If you choose to drive to Gulf Shores, be aware that you'll likely need to take the Baldwin Beach Express, a toll road just off Interstate 10 that takes you straight to the beach. Or,go sailing at sunset and sip champagne as you watch the sun dip below the glistening Alabama coastal waters. Our family stayed in a complex called Summer House on our last trip which is a mid-range option in Orange Beach. "My sister and I were very satisfied with the hotel and the area we were in. Thats not to say there isnt a scene, however, for other kinds of travelers. The ", Hampton Inn & Suites Orange Beach/Gulf Front, 25518 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL, 36561. A summer family reunion finally gave us the opportunity to spend a full week in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores revisiting the Alabama beaches of my childhood. I loved exploring the larger area of Baldwin County while hoping for a glimpse of birds. Tropic Park Theme Park at OWA is a full sized amusement park offering 23 rides, from roller coasters to kiddie classics. Stay at this 3.5-star beach condo in Orange Beach. Gulf Shores and Orange beach are connected coastal communities with Gulf Shores to the West and Orange Beach to the East. #22 inBest Weekend Getaways in the South, #18 inBest Places to Visit in the Carolinas. Check out the Pink Pony Pub or The Hangout. Expedia, Inc. is not responsible for content on external Web sites. Rekindle the romance in these gorgeous Georgia destinations and resorts. Back on land, take the kids to Adventure Island, the local theme park. Always satisfied through Expedia! To The Shores Orange Beach, a Ramada by Wyndham, 24060 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, AL, 36561.
A car is necessary for exploring other towns and beaches along the 32-mile (51-kilometer) length of the Gulf Coast. Flight options increase in the summer months due to seasonal schedule changes. But Alabama has two counties along the coast Mobile County on the west bordering Mississippi and Baldwin County on the east bordering the Florida panhandle. Copyright 2022 Trips With Tykes | Trellis Framework by Mediavine, First Timers Guide to the Florida Panhandle Beaches, The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, 29 Brilliant Things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama, 31 Things to do in Orange Beach the Locals Love, Planning a Girlfriend Getaway in Gulf Shores, Best Restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, What You Need to Know About a Trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama. Florida's Pensacola International Airport (PNS) is the closest; it's located about 40 miles northeast of Gulf Shores. It is vital to read the fine print to find out what amenities you need and what you might be passing up depending on the method you choose for rental. Stay at this 3.5-star beach hotel in Orange Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a beach locale. At any given place along the coast are there a few walking distance restaurants around? Foley is located about 12 miles due north of Gulf Shores on Highway 59. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. Gulf Shores is home to eateries that dish out plenty of other cuisine types, including Mexican, American and Italian, plus specialty shops for treats like coffee and ice cream. Some other great spots to check out include The Hangout Gulf Shores (seafood dining and entertainment in a beach setting), The Track (family friendly go carts, arcade, and rides), and LuLu's Gulf Shores (beach-themed dining and music), and Waterville USA waterpark. As the name suggests, this airport is smaller than Pensacola and served by just three airlines Delta, United, and American. 2015 CITY OF ORANGE BEACH, ALABAMA. Restaurants all reliably have amenities for families like kids menus and high chairs, and no one is going to look twice at you taking kids just about anywhere in the area. Visit the Beach Express website for information about rates and how to pay. Look at maps carefully!
