There are dozens of reasons you may have waited until the last minute to start planning your vacation to the Gulf Shores area, and there are thousands of ways you are going to have the best time of your life while here. This part of the country is where your beach dreams come true, where serenity is served with a side of exciting fun, and relaxation is the word for every day, and we at Poole & Associates are excited to make the planning easy for you, especially as you don’t have much time before your vacation of a lifetime begins. Our tips, hints, and tricks for planning a last-minute vacation in the Gulf Shores area will ensure that you don’t skip a beat and you never miss a fun and exciting adventure, with this guide happily leading the way.
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Tips for Planning a Last-Minute Vacation in the Gulf Shores Area
We’re calling this a brief guide due to the fact that there isn’t a lot of change in the temperatures throughout the year. The coldest it will get is, of course, in the winter months, when the lows tend to run in the 40s at night, meaning you will probably want to bring a jacket and wear long pants. The highs in winter can reach near 70 degrees and although you probably won’t be swimming in the sea, some of the pools in our Poole & Associates vacation escapes can be heated if you like, so pack a swimsuit or three. For the rest of the year, temperatures are warm and wonderful and shorts, tees, and sundresses won’t take up a lot of room in your luggage, leaving space for souvenirs you will buy when you can drag yourself away from our beaches. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are highly recommended as well, and flip flops are the shoes of every day, except for the coolest days in winter.
Plan for Resting Beach Face
There’s a look beach goers have on their faces at the end of each day on the sand, one of serenity, happiness, and possibly a little bit of lazy enjoyment, and it is one you will see on your own face. We are a casual group of people here in the deep south of Alabama, and the good news is that when you choose visit at the last minute, you can still count on enjoying a vacation filled with adventure—no sacrifices needed. Below, we have listed a few ideas on how best to enjoy the beach and even though doing nothing isn’t on that list, if nothing is what you want to do, we applaud you and welcome you to the leisurely and nonjudgmental beach life communities in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan Beach!
Prepare to Learn to Surf (and More) at Tambos Surf, Skate, and Coffee Shop, 3800 Gulf Shores Parkway #130 in Gulf Shores
When you think of top surfing destinations, Florida and Hawaii may be where your mind goes, but you have to remember that this part of Alabama is practically North Florida, and as such, we offer some pretty decent waves. Tambos Surf, Skate & Coffee Shop offers up the feel that we imagine Ron Jon Surf Shop might have offered way back when they first opened for business. Casual and laidback, the people who work here, learn here, or just hang here all have discovered that the surf vibe culture is one they want to be a part of and if you are interested, you too will be able to hang 10 with the best of them. Tambos offers surf lessons for surfers of all experience levels and we have it on great authority that once you catch your first wave, you will be hooked for life. Also offering a skateboard park inside their shop, your teens and tweens might be interested in playing while you sip coffee and watch. (Unless your name is Tony Hawk!)
Discover New Ways to Surf at Foil Gulf Coast, 5677 Bayou St John Avenue in Orange Beach
The daredevils amongst are discovering how much fun surf foiling can be, offering a new way to experience the ancient sport, and Foil Gulf Coast will help you get your feet wet. Surf foiling, also known as hydrofoiling, adds a touch of technology to the ancient sport, using a somewhat smaller version of a surfboard that has a hydrofoil attached, allowing participants to glide ABOVE the water as they catch waves. Foil Gulf Coast offers rentals and lessons, setting you on the potential path to obsession!
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Yet Another Way to Enjoy Surfing at Gulf Shores Kiteboarding, 22085 County Road 64 in Robertsdale
This next last-minute surfing adventure brings joy to all who attempt it. Kiteboarding, using a surfboard with a sail attached, will make you feel like you are flying (and you often will be) with the kind people at Gulf Shores Kiteboarding leading the way to adventure. The shop itself is based in Robertsdale, but they serve Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, so you won’t have far to go to get back home at the end of the day when you are feeling tired, waterlogged, and over salty. Best of all, there isn’t a lot of advanced planning needed for all three of the surfing adventures listed and often you can be out on the water within minutes of walking into the shop!
No Reservations Needed
As we have mentioned more than a few times, the Gulf Coast of Alabama is laidback, casual, and although some restaurants do need reservations at the busy times, the ones listed below are always open for walk-ins. And they barely have dress codes, but that’s a tale that can be told another time. For now, let’s explore the culinary landscape of our favorite beach towns!
The Hangout, 101 E Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores
There was a popular TV show in the 80s that revolved around a local bar, where guests just hung out and drank, and in the 90s there was another popular TV show, this one revolving around a coffee shop where everyone hung out and sipped, and finally in the 2000s, ANOTHER popular show took you back to the bar, where everyone hung out and drank. Your Gulf Shores last-minute getaway is going to allow you to be the star of your own hang out and chill show, this time at a real restaurant/bar known as The Hangout. Offering the spirit of a party that never ends, water views, and a seafood-centric menu that will surprise you with its reasonable prices, you will feel like a regular within your first moments inside. Featuring a foam pit, dancing on tables, live entertainment, and more fun than should be legal, reservations aren’t necessary to eat at the Hangout, but there may be a bit of a wait on a Friday or Saturday night.
The Gulf, 27500 Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach
Before we talk about the food, lets discuss the structure of The Gulf, a waterfront eatery that looks like nothing you have ever seen before, being constructed from shipping containers. Offering new meaning to the words “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” this unique restaurant offers a casual vibe, a worthy message, and a menu that tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant without high prices and snooty waiters. The menu is constantly changing but two of our favorites, shrimp tacos and grouper sandwiches always survive the cut, and its sea views will always make you glad you didn’t have to have reservations on your last-minute escape to Alabama.
Drop by These Wonderful Festivals and Events
Remember that time you stumbled upon that open air market in Wales, only to later discover its historical significance to the area? It was hundreds of years old, something that is getting harder and harder to find in the United States, but these festivals and events we have listed here are sure to add an extra sparkle to your shiny Alabama vacation adventures, and most offer free admittance inviting everyone to drop by, last minute or not.
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Annual Fort Morgan Oyster Fest, February, 925 Beach Club Trail in Gulf Shores
We have no way of knowing if you are going to be here in February, you may not know yourself, but if you do happen to find a last-minute journey that brings you to our shores, the Annual Fort Morgan Oyster Fest will offer a happy adventure that is very tasty too! While this event charges an entrance fee, we are happy to say that the fee covers parking, all-you-can-eat oysters (YAY!) and non-alcoholic beverages. Also offering live music, arts and crafts vendors, and a big bunch of kid’s activities, this family friendly adventure may be the shining light of your getaway!
Orange Beach Freedom Fest, September, The Wharf in Orange Beach
Summers can get a little toasty, so by September we are all ready to celebrate cooler days and the Orange Beach Freedom Fest is an annual festival that celebrates in all the right ways. Offering two days of exciting activities that includes the ‘Bama Coast Cruisin’ Car Show, a kids’ zone set up next to the Ferris wheel, patriotic booths, live music, arts, crafts, and food vendors; the list of activities to enjoy during this festival seems to get longer every year and you will not see us complaining about that! Also offering a jeep rally, a firearms show and no admission fees (except for the firearms show; they do charge a separate fee) this celebration of freedom and fun is one of our favorite Orange Beach events.
Christmas in Gulf Shores, December, Various Venues
Even though our white Christmas involves white sands instead of snow, Gulf Shores still manages to be the most festive town around, although Orange Beach and Fort Morgan Beach run a close second and third. Featuring everything from a Community Christmas at Simms Park, to a Breakfast with Santa, to a Beautification contest in which the best decorated home wins a prize, your holiday adventures in Gulf Shores will never cease to amaze and it won’t matter that you didn’t plan this out months in advance. Just be aware that Christmas is quite popular here so stores will be crowded and restaurants will offer longer waiting lists.
No Sacrifices with Poole & Associates
Maybe the best part of a last-minute vacation to the Gulf Shores area is the realization that not only will you not have to make sacrifices when choosing your vacation accommodations, when you choose Poole & Associates, you may even receive a great deal on our luxurious and comfortable sanctuaries. Sometimes a rental falls through or in the non-tourist season there can be more open rentals than normal and special deals are offered to encourage choosing us! And because we don’t offer any subpar vacation rentals you will be getting all the same amenities, luxuries, and comforts as you would during nay other time of the year, you will just pay less and we don’t think you will mind!
