Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) —  Cue the sunshine, salty air, and flip-flop season because summer is officially arriving on Alabama’s Gulf Coast in full swing. This week’s coastal lineup features everything locals and visitors cherish most about the start of summer and beach life—meaningful Memorial Day celebrations honoring veterans, waterfront concerts under the stars, white-sand beach days, rainy-day family fun, creative sandcastle building, back-bay sunsets, community fishing traditions, and even a festival celebrating the wild seabirds that inhabit the shoreline. Whether you’re enjoying live music at The Wharf, grabbing burgers after trampoline adventures in Gulf Shores, learning to sculpt sandy masterpieces, or relaxing dockside at Bear Point Harbor as boats drift in at sunset, there are countless ways to kick off the first official week of summer. Here, summer doesn’t just arrive—it makes a grand shining entrance.

Tuesday, May 26th- The heat is on, and summer vibes are reverberating across the entire state, especially here on the Gulf Coast. Explore the public beaches in Gulf Shores, offering spacious areas where everyone can spread out and enjoy the white-sand shores while soaking up the sun, all within walking distance of local restaurants and popular spots for lunch or a relaxing cool drink. After a day of collecting shells and feeling the salty breeze on your cheek, pop into the Hangout, conveniently located just behind one of the main public beach accesses. Here, you’ll discover charming mini shops, multiple bars, a dining area, and a fenced-in yet open-air dance and music venue onsite where artist W.B. SIMS performs from 6-10 PM. His soulful vocals and strings deliver a blend of country, rock, and soul, deeply rooted in the South, perfect for a summer start on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, from beach day to evening. 

Gulf Shores Public Beach

The Hangout GS

Wednesday, May 27th-  Rain clouds gathering over sandy shores? Don’t let the weather spoil your plans. Instead, head indoors to The Factory just a couple miles from the beach for an afternoon full of fun for both kids and adults. Enjoy bouncing, climbing, competing, and using trampolines a plenty, climbing walls, batting cages, and arcade games. Whether you’re trying out the “Jump Up” experience or exploring the climbing arena, it’s an ideal rainy day activity for island visitors needing a break from the weather. After all that activity, stop by Bleus Burger, a local favorite nearby. Known for juicy handcrafted burgers, loaded fries, and more, in a relaxed setting, it’s the perfect comfort food spot after an energetic day. From classic cheeseburgers to creative specialties, Bleus offers a laid-back lunch or dinner that keeps locals and visitors coming back. Rainy beach days might not always go as planned, but this combo is definitely a win you can pencil in. 

The Factory 

Blues Burger 

Thursday, May 28th- Elevate your Gulf Coast vacation or kick off summer as a local with Sand Castle University, where everyday beach days become artistic sand castles. Based on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, this locally owned experience teaches all ages the skills behind building professional-looking sand castles that look almost too good to wash away. Perfect for families, dates, friends, or anyone wanting a unique beach experience, these private classes provide tools, creativity, and coastal fun. You'll go from piling sand like a kid to carving towers and arches that surprise onlookers. It's a fun island life activity that mixes creativity, laughter, sunshine, and friendly competition. Building sand castles as an adult is surprisingly rewarding, but don’t take my word for it—go carve out your own masterpiece one grain at a time. 

Sand Castle University 

Friday, May 29th- Looking for a top sunset spot on the Alabama coast? Head to Bear Point Harbor, where relaxed waterfront charm blends with everything you love about life on the water. Nestled along the back bays of Orange Beach, Bear Point Harbor offers a bit of everything—from dolphin cruises and sailing adventures to pontoon rentals and fishing charters, perfect for making the most of a coastal afternoon. Boaters can fuel up and settle in with full marina facilities, while visitors can browse the dock store for local gear and essentials before relaxing to enjoy the view. But honestly? The sunsets here take center stage. As the sky lights up over the harbor and boats drift in for the evening, the atmosphere shifts into one of those classic coastal nights you just don’t want to end. Enjoy dinner at OSO restaurant while taking in more gorgeous views, then seamlessly move from the dinner table to the dance floor as grooving music and local nightlife keep the night alive. Whether you arrive by boat, car, or golf cart, Bear Point Harbor is the kind of place that reminds you why back bay living on the Gulf Coast is hard to beat. 

Bear Point Harbor 

Saturday, May 30th- What began decades ago as a small gathering with her mother, Linda “Linday,” sharing lima beans, tomatoes, and onions on a simple paper plate has grown into a treasured community event, especially among local fishing families. Join others from noon to 3 PM for this year’s 2026 Pier Picnic hosted by Lisa Lawrence. Setup will commence about thirty minutes before the noon blessing and feast. Arrive early and stay on. It wouldn't be a coastal event without a bit of fishing. This year, the fishing tournament and fundraiser will benefit local four-year-old Gardner Kesterson, who is battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Whether you’ve attended before or know the family, you're invited to bring a dish, bring a rod, and come along to support the little guy’s journey, and declare with his support, “Gardner Strong.” Plus, you'll enjoy good food, good company, and the allure of Gulf Coast beauty all packed into one event. For more information about the tournament, the fundraiser, or both, please visit the 2026 Pier Picnic Facebook page. 

Alabama Pier

Sunday, May 31st- Celebrate the beauty and significance of our coastal wildlife at this year’s 3rd annual Nest Fest on Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. at Orange Beach Waterfront Park. Held during peak nesting season along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, this family-friendly event highlights the incredible shorebirds and seabirds that call our beaches home each spring and summer. From the tiny Snowy Plover to the striking Black Skimmer and American Oystercatcher, these birds rely on our dunes, marshes, and protected shorelines to safely nest and raise their young. Guests can enjoy interactive activities for both children and adults, complimentary food, and live music from Saucy Fuzz while learning how simple actions—such as respecting fenced nesting areas, keeping pets leashed, and picking up trash—can help protect these vulnerable coastal species. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, beachgoer, or just seeking a fun afternoon near the water and plenty of shade, Nest Fest is a wonderful way to celebrate and support the wild side of the Alabama coast, all while soaking in the calls or chirps of the season. 

3rd Annual Nest Fest