That made it even more enjoyable will definitely be back on my next trip. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. There are plenty of places in the area to get your fill of fish, oysters and royal reds (a shrimp species that's an Alabama specialty). The stretch of beach that extends from Gulf Coast State park to Perdido Key, Florida on the east is known as Orange Beach. What I also love about going to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is that a vacation doesnt necessarily require a ton of planning. Do you think we could manage without a car? The Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism Board has also curated series of food trails that serve as self-guided food tours for visitors with themes like oysters, crab and shrimp. The general aviation airport in Gulf Shores just a couple of miles from the beach recently got a new air traffic control tower and a new name Gulf Shores International. Though the city is popular with snowbirds in the winter, you can get a hotel for a steal. This town on Alabamas Gulf Coast is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and its many family-friendly activities. Major cities and regions of note include: Gulf Shores is the older, more established beach area in the region that is still the center of most of the action. Tourists can cast a line at Gulf State Park or hop on a boat cruise to spot dolphins. Lulu's not only features an extensive food and drink menu, but also offers a ropes course, hair wraps, henna tattoos and an arcade to keep the kids entertained. Check out VRBO rentals in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to see the array of options. While there, youll find exciting activities, delicious, dining, and of course, impressive beaches. The only complaint I would have, and its not a huge deal, would be the shower head in our unit had NO pressure. Which events take place in Gulf Shores, AL? Indoor water park resorts make the perfect escape year-round. This enormous outdoor restaurant founded by Jimmy Buffetts sister has amazing seafood, cocktails, and live music, but also features an arcade and ropes course that is a must-do for kids. Another name you will see often is Phoenix there are over a dozen condo complexes by this name in the region. Gulf Shores' miles of coastline are perfect for long walks as you enjoy sweeping Gulf views. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Vacation Guide, Deep Creek Lake Area, Garrett County, Maryland. ", Escapes! The two areas are frequently grouped together given their almost identical offerings to vacationers and families. For families, having a condo or a house with kitchen, laundry, living area, and multiple bedrooms is probably just what you want. Site Map | Privacy Policy | Employee Portal. A number of the room types have bunk beds in addition to a king, making them ideal for families. While most are beachside, there are quite a few resorts that are on the bay side which may or may not be what you want. The shakes here are pricey, but come complete with decadent toppings like a whole cupcake or brownie. These Stonehenge tours from London and Bath allow visitors to explore one of the world's most mysterious UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Gulf Shores vs. Orange Beach - Which is Better? When and where do I get residential hurricane decals (reentry stickers)? Prices and availability subject to change. BOOK 100 TOURS, RENTALS & ATTRACTION TICKETS. Can I get/renew a drivers license or car tag in Orange Beach? VPS has service on Delta, American, Southwest, and Allegiant and is small and easy to navigate. Keep heading west from Gulf Shores to travel along the Fort Morgan Peninsula. Do I need a permit for an Event that I would like to host in Orange Beach? The Track is a giant entertainment complex with multiple go-cart tracks, a large arcade, bumper boats, and amusement park rides for younger kids. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event. Orange Beach, Alabama 36561, 2022 City of Orange Beach, Alabama. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff "My stay at this place was beautiful and they had everything I thought I needed . The world-famous Flora-Bama bar and lounge rests on the line between Orange Beach, AL and Perdido Key, FL. Does the City require a permit for a beach wedding? F: 251.981.6981 Yes, the Perdido Pass contains four islands famous to locals. Orange Beach, AL, lies directly to the east of Gulf Shores, and borders Florida. While visitors arriving by air have to drive a bit to reach Alabamas beaches, there are more options on the near-term horizon to watch for future trips. When it was time for a spring break trip or summer beach vacation, my family did what many all over the Southeast did: load up the station wagon or minivan and drive south towards the Gulf Coast. The best way to get around Gulf Shores is by car. The panhandle of Florida eats up most of the real estate due south of the state, so Alabamas swath of coastline is often missed after a quick glance at the map. Most of these condo complexes are pretty indistinguishable from one another, with similar amenities and layouts. The airport is located on the far west side of the city, making the drive from MOB to Gulf Shores about 1.5 hours long. I was pretty surprised to find out recently from a friend in Kentucky that many families from her area make the road trip regularly every year! ", 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL, 36561. For travelers used to beach vacation destinations in many other places, the lodging situation on the Alabama Gulf Coast might appear a bit strange at first glance. The airport authority is in talks to bring commercial service to the airport as early as Summer 2022. There are plans to construct a new passenger terminal as well. Use apps like Waze to find alternate back road routes that can sometimes save you major time when beach roads are backed up. Lots more annual events take place in both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach including culinary festivals (Oyster Cook-Off, National Shrimp Festival), party festivals (Interstate Mullet Toss), and music festivals (Frank Brown International Songwriters', Festival of Art), This website uses cookies. Gulf Shores sits at the intersection of State Routes 182 and 59. Additional terms may apply. Upon departure, give yourself plenty of time for bag check and security. Read more about. You can opt to fly into one of two airports to get to Gulf Shores. What an informative post! City of Orange Beach
And theres enough of a party and bar scene that spring breakers and 20 somethings can find something that works for them too. They are, as a whole, less busy than Florida beaches, but may be a little cooler as well. They even gave us a welcome basket with a beach bag, water bottles, snacks and so much more!! We saw a group of dolphins and enjoyed the beautiful scenery! Visit Orange Beach, Alabama, for a wide range of outdoor activities and to enjoy a relaxing, peaceful atmosphere. But there is also a lot to do in the area for families particularly eating great seafood or embarking in a few adventurous activities. Buy points online in advance to save money and share among a larger group. Check out information about lodging in the City of Gulf Shores. Not far from the theme park is the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum, a great place to learn about the areas Native American and fishing history.Most travelers will want to spend the majority of their time at the beach. Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. Believe it or not, kids are also welcome in much of the complex. Take a walk across the boardwalk over the dunes to go directly to the Gulf and dip your toes in the warm waters.Enjoy some of the freshest seafood on the Gulf Coast at one of several waterfront restaurants.