It’s the Beach Life in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan Beach
Our most beloved tip is the one that encourages travelers to choose one of our beachfront escapes for their last-minute vacation rental. Offering stunning views and a serenity that will permeate every part of your vacation experience, you never have to be far from the turquoise waters of the Gulf and as you post your fave pics on your social media websites throughout your getaway, we can promise you that your friends and family back home are going to be green with envy! Spend every day building sandcastles, walking along shore’s edge at sunrise, or at the very least, at sunset, and just living your beach life—er, we meant BEST life—when you choose Poole & Associates for your last-minute accommodations. Contact us to reserve your favorite Alabama retreat today and fall in love with all this part of the world has to offer, including our comfortable and luxurious vacation sanctuaries!
It’s always a good time for a beach vacation in the Gulf Shores area and when you choose any of our Poole & Associates beachy escapes for your vacation rental, you are assured of a getaway that you will remember forever. This part of Alabama is known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a laidback lifestyle that will soothe your soul and our properties provide the perfect counterpart. Offering all the comforts of home blended with modern conveniences and stunning views, you may not know it as of yet, but when you chose our rentals with beach access in the Gulf Shores area to make your own for your time in paradise, you will have won the vacation rental lottery and this guide to your beach vacation in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan will show you all the different ways this is so.
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Rentals with Beach Access in the Gulf Shores Area
Of course, we are going to start this guide out by describing all you can do while exploring our pristine white sand beaches. This part of the world will remind you of that Florida vacation you took a few years back, but the good news is there will be less crowds, shorter lines in restaurants, and will cost you far less than that Florida getaway did. Not everyone has discovered the joy of this part of the world, but you, dear guest, are ahead of the crowds and we invite you to explore all the activities listed below.
Do Nothing but Relax
We want to let you in on a little secret: We live here, and occasionally we can’t help it, we have to cut out of work early, grab the kids from school, and head to the beach to do absolutely nothing. The tweens may frolic in the surf and the teens may walk up and down the shoreline making new friends, but we do absolutely nothing. We watch the tide ebb and flow, we let the roar of the sea permeate our entire being with serenity and excitement, we savor the Alabama sun smiling down on us, and we use these quiet moments to give us the strength to face up to moments that are less than stellar in real life, and if that is all you do as well, let us be the first to congratulate you on your wisdom!
Rent a Jet Ski from Alabama Extreme Watersports, 5749 Bay La Launch Avenue in Orange Beach
The thrill seekers in our midst may prefer more active adventures and renting a jet ski from Alabama Extreme Watersports zipping across the waters, jumping waves, and discovering that yes, you do have the need for speed and these exciting vessels will allow you to do that. Offering jet ski rentals that will fill anywhere from 1 to 8 hours of your day at an extremely reasonable price, but also offering something extra, a jet ski dolphin tour that will allow you to swim alongside the soft and silvery creatures, keeping a safe distance (humans are their enemy) and enjoying an experience that you will wish never had to end.
Beach Adventures That Reach New Heights at Blue Sky Parasailing & Watersports, 401 E Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores
Every family has one, that intrepid soul that doesn’t feel they are living if they aren’t doing something that normal people view as a little crazy and the daredevil in your family is going to love parasailing over the Gulf with Blue Sky Parasailing & Watersports, located right here in Gulf Shores. Colorful parachutes tethered to fast driving boats will launch you 800 feet in the air, giving guests bird’s eye views of the area and satisfying their daredevil urges. Offering a photo package for an additional price because if you didn’t get pictures to post on your favorite social media sites, did it really happen? And even if you aren’t a daredevil, we think you will still enjoy your moments in the sky.
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Gulf Shores Attractions
Now that you have the beach out of your system, (Just kidding, it will never leave your system, but we doubt you will mind!) it is time to explore all that makes this part of Alabama a much beloved vacation destination. We will cover all three of the towns in the area, starting with these Gulf Shores attractions that are listed below.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, 20499 Oak Road E in Gulf Shores
We at Poole & Associates have a secret to share with you, one that involves a tv star that you wouldn’t expect. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo was the subject of an Animal Planet series, The Little Zoo who Could, and if you watched the show, chances are you will recognize some of the animals, scenery, or just certain paths you take. Home to 118 species, including 22 that are critically endangered, the zoo offers animal meet & greets, a fantastic restaurant, and an altogether excellent time for all who explore its habitats. Its restaurant, Savannah, is a hidden gem that will provide a five-star dining experience at a less than five-star price.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, 12295 AL-180 in Gulf Shores
Hmm. Reading back over this we have come to the realization that we really love animals and if you are of like mind you may find that the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge will bring you hours of great adventures. This is a beach refuge, fitting right into the theme of your beach vacation, and offering a safe spot to land and live for the endangered sea turtle, a variety of migratory birds, and any other wildlife creature that wanders into its acreage seeking food, home, and protection. Walking trails that lead throughout the refuge will offer an easy walk and a beautiful way to enjoy Mother Nature’s greatest creations.
Orange Beach Attractions
There are three lovely towns all worth exploring in this part of Alabama and our next attractions are located in Orange Beach. Known for its rich Native American history it was named after an attempt to make this area a citrus grove, a citrus grove that failed although the name stuck, and for being home to the attractions listed below.
The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road in Orange Beach
Is it a mall? Is it a farmers market? Is it a concert venue, an event center, a carnival, or a restaurant hub where all the best meals in town can be devoured? The Wharf is all of the above and so much more, and we don’t think we have enough words to describe all that can happen in this spot where life happens. Shopping is exciting here with stores such as the Wharf Store, Little Dog Boutique, and the jewelry store, Frank & Co, there is also a marina with boat rentals, an amphitheater in which some of the biggest acts in the country has performed, and a spa and barbershop that will make you feel pampered and spoiled. If you don’t visit the Wharf during your stay in Orange Beach, it will be hard to convince us that you actually visited our beach town!
Adventure Island, 24559 Perdido Beach Boulevard
It can be difficult to find family friendly adventures while traveling but not in Orange Beach. Adventure Island has it all, including go karts, bumper boats, laser tag, and a reproduction erupting volcano. (We didn’t want you to be worried about living through another Pompeii disaster!) Their kiddie rides section is a favorite of our tiniest family members and we think the pint sized Ferris Wheel is just about the cutest thing we have ever seen as well as being a favorite of the little tykes. Also offering miniature golf, Glow Golf, an indoor under blacklight miniature golf game, and the all important arcade, this family friendly attraction is sure to be your favorite!
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Fort Morgan Beach Attractions
Fort Morgan Beach is one of the smallest areas in the region, offering more pristine beaches and one very important and historic attraction, that of the actual Fort Morgan. Construction of this star shaped brick fort was completed in 1834 with it serving “time” in four different wars, the Civil War, the Spanish American war and both World Wars. Famous for playing an important part in the Civil War, it was where the famous phrase “Damn the Torpedoes! Full Speed Ahead!” was spoken. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and its living history programs are renowned throughout the state. Birdwatchers love the Fort as it is a stopover point for migratory birds in the spring and fall and its location on Mobile Bay makes it a beautiful place to take family pictures.
Seafood Adventures
The restaurants of the Gulf Shores area are an eclectic and international group, but when you are this close to the beach, it is seafood that we are going to invite you to partake in during your Alabama adventures in paradise. Sweet, fresh, and locally sourced, even people who claim they don’t like seafood change their tune when they sample what is served at the restaurants listed below.
Fish River Grill, 1545 Gulf Shores Parkway in Gulf Shores
Casual, inexpensive, and known as the Funky Junky Redneck Joint, this seafood spot also serves burgers in case you can’t convince yourself to try the fish, but we do urge you to try. Their Po’ Boys are the stuff legends are made of, covering the gamut from chicken (Dixie Chick Po’ Boy) to a Southern favorite the Catfish Po’ Boy. Although this next item isn’t seafood, so to speak, if you want to take a ride on the wild side, you have to sample the Gator Po’ Boy, made with, yes, you guessed it, alligator!
