Your Week at the Beach: Art, Boats & a Little Mullet Mayhem
From cultural finds and coastal cruises to observe sea life to Earth Day vibes and legendary beach traditions–here’s what’s happening this week along the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — If your calendar's looking bleak, don’t worry–we’ve got just the fix. This week, along the Alabama Gulf Coast brings a perfectly balanced mix of culture, adventure, and just the right amount of quirky fun. You can start things off surrounded by inspiring artwork, cruise into dolphin sightings by Tuesday, and celebrate Earth Day in true coastal style by midweek. As the weekend rolls in, classic cars take over the streets, the infamous Mullet Toss brings the party, and a feel-good fitness challenge keeps things moving. And when Sunday calls for slowing down? There’s fresh seafood with your name on it. Consider this your all-access pass to what’s happening at the beach this week–go ahead and dive in.
Monday, April 20th-
For those interested in art and its cultural significance, the Foley Art Center offers an engaging experience this month, April. The center features the work of Juan Moreno, an accomplished artist who has been honing his craft for nearly 50 years. Originally from New York, Moreno’s artistic journey includes attending art school, freelancing, and collaborating with notable organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America and American Airlines. He also met his wife, Jean, a coastal artist from Pensacola, and together they have created a variety of artistic works, including over 50 murals and numerous T-shirt designs. The couple founded Dove Designs, focusing on women’s art and beachwear, and has dedicated time to teaching local youth about art. After taking a brief hiatus to care for his mother, Moreno is now showcasing his fine art at the Foley Art Center, where many pieces are available for viewing and purchase. The Foley Art Center goes beyond being a gallery, actively giving back to the community. It offers consignment sales, memberships, and various projects, with proceeds supporting cultural enrichment programs in local schools. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Foley Art Center, open from 10 AM to 4 PM, to explore Moreno's artwork and learn about upcoming events—making it a perfect addition to a week on the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Tuesday, April 21st-
Immerse yourself in the delightful scents of the salty air aboard the Southern Rose Dolphin Cruises, one of the largest vessels in Orange Beach. This boat accommodates over 100 guests as it explores the tranquil back bays and the picturesque shorelines of the Gulf, where you are guaranteed to see dolphins. Once you’re settled and the tour begins, you’ll witness these magnificent creatures and hear interesting facts about the surroundings. The deckhands and captain provide engaging narrations while you look for dolphins, and there’s music playing in between their commentary. The cruise offers both indoor and outdoor seating, where you can purchase snacks, drinks, sandwiches, beer, wine, and mixed drinks. You are welcome to bring your own coolers, but remember that only non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. Join the crew for an unforgettable experience as you cheer on the dolphins as they show off in their natural habitat. Inside, you can enjoy the comfort of air conditioning, while outside, you can relish the breeze and sunshine. Cruise times are available at 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 5:30 PM for a beautiful sunset experience. Enjoy your sailing adventure!
Wednesday, April 22nd-
Celebrate Earth Day the right way, from sunup to sundown, with the Earth Day Fest at Mo’s Landing in Gulf Shores, extending down to Fort Morgan. This mid-week event is a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and like-minded individuals for a full day focused on community, conservation, and coastal wellness. Start your morning with a rejuvenating yoga session at 6 AM, led by Sable, just in time for sunrise. This "Root and Rise" class will help you connect with nature as you stretch and breathe in the fresh air. Next, enjoy the surrounding beauty on a nature paddle. Join this group paddle in your own kayak or paddleboard for the "Paddle Meetup and Clean Up," where you can explore the waters while helping to keep them clean. After a refreshing morning, head over to Mo’s Landing for the Earth Day Festival, which will take place from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Here, you can savor live music and explore vendors offering everything from environmental education booths and book exchanges to food and light refreshments. This festival opens the door for community connections and provides opportunities to learn how you can help the environment in your area. Be sure to stick around for Sunset Yoga with Delaney and a sound bowl session by Jane, then finish the day with intentional movement in the "Grounding Slow Flow." Join us for Earth Day done the right way, and come see what this special day is all about!
