Sandy Toes, Rock Climbing Walls & So Much More: Your Gulf Coast Week Starts Here
From waterfront bites and karaoke nights to local festivals and family adventures–here’s your weekly guide to what to do across our coastal towns and beyond.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — This week on the Alabama Gulf Coast, the atmosphere is a perfect mix of laid-back and lively—the best of both worlds. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood by the water, looking to enjoy a fun-filled karaoke night, seeking a place for the kids to burn off some energy indoors, or hoping to experience a weekend filled with local festivals and heartwarming community moments, there’s something happening around every corner. Consider this your go-to guide for enjoying the season, supporting local businesses, and making the most of what’s going on at the beach this week.
Monday, April 6th-Have you discovered the hidden gem right across the street from the iconic Flora-Bama bar? Introducing the bayside yacht club, a vibrant yet laid-back waterfront restaurant that captures the essence of the Gulf Coast—and trust us, it's a must-visit! Enjoy the perfect combination of boats, sand, delicious food, live music, and refreshing drinks. The award-winning chefs have crafted a menu at Flora-Bama Yacht Club that tantalizes every palate. Delight in unique appetizers like Greek Shrimp Nachos, succulent Crab Claws, and fresh oysters, ideal for boaters, paddleboarders, or anyone looking to unwind with a bite. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try a salad topped with options like Tuna and Chicken. And for those with a hearty appetite, don’t miss the impressive entrees featuring between-the-buns favorites, flavorful Gumbo, and generous platters. Not arriving by boat? No worries! They offer ample parking for land visitors eager to join the fun. If you haven't yet explored the bayside experience with the Flora-Bama brand, make it part of your spring break, a regular hangout, or a delightful excursion. We promise you’ll be so impressed that you'll want to return again and again!
Tuesday, April 7th-
Get ready for a fabulous night at Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores with Karaoke Tuesdays from 6-9 PM—where fun and talent come in all shapes and sizes! Whether you’re a shower singer or a seasoned performer, this is your chance to shine. If you can’t hold a tune, no worries! Bring your energy and your most outrageous stage presence – the wackier, the better! Watch as regular folk, aka local legends, take the stage with their unforgettable and sometimes silly performances, choosing from a vast array of musical genres that will have you dancing in your seat! This isn’t just any karaoke night; it’s an evening packed with laughter, good times, and remarkable entertainment. Pair your karaoke experience with a delicious meal from the menu, or simply grab a refreshing drink from the bar to fuel your vocal cords! No pressure to step up and sing – everyone is welcome to kick back and enjoy this one-of-a-kind show where no two nights are ever the same. And if you love Tuesday nights, don’t miss out on Saturday’s All-You-Can-Eat Crawfish & Karaoke Shuckdown! It’s time to grab your friends and make Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores the place to be this week for an unforgettable night of music, laughter, chow, and memories!
Wednesday, April 8th-
Sunshine is wonderful, isn’t it? With the sand between your toes and the salty breeze filling the air, it’s a perfect day! But even when it’s not raining, sometimes it’s nice to take a break indoors—especially when you can keep the kids entertained without relying on snacks or screens. That’s where The Factory in Gulf Shores comes in! It’s an amazing place packed with fun activities for all ages. Whether your little ones want to jump around or climb to new heights, they’ve got you covered! You can pick two high-energy activities to maximize the fun or grab a package that lets you enjoy both jumping and climbing. Think about your childhood buddy who had the trampoline, the coolest climbing tree, and a basketball hoop—now imagine all that fun multiplied by a thousand! That’s the vibe at The Factory. Picture dodgeball on bouncy floors, a trampoline lane, basketball, and even batting cages for a little extra excitement. And don’t forget the arcade! It’s filled with all your favorite games and more. Plus, there are rock climbing walls with levels for every climber, so everyone can join in on the adventure. A day at The Factory is sure to be a blast! And guess what? Wednesdays are half-off days! So, you can relive your childhood or relax in the parents’ lounge while the kids let loose. Sounds like a perfect day, doesn’t it?