Coastal Orange Beach, 25722 Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach
Although you can get seafood at extremely inexpensive prices, sometimes you want that special occasion experience, the one that comes with special occasion prices, and trust us. It is worth it when you visit Coastal Orange Beach, a casual restaurant that serves high end meals you will be obsessed about. Offering a beachfront patio, this is the perfect spot for a romantic meal, especially when you dine at sunset. Do yourself a favor and order the Grilled Gulf Grouper. Life doesn’t get any tastier than this.
Tacky Jacks Fort Morgan, 1577 AL-180 in Fort Morgan
Our final restaurant of the day, but not the last restaurant you will need to visit, is a Gulf Shores area favorite located in Fort Morgan. Tacky Jacks offers live music, unique cocktails, and some of the best seafood in the state, including seafood gumbo, tacky shrimp, and a crab cakes dinner that is simply divine. The Tacky Jacks legacy is one that has been around for over 50 years and will be an adventure in dining that you will never forget.
Choose a Beachfront Rental From Poole & Associates
Your beach vacation in the Gulf Shores area would not be a true beach vacation if you didn’t choose our Poole & Associates beachfront rentals for your vacation accommodations. Offering comfort, luxury, and style along with unforgettable views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf, your beachy escape to Alabama will be a memorable one. Sit out on balconies that overlook the Gulf, watching the sun set over the sea every night and if you are a morning person, take a walk along white sands shores as the world awakens around you. Comfortable adventures will surprise and delight as you sleep deep, dream happy, and wake up feeling rested and ready for a new day of Alabama adventures every day of your stay!
Reserve Your Favorite Beachy Escape Today
Life is better at the beach, and there is no better way to find out than by choosing one of our Poole & Associates vacation sanctuaries offering a space in which all vacation dreams come true. Contact us to reserve your favorite retreat today and prepare for an adventure that will soon become a cherished memory.
Your first time in Gulf Shores may surprise you as you experience a Florida-like tropical experience without all the crowds and hysteria that often accompanies a beach vacation in that state. Offering the same pristine white sand beaches and blue waters, nearly the same tropical climate, and much of the same activities that you enjoyed during your last Florida getaway, but it is the differences that will bring you the most joy, especially during your first visit and your first stay in our Poole & Associates Alabama vacation accommodations. This ultimate first-time visitor’s guide to Gulf Shores, Alabama will ensure that you enjoy all the best we have to offer without missing something important and wonderful.
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The Gulf of Mexico Awaits
The first thing most travelers do upon arriving at the beach is drop their bags at the door and head directly to the sands they have been waiting to dig their toes into, and during your escape to Gulf Shores, we are pretty sure you will do the same. On the first day, you may not have enough time left in the day to do more than walk along water’s edge, either falling in love with the sunset or discovering the magic the moon offers when bathing the world in its ethereal glow. That’s ok, you are here for a while and there will be many beach days waiting to be had, as well as many more adventures you will enjoy in those crystal clear waters you are gazed upon that first evening in town.
Blue Sky Parasailing and Water Sports, 401 Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores
For the best adventure in the sky and on the sea, Blue Sky Parasailing and Water Sports will be the first place we recommend during your first time visit. Offering two- or three-person adventures that have you sailing through the sky while being tethered to a boat below, the view from 800 feet up will change the way you look at life forever. Wanting to stay closer to the sea? Blue Sky also rents jet skis, allowing you to satisfy your need for adventure while avoiding and fear of heights challenges!
Foil Gulf Coast, 5677 Bayou St John Avenue in Orange Beach
eFoil is a very new water sport that is attracting all kinds of attention and is something Gulf Shores visitors can try out during their stay. Using a board that resembles a fat skateboard or a truncated surfboard attached to a small motor, foil boarding is a cross between kite surfing and regular surfing, and Foil Gulf Coast provides the equipment needed and lessons in how you can fly on the waters on a foil board. Offering the choice between private training sessions, two-person e-foil sessions, and a party session that subscribes to the belief of the more the merrier, we think foil boarding will become your newest obsession.
Down Under Dive Shop, 1129 Gulf Shores Parkway in Gulf Shores
Until now we have stuck close to the surface of the water with the adventures we offer, but the world under the sea deserves to be explored and a dive trip offered by the Down Under Dive Shop is one way we recommend exploring it. Offering classes and courses that will help you learn the sport and get certified, they also provide dive trips that explore the undersea world of the Gulf of Mexico offering a variety of experiences that you will remember forever. Taking divers to the biggest artificial reefs in the region, including an exploration of the Whiskey Wreck, a 200-foot rum runner (boat not drink!) that burned and sank in the very early years of the 20th century. Located just 150 yards offshore, exploring this artificial reef at night is a popular dive activity.
Catch Your Limit
There is a primal beauty in pitting your wits against the denizens of the sea and whether you choose to surf fish (fish from the shore) pier fish or answer the call of the deep waters with a fishing charter, your first time visit to Gulf Shores would not be complete without some sort of fishing adventure.
Surf Fishing
Surf fishing, otherwise known as fishing from the shore, is a popular activity year round in Gulf Shores, but there are a couple of things you must know. First, a fishing license is required for this activity (purchase yours here), and second, if you are visiting during the high tourist season, please be respectful of the crowds and fish in more secluded areas. The Dixey Bar, a sandbar located between the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay, is one of the best surf fishing spots in the area.
Pier Fishing
Pier fishing is a fun way to catch your dinner as well and although you do need a fishing license for this activity as well, the fee for fishing off the Gulf State Park Pier will receive a daily license. The pier offers 2448 feet of fishing space and the fish you may catch from there include sheepshead, Spanish mackerel, and pompano.
Charter Fishing
The ultimate battle between man and fish often takes place in the deep waters offshore and Gulf Shore Fishing Charters offers a variety of excursions that will make your fishing dreams come true. Miss Brianna is the boat that will take you to where the fish are biting the most, and the excursions offered range in length from 4 hours all the way up to 36-hour adventures where the possibility of catching a trophy fish is high.
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A Walk on the Wild Side
Nature has been truly generous to Gulf Shores providing a tropical landscape that harbors beauty and wildlife with the wildlife very often being protected in refuges and zoos. The activities listed below will take you for a walk on the wild side, bringing a new appreciation for Mother Nature.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, 12295 AL-180 in Gulf Shores
Offering over 7000 acres of protected land, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge was established over 40 years ago for the protection of a neotropical migratory songbird habitat and threatened and endangered species. Visitors can hike on any of the four trails that meander through the refuge, watch for birds (there are over 360 bird species who call this wildlife refuge home) or drop a line from the beach or on the lake. Also offering canoeing, kayaking, and other boating opportunities, if you pack a picnic, you can spend the entire day exploring this naturally beautiful stretch of land.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, 20499 Oak Road E in Gulf Shores
600 animals call the 17 acres of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo home, and if you find yourself thinking that the zoo looks familiar, we are going to guess that you watched the Animal Planet series, The Little Zoo That Could, in which our zoo played the starring role. Open daily, visitors can enjoy special zoo experiences that include meet and greets with the animals and chances to feed some of its inhabitants, and as they wander through the zoo, can learn about every animal’s backstory in this exciting and worthy spot.
Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores
Gulf State Park is the park that has everything, including hiking trails, beaches, basketball courts, even a dog park with its own pond that will bring your fur baby joy if you are staying in one of our Poole & Associates pet friendly escapes. There is even a zipline at the park, for those who consider themselves thrill seekers and a picnic area will provide the perfect chance for relaxation during your park adventures.
Next, Let’s Eat
Every vacation has that one meal or snack that stands out. The crepe you ate on a Paris street corner, the tacos you devoured during your Tucson adventures, even that uber expensive prixe fixe meal you engaged in at that Michelin star restaurant in Disney brought its own memories and joys and the restaurants listed below will definitely become happy memories of your Gulf Shores adventures.