Thursday, April 23rd-
If you love cars or vintage beauties, Bama Coast Cruisin' is the event for you this week! Starting on Thursday, Main Street at the Wharf will transform from a parking lot into a stunning backdrop filled with impressive cars ready to be seen and admired during the car show. The spots are reserved, allowing the cars to cruise through so spectators can enjoy them in action and get a closer look once they’re parked. The motto is “Bring your dream ride and cruise with us,” welcoming all participants and car enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of cruising the open roads. Vendors will set up next to the "Swap Meet Tents," where you can meet enthusiasts ready to share details about their hot rods and offer guidance and goods, so maybe you can participate in the show next time. Patrons can explore the shops, enjoy local live music, and enter door prize drawings, all while soaking in the excitement of the displays. Thursday night kicks off the festivities with a party hosted by Marker 158 Dockside from 5-8 PM. The highlight of the event will occur on Saturday, with the annual cruise stretching over 14 miles from the Wharf down the scenic Beach Highway and back. A special thanks goes to the Orange Beach Police Department, who will escort participants safely through intersections and red lights, allowing them to maintain a speed of 25 mph. The celebration continues afterward with a party at Island Time Daiquiris. Happy cruising and enjoy the show!
Friday, April 24th-
The time has finally arrived for Flora-Bama’s world-famous annual Mullet Toss weekend, also known as the greatest beach party—hands down, scales up! The Interstate Mullet Toss is legendary, attracting one of the largest gatherings on the Gulf Coast, where people come from all over the world to participate, spectate, and soak it all up in true Bama style. If you’re unfamiliar with this event, let’s break it down. Contestants compete to toss a dead mullet ( a fish) over the state line between Florida and Alabama to see who can throw it the furthest, all supporting charity. What started as a unique get-together has grown into an internationally recognized event, where people gather to experience the excitement and share in the weekend festivities while supporting local youth charities focused on education and prevention programs. Over $40,000 is raised annually for these efforts. The tossing begins on Friday and continues through Sunday from 10 AM to noon, but the party lasts all day and night. Participation costs start at $20 per toss and include a T-shirt. The venue opens at 9 AM, so come early to sign up or just to watch and enjoy the spectacle of the Interstate Mullet Toss. All fish are donated after the event to local organizations that help feed animals, such as the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Alligator Alley. Don’t miss out—this is one epic party showdown you won’t want to skip!
Saturday, April 25th-
Spring is a time for motivation and preparation for summer, with fresh scents blooming, new beginnings blossoming, and plenty of opportunities for physical activity. Orange Beach Parks and Recreation has crafted a recipe for better health that is just what the doctor ordered. Join the 100 Alabama Miles Challenge, kicking off at 8 AM on Saturday at the award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail – Sportsplex Trailhead. This statewide initiative is one that the city is proud to be a part of. Participants are encouraged to move for a total of 100 miles this year by walking, running, hiking, biking, swimming, paddling, or even rolling. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, this challenge is for everyone. Participating locally provides a great opportunity to connect with others and find accountability partners for your journey, all while enjoying Alabama's beautiful natural surroundings. T-shirts will be handed out at the trailhead while supplies last, so be sure to arrive early and take part in this event, which has already logged over 329,000 miles since 2018 and continues to grow. Bring a friend and come out to make new ones. This is one spring event you won't want to miss!
100 Alabama Miles Challenge
Sunday, April 26th-
Let’s be real—dining out is definitely a delightful experience we all cherish now and then! But after a bustling week filled with socializing, there's nothing quite like enjoying a fresh, home-cooked meal that hits the spot. That’s where S & S Seafood Market + Kitchen comes in, offering the ideal blend of convenience and flavor! Imagine savoring your meal as if you’re relaxing on a picturesque dock, with a gentle sea breeze and the enticing aroma of seafood in the air, all from the comfort of your own home. Open every day from 11 AM to 8 PM, S & S makes it easy to enjoy a delicious seafood feast. Whether you want to order raw or cooked dishes, or add a mouthwatering appetizer like their famous smoked tuna dip, you’re in for a treat. Swing by after a lovely sleep-in or post-church, and grab dinner for the whole family! You can choose from cracking open a crab claw or indulging in succulent, shucked oysters. If grilling is more your style, pick up a fresh fish fillet or some shrimp to boil—the options are endless! Want the royal treatment? Just ask the friendly staff to prepare your meal, and take home hot, ready-to-eat dishes right to your dining table. When you opt for this service, you’ll find an expanded menu featuring delightful items like sausage, crab cakes, and a variety of salads and sides tailored to your taste. No matter how you choose to enjoy your Sunday brunch, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone craving more. Mark your calendar for this gem—you won’t find a fresher, more satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Gulf Coast right to your home!
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