The neighborhood of Gulf Highlands you pass along the way is another popular cluster of vacation properties. View information about the Gulf Shores' Public Library. Now that I live outside the South, however, Ive come to realize that much of the rest of the country is clueless about this area! Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a children's pool. The boat was absolutely beautiful and our sail was so relaxing. Expect very long lines for dinner in the summer we found lunch time was much easier to find a table. To The Shores Orange Beach, a Ramada by Wyndham to your lists, Save Gulf State Park Fishing Pier to your lists, Save Orange Beach Welcome Center to your lists, Save Orange Beach Art Center to your lists, Save Big Fun Dolphin Cruise and Sealife Experience Orange Beach to your lists, Big Fun Dolphin Cruise and Sealife Experience Orange Beach, Save Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise to your lists, Save Orange Beach Dolphin Eco Boat Tour to your lists, Save Orange Beach Tower Paddle Board Rental with Delivery and Pickup to your lists, Orange Beach Tower Paddle Board Rental with Delivery and Pickup, Save Dolphin and Nature Sunset Cruise from Orange Beach to your lists, Dolphin and Nature Sunset Cruise from Orange Beach, Save 2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour from Orange Beach to your lists, 2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour from Orange Beach, Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum Vacations, Vacation rentals in United States of America, Vacation packages in United States of America, Cancel your hotel or vacation rental booking. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are well known all over the South as a relatively inexpensive, family-friendly beach destination. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. Extend your evening by visiting one of the bars that offer everything from live local bands, to karaoke and DJs playing the latest tunes. If you rent directly from the management company, youll sometimes pay a higher price but also get some amenities that you will miss out on if you rent direct from an owner (club access, beach umbrella rental rights, fitness centers, etc.). Even though PNS is a small airport, its busy during peak periods. Very clean, the staff was amazing and this hotel really caters to families! The most popular event in Gulf Shores is the Hangout Music Festival. A lot of the management companies advertise or rent on sites like VRBO, Airbnb, and Vacasa, so its sometimes easiest to start there to compare options. While the area is definitely more of a drive destination, travelers who want to fly in have several airport options for flying to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama. Youll be in beach mode from the moment you arrive until your final minutes there. While Gilchrist Island is privately owned and not accessible to the public, the other three islands are owned by the city and visitors are welcome! 2022 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company. Find information about Gulf Shores' Convention and Visitors Bureau. See its simulated volcano, complete with steam and fire, go on thrill rides and drive the go-karts and bumper boats. Whether it's feeling the warm sun beaming down on you, biting into a delicious meal as you overlook the water, or reconnecting with the natural beauty around you, memories are waiting to be made. While we were in the area for a whole week on our last vacation, there were quite a few activities we could not find time to fit in. Meanwhile, families with children will appreciate the city's kid-friendly attractions, such as Waterville USA and the local zoo. The property is built to blend in with the pristine natural surroundings of the state park that divides Gulf Shores from Orange Beach. Im Leslie, a mom of two (ages 13 and 8) who loves to travel. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 5 restaurants. All rights reserved. Escape to Alabamas Beautiful Beaches If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Cottages and surrounding area, you can visit Orange Beach Art Center and The Wharf. Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center.