Breakfast at the Sunliner Diner, 100 E 2nd Avenue in Gulf Shores
Every southern mama will tell you that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and the Sunliner Diner, providing a 50s style diner décor, will be where your favorite breakfast will happen. Breakfast is served all day, so guests can enjoy a Sunliner French Toast in the morning, country fried chicken and eggs for lunch, and their out of this world Shrimp Benedict for dinner. (Or any combination therein)
De Soto’s Seafood Kitchen, 138 W 1st Avenue in Gulf Shores
Seafood is one of those tricky menu items that people either love or hate, but in Gulf Shores, it is sweet, fresh, and beloved by all who sample it, including the meals served at De Soto’s Seafood Kitchen. Open for lunch and dinner, it is the lunch menu we are concentrating on here, but please, feel free to return and try their dinner menu as well. De Soto’s does offer a land lubbers menu that is very delicious and even includes Gator Bites (although we aren’t sure if they would be considered seafood or land food!) but if you don’t at least try their fresh caught grouper you will regret it forever.
The Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails, 1154 W Beach Boulevard #6200
Offering casual dining at its finest, the Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails is famed for their burgers, their seafood, and their fresh and tart Key Lime Pie. Also offering a triple chocolate cake, and a selection of cocktails with names such as Bushwhacker and the Ultimate Pain Killer, guests may want to appoint a designated driver or at the very least plan on ride share back to their Gulf Shores retreat.
A Peek into History
To get to know a place you are visiting, sometimes it is necessary to take a step back in time, and during your Gulf Shores adventures this can be done with a visit to the historic Fort Morgan. Located at 51 Highway 180 West in Gulf Shores, the Fort was constructed from more than 46 million cubic yards of bricks most placed by talented yet enslaved masons and opened in 1834 after nearly 15 years of construction. Standing guard over Mobile Bay, its historical significance lies in the fact that it was in that area during the civil war that Union Admiral David Farragut uttered the famous phrase, “Damn the Torpedoes!” The Civil War was the first of four wars in which the Fort played a part, with the other three being the Spanish American War, World War I, and World War II. Ticket costs range between $5 and $8 with children under 6 years of age and retired and active duty military paying nothing to gain entrance.
Come Home to Poole & Associates
Your Gulf Shores adventures will be exciting, fun, and exhausting, making your return home to your Poole & Associates Alabama retreat a much looked forward to part of your day. Located on the beaches of Gulf Shores and offering views that will break your heart to leave at the end of your stay, every minute spent with in our vacation rentals will be ones that you remember forever.
Reserve Your Favorite Vacation Escape Today
Luxury and travel go hand in hand, and the amenities in our vacation escapes will make you feel welcome and treasured. Fully equipped kitchens ensure you don’t have to eat at restaurants for every meal, pet friendly rentals enable visitors to bring their entire family along for the journey of a lifetime, and waterfront views will calm your soul and quiet the noises in your brain. Standalone home offer more bedrooms for more travelers and condos will provide community amenities that add to the fun of your getaway. Our condos and homes will be an integral part of your vacation experience, making everyone who stays within feel welcome and at home. Contact us to book your stay today.
Your time in Gulf Shores may not change your life but it will give you an adventure that you will compare all others to for the rest of your life, especially when you get to experience the hidden side of our coastal town. Today, we at Poole & Associates want to take you on a journey that only the locals will recognize, showing you where we eat, where we shop, where we like to play and reminding you that there are many sides to Gulf Shores. This guide to experience Gulf Shores, AL like a local will make you feel at home even as you are many, many miles away from your own home.
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Guide to Experience Gulf Shores, AL Like a Local
Although the beaches of Gulf Shores are nowhere near as crowded as their Florida counterparts, the world is just starting to recognize their stunning beauty, there are times of the year that you may find yourself wishing you had a little more privacy, a little more seclusion, so as to enjoy your toes in the sand time a little more. When the beaches of Gulf Shores are too people-y, we find ourselves heading to the lesser known and more private beaches we have listed below.
Alabama Point East in Gulf State Park
Alabama Point East is surprisingly well appointed for a section of beach that is not very large and not very well known, offering 6000 feet of sand, boardwalk, and dunes. Here you will find free life jackets to be used by those who aren’t strong swimmers, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a beautiful picnic area where beach goers can enjoy the sandwiches they bring without having to worry about tasting sand. This beach is quiet, secluded, and pristine and will be where some of your favorite beach memories will be made.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach
This public beach doesn’t have any of the facilities or amenities listed above, but its quiet beauty will feed your soul and as you walk along water’s edge or frolic in the blue waters, you may feel as if you are on your own private beach. The refuge office isn’t that far away, so you won’t feel dangerously alone, and they will probably let you use their facilities if needed.
Shell Beach Access in Orange Beach
We don’t really know why Shell Beach Access is generally empty of crowds, but perhaps it is due to the small fee that must be paid. Or maybe it is because the white sand beaches are filled with shells that are fun to add to your collection but not so fun to walk on with bare feet. Whatever the reason, your time on Shell Beach promises to be serene, relaxing, and absolutely wonderful.
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Angler’s Delight
Fishing is a popular Gulf Shores activity, so much so that it may be difficult to catch your limit in places where the masses are dropping a line as well. The spots we have listed below are mostly only known to the locals and whether you are fishing for bait or are trying to catch your dinner, you should have a successful experience.
Little Lagoon Pass
There’s a large sandbar that goes through the area here but on the other side of the sandbar, you will find some deep holes where we love to go to catch bait for our fishing excursions. The parking lot is within walking distance of Little Lagoon Pass and there is a fee, so don’t forget to bring your wallet.
On or Around the New Gulf State Park Bridge in Orange Beach
This spot offers parking, picnic areas, and restrooms and is quiet, peaceful, and hopping with fish of all types. The fish found in this area include Spanish mackerel, flounder, Florida pompano, and red drum.
Lake Shelby
While most travelers head directly to the Gulf for their fishing experiences, we often enjoy the charms of freshwater fishing at Lake Shelby. Offering largemouth bass, crappie, and bream, the lake is also a fantastic place to catch blue crab, and when you bring a cooler of blue crab home for dinner, we can promise you will be the hero of your family!
Off the Beaten Path Activities
Believe it or not, there are more things to do in the Gulf Shores area other than the beach, and the activities we have listed below are some of the fun things we do when we want to get out of the sun and off the sand.
Learn to Make Your Own Glass Piece at the Hot Shop
One of the things we always recommend travelers to experience is a visit to the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach, located at 26389 Canal Road. The art gallery offers a fantastic selection of the best work of local artists, and it is always well received, but what most travelers won’t attempt, is to take one of the classes offered at the center. There are paint and wine classes, a clay studio, and to our minds, the most unique art activity, a glass blowing class offered at the Hot Shop. Open to the public for anyone 8 years of age or older, guests can choose between group classes that cost less or private classes that cost more but teach so much more and when you return home after this vacation is over, you will have a souvenir that you made yourself!
Hike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park
The beaches do tend to take attention away from the longer trails—no one wants to be that far away from the sea for that long—and that is perfectly ok with us, as it leaves the trails, particularly the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, open for us and for the guests that we share its secret with. This trail connects the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, meandering through Gulf State Park and offering a variety of activities that can be accomplished while on it, including biking, jogging, and rock climbing. Additionally, there is a butterfly garden that can be found along the trail, bringing a delicate and colorful magic to your backcountry adventures.
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Play with Leaping Lemurs at the Gulf Coast Zoo, 20499 Oak Road E
A zoo visit isn’t an everyday tourist activity, and the Gulf Coast Zoo is another secret that really isn’t a secret. Having been the star of the Animal Planet series “The Little Zoo that Could” chronicling the troubles it faced after a hurricane hit the area, the zoo offers many fun adventures, including the opportunity to hang out in the lemur habitat, watching them frolic and maybe even cuddling with them as they choose your lap for a resting place!
Shop Like the Locals
Everyone needs a little retail therapy at times in their life and we are fortunate to live in an area filled with unique shops filled with treasures. And yes, with the exception of souvenir stores, we do visit the boutiques and git shops that line our streets, always on the hunt for something different and the shops listed below are some of our favorites.
Resale Heaven Thrift Store, 1720 Al-59 in Gulf Shores
Anyone who spends any amount of time on social media these days may have noticed that in our nation’s quest to stay green (reduce, reuse, recycle), thrifting has lost its infamy and is actually the preferred method of shopping and Gulf Shores offers a variety of thrift stores, including Resale Heaven Thrift Store. Offering clothing, home décor, books, toys, and quite possibly the opportunity to find a hidden treasure at a great bargain price, this shop is clean, well lit, and one of our favorite places to shop.
