You’re thinking about the Gulf Coast in January and probably imagining shivering on a deserted pier while the wind whips sand into your face. Honestly, it’s not always like that. If you're looking at the weather in orange beach this weekend, specifically January 17th and 18th, 2026, you’re in for a bit of a meteorological seesaw. It is classic Alabama coastal winter. One minute you're in a light hoodie, and the next you’re digging for that heavy coat you swore you wouldn't need south of Montgomery.
The Saturday vs. Sunday breakdown
Saturday is going to be the "outside" day. We are looking at a high of around 63°F, which is actually pretty decent for this time of year. Most people assume January on the coast is a total wash, but a sunny 63-degree day at The Wharf is basically a gift. It’ll be mostly sunny, but don't let the blue skies fool you entirely—there’s a 12 to 14 mph wind coming out of the north and northwest. It’s a dry wind. It’s the kind of breeze that feels fine in the sun but bites the second you step into the shadow of a condo.
Then Sunday hits.
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The temperature is going to take a noticeable dive. We're talking a high of only 50°F to 53°F. If you’re coming down from the Midwest, you’ll probably laugh and wear shorts anyway. For everyone else, that 50-degree mark combined with the Gulf humidity makes it feel significantly colder than the thermostat says. The low on Sunday night is dropping down to 29°F. Yes, a hard freeze on the coast. Basically, if you have sensitive plants on your balcony, or you're staying in an RV, you’ll want to be mindful of that overnight plunge.
What the water is actually doing
You aren’t swimming. Well, unless you’re part of the "Polar Bear" crowd, but even then, the official New Year's dip has passed. The sea temperature is hovering around 63°F right now. That sounds warm compared to the air, but trust me, it’s "wetsuit required" territory.
- Surf Height: It's looking tiny. We’re talking 1 to 2 feet at most.
- Rip Current Risk: Currently rated as Low. Still, never mess with the Gulf; the flags are there for a reason.
- Fishing: The pier at Gulf State Park is usually quieter this time of year, which is great for locals.
If you’re a surfer, Saturday morning might give you some "fair" conditions with a WNW wind, but by Sunday, it’s going to be flat and clean. Great for a walk, bad for a board.
Beyond the beach: What to do when it’s 50 degrees
Since Sunday is going to be chilly, you’ll want to pivot. The good news is that Orange Beach doesn't just shut down because it’s cold. In fact, some of the best winter activities are actually happening this weekend.
The Ice Skating Rink at The Wharf is still open. It’s a bit surreal to ice skate in a t-shirt (on Saturday) or a parka (on Sunday) while looking at palm trees, but it’s a vibe. They’re running 10 am to 10 pm on Saturday.
If you want to stay indoors, Brandon Styles is doing his Variety Show on Saturday night. It’s one man doing about 60 impressions in an hour. It’s fast, it’s weirdly impressive, and it’s heated. For the night owls, Sandshaker is hosting the The Collective Band on Friday and High Cotton on Saturday night. Both start around 9 pm.
Packing for a weekend of mood swings
Pack layers. I know everyone says that, but here it’s a survival tactic.
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Saturday is a "jeans and a long-sleeve tee" day. Sunday is a "heavy fleece and maybe a beanie" day. If you’re planning on being near the water at sunset, the temperature drops fast. The sun sets around 5:14 pm this weekend. Once that orange ball dips below the horizon, that 60-degree high will feel like a distant memory.
Also, don't forget the sunscreen. People forget that the winter sun reflecting off white quartz sand can still give you a nasty burn even if you’re shivering.
Actionable steps for your trip
- Book Saturday for the outdoors: If you want to walk the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail or hit the beach, do it Saturday. The sun will be out, and the air will be much kinder.
- Protect your pipes: If you’re staying in an older beach house or an RV, prepare for that 29°F low on Sunday night.
- Check the flags: Even if the weather looks calm, always check the official beach report before heading to the shoreline.
- Dinner reservations: Places like Tacky Jacks or Flora-Bama get surprisingly busy on weekend nights even in the "off-season." Call ahead if you have a big group.
The weather in orange beach this weekend is perfectly fine for a getaway, as long as you aren't expecting a tropical heatwave. It’s crisp, clear, and a whole lot better than being stuck in the snow further north. Enjoy the quiet version of the island while you can; spring break is only a few weeks away.