As we cross the halfway point for the Gulf Coast Summer Season, below is a series of events that promises to keep everyone in the family entertained. From adrenaline-pumping water adventures to festive street parties, there's something for everyone. This week, locals and visitors alike can enjoy thrilling boat rides, outdoor dining with stunning views, patriotic celebrations, and family-friendly activities. Whether it's running in a race, enjoying fireworks, or savoring delicious food, the upcoming days are packed with memorable experiences for all ages.

Monday, July 1st - Summer is going by fast so why not speed it up with some adrenaline fueled memory making moments aboard “The Screaming Eagle”. Hudson’s Marina offers a wide variety of on the water fun, so it’s no surprise they have the fastest boat on the island at the ready to take guests on an all-inclusive boat ride with all the waterpark, amusement ride, splish splashing good time feels. Get ready to get wet while your captain speeds you across the pristine coastline of Orange Beach. Inside the jet boat are seats that evoke theme park rides while you strap in and prepare for take off. As the gears go down, the hands go up just like the tingling sensation of a loopy loop roller coaster ride. The boat adventure lasts about 45 minutes, leaving plenty of time to cruise the waters and enjoy the views before and after the soak speed attack. Call or book online to save your seat on what some are calling Alabama’s very own “Lightning McScream,” this is one mark off the summer list of fun you didn’t even know you needed. 

Hudson’s Marina of Orange Beach - Jet Boat

4575 Wilson Blvd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

(251) 981–4128

Visit their website for more information.

Tuesday, July 2nd - Take some shade at hot spot outdoor dining favorite, The Gulf. Never feel like you're missing the action once you sit down at this prime pass location valuing more water activity views than other waterfront venues in the area. See the boats fishing under the bridge, local water sport and dolphin cruises heading out for their adventures, catch beach goer silliness across the way, birds of prey, great blue herons, and more, possibly a pod of dolphins taking a spin or catching some din. Enjoy something from the “locally inspired food and beverage” menu while basking in the warmth of the summer sun with just the right amount of canopy protection to keep you chilling for more. Make sure to slow down and take a moment to admire the fully eco-friendly venue design that’s unlike any other on the Gulf Coast while visiting. 

The Gulf Restaurant

24700 Perdido Beach Blvd at Perdido Pass

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Visit their website for more information.

Wednesday, July 3rd - There’s nothing more American than a street party with food, music, and unique festivities all the way down the block. Parents come early, find a spot to claim and plan to stay past dark for one spectacular day/night with The Wharf’s Independence Day Street Party Celebration. The fun kicks off around 5PM with the kids entertainment district filled up for fun that all can enjoy. There will be bounce houses, a mechanical shark, a rock wall and the sod after bubble truck all for free. Make sure they bring their allowances if they want to participate in the $10 face painting options and camel rides. Look out or look up to find the stilt walkers, make a stop by the reptile bus to see what awaits inside, all while dancing to tunes turned up by DJ Matt and special appearances by Ms. Lady Liberty herself and, of course, Uncle Sam. Fireworks are planned to go off before 9PM and end with the last of the evening SPECTRA Laser Light Experience, where the trees light up and the whole family gets to dancing.

The Wharf Independence Day Street Party

23101 Canal Rd 

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Visit their website for more information.

Thursday, July 4th - On the busiest day of the year there is no shortage of events or firework shows. Click HERE to see a full list of the major events and a map of the fireworks displays in the region.

Friday, July 5th - Not ready to dive into all the grilled leftovers or to start cooking again and want a quick yet delicious option the whole family will love? Try Cactus Cantina in Orange Beach, bringing the coast fast service with a smile and a little bit of heat, pepper heat that is all season long. Find authentic plates, California style and American all in one location. Choose from various cheesy dips with meat and beans, for appetizers to go with their homemade slightly spicy salsa and warm homemade tortilla chips. The Cantina prides itself on family values and comradery owned and operated by cousins who then expanded to what it is today with other family members jumping on board for the adventure that’s since led to six successful locations. Check out the bar menu for some mouthwatering margarita flavors, craft beers and more, also offering full menu services, inside and with outdoor seating for first come, first served. It doesn’t have to be a Tuesday to load up on tacos and more, stop by to see for yourself why this Cantina won the award for Best Mexican food on the Gulf Coast.

Cactus Cantina Mexican Grill

25311 Perdido Beach Blvd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Visit their website for more information.

Saturday, July 6th - Let freedom ring and the whole island sing it's time for Flora-Bama’s 4th Annual Freedom Run. Grab your 4th holiday swag and pull out all the red, white and blue fits your own. The more, the merrier and they do mean flair for the more, earned or not. Anything goes as they say at the Bama and this is no exception, they are calling on participants to “make this run scream AMERICA!” There will be two courses for the patriotic run, the 4-mile walk/run or the 1-mile fun or walk about. Sign up fast to be a part of the first 400 registrants to receive their special edition race shirt, patriotic swag because we always need more, plus food and drinks for all at the post-race party. All the fun run or walk racers will receive a medal after they cross the finish line and the 4-milers will have a 1st, 2nd and 3rd place division and an overall male and female. The fun begins rain or shine at 8AM so be sure to arrive early so not to miss anything and click the link below for more details on the event and other fun happenings at all the Flora-Bama locations near you. 

Flora- Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar

17401 Perdido Key Dr. 

Pensacola, FL 32507

Visit their website for more information.

Sunday, July 7th - Never miss a firework display from the water again all aboard one of Orange Beach Boat and Yacht Sales quality pre-owned boats. Stop by the new sales office located at the back end of Zeke’s dry storage and meet Wade, Jarett, and their friendly sales dog, Riggs. The experienced team is constantly changing the inventory of over 30 boats and are patiently waiting to assist you with your next big purchase. So, come on down and let the boys and Riggs find the perfect vessel for all your water needs. After finding your best match, take a stroll down the docks to check out what others' boat lives will look like, then slip into the dock store for some cool official Zeke’s merch and boat gear. 

Orange Beach Boat and Yacht Sales at Zeke's

26619 Perdido Beach Blvd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

View their website for more information.