The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road in Orange Beach
On the other end of the shopping spectrum we bring you the Wharf, a lifestyle center as opposed to a shopping center, offering everything from an amphitheater to an outdoor market, restaurants, a marina, rides, and a place to celebrate every holiday. Bigger is better, but you may feel like you need a map and a compass to navigate your way through this amazing shopping center. Many events are held here as well, something we will explore in a little more depth further down the page!
Rouses Market, 1545 Gulf Shores Parkway in Gulf Shores
Your Poole & Associates Alabama escape offers a fully equipped kitchen that only lacks food and beverages, so a trip to the grocery store may be in your future, especially if you are interested in cooking some meals for your family. Rouses Market is our favorite local grocery store, offering a few locations in the area, and providing a wonderful selection of locally sourced seafood, produce, and even baked goods. Grocery shopping isn’t glamorous, but it is necessary, and we know you will feel at home behind the cart when you explore the aisles of this local favorite.
Dining Is a Love Language
Yes, there are fully equipped kitchens in our Gulf Shores getaways, but if you were to come all this way and not explore the epicurean landscape of the region, would you really be able to say that you have fully experienced all Gulf Shores has to offer? Of course, you wouldn’t, and it is possible to eat at home and eat at the restaurants we have listed below throughout your stay.
Pirate’s Cove Marina & Restaurant, 6664 County Road 95 in Elberta
Bad restaurants come and go rather quickly, but the best ones linger for years, and Pirate’s Cove Marina & Restaurant, located in nearby Elberta, Alabama has seen generations of locals grace its doorstep. The year 1957 was a big year for the world, as it was the year the Russians launched Sputnik, beginning a space race that still continues today, it was also a big year for America as Elvis Presley quietly bought the home that would forever be known as Graceland a future major tourist destination, and in Gulf Shores? It was the year that this wonderful restaurant beginning feeding hungry locals. Offering fresh seafood, refreshing drinks, and views of the harbor that will make you reluctant to leave, Pirate’s Cove is worth the extra drive to try out.
The Southern Grind Coffeehouse at the Wharf, 4751 Main Street #116 in Orange Beach
Ever since that tiny coffee shop with the green sign opened its doors for the first time in Seattle, coffee has become big business, and although you can get your coffee from that chain, we don’t think it is sacrilegious to tell you that we think you will love Southern Grind Coffeehouse even more! They offer pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and smooth and rich coffee that they sell by the bag so you can bring it home with you after.
Lulu’s Gulf Shores, 200 E 25th Avenue in Gulf Shores
Finding a family friendly restaurant is a goal all parents strive to achieve and finding one that offers entertainment as well as good food is akin to seeking the Holy Grail, but in Gulf Shores, all you need to do is go to Lulu’s! Owned by Jimmy Buffett’s sister and providing a jungle gym area, arcade games, even a caricature artist for your children, live music adds a cheerful vibe to the already happy spot, and delicious food ensures that you will want to come back again and again and again. Enjoy an authentic taste of the South with an order of their shrimp and grits and you will never want to leave this part of the world.
We Staycation Here, Too
We consider it a part of our job to make sure that our properties continue to provide comfort and luxury to all who reside within, and we do that by taking our own staycations in the spaces. Getting away from the stresses of real life, we relax, we putter around the kitchens, and we avail ourselves of all the amenities, ensuring that everything works the way it should, that the furnishings are still as comfortable as the day they were first put in place, and that sleep still comes easy in our tranquil and peaceful bedrooms. Contact us to reserve the spaces you will call home for a week today and let us know how well we did our job! Browse our Gulf Shores rentals by amenity here.
Celebrate the one you call Dad this Father’s Day with a break in a beach locale full of fun, sun, sand, and water. Make this trip memorable with a trip to the beach and crashing waves of the Gulf of Mexico and the Alabama shores. Choose an Alabama Gulf Coast vacation for your ultimate destination and start planning the Father’s Day fun.
Beach Time
You chose a beach destination for plenty of beach fun this Father’s Day. You and Dad can take part in any of the area’s lazy beach activities: lay out and sunbathe, plant a beach umbrella and spread out a blanket for a picnic, take a swim in the Gulf, or whatever other beach fun you can think of.
Dad can head out to sea, or turn up the adrenaline with activities like parasailing, SCUBA diving, or snorkeling. Rip through the waves on a jet ski, or slow things down a bit with a sunset cruise or wildlife-watching cruise.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
Dad may want to change up the exercise routine a big during vacation. The 5.6-mile asphalt trail starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park and stretches west. It runs parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180 through tree-lined areas and neighborhoods, finally ending at the Peninsula Golf Club.
The mostly flat surface trail is an easy hike or bike for people of all skill levels, but the eastern end has a few gentle climbs. Add some difficulty on that eastern end and continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
Gulf Shores Museum
The museum is located in a house dating back to before World War II! The house stood as the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile. The family donated the structure, which was originally located in West Beach. It was moved to its current home after Hurricane Frederic in 1979.
The museum features many permanent and temporary exhibits telling the story of local history, and offers various programs and activities for all ages and a variety of interests.
Gulf State Park
Wander two miles of Gulf beachfront, or take part in some of Dad’s favorite beach activities: swim, surf, build sand castles, and more. Have a beach picnic, or move it to the shade and shelter of a beach pavilion.
For the dad that loves to fish, bring some gear and spend some time at the pier. For those looking for an adventure, try kayaking or parasailing.
Souvenir City
You and Dad will score some awesome souvenirs as part of his Father’s Day vacation activities. If you can’t find something to reflect the fun you’ve had so far, hit the shops of Gulf Shores.
The shop is a local icon, billed to have “thousands of gifts for everyone on your list,” so you and Dad are bound to find something to remember your time here. The shop has been a staple of the Gulf Shores community since 1956 and is open daily.
Glow Kayaking
Dad may enjoy taking a serene paddle around the water in the morning before the water and beach get busy for the day. The calmer waters around Bird Island are the perfect place. Several kayak tour companies want you to consider something different: glow kayaking. The nighttime-only trips are taken in clear-body kayaks outfitted with special underwater LED lights to light up the night and the water like you’ve never seen before.
You and Dad can choose a color or color pattern that suits your mood. Look down through the bottom of your boat not just for the lights, but also the beautiful creatures swimming below you. You can choose a two-person kayak to paddle around with Dad, or stick close to one another during the paddle but control your own vessel.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Dad and the family can go for a walk on the wild side this Father’s Day! Visit the zoo to see over 100 species, including 22 critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, or near-threatened species. Meet exotic residents like the African grey crowned crane, the Eurasian lynx, lemurs, various reptiles, and many others.
For everyone from the littlest guests to guests young at heart, there’s a petting zoo. Pet goats, sheep, donkeys, deer, and many other residents. Ask about close-up private encounters where each participant can touch, hold, feed, and learn about friendly animals like two-toed sloths (age restrictions apply).
Alabama Gulf Coast Father’s Day Headquarters
When you and book a Father’s Day getaway to the Alabama Gulf Coast with Poole & Associates, you and Dad won’t be short on fun and amazing activities to fill your time. Enjoy the water, lounge around your rental, or enjoy the myriad of other activities available to help build an Alabama Gulf Coast vacation that is uniquely yours.
We have homes from one-bedroom units for Dad’s solo getaway, all the way up to four-bedroom homes so he can surround himself with family. Savor the flavors of home when you prepare a home-cooked meal in the unit’s fully-equipped kitchen. Enjoy spacious living areas and private outdoor spaces like patios or balconies. Unwind after a long day in a private bedroom, or gather some snacks and enjoy Dad’s favorite movies or TV shows together on a flat-screen TV with an entertainment center.
A visit to the Alabama coast may be just what the doctor ordered to shake the winter blahs this spring. Get a dose of fun, sun, sand, and water when you choose Gulf Shores for your Spring Break retreat. There are plenty of fun activities and attractions in Gulf Shores and the surrounding area, with plenty that appeal to anyone of all ages in the group. Make sure to book a private vacation rental with Poole & Associates to get plenty of rest and relaxation along with your action-packed Gulf Shores Alabama Spring Break vacation. If your fur babies need a break this spring too, ask about pet-friendly rentals!
