With Spring just around the corner, we’re all looking forward to Spring Break on the Gulf Coast. Spring is a beautiful time of year to visit the Gulf Coast, the weather has warmed up but it’s not too hot, the waters are crystal clear, and there are fewer crowds than in the summer months. Let’s go over the best places to visit while you’re here on Spring Break.
Orange Beach, Alabama
Located on Alabama’s stunning Gulf Coast, Orange Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant entertainment. Sink your toes into the soft white sand of Orange Beach and soak up the warm spring sunshine. Thrill-seekers can enjoy a variety of water sports, from jet skiing and parasailing to paddleboarding and kayaking. After a day of fun in the sun, explore the local dining scene, which boasts fresh seafood and waterfront restaurants offering breathtaking views of the Gulf.
Places to Check Out in Orange Beach While on Spring Break on the Gulf Coast
Gulf Adventure Center at Gulf State Park
If you’re looking for adventures while you’re on Spring Break on the Gulf Coast, you should head over to the Gulf Adventure Center. Located right between Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, it’s worth the short trek to see some amazing views. Zipline over the beaches at a birds-eye perspective and bask in the sunshine. If heights are not your type of fun, then you can rent paddle boards and kayaks and set out on the water.
FloraBama
This down-home waterfront bar & grill offers oysters, pub grub & live music every day. With five stages offering live music, a full grill, and a marina, you can spend a day at the FloraBama. After you dig into some delicious food, why not rent a jet ski or a day cruise? Nightlife at the FloraBama is amazing, with multiple bars to choose from, you can hang out on the beach and have a daiquiri or dance the night away.
It’s uniquely right on the line between Orange Beach & Perdido Key, so after you check out Orange Beach, head over to Perdido Key to see what other Spring Break fun the Gulf Coast has to offer.
Perdido Key, Florida
For those seeking a more laid-back Spring Break experience, Perdido Key is the place for you. Tucked away on the western edge of the Florida Panhandle, Perdido Key is a pristine barrier island known for its unspoiled beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Spanish for “Lost Key,” Perdido Key offers a secluded escape surrounded by natural beauty. Spend your days lounging on the sugar-white sands of Johnson Beach or exploring the scenic trails of Perdido Key State Park. Nature lovers can spot a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles and migratory birds while kayaking through the calm waters of Big Lagoon.
Perdido Key is the perfect destination for those looking for less of a party scene during Spring Break. With miles of beaches to get lost on, it’s the perfect place during Spring Break on the Gulf Coast to sunbathe, swim, and relax.
Places to Check Out in Perdido Key While on Spring Break on the Gulf Coast
Hub Stacey’s at the Point
A fun place to grab a bite to eat and have a drink is Hub Stacey’s. Overlooking the Galvez Landing Boat Launch, you can dock your boat and come in for a relaxing atmosphere or take a short drive from the beach to hang out. With indoor and outdoor seating, you can sit back and listen to bands play or get some air conditioning and relax before you get back on the water.
Perdido Key Parasailing
You can go parasailing over the Gulf from many locations, but we recommend Perdido Key. The chances of seeing sea turtles, dolphins, and sting rays are highly likely on this quiet corner of the Gulf Coast. The feeling of flying over the water is exhilarating yet peaceful. It’s a great way to get vacation photos that you can enjoy for a lifetime.
Pensacola Beach, Florida
If you’re looking for a fun place to party or relax during Spring Break, Pensacola Beach offers a lot of beachside bars and grills to listen to live music, dance, and enjoy the views. There are miles of the beach to explore, and every nook has its own personality. If you go towards the famous Pensacola Beach Ball, you’ll find crowds of people all partying on the beach, a great place to mingle and meet people.
If partying is not your activity of choice, take a walk along the Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier, where you can spot dolphins frolicking in the waves, or cast a line and try your luck at catching dinner. Explore historic Fort Pickens or paddleboard through the calm waters of Santa Rosa Sound. There’s something for everyone to enjoy on Pensacola Beach.
