alabama: “The Wizard of Oz.” This timeless tale, featuring Dorothy and Toto, takes guests through the Land of Oz, where they meet everyone's favorite characters, including Glenda the Good Witch, the Wizard, and many more. Live performances offer an artistic experience with real-time animation, musical rhythms, and dancing bringing to life—something that screens simply cannot replicate. So grab your friends, get your tickets, and come out to support the art of the stage as you reminisce with the Lion, the Scarecrow, and, of course, the Tin Man while they journey down the many trials of the yellow brick road, a path familiar to many. Tickets are on sale now: $15 for adults and $12.50 for children, with senior and military discounts available upon request. The show starts at 7 PM and lasts approximately 75 minutes, so consider dining at one of the local restaurants beforehand. Try Wolf Bay, just a couple of miles from the venue!

Wolf Bay Restaurant at Foley

20801 Miflin Rd

Foley, AL 36535

Wolf Bay Restaurant in Foley, AL 

Thursday, July 10th — Who says science projects are just for kids or laboratories? Research has shown that collaborative science experiments outside structured institutions can provide a wide range of benefits for people of all ages through community engagement and personal development. We thrive best when we activate our communication skills in conjunction with social and intellectual interactions, whether through group projects or led by a single instructor. Engaging in hands-on projects with others fosters a level of trust among peers that is often unmatched by other forms of civic interaction or institutional engagement. After all, teamwork makes the dream work! What better way to tackle problem-solving than with others in a non-judgmental and grade-free environment? The Science Lady will be showcasing “The Color of Science” at the Orange Beach Recreation Center from 2 PM to 5 PM. Come and be amazed as she demonstrates immersive and color-bending science experiments suitable for all ages. Get ready to learn, laugh, and grow alongside the Science Lady and others while appreciating the beauty of scientific literacy, enhancing knowledge, and fostering community involvement.

Orange Beach Recreational Center

4849 Wilson Blvd 

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Recreation Center and Expect Excellence | Orange Beach, AL 

Friday, July 11th — The Blue Marlin Grand, widely regarded as the greatest event in sports fishing, is returning to its favorite weigh-in location at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Hosted by Jim Cox, the event kicks off this weekend, with the first weigh-in scheduled for Friday night. Guests are encouraged to arrive early, enjoy dining at onsite restaurants and bars, or even arrive by boat to designated locations. Many spectators will gather both nights to witness the final results. While some winners may present their catches on the first night, there’s no guarantee that the biggest fish will be caught by Saturday. If you’re new to the event, get ready for an exciting experience. It's a thrilling spectacle featuring big money, impressive fish, celebratory champagne sprays, and blazing flames of success. Anglers can start weigh-ins at 5 PM on both Friday and Saturday, with Saturday allowing an extra hour until 8PM for participants to ensure everyone has a chance at the grand prize. In addition to the prizes, the event raises money for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, with over $222,000 raised to date. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about tournament fishing if you’re a newcomer, meet like-minded individuals, grab some exclusive billfish merchandise, and be part of the greatest show in sports fishing.

The Wharf Marina

4851 Wharf Pkwy 

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Blue Marlin Grand Championship

Saturday, July 12th — As part of an exciting summer with Orange Beach Parks and Recreation, the city invites everyone to the “Pop-up Park and Block Party.” The festivities begin around 5:30 PM, but feel free to arrive earlier to secure your favorite spot. This free event, located behind City Hall, aims to raise awareness of underutilized green spaces throughout our city. Enjoy live music from The Funky Lampshades while the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber offers beverages to accompany your snacks or meals from Sugar Love Food Truck. The city hopes this event will foster a sense of community, maintaining the small-town vibe we cherish. Join the town for some neighborly fun and participate in the first-ever annual hot-dog eating competition for all ages during intermission! The winner will receive a year's worth of bragging rights and a full year’s membership to the Orange Beach Fitness Center, to work off all those hot-dogs. Along with a few exciting surprise prizes that you’ll have to attend to discover. Don’t miss out on this inaugural Pop-up Park and Block Party! Remember to bring a chair or blanket and invite your neighbors—it’s a true community affair.

Marjorie Snook Park 

25805 John Snook Dr.

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Pop-Up Park & Block Party | Orange Beach, AL 

Sunday, July 13th — Step back in time at the Sunliner Diner in Gulf Shores. From the moment you park and walk inside, you'll feel as if you’ve entered the 1950s, where milkshakes are cold, burgers are hot, and where the classic cars always steal the show. Open early for breakfast, guests can indulge in all-American favorites plus more like avocado toast, chicken and waffles, pancakes, or smothered biscuits and gravy. No matter what you choose, everything at the diner is delicious. For those looking for lighter options, there are healthier choices available, making it a perfect spot for the whole family. Lunch and dinner are served starting at 11 AM daily, featuring specials and, of course, thick, juicy burgers, fries, and shakes. The lively music and retro atmosphere create a nostalgic experience, showcasing the menu items in newspaper style. Bring your dancing shoes, as the jukebox plays and the checkered floors invite you to dance. Patrons are encouraged to dress in theme or shop the gift store for fun accessories and trinkets. This themed diner is not to be skipped—unless, of course, you plan to skip it to the dance floor. Arrive early and come hungry; you’ll definitely want to save room for dessert at the Sunliner Diner!

Sunliner Diner 

100 E 2nd Ave

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Sunliner Diner