Beach Time
You’ve planned plenty of beach time just by coming to a beach destination like Gulf Shores for Spring Break. Choose from activities like sunbathing or swimming. Change up your exercise routine with a run or walk on the sand. Explore beneath the waves on a snorkeling or SCUBA trip, or up the adrenaline with jet skiing or parasailing.
XIT Escape Room
It’s one of the newest past times and can be enjoyed by everything this spring. Choose your favorite topic, or make your selection based on the number of people needed to complete it, difficulty, how scary the topic may be, and other factors. Rooms include Insane Asylum, CSI: Gulf Shores, Movie Night, and others. Solve the clues to break out in 60 minutes to win. Book online and arrive ten minutes before your appointment time to avoid a crowd in the waiting area.
Souvenir City
Part of your activities may include shopping, either to beat the heat or look for fun souvenirs. Remember your trip with a treasure from a Gulf Shores staple. The shop has been a Gulf Shores fixture since 1956 and is open daily. While you’ll collect souvenirs from the things you do, like beach adventures and other experiences, the shop boasts “thousands of gifts for everyone on your list” so you and your traveling companions are bound to find something to remember your time here.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Take a walk on the wild side this Spring Break! You and your loved ones will see over 100 species, including 22 critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, or near-threatened species. Marvel at residents including the African grey crowned crane, a Eurasian lynx, lemurs, a number of different reptiles, and more. For everyone from the littlest guests to guests young at heart, there’s a petting zoo where everyone can pet goats, sheep, donkeys, and deer. Ask about close-up private encounters where you can touch, hold, feed, and learn about animals like two-toed sloths and others.
Gulf State Park
Enjoy the beach on your Spring Break beach vacation. Wander two miles of Gulf beachfront, swim, surf, build sandcastles, and enjoy any and all of the beach activities you can think of. The park also has a beach pavilion where you can picnic or gather together to celebrate spring. If there are anglers in the group, they’ll want to bring along some gear and spend some time at the pier. For vacationers looking for an extra adventure, try kayaking, parasailing, and more.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
Lace up the hiking shoes or rent some bikes, grab plenty of water and your sun gear, and head out for exploration and adventure. The 5.6-mile asphalt trail starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park and stretches west through Gulf Shores. The path runs parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180, through tree-lined areas and neighborhoods, and finally ending at the Peninsula Golf Club. The trail is an easy hike or bike for most, as it’s mostly a flat surface with only a few gentle climbs at the eastern end. Bring a camera and plan on a few stops to take in the scenery. If everyone is up for it, add some difficulty on the eastern end and continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
Gulf Shores Museum
Kids in the group won’t necessarily enjoy history outside of school, but Gulf Shores has a rich one you’ll want to learn more about. The Gulf Shores Museum is located in a house that dates back to before World War II. The structure was the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile. Originally built in West Beach, the family donated the house. It was moved from that original location to its current home after Hurricane Frederic in 1979. The museum features a number of permanent and temporary exhibits that tell the story of Gulf Shores’ history, along with programs and activities for all ages.
Take a Break in Gulf Shores
When you book a getaway with Poole & Associates, you won’t be short on amazing activities to fill your Spring Break. We have homes all the way up to four bedrooms, so you can share a Spring Break with all your loved ones. Savor the taste of home when you prepare a home-cooked meal in the unit’s fully equipped kitchen. Or hit the waves in one of our homes with boat slips!
Spread out in spacious living areas and private outdoor spaces like patios and balconies. Unwind in private bedrooms or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite movie or TV show together on a flat-screen TV.
When winter weather gets too wintry and you begin to feel that you can’t take another day of snow, sleet, and gray skies, it may be time to plan a vacation to somewhere summery. You want to visit an area where the sun shines often, and cold is merely a slight inconvenience, especially as cold could be nothing lower than 60 degrees! If that area also happens to offer sandy beaches and Gulf waters that stretch out to the horizon and beyond, beachfront bars serving frothy tropical drinks, and vacation escapes draped in comfort and luxury, all the better! Everything mentioned above can be enjoyed in the coastal town of Gulf Shores, Alabama, a town filled with the eternal vibe of summer, and also offering all the festivity of a holiday celebration. And because less is never more at the shore, our Poole & Associates holiday hideaways will add an extra layer of wonderful to your winter getaway, keeping you warm on chilly nights, providing cheer as you celebrate your favorite winter holidays, and offering all the comforts of home even as you may be miles and miles away from your own backyard. This Gulf Shores guide to a perfectly beachy getaway in our Gulf Coast hometown will have you wishing that the black X’s on the days leading up to travel time would move a little faster!
Find Your Joy
Every day is a new adventure in Gulf Shores, and although nights will get chilly in the winter months, moderate daytime temps may encourage you to bury your toes in the sand every day at sunset, watching the sky come alive in kaleidoscope of fiery color. Our sunrises are also spectacular, and if you are a morning person, you will definitely want to toss on a jacket over your pajamas, and head to the beach watching with open mouth as the skies cycle from midnight black, to dusky gray, then pink, and then, just as at sunset, explodes into fire! Even those who are not morning people should experience an Alabama sunrise at least once during their stay; you can always go back to bed and sleep for a couple of more hours at the conclusion of the show—just remember to draw your curtains closed so the sun doesn’t interrupt your snooze!)
Take a Tour of the Town
Your first day in town could end up being confusing if you don’t really have an idea on what interests you (besides the beach—the beach always interests everyone!) and we suggest signing up for a tour of the area, checking everything out at the beginning and taking note of the activities or sites you want to explore later on your own. From the sky, Gulf Shores is simply amazing and Lost Bay Helicopters provides a thrilling birds eye view of the region. Located at 3190 Airport Drive, their tours range from a quick fly by of the beach to a 30+ minute Gulf Coast Experience Tour exploring all that makes this region unique while also revealing a few “secrets” that they only share with their closest friends. For those who prefer to keep their sightseeing closer to the earth, Coastal Segway Adventures offers a two-hour Back Country Tour through Gulf State Park, exploring its natural beauty and providing the opportunity to catch glimpses of the creatures that make the park their home, including alligators, tortoises, and delicate butterflies with wings that may be all the colors of the rainbow! This tour is perhaps the best way to experience nature at its most serene, and if you really love the park, you can return to it as often as you like! Located at 20115 State Park Road in Gulf Shores, this beautiful stretch of land and sea offers serenity and fun to every person who visits, and its trails and picnic spots are open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year.
A Foodie’s Tour of Gulf Shores
This unofficial tour is the tastiest one in town and is one you will salivate over participating in, plus, all it will cost is the price of the meal. There aren’t any “guided foodie tours” in Gulf Shores, but with a few suggestions from your Poole & Associates friends, we can promise that this tour will be the most satisfying.
Start your mornings out with breakfast at Kitty’s Café, 3800 Gulf Shores Parkway #100, a spot that we have heard on good authority offers the best biscuits in town! Ok, we were the ones deeming it so; those biscuits are so good, they have become our newest obsession, but that’s not the only item on the menu that will have you salivating! The menu is a tribute to all the good old-fashioned cooking our Alabama mamas are known for, and if you leave hungry, well, we will have to put that on you, because their servings are generous and their food is the stick to the ribs type that you will dream about long after you have returned to your own comfy bed at home. Their “kitten’s” menu will delight your pickiest little traveling partners and because they are open for lunch too, it may be in your best interest to return for a midday break. Kitty’s Café is closed on Sundays, so be aware and maybe choose to make your own Sunday brunch in your Poole & Associates holiday haven!
