When it comes to milestone birthdays, 40 is a big one. Friends and family typically make a big deal out of it, and that’s exactly what you should do for this occasion: Orange Beach, Alabama, turns 40 in 2024. I can’t think of a better excuse to take at least a day trip to one of Alabama’s best beach towns. Just say you’re celebrating a friend’s big birthday and hit the road. Though, do you need an excuse?

The beautiful Gulf Coast community of Orange Beach was incorporated as a city in 1984, although it had been settled long before. It is part of Baldwin County, founded in 1809.
Orange Beach Welcome Center/Facebook
Today, Orange Beach has a population of about 8,700 people year-round. However, it accommodates more than ten times as many people during its summer season peak as a premier vacation destination in Alabama and the entire Gulf Coast. One of its top attractions is The Wharf, which is especially hopping during events like the Orange Beach Freedom Fest and Bama Coast Cruisin' Car Show.
City of Orange Beach/Facebook
The Orange Beach Festival of Art kicks off the season every year in early March. Speaking of big birthdays, this festival marks its 50th in 2024. The nationally ranked fine arts and design show is free to attend and features live music, food vendors, and oodles of engaging artwork.
Orange Beach Festival of Art/Facebook

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While special events are wonderful, there is no shortage of things to do any time of year. A major highlight is the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, 28 miles for hiking and biking through the diverse ecosystems of Gulf State Park. In 2023, USA Today named it the best recreational trail in the country.
Orange Beach Welcome Center/Facebook
If you prefer a slower speed, you can always just enjoy a drink by the water at a hangout like SanBar at the Wharf.
The Wharf/Facebook
Nothing really beats just sinking your toes in the pure white sands and watching the waves roll onto the beach. Any or all of these are perfectly suitable day-trip plans that do Orange Beach's 40th birthday justice.
Orange Beach Welcome Center/Facebook

Are you ready to join the year-long celebration as Orange Beach, Alabama, turns 40? We’d love to hear about your plans – or favorite places to go if you’re a regular.

If you’re like me, one day at the beach is never enough. You may think a day trip will do it, but if you decide to stay, there are many highly-rated hotel options in this vacation hotspot.

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