Experience the Nature of Orange Beach, AL

The beauty of the Alabama coast is seen clearly in Orange Beach, Alabama. From the crystal waters to the colorful birds in the sky, Orange Beach is a nature-lovers dream! Known as a hot destination for hikers, bikers, and bird watchers, discover some of the best places to go to encounter the nature of Orange Beach, AL.

Table of Contents

• Orange Beach Islands
• Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails
• Gulf State Park Pier
• Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
• Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

 

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Orange Beach Islands

 

Pictured above is Robinson Island, and for more information about this island and the other Orange Beach Islands, click here: https://orangebeachislands.com/

 

A favorite spot for both Orange Beach visitors and locals, the Orange Beach Islands include:

• Bird Island
• Robinson Island
• Gilchrist Island
• Walker Island

With some of the Gulf Coast’s rarest plants, marine life, and bird species, the Orange Beach Islands offer a treasure-trove of sightseeing experiences. Located in the Perdido Pass, many visitors take the opportunity to enjoy the pristine beaches of Robinson and Bird Island after a long day of bird-watching!

Renting a pontoon through OB Watersports is a great way to get to the islands, as they are only accessible by watercraft. Whatever your pleasure, a trip to the Orange Beach Islands is sure to provide memorable encounters with Alabama’s nature!

{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores Orange Beach Pontoon Boat Rentals Online}

 

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails

 

Renting a bicycle in Orange Beach is one of the best ways to get up close and personal with nature, especially at one of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails. Image from Back Country Trail.

 

Spanning more than 15 miles through Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and the Gulf State Park, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails are made up of seven trails and six unique ecosystems. From the historic roads of Catman Trail, to the rampant wildlife of Rattlesnake Ridge, all seven trails bring about a memorable experience! Throughout the park find several exciting attractions and activities including:

• Eco Tours
• Geocaching Treasure Hunts
• A Butterfly Garden

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails are one of the top destinations for outdoor fun!

 

Gulf State Park Pier

 

Visiting the Gulf State Park Pier, pictured above, is one of the many fun and affordable activities Gulf Shores has to offer. Image from Flickr

 

With 2,448 feet of fishing space, Gulf State Park Pier is the second longest pier on the Gulf of Mexico! Year-round, on-site dining from “Butts on the Beach” makes for a great meal anytime, but fishing isn’t the only thing to do on the Gulf State Park Pier!

Keep an eye out for a multitude of sea critters, and multiple seabird species including the White Pelican, Brown Pelican, and the majestic Blue Heron! There is a $3 fee to walk the pier, but a few bucks is easily worth an afternoon of exciting views.

{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Fishing Charters Online}

 

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

 

According to a recent Traveler Story, the nature of Orange Beach is truly something you don’t want to miss! Image from Wikimedia

 

A true homage to Alabama’s natural landscapes and wildlife, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge features multiple trails with spectacular views. The time of the year dictates which wildlife will be seen, but four trails with over six miles of space will turn up some of Alabama’s most amazing creatures including:

• Alligators
• Sea turtles
• Bobcats
• Red foxes
• Snowy plovers

...and several other endangered species find refuge among Bon Secour’s many trails, as well! Open year-round during daylight hours, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers a nature-fueled kid-friendly adventure! Habitats encompass Alabama’s last remaining coastal barrier habitat, beach dunes, and rolling pine-oak woodlands.

{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores Orange Beach Kid Friendly Activities Online}

 

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

 

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is one of the best activities for kids in Orange Beach

 

Over 500 exotic animals fill the 30 acres of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The world’s most incredible animals are awaiting your arrival including:

• Lions
• Primates
• Wolves
• Bears
• And MORE!

Open year round, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo keeps things fresh with seasonal animal encounters, daily shows, and keeper talks. Rates for the zoo start at $8 for children admission, with $1 off admission with military ID. The zoo is located at 1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL, 36542.

If you’re seeking marine life in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area, look no further than the coast. Find exciting animals like dolphins, sharks, sea birds, stingray, and more in the bays, outlets, and gulf of Mexico. One of the best ways to view these sea creatures is on a sightseeing cruise. You can find the best dolphin cruise Orange Beach and Gulf Shores has to offer right here on Tripshock.

{Read Reviews & Book Gulf Shores Orange Beach Dolphin Cruises Online}