Places to Check Out in Pensacola Beach While on Spring Break on the Gulf Coast
Pensacola Beach Boardwalk
Right across the street from the Pensacola Beach Ball is the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. If you want to enjoy dining and shopping, definitely check out the stretch of local shops and dives to grab a meal. There’s a great place to take a picture of yourself in a full-size half-shell right on the boardwalk, a tourist favorite.
UFO’s Mini-Golf, Ice Cream & Arcade
If you’re looking for a family-friendly break from the beach, we love the UFO-style mini-golf. If you haven’t heard, Pensacola Beach is a hot spot for UFO sightings. This spot has leaned into the sightings and made it “out of this world.” The arcade and ice cream shop are the cherry on top of this destination.
Navarre Beach, Florida
Nestled between Pensacola Beach and Destin, Navarre Beach offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of larger Spring Break destinations. Known for its uncrowded beaches and pristine natural beauty, Navarre Beach is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Spend your days sunbathing on the powdery white sand, snorkeling in the clear emerald waters, or paddleboarding along the tranquil Santa Rosa Sound.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Navarre Beach Marine Park, home to diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs. Don’t forget to catch a breathtaking sunset from the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, where the sky paints a masterpiece of vibrant hues over the Gulf of Mexico.
Places to Check Out in Navarre Beach While on Spring Break on the Gulf Coast
Juana’s Pagodas
Spring Break on the Gulf Coast wouldn’t be complete without visiting this famous tiki bar. With amazing views of the white sands and the Santa Rosa Sound, Juana’s is a local & tourist favorite. The six volleyball courts on the sand will have the whole family having fun. You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis and set out on a voyage.
Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary
If you want to see some wildlife while you’re on Spring Break on the Gulf Coast, you don’t want to miss out on the Marine Sanctuary. They’ve built artificial reefs to support the local aquatic life, and it’s a breathtaking experience, to say the least. You can spot octopuses, tropical fish, and more!
Destin, Florida
Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin, Florida, is a paradise for anglers and beach lovers alike. Nestled along the Emerald Coast, Destin boasts sugar-white sand beaches and shimmering turquoise waters that beckon visitors year-round. Spring Breakers can indulge in a wide range of activities, from deep-sea fishing charters and dolphin cruises to shopping at the iconic HarborWalk Village. After a day of adventures, unwind with a sunset stroll along the boardwalk or savor fresh seafood at one of Destin’s many waterfront restaurants.
Things to Do in Destin While on Spring Break on the Gulf Coast
Sandcastle Rockstars
Have you ever wanted to make a show-stopping sand castle? Why not learn from the experts and have a great time making your vision a reality? This is a great thing to do with the whole family or a group of friends, and trust us when we say, these are not your average sand castles. You’ll learn to build huge structures with the perfect mix of sand, and let your imagination run wild.
Fishing Charter
It wouldn’t be a trip to Destin without checking out the deep sea fishing. When you’re in the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, it doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, you’d be hard-pressed to not catch a fish. You’ll have an experienced captain at the helm, and the help of the crew to make sure you’re baiting and catching the fish you’re looking for. They’ll help you find the local’s best-kept secret spots to fish Amberjack, Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, and more.
Is Spring Break on the Gulf Coast Not Enough?
If you love the Gulf Coast like we do, then you should consider living where you vacation. As a local, you’ll enjoy much more than just Spring Break on the Gulf Coast, you can live right near the beaches and visit as often as you like. We know we staycation as often as possible, because why would we ever want to leave this paradise?
If you’re interested in calling the Gulf Coast home, contact us today. We have experienced real estate agents from Gulf Shores, Alabama to Destin, Florida. We even have long-term rental options if you want to see if living here is the right move for you. Reach out so we can help you find your dream property on the Gulf Coast.
