You’ve seen the photos of sugar-white sand and turquoise water. You’re ready to bolt to the coast. But then you check the 10 day weather orange beach al and see a forecast that looks more like a mood ring than a tropical paradise.
Honestly, Orange Beach in January is a vibe, but it’s not the vibe most people expect. It’s light jackets and coffee on the balcony, not bikinis and frozen margaritas.
Right now, as of January 17, 2026, the coast is dealing with some "liquid sunshine." If you’re standing outside near Perdido Pass, you’re feeling a 57°F breeze and likely some light to moderate rain. The wind is coming out of the north at 8 mph, which adds just enough bite to make you want a second layer.
The Real 10-Day Outlook for Orange Beach
Don't let today's rain fool you. The coast is about to pull a classic switcheroo.
Tomorrow, Sunday, January 18, is going to be gorgeous but crisp. We’re talking a high of 48°F and a low that hits 34°F. That’s a "bring the heavy sweater" kind of day. The sun will be out, but that north wind is kicking up to 12 mph.
By Monday, things start to mellow. We’ll see 55°F with pure sunshine. It's basically the perfect weather for a long walk at Gulf State Park without breaking a sweat.
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The rest of the week is a slow climb.
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, 54°F.
- Wednesday: Turning cloudy with a high of 60°F.
- Thursday: A bit of light rain again, but staying mild at 61°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny, 62°F.
Then comes the weekend. Saturday, January 24, is looking like the winner with a high of 68°F. That’s about as good as it gets in January. But keep the umbrella handy for Sunday, January 25, because the rain chance jumps back up to 75% for the evening with a high of 68°F and a low of 54°F.
Why "Off-Season" is Secretly Better
Everyone wants the 90-degree July heat. Why? I don't know. It’s humid, crowded, and you’re constantly fighting for a spot to put your chair.
January is different.
You can actually hear the waves. The restaurants? No two-hour wait at The Wharf or Flora-Bama. You just walk in. The air is clean.
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Sure, the water temperature is hovering around 62°F right now. You aren't going for a casual swim unless you have a wetsuit or a very high tolerance for shivering. But the fishing is top-tier. Redfish and flounder are moving, and the piers aren't shoulder-to-shoulder.
Packing Mistakes to Avoid
Most people pack for the beach they want, not the beach they get.
If you only bring shorts, you’re going to be miserable. The humidity here—currently at 71%—makes the cold feel "wetter." It gets into your bones.
What you actually need:
- Layers: A light rain shell over a fleece is the local uniform.
- Shoes: Leave the flip-flops for the hotel room; bring comfortable sneakers for the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.
- Sunscreen: Seriously. Even at 50 degrees, that Gulf sun reflecting off white sand will fry your face. The UV index hits 4 tomorrow.
The Big Beach Marathon Factor
If you're looking at the 10 day weather orange beach al because you're running the Big Beach Marathon on January 25, listen up.
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The morning of the race is looking damp. Light rain is expected during the day with a high of 68°F. That’s actually decent running weather if you don't mind the moisture. It beats running in a 90-degree heatwave any day. Just make sure your gear is moisture-wicking so you don't chafe when the humidity hits 88%.
What to Do When the Rain Hits
Since today (Saturday) has an 84% chance of rain, you need a Plan B.
Skip the sand and head to the Coastal Arts Center. They have a glass-blowing studio called The Hot Shop. It’s literally the warmest place in town when a north wind is blowing. Watching them work with molten glass is mesmerizing, and it’s indoors.
Or go to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. It’s much more manageable in the winter. The animals are often more active when they aren't melting in the summer sun.
Actionable Tips for Your Trip
Check the wind direction. A north wind means the water will be flat and calm, but the air will be colder. A south wind brings in the warmth but also the choppy waves and higher humidity.
If you're looking for the best outdoor window this week, Monday and Tuesday are your best bets for dry, clear skies.
Your Next Steps:
- Check the 10-day daily: Today is 59°F/37°F with rain; tomorrow is 48°F/34°F and sunny. Plan your outdoor activities for Sunday-Tuesday.
- Book the "Cold" Activities: Visit the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum on rainy days like today.
- Pack a Windbreaker: The 15 mph winds forecast for today make the 59°F feel much cooler.