I would highly recommend the Coastal Birding Trail, if that is where your interest lies. Plus, there are a variety of events and festivals during these months. Gulf Shores is larger, with approximately double the population. The area is increasingly popular for girlfriend getaways and golf trips. Our guests praise the pool and the spacious rooms in "Enjoyed our stay, easy beach access, clean property, excellent accommodations", Check prices in Orange Beach for tonight, Jul 30 - Jul 31, Check prices in Orange Beach for tomorrow night, Jul 31 - Aug 1, Check prices in Orange Beach for next weekend, Aug 5 - Aug 7. Weekends are also when the grocery stores in the area are at their busiest as newcomers load up their condominiums to start the week. Save 10% or more on thousands of properties with member prices. You'll find endless entertainment with exciting attractions and activities in the area, including the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, The Wharf and Gulf State Park. If you are headed to the Alabama Beaches, make the packing process easier with this beach vacation packing list from Stuffed Suitcase. The Alabama beaches in Baldwin County lie along 32 miles of coastline, stretching from the Florida border all the way to the tip of the Fort Morgan peninsula. Now that Ive been to hundreds of beaches around the country and the world, I realize Alabamas white sugar sand beaches and calm turquoise waters have ruined me for nearly everywhere else. The closest and best airport choices for an Alabama Gulf Coast beach trip are: The closest commercial airport for flying to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach is actually just across the border in Florida. Looking for a night on the town? Thank you again. Gulf Shores does not have a public transportation system nor does it have a beachside boardwalk like other coastal towns. The Wharf Amphitheater is also home to major concerts and events. Walton Beach (VPS). When it comes to family friendly, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are about as good as it gets. Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Orange Beach. A number of accommodations, eateries, shops and attractions are just steps away from the sand and the water. Were planning on heading at the end of November so this is going to be so helpful! With an activity to suit any interest, this vacation hot spot isn't one to be missed. Here are the activity highlights that Id recommend to other visitors, particularly families. Kid-friendly food and activities abound in the area. The vast majority of visitors to the Alabama Beaches come in by car. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. There are tons of great spots to visit in the area. What are the differences between Orange Beach and Gulf Shores? Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our "Everything about this place is wonderful!!!". From the waterfront to the historic downtown, explore the innovative dining options in Naples. The best times to visit Gulf Shores are March through May and September through November. After a hot day on the beach, take the whole family to The Yard for an enormous milkshake treat. How do I get a Beach Express Freedom Pass? Trips With Tykes is a family travel blog devoted to simplifying the logistics of traveling with young kids. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach serve a pretty broad drive market that includes most of the Southeast. Stroll the long stretch of soft sand or enjoy a picnic while watching boats come and go.
A car is pretty much a necessity in this region of the country, and rental cars at PNS are ample and cheap. Most travelers come and stay for a week, making these kinds of accommodations even more useful.
The beaches are roughly intersected by State Route 59, which is the main thoroughfare that heads inland. These all-inclusive resorts will inspire you to book your trip to Costa Rica right now. Coastal Alabama beaches, specifically the beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, are composed of soft, white sand. If you are planning a road trip, allow for plenty of extra time on crowded roads what might be the last 10 minutes of the drive sometimes can take you a full hour! The Wharf is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district on the bay side of Orange Beach. 28103 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, AL, 36561. But if you want a full service luxury hotel or resort vacation experience like you might be used to in a beach destination like Hawaii, the pickings are a bit slim. Browse information on Gulf Shores' city maps. This will give even more things to do on rainy summer days as thunderstorms are common in the region. This area was developed later than Gulf Shores and still is a bit quieter (although the continued development makes it busier with each passing year!). Explore the region's natural beauty with hiking options for every level of experience. What are some popular places to visit in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? Eventually all commercial service in Mobile will be moved to this airport (from MOB) because of its location closer to the city center. While the venues can get busy and are slightly touristy, many say travelers should experience each at least once.
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