Why We Love Vacationing
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
When I was growing up, I thought all beaches had sparkling, clean, white sand. Growing up on the Gulf Coast made me an expert and somewhat of an inadvertent beach snob when it came to the quality and beauty of the coast. When I traveled for the first time to an exotic, world-famous beach, I thought, "Really? This is it? "I didn't mean to be an elitist, but when you were raised on the most stunning beaches in the world, your standards are set pretty high. I was totally spoiled and didn't know it.
I can honestly say I know every single one of the communities scattered along the Gulf like the back of my hand, but when it comes time to sink my toes in the sand these days, my choice for relaxation, fun and soaking up the natural beauty is, without a doubt, Alabama's Beaches.
You see, not only are Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan beautiful, but they also have plenty of extras, or as we like to call it around here, "lagniappe."
Why I Love Alabama's Beaches
Things to Do
Things to Do
Alabama's Beaches aren't just the most gorgeous beach in the world (don't take my word for it, ask the mermaids - they'll back me up), but it also has plenty for the kids to do. Once we've completed the obligatory exercise of sitting in a lounge chair, wiggling our toes in the sand and deeply inhaling the salty air, my teens like to plan adventures of exploring historic sights or booking a trip on a deep sea fishing excursion. I'm always partial to visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and getting one-on-one time with some cuddly critters, and, of course, blocking out time for shopping in the unique gift shops and clothing boutiques in the area.
Places to Stay
Places to Stay
The area boasts fantastic accommodations that range from cozy campgrounds (with free starry skies thrown in) to Gulf-facing condos and spacious beach homes that overlook that famous blue-green water. Even though we live within an hour's drive, my family still likes to book a room on Alabama's Beaches several times a year. Sometimes we share a large vacation rental with extended family and friends, or we'll reserve a condo for a weekend getaway. There are plenty of great waterfront hotels too for those seeking a more familiar stay.
Dining
Dining
The restaurants in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan boast world-class and award-winning chefs whipping up one-of-a-kind meals. My husband considers himself to be quite the foodie, pouring over the online menus he finds for local restaurants. Whether it's a hand-tossed pizza or a fine dining meal for the two of us (the boys are conveniently at the movie theater or zipping around the go-cart track), there are plenty of chances to indulge.
Alabama's Beaches Are The Best
The truth is, all beaches aren't created equally, and all vacations aren't, either. Why travel the world looking for the perfect place to relax, explore and find adventure, when we've got it all right here on Alabama's Beaches? And one more tip from a local: When you arrive, stand about knee-deep in the surf so the mermaids can get a good look at you. They recognize quality folks when they see them and will send a bubbly, foamy welcome your way!
Leslie Anne Tarabella
Leslie Anne Tarabella was born in Florala, Alabama and raised in pretty cities all along the Louisiana, Alabama, and Florida Gulf Coast. She and her husband have lived in Fairhope, Alabama for over two decades, where they have raised their two boys. Leslie Anne writes a weekly humor/lifestyle column for the Press Register, Birmingham News and Huntsville Times. You can also find her stories on her blog.
