8 Things to Do in March

1. Celebrate the Arts with the Whole Family

This year marks the 50^th Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art from March 11-12. At this popular event, you’ll find over 100 vendors showcasing incredible art, local food trucks, live performances and art demonstrations, and a kid’s art gallery. To top it all off, the festival takes place at Waterfront Park, giving attendees beautiful bayfront views and a comfortable breeze.

2. Cast Your Line

It’s no secret that the Gulf Coast is a prime location for fishing, and with the largest charter fleet in the area, Alabama’s beaches are the best place to drop a line. During March, anglers can catch bluefish, cobia, pompano, and many more species that are prominent during the spring season. Whether you prefer inshore, nearshore, or deep sea fishing, you’re bound to reel a fish tale you'll share for years to come. Take your haul to one of the area's many restaurants that will cook your catch for you. 

3. Hit the Mini-Golf Course

Mini golf is the perfect spring break and family vacation activity, and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have plenty of spots to play, like Shrimpy’s, which offers 18 holes and a great ice cream shop. Over at Beachside Mini Golf, you’ll discover an 18-hole, handicap-accessible course, while Tiki’s Mini Golf offers $5 games and bike rentals. Watch out for the erupting volcano as you putt through the course at Adventure Island, or follow in the footsteps of renowned pirates like Blackbeard at Pirate’s Island. If you’re looking for a truly unique mini-golf experience, check out Jurassic Golf and play a glow-in-the-dark game among dinosaurs!

4. Go Searching for Dolphins

While plenty of charters and guided tours are available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, some of the most exciting are dolphin cruises. If you’ve ever wanted to see dolphins up close in their natural habitat, this is your chance. You’ll have the opportunity to watch these friendly creatures swim around the coastal waters and pop out to say hello. The guides know where the dolphins hang out and will share their knowledge of dolphin life with those on board.

5. Admire Extravagant Boats & Yachts

Whether you’re looking to buy a boat or just like marveling at lavish yachts, you’ll have a blast at The Wharf’s Annual Boat and Yacht Show on March 15-17. This event is known for bringing the best pricing of the year for boat buyers, as well as showcasing the latest technology in world-class marine electronics, fishing gear, and more. In addition to the impressive yachts, you'll find many other types of boats on display--skiffs, pontoons, and cruises, to name a few.

6. Step Back in Time

Add a little history lesson to your trip and discover the unique role Historic Fort Morgan played during the civil war. This third masonry fort has guarded our coastal waters for almost two centuries and stood tall through several wars, including the famous Battle of Mobile of Bay. Visitors can explore the tunnels, battery bowyer, magazines, and more iconic spots in and around the fort. It’s the perfect way to learn about the history of the area!

7. Race on the Beach

Flora-Bama hosts its Annual Beach Run for America’s Warriors on Saturday, March 16. The race includes a 5K and half marathon, and racers will run/walk along the scenic beach road, beginning at the oyster bar. All proceeds benefit the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. This race is a perfect way to enjoy our beautiful white-sand beaches while supporting a great cause.

8. Explore Gulf State Park

You can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and kayaking all year round on the Alabama Gulf Coast. However, the comfortable weather spring brings to our beaches makes March a perfect time to experience the natural beauty of the area, and with 6,150 acres and nine distinct ecosystems, the beautiful Gulf State Park is a great place to get out and explore.

If you’re looking for more fun things to do during your spring trip to Alabama’s beaches, check out the unique attractions and upcoming events in the area!