Of course, once you have had your first “taste” of the beach, chances are you won’t want to have it out of your sight and if this is the case, a lunch at The Hangout Gulf Shores will be the best way to soothe your pangs of hunger! Open every day of the week starting at 10:30 and located on the beaches of Gulf Shores, this will be your first opportunity to enjoy the fresh seafood found in town. We are particular to Ultimate Seafood Boil, offering a massive portion of snow crab, mussels, Gulf Shrimp, potatoes, sausage, and sweet corn, but if that’s a little too much food for you, we definitely recommend their Shrimp & Grits! Devouring the sweet seafood as the ocean plays accompaniment to live music on the weekends is one of life’s greatest pleasures and yep, The Hangout offers that activity as well! Make a day out of it, starting for lunch and staying through the final encore and as a sweet treat that will make you smile, try a Bushwacker, a cocktail that doubles as a dessert, created with Malibu Coconut Rum, coffee liqueur, and ice cream.
Festive and Bright
Now, after your tours of sky, land, and food, you may think we have forgotten that you are exploring the delights of Gulf Shores over the winter holidays, but proving that we have considered all the things that will make your trip one you will never forget is an easy thing to do! The Gulf Shores holidays in your own hometown have probably started feeling stressful and chaotic as you shop, clean, shop some more, and cook until your back is breaking and you can’t even enjoy the food you have prepared. In Gulf Shores, however, the holiday celebrations take on a beachier and more relaxed vibe, something our guests deserve on every level!
The early days of December are for preparing for the big day, starting with the Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, generally held the second Saturday in December. We all love a parade, that’s for sure, but if you have never witnessed a parade of boats decked out in their holiday finest, you are about to experience a treat that will spoil you for all other parades! Starting at dusk, the cavalcade of boats leaves Lulu’s Gulf Shores, (another waterfront restaurant you simply must try!) skimming over the dark waters to their ending destination in nearby Orange Beach. The magic can be witnessed anywhere along the canals from both towns offering a Christmas celebration that is uniquely Gulf Shores.
The business of Christmas is very important indeed, especially to your tiniest travelers, and the most special of traditions can be followed with the opportunity to take Photos with Santa at the Wharf! Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve, the Wharf in Orange Beach becomes our tropical version of the North Pole and rumor has it that Santa will even pose with pooches, so if you are missing your sweet fur child, be sure to stop by and check out everyone else’s whispering secrets in Santa’s ear! The Wharf is destined to be your one stop holiday spot, offering stores that make your holiday shopping easy, as well as delicious restaurants and from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve, an ice skating rink! Live out your Hallmark Christmas movie fantasies, doing circles on the ice with your favorite human and warm up with a cup of hot cocoa from the Southern Grind Coffee House after your turn on the ice.
A Clean Slate
There’s something about the new year that creates an optimism in even the most pessimistic of people. We feel like once we have crossed from 11:59 to 12:00, all our failures, disappointments, and worries from the previous year will be erased, leaving a clean slate of days spread out before us, waiting to be filled with the most wonderful of activities! If your winter journey has you camped out in our holiday hideaways over New Year’s Eve, your celebrations are destined to be special ones!
Not everyone is able to stay up to midnight, especially if you are one of those early risers who has awakened with the sun every day of your stay, and that is perfectly ok. Lulu’s comes into the spotlight again, offering a Noon Year’s Eve at Lulu’s, a daytime party that counts down to noon! Offering sandcastle building, zoo animals, face painting, live music, and an excitement that is palpable, your kiddos will want to get there when the fun begins and stay until the final countdown to noon.
Not ready for the fun to end at the crack of noon? That is perfectly ok because the Wharf offers its own Street Party that continues until that big crystal ball drops down over Times Square at midnight! Offering more of what you experienced at Lulu’s Noon Year’s Eve, plus a massive fireworks display at the beginning of the new year, be sure to make reservations at the restaurants found at the Wharf, so you don’t have to leave when hunger pangs strike!
For those seeking a more adult celebration, Flora-Bama Lounge, Package & Oyster Bar, located in Orange Beach, Alabama and Perdido Key, Florida is known for its legendary celebrations, and its Flora-Bama New Year’s Eve Bash will show you the correct way to say goodbye to the old year and hello to the new year. And finally, showing that good things come to those who wait, when the clock strikes 12, (noon, that is, on New Year’s Day) Flora-Bama celebrates the blank slate with their annual Polar Bear Plunge! The water is cold, for sure, but nowhere near as frosty as it can be in northern states, and if you submerge yourself completely, be prepared to enjoy a free beer and a free lunch of ham, black eyed peas, greens, and cornbread!
Relax with Poole & Associates
No matter how you spend the precious minutes of your days and evenings in Gulf Shores, coming home to our holiday hideaways at the end of every day will be a reward in itself! Watch all the new Hallmark Christmas Movies on state-of-the-art televisions, take a nap on Christmas day on the softest of sofas, and celebrate the end of the old year sitting on balconies that overlook the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Every minute will be your favorite one when you choose any of our Poole & Associates escapes to make your own over the winter Gulf Shores holidays. Reserve your favorite today!
Celebrate summer and independence with a break to a beach locale full of fun, sun, sand, and water. Make this trip memorable with a trip to the beach and crashing waves of the Gulf of Mexico and the Alabama shores. Choose Gulf Shores and the surrounding area for your ultimate destination and start planning the fun with these Gulf Shores 4th of July events. There are plenty of things to see and do while you’re here, but you’ll want to make sure to book a private vacation rental with Poole & Associates so you can enjoy time with loved ones privately. If you can’t stand a moment away from your fur babies, ask about pet-friendly rentals and bring them along!
Gulf Shores Independence Day Celebration
The City of Gulf Shores celebrates Independence Day with a bang. The display starts at 9 p.m. on July 4th and will be based at the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier. Starting at 7 a.m., the pier will close for setup and reopen to the public 100 feet north of the launch site. At 8:30 p.m. the pier and on-site restaurant will close in anticipation of the beginning of the show. The pier will reopen to the public at 6 a.m. on July 5.
Shark Run
Get your exercise in during your vacation and join the 9th annual Shark Run in Orange Beach. You can register on the event website, and packet pickup information will follow in late June. The first 350 to register get a custom Shark Run shirt limited edition from the rest of the shirts. Everyone gets a finishers medal, and there are custom age group awards for 5K runners. The 5K run/walk and 1-mile fun run starts at 7 a.m. The race is part of the “Run the Coast Summer Series,” which includes the Labor Day 8th annual Bloody Mary 5K run/1-mile walk.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
Change up your exercise routine on vacation. In addition to the Shark Run, the 5.6-mile asphalt Fort Morgan Road Trail starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park, runs parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180 and stretches west through Gulf Shores, tree-lined areas, and neighborhoods, finally ending at the Peninsula Golf Club. The mostly flat surface trail is an easy hike or bike, with the eastern end having only a few gentle climbs. Add some difficulty on the eastern end and continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
Beach Time
You and your loved ones chose a beach destination this 4th of July for a reason: the beach. Enjoy lazy beach activities, like sunbathing, planting a beach umbrella and spreading out a blanket for a picnic, taking a swim in the Gulf, and more. Get an adrenaline boost with activities like parasailing or snorkeling, then calm down with a sunset or wildlife-watching cruise.
Gulf Shores Museum
Learn about Gulf Shores and the surrounding area. The museum is located in what was the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile, and dates back to before World War II. The family donated the structure, originally in West Beach, which was moved to its current home after Hurricane Frederic in 1979. The museum boasts many permanent and temporary exhibits that tell Gulf Shores’ history, as well as offering various programs and activities for all ages and many interests.
Gulf State Park
Wander two miles of Gulf beachfront, swim, surf, build sandcastles, and enjoy a myriad of other beach activities. Have a beach picnic or move it to the beach pavilion for a bit of shade while you eat. If you and your loved ones like to fish, bring some gear and spend some time at the pier. For those looking for an adventure, try kayaking or parasailing. Keep in mind the pier will close at 7 a.m. on July 4th for the fireworks display, but reopens at 6 a.m. July 5th.
Souvenir City
It’s a souvenir store and a local attraction! While you’ll collect souvenirs from your many 4th of July beach adventures and other activities, the shop has “thousands of gifts for everyone on your list” so you’re bound to find something to remember your time here. The shop has been a Gulf Shores staple since 1956 and has daily hours.
