Waterfront park in Orange Beach is located on the bay side of town and is a wonderfully quiet area to spend a few hours out of the sun and away from the beach. Waterfront Park is located near several other things to do including the library and Wind and Water Learning Center.
The Waterfront Park complex features a pier, playground BBQ and picnic areas. The Coastal Art Center is a beautiful new space that functions as an art gallery, wedding and event center and other multi-use space. The Hot Shop and Clay Studio complete the main area.
Orange Beach Coastal Arts Center
The Orange Beach Coastal Arts Center is a 10,000 square foot art gallery with amazing views. Even the staircase is a work of art. The gallery features paintings, photography and sculptures from local artists. Many are available for purchase.
The Orange Beach Coastal Arts Center is also the areas premier wedding venue and hosts other events as well. The space is understandably popular and can book quickly.
The Hot Shop
The hot shop is located just to your left when looking at the Coastal Arts Center. Check glass blowing times prior to your visit. At the hot shop you can watch works of art being made in front of your eyes, purchase beautiful glassware and decorative pieces or sign up for a glass and learn how to make our own masterpiece.
We enjoy sitting on the benches and watching the artists work. Artists are really good at answering questions and it’s really relaxing and enjoyable to see the glass pieces being formed.
The Clay Studio
The Clay Studio is the next building over and is an indoor studio where you can watch artists making pottery. Classes are also available if you would like to get your hands dirty.
Waterfront Park Pier
Waterfront Park Pier in Orange Beach is a wonderful place for a stroll or even fishing especially at sunset. Along the pier you will find stations for fish cleaning.
2020/2021: Waterfront park pier was destroyed but Hurricane Sally in September 2020 in addition to a large amount of other damage in the area. The picture below is prior to Hurricane Sally. The pier has recently been reopened – photos pending.
The Playground at Waterfront Park Orange Beach
Waterfront park has a great playground with climbing fort, swings and toddler area. There are some blind spots that can be hard to see but overall it’s pretty nice. The playground has been in the progress of updates over the last 2 years. As with any playground, always check the appropriateness and safety of areas prior to letting kids run free.
Enjoy Swimming in Wolf Bay
There is a small sandy beach area near the base of the pier. It’s really shallow and can make a nide place for young kids to hang out and swim. You can also bring kayaks and floats.
We’ve even made our own boats …
Find some Friends and have a BBQ
Waterfront Park has several BBQ and gathering areas. Some are near the water and some are near the playground. There is currently not a reserve system but the city does like to be notified of activities to avoid too many overlapping activities.
Sunset at Waterfront Park Orange Beach
Sunset over Wolf Bay can be really beautiful. Walk the pier, find a cozy spot on the shores or bring a float or kayak. Dolphins love to show off at sunset. Sunset and just before sunset are the best times to get great photos.
Festivals and Camps at Waterfront Park Orange Beach
The Coastal Arts Center hosts summer arts camps for kids and is also the location of several festivals and events in the area. For a list of events and festivals look here.
Wind and Water Learning Center
Wind and Water Learning Center in Orange Beach is located just west of Waterfront Park. Wind and Water has sailing lessons, sail camp, kayaking launch and lessons.
Sail camp is offered in the summer months for ages 7 and up. Young sailers learn theory, terminology, safety and other sailing skills. Toward the end of the week they have races. Sail camp spots fill quickly so book them early.
Wind and Water is also the location of the full moon paddle. The full moon paddle is an event held during full moons in summer where a large group paddles across the bay. Fees benefit the American Cancer Society. Full moon paddle is a wonderful chance to kayak in a social environment with a larger group of people.
Visit the Library
The Orange Beach Library is just a short walk from Waterfront Park. The library is a great spot to absorb a little quiet, have a reading break, or just get out of the sun. Story time and other interactive events are available.
Grab a Bite to Eat at GT’s on the Bay
GT’s on the Bay is also walk-able from waterfront park. The restaurant has wonderful views of the bay, a relaxing atmosphere and a yummy menu.
Waterfront Park in Orange Beach makes a great spot to go somewhere a little more relaxed and away from the crowds and heat. There are several activities you can do to spend an enjoyable afternoon.
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