Thursday, April 9th-
If you're looking for a fun and enjoyable day outdoors, check out Graham Creek Nature Preserve in Foley! Open from dawn to dusk every day of the week, this hidden gem offers over 600 acres of stunning natural beauty just waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker, a casual walker, or a parent wanting to let the kids run wild and free, you’re in for a treat! Alabama is home to an incredible variety of plants and wildlife, with over 3,000 native species. As you wander through the park, you’ll likely spot some of these amazing plants and maybe even some friendly wildlife! The serene surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful day out. You can paddle your kayak, try your hand at disc golf, or even take advantage of the outdoor classroom and archery park. The preserve also features accessible boardwalks, trails, and a playground for the little ones. Why not pack a picnic and enjoy a lovely lunch in nature? It’s all just a short drive away from the beautiful, sandy beaches of Foley. Happy exploring! You’re sure to make some wonderful memories!
Friday, April 10th-
Our coastal towns are deeply rooted in tourism. If you've lived here for long, you've likely developed a tradition of sharing the beach, streets, stages, and everything in between with visitors from across the country, including at our beloved local festivals. This makes events showcasing local talents and encouraging community participation even more special.This weekend, the L.O.L. Festival celebrates and nurtures that desire to give back to this little piece of paradise that many get to call home. L.O.L. stands for “Love Our Locals,” and it truly embodies this spirit in the best possible ways. Join the City of Gulf Shores and the Gulf Coast for a weekend of unparalleled fun-filled with local pride. The festival will feature local talent, food trucks, and family-owned vendors. Come out to mingle with your neighbors, enjoy excellent music from a variety of genres, and meet members and volunteers from the Sea Glass Initiative, a local nonprofit organization that will be on-site to assist with Bike Valet services, available for questions, and accepting donations to help unhoused residents in the area. The event will take place at Waterway Village in Gulf Shores, where families can appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The festival runs from Friday to Saturday, noon to 10 PM, and on Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM. Take a break and support our locals while they support you! There is a $5 day pass or a $10 weekend pass. Admission is free for elementary- and middle-school-aged kids, and tickets can be purchased at the gate. Come out and offer some encouragement to your neighbors, who are giving back while you enjoy the festivities, and give back too!
Saturday, April 11th-
The Gulf Coast is known for more than just its seas and oyster shells; it is also home to turtles and their shells, which are highly regarded and often require protection, education, and support. While many sea turtles visit our coastlines each year to lay their eggs, the land Gopher Tortoise is Alabama’s only native tortoise species. Many efforts are underway to ensure that this special creature remains safe and visible for years to come. As part of protecting both sea life and wildlife, we often encounter a wealth of information and opportunities to contribute, and often in fun and unique ways. This Saturday from 9 AM to noon, join others for the Habitat Hustle, a 5K run and fun run where you might even catch a glimpse of the native Gopher Tortoise itself. By participating, you will help support the longevity of this species while enjoying the beautiful sights around you. Educational booths will also be set up for you, your friends, and your family to learn more about the wonderful characteristics and habitat of the Gopher Tortoise. Whether you choose to run or walk, remember: slow and steady wins the race.
Sunday, April 12th- Nothing says spring quite like the sweet smell and taste of juicy, in-season strawberries. Even better is when you mix them with cake and whipped cream to create a delightful strawberry shortcake. For 38 years, people have enjoyed the berry aromas and flavors at the Baldwin County Strawberry Festival held in Loxley, where fresh strawberries from local gardens take center stage. This festival is not only enjoyable for your taste buds, but it also appeals to your adventurous side, offering opportunities to walk and shop for arts and crafts while listening to live music. Adding to the excitement are carnival rides, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In true festival spirit, the proceeds from this event will benefit special causes, including support for Loxley Elementary School and the ARC. In previous years, they have raised over $100,000, making this festival and its beneficiaries one of the largest of their kind. This two-day event begins on Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM and continues into Sunday at the same times. Come out and celebrate spring in a delicious way—you won’t regret it! Other offerings will be available as well. It doesn’t get much sweeter than this!
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