Celebrate 4th of July in Gulf Shores
When you book a 4th of July getaway with Poole & Associates, you won’t be short on amazing activities to fill your time during your Gulf Shores holiday adventure. Enjoy the water, lounge around your rental, or enjoy the myriad of other activities available to help build a 4th of July Gulf Shores vacation that is uniquely yours. We have everything from one-bedroom units up to four-bedroom homes. Prepare a home-cooked meal, or fixings for a 4th of July cookout in the unit’s fully equipped kitchen. Enjoy spacious living areas and private outdoor spaces like patios and balconies. Unwind in a private bedroom or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite movies together on a flat screen TV with entertainment center.
Contact us today to book your Gulf Shores 4th of July vacation!
A visit to the Alabama coast may be just what the doctor ordered – for you, and your kids. Get a dose of fun, sun, sand, and water when you choose Orange Beach. There are plenty of fun attractions and activities in Orange Beach and the surrounding area, with plenty that appeal to kids and kids of all ages! Make sure to book a private vacation rental with Poole & Associates to get plenty of rest and relaxation along with your action-packed Orange Beach vacation. If your fur babies are joining you, ask about pet-friendly rentals!
Beach Time
You’ve planned plenty of beach time just by coming to a beach destination like Gulf Shores. Choose from activities like laying out and sunbathing while the kids build sandcastles, planting a beach umbrella and spreading out a blanket and reading or having a family picnic, taking a swim in the Gulf, or getting some exercise with the whole family and taking the kids for a stroll on the beach. The kids will also love snorkeling or surfing lessons!
Festivals
Check the calendar and plan your vacation around a festival that celebrates your favorite things. From the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival celebrating the first mode of air travel. They’ll also love the family-friendly 4th of July, special winter holiday celebrations, and more.
Gulf Shores Dog Park
For families or groups bringing along their pets, Orange Beach and the surrounding area have plenty of fun for them, too. The Gulf Shores Dog Park has a large fenced-in green area where both large and small dogs can get their zoomies out. Humans can sit and socialize, too, but make sure to keep an eye on your pup and clean up after them using the provided waste bag stations. You can bring water for yourself, but the park provides water for the pets! Kids will love watching their own dog play, but make sure to ask permission before they interact with anyone else’s pet.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Take the kids for a walk on the wild side! You and the kids will see over 100 species, including 22 critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, or near-threatened species. Marvel at residents like the African grey crowned crane, a Eurasian lynx, lemurs, various reptiles, and more. For everyone from the littlest guests to guests young at heart, there’s a petting zoo where everyone can pet goats, sheep, donkeys, and deer. Ask about close-up private encounters where you can touch, hold, feed, and learn about friendlier animals like two-toed sloths and others.
Gulf State Park
Wander two miles of Gulf beachfront, swim, surf, build sandcastles, and enjoy any and all of the beach activities you can think of with the kids. The park also has a beach pavilion where you can picnic or gather to celebrate together. If there are anglers in the group, they’ll want to bring some gear and spend some time at the pier. For families looking for an extra adventure, try kayaking, parasailing, and more.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
Lace up everyone’s hiking shoes, or rent some bikes, grab plenty of water and your sun gear, and head out on an adventure. The 5.6-mile asphalt trail starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park and stretches west through Gulf Shores. The path runs parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180, through tree-lined areas and neighborhoods, finally ending at the Peninsula Golf Club. The trail is an easy hike or bike, as it’s mostly a flat surface that’s kid-friendly, but the eastern end of the trail has only a few gentle climbs. Bring a camera and plan a few stops to take in the scenery. If the kids are up for it, add some difficulty on the eastern end and continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
Gulf Shores Museum
Save this history lesson for last! The Gulf Shores Museum is located in a house that dates back to before World War II and was used as the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile. Originally built in West Beach, the family donated the structure, and it was moved from that original location to its current home after Hurricane Frederic in 1979. The museum features permanent and temporary exhibits that tell the story of Gulf Shores’ history and offers various programs and activities for all ages.
Bring the Kids to Orange Beach
When you book a getaway with Poole & Associates, you won’t be short on amazing activities to fill your time. Enjoy the water, lounge around your rental, or experience the myriad of activities available to help build your unique Orange Beach vacation. We have homes all the way up to four bedrooms so the whole family can stay together in one place. Savor the taste of home when you prepare a home-cooked meal in the unit’s fully equipped kitchen. Spread out in spacious living areas and private outdoor spaces like patios and balconies. Unwind in private bedrooms or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite movie or TV show together on a flat screen TV.
Contact us today to book your Orange Beach getaway!
Whether it’s a reunion with friends you haven’t seen in a while, an annual getaway, bachelorette trip, or “just because,” you’ve planned a girls’ trip. Make this trip memorable with a trip to the beach and crashing waves of the Gulf of Mexico and the Alabama shores. Choose Gulf Shores for your ultimate destination and start planning the fun. There are plenty of things to see and do while you’re here, but you’ll want to make sure to book a private vacation home in Gulf Shores with Poole & Associates so you can enjoy time with your girls in private. If you can’t stand a moment away from your furry family members, ask about pet-friendly rentals and bring them along!
Beach Time
You and your girls chose a beach destination for a reason: the beach. You can choose to lay out and sunbathe, plant a beach umbrella, and spread out a blanket for a picnic, take a swim in the Gulf, or whatever other beach fun you can think of. Turn up the adrenaline with activities like parasailing, SCUBA diving, or snorkeling. Calm down with a sunset cruise or wildlife-watching cruise.
Festivals
The need for a girls’ trip can come at any time of year. Plan your girls’ escape around an activity you all love and plan to attend a festival. You can make one of the festivals or events part of your vacation plans. Celebrate the area culture with the Waterway Village Zydeco & Crawfish Festival in April, come for the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival or Hangout Music Festival in May, celebrate the Blue Angels’ homecoming in November, or another event you all love. Just check the Gulf Shores website to find out what kind of celebrations are going on during your stay.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
Get some exercise with the girls. The 5.6-mile asphalt trail starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park and stretches west through Gulf Shores and runs parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180 and runs through tree-lined areas and neighborhoods, finally ending at the Peninsula Golf Club. The mostly flat surface trail is an easy hike or bike, and the eastern end has only a few gentle climbs. Add some difficulty on the eastern end and continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
Gulf Shores Museum
The museum is located in a house that dates back to before World War II and was used as the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile. The family donated the structure, originally in West Beach, to its current home after Hurricane Frederic in 1979. The museum houses many permanent and temporary exhibits that tell the story of Gulf Shores’ history, as well as offering various programs and activities for all ages and many interests.
Gulf Shores Dog Park
For those of you who brought your pup along, they need some outdoor fun, too! The park has a large fenced-in green area where both large and small dogs can get their zoomies out. Their human companions can sit and socialize while keeping an eye on their pup and cleaning up after them using the provided waste bag stations. You can bring water for yourself, but the park provides water for your pup!
Gulf State Park
You and the girls can wander two miles of Gulf beachfront, swim, surf, build sand castles, and enjoy a myriad of other beach activities, or have a picnic in the beach pavilion. If you and your girls like to fish, you’ll want to bring some gear and spend some time at the pier. For those looking for an adventure, try kayaking or even parasailing!
Souvenir City
Part of your girls’ trip activities may include shopping, at least for fun souvenirs. The shop has been a Gulf Shores staple since 1956 and is open daily. While you’ll collect souvenirs from the things you do, like beach adventures, the shop has “thousands of gifts for everyone on your list,” so you’re bound to find something to remember your time here.
Spa Day
Relaxing with the girls is number one on your To Do List. There are several spas in the Gulf Shores area that are ready to pamper you. Indulge in massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and more. Some even offer salon services so you can walk away with a new cut, style, or color for head-to-toe refreshment.
Girl Time in Gulf Shores
When you book a girls’ getaway with Poole & Associates, you won’t be short on amazing activities to fill your time. Enjoy the water, lounge around your rental, or enjoy the myriad of other activities available to help build a Gulf Shores vacation that is uniquely yours. We have everything from one-bedroom units up to a four-bedroom home. Savor the taste of home when you prepare a home-cooked meal in the unit’s fully equipped kitchen. Enjoy spacious living areas and private outdoor spaces like patios and balconies. Unwind in a private bedroom or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite movies together on a flat screen TV.
Contact us today to book a Gulf Shores girls’ getaway to remember!