Although you may not be familiar with Orange Beach, Ala., this Gulf Coast town offers plenty to capture your attention. Spend a few days here acquainting yourself with its many activities, and you’ll keep coming back for more, time and time again.

Visitors to Orange Beach will get their fill of fun in the sun at a myriad of attractions and destinations. One of the best places to start is The Wharf. This all-encompassing site features everything you could need in one location: shopping, dining, live music, accommodations and more. In addition, The Wharf includes an amphitheater, a golf club, a fishing program and a marina.

For a memorable experience, take a ride on The Wharf’s 112-foot Ferris wheel, the tallest in the Southeast. Also, with a mix of national retailers and local boutiques, shopping divas are sure to find that perfect souvenir to take back home. To make the most of your visit, check out The Wharf’s Web site (www.thewharfal.com) and peruse the events calendar. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained!

For a cultural pursuit, head to the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum, where you can peruse exhibits on the area’s Native American and fishing heritage. Housed in an old schoolhouse with original furnishings, the museum is a wonderful site to explore a variety of historical artifacts and memorabilia. To explore the world under the gulf waters, check out Monsters from the Deep, an exhibit focused on sharks and other deadly sea creatures such as moray eels, stingrays, sea snakes and more.

When your thoughts turn to cuisine, Orange Beach can satisfy your appetite. Obviously, there is a strong focus on fish and seafood, so check out local hot spots like Calypso Joe’s Caribbean Grill, Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar, and Ginny Lane Bar and Grill.

Want to do and see more? Check out Mobile, Gulf Shores, Foley and Dauphin Island, all just a close drive away. To learn more about Orange Beach or any of these Gulf Coast locales, visit www.gulfshores.com or call 800-745-SAND.