6 Top Tours & Things To Do In Gulf Shores (With Reviews & Prices)

Gulf Shores isn’t just about beautiful beaches — it offers a surprising variety of tours and activities that can turn a simple getaway into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re eager to get on the water, soar above the coast, or explore nearby attractions, there’s something for every type of traveler.

We particularly like activities like the Gulf Shores stand up paddle boarding lesson and tour, which perfectly combines outdoor fun with wildlife sightings, and the 30-minute helicopter tour for those who want a quick, breathtaking view of the coast from above. These experiences showcase Gulf Shores’ natural beauty and add a sense of adventure to your trip.

For anyone interested in exploring the wider region, Mobile’s attractions via the Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass provide great value, offering access to 11 different sites, from aquariums to historic parks.

And if you’re traveling with family or looking for a fun, relaxed activity, the Gulf Shores Beach Splash and Dash Tour & Scavenger Hunt offers a playful way to discover the area’s highlights. Below, we’ll break down each of these options and help you find the perfect match for your Gulf Shores adventure.

1. Gulf Shores stand up paddle boarding lesson and tour

For just $59, this guided, small-group paddleboard lesson and sightseeing tour lasts about 75 minutes and is perfect for all ages and skill levels. It’s based in Waikiki, but the general concept of paddleboarding in a calm shoreline setting translates well to Gulf Shores’ beaches. During this tour, you’ll get a lightweight paddleboard and paddle included, making it easy to focus on having fun.

What makes this tour special is how it combines a workout with close encounters with nature. You’ll paddle along the shoreline, keeping an eye out for local wildlife, including the occasional sea turtle. The small-group setting guarantees personalized attention, whether you’re new to paddleboarding or already comfortable on a board.

Reviewers give it a perfect 5.0/5, praising the friendly guides and the chance to enjoy the water in a relaxed, safe environment.

This activity is best suited for active travelers who want a bit of sunshine, water, and wildlife, with no prior experience necessary. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a sense of adventure. Bottom line: fun, accessible, and a great way to add some physical activity to your Gulf Shores visit.

2. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach: 30-Minute Helicopter Tour

If you’re after an aerial view of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, this 30-minute helicopter ride hits the mark. For $260 per person, you’ll fly over the coast, islands, and notable landmarks such as The Wharf, Pirate’s Cove, Wolf Bay, and Gulf State Park.

The tour includes a private, climate-controlled experience, with round-trip transportation in a golf cart shuttle directly to the aircraft — a nice touch that keeps the process smooth.

What sets this tour apart is how it offers a 360-degree perspective of the area’s beaches and natural scenery. During the flight, you’ll see wildlife in the water and get a sense of the coast’s scale and beauty from above. Reviewers give a perfect 5/5, noting that the views are spectacular and the pilot is professional and friendly.

It’s ideal for travelers seeking a memorable, quick scenic adventure that provides incredible photo opportunities without the commitment of a full-day tour. Keep in mind, this experience is on the pricier side, but for many, the view from the air is worth every penny. Bottom line: a top choice for a special treat or a romantic outing.

3. Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass

At $25 per person, the Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass offers access to 11 key spots across Mobile, Dauphin Island, and Spanish Fort. This pass is flexible, with options for 1, 2, or 5 days of admission, making it perfect for a multi-day exploration. It covers attractions like the Alabama Aquarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Bellingrath Gardens & Home, and historic battle sites.

The highlight for many is the Alabama Aquarium, where you’ll see over 100 species across 31 aquariums highlighting coastal habitats. The pass also includes Bellingrath Gardens, a 65-acre estate with year-round blooms, and other cultural sites like museums and parks. One reviewer notes that understanding how to redeem tickets can be tricky, so save your verification email.

This pass is well-suited for travelers who want to make the most of their time in Mobile and nearby areas without paying for each attraction separately. It balances affordability with a wide variety of experiences, perfect for families or curious travelers wanting a flexible itinerary. Bottom line: excellent value for those planning to visit multiple sites across the region.

4. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach Area Multi-Attraction Pass

For $37, this multi-activity pass covers seven attractions around Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Foley, and Spanish Fort. It’s designed for visitors who want a broader taste of the region’s highlights in a flexible way. Included are the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Foley Railroad Museum, Historic Blakeley State Park, The Wharf, and USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.

One of the standout stops is the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, where you’ll see around 300 animals, including giraffes, lemurs, and lions. The pass also grants free access to attractions like the railroad museum and the state park, offering a good mix of wildlife, history, and outdoor fun.

The reviews are mixed, with some mentioning that navigating the tickets can be a bit complex, but overall it provides a good deal for multiple experiences.

Ideal for travelers spending several days who want variety without individual entry costs stacking up. It’s especially good for families and those interested in a combination of wildlife, history, and local culture. Bottom line: solid value if you want to explore multiple Gulf Shores attractions with one ticket.

5. Gulf Shores Beach Splash and Dash Tour & Scavenger Hunt

For $20, this self-guided scavenger hunt offers a casual, fun way to explore Gulf Shores’ beaches and landmarks. Lasting about two hours, it’s designed for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and problem-solving. The tour takes you through the public beaches, historic sites, and local shops along the shoreline, with clues and challenges that unlock hidden treasures.

This activity is perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for an active, interactive experience. You can go at your own pace, making it flexible for different energy levels. Participants particularly enjoy the chance to explore in a playful way, with some free samples included along the route. One review mentions it as a great way to meet locals and see the area beyond just the beaches.

While not as high-adrenaline as a helicopter ride, it offers a relaxed but engaging way to learn about Gulf Shores. It’s best suited for those who prefer a flexible, playful experience over structured tours. Bottom line: a budget-friendly and enjoyable activity for a fun day outdoors.

6. Dizzy Dauphin Island Scavenger Hunt

This unique scavenger hunt costs $29 per person and lasts around two hours. It’s run by a company based in Austin, TX, offering interactive, live-hosted adventures across over 300 cities. Using your phone, you’ll participate in a mix of tour, puzzle-solving, and social challenges designed to reveal the secrets of Dauphin Island.

What makes Dizzy Dauphin Island special is the use of a remote, interactive host to guide and encourage your team, making it a very personalized experience. This activity combines a detective-style hunt with fun challenges, providing an immersive way to discover the island’s landmarks and stories. Reviewers who appreciate a creative, social approach will find this a memorable way to explore the area.

It’s best suited for active, puzzle-loving travelers who want to add a social and competitive element to their visit. The experience is flexible, engaging, and offers a fresh take on sightseeing. Bottom line: an inventive, fun activity if you’re looking for something different from typical tours.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Gulf Shores

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and the kind of experience you want. If you’re after outdoor adventure and wildlife, the paddleboarding lesson or the scenic helicopter flight are excellent picks.

For those interested in wider regional exploration, the Mobile Multi-Attraction Pass offers great value to see museums and parks, while the Gulf Shores Area Pass provides a good mix of wildlife, history, and family-friendly attractions.

If you prefer a fun, relaxed activity, the Beach Splash and Dash scavenger hunt offers a playful way to discover Gulf Shores at your own pace. Conversely, for something more interactive and social, the Dizzy Dauphin Island scavenger hunt provides a unique, guided experience with a live host.

Think about how much time you have, your budget, and whether you want adventure, education, or entertainment. Booking early is advisable, especially for helicopter tours or popular activities, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Gulf Shores offers a surprising variety of tours and activities that cater to different interests and travel styles. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping water sports, aerial views, or engaging scavenger hunts, this list provides a good starting point.

For the best experience, match your choice to your personal interests and travel plans — and don’t forget to book in advance for the most popular tours. Enjoy your Gulf Shores adventure!