If you’ve got a case of the post-holiday blahs, you’re probably not alone. Do you know what cures that? Organizing a family vacation in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
I know it might not seem like it now, but spring break will be here before you know it. You don’t want to be behind the power curve when planning a family getaway.
If you’re dreaming of a beach vacation, the Alabama Gulf Coast is the perfect destination for a family spring break. If you’ve been to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach recently (or ever), you already know this. If you haven’t had the pleasure, let me introduce you to the reasons your family will love spending their spring break on Alabama’s beautiful beaches.
1. The beaches ARE family-friendly...yes, really
If you have troublesome visions of wild college kids and party-central spring break at the beach, you can put those worries away. The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach community caters to laid-back family vacationers, not large groups of college students looking to kick up their heels. They welcome all visitors who respect the beaches and fellow beach-loving guests looking to put their toes in the sand. In addition, during March and select days in April, alcoholic beverages are banned from the beach.
2. Easy to Get To
Alabama’s beaches are popular vacation spots for people all across the Southeast as it’s an easy drive from various cities. When I visited in August 2019, I met people from across Alabama, Tennessee, and the Carolinas. What I loved about chatting with the tourists in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is that the same family groups come here year after year.
3. Breathtakingly Beautiful Beaches
I grew up thinking our Texas Gulf Coast beaches were what the beach looked like. I don’t mean to knock Texas, and I enjoy living here...but our beaches aren’t the most attractive.
They’ll get you your beach fix if that’s what you’re looking for, but in my opinion, the sugar-white sands and turquoise waters of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are worth the extra distance. When my kids and I were on a dolphin cruise with Cetacean Cruises, we met a couple from our hometown. True story! When I asked if they ever went to Port Aransas or South Padre Island destinations (our nearby beaches), they shook their heads and said, “The beaches here in Alabama are just better.”
It’s true. Sorry, Texas. Don’t kick me out.
If you’ve ever been to the Caribbean or looked at a vacation brochure or website, you know what I mean when I talk about those stunning turquoise waters. This beautiful scenery is super easy to access, and you don’t need a passport or an international flight to enjoy them.
4. So. Much. To. Do.
If you dream of spending an entire week lying on the beach and watching the waves, no one will get mad at you. If you want to take a beach break and explore the area, you have loads of choices on things to do.
In addition to traditional water activities, such as fishing excursions, dolphin watching, and paddle and foil boarding, there’s The Track Family Fun Park, the Coastal Arts Center, Gulf State Park, and more. There are a TON of dining and shopping options. No matter your taste in food or activities, there’s something here for you. The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach website and welcome centers have all the info you need to plan the best visit. You can do as much or as little as you want, and the vibe is very “go with the flow.” If you’re visiting during the busy spring break season and want to do activities requiring reservations, such as parasailing or pontoon boating, you should book in advance.
Also, the selection of restaurants can be overwhelming, so I recommend checking out what’s available and making a wish list before you go. I did not have a bad meal there, but I highly recommend The Hangout and Lucy Buffett’s Lulu’s. These are great, family-friendly places with delicious food and drinks and things for the kids to do.
5. Condo Life is Pretty Darn Sweet
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are very condo and vacation home-heavy. Staying in a beach house or waterfront condo is a great way to spend a vacation as a family. If you think you can’t afford it, you’re probably wrong.
The area is home to a variety of accommodations ranging from beachfront hotels to full-service resorts. All you have to do is plug in the lodging type, dates, number of bedrooms, and amenities you need into the lodging page. It will pull up the available options that meet your criteria, so you can browse until you find the perfect one. Your mileage will vary, and there are many different options available, but you can easily get a two-bedroom for a reasonable rate.
The condo we stayed in had two spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen and living area, smart TVs, WiFi, a full-size washer and dryer, and a balcony breakfast area. Oh, did I mention this was beachfront property? It wasn’t fancy - it was comfortable with little touches of luxury, but it was the type of place you feel comfortable. It was the perfect place to stay, as the beach was right there. It was a comfy place to relax when we weren’t at the beach. And isn’t that what vacations are all about?
Spring break and the beach are ideal partners. If a family vacation during spring break at the beach is in the cards for you this year, do yourself a favor and check out Alabama’s Beaches. They have the absolute best of everything.
Start planning your spring break beach trip and book a place to stay early for the best rates!
