A beach vacation in the Gulf Shores area of Alabama can be a vacation dream come true, especially when you choose the right vacation rental in which to start and end every day in comfort and luxury. We at Poole & Associates have been providing both to travelers for more than a few minutes, and in that time we have learned how to make our properties an integral part of the vacation experience, something that starts with the amenities offered within. And because we want to make sure that your Alabama summer vacation is one that surpasses all others, we have created this guide to what amenities you should look for in your summer rental in the Gulf Shores area and of course, all of the above will be found in our own seasonal sanctuaries.
Search Our Gulf Shores Rentals By Amenity!
Amenities In Our Summer Rentals in the Gulf Shores Area
Summers in the Gulf Shores area are hot and humid, so of course you will want your rental to offer air conditioning, but it’s more than just having the equipment that will make the difference. We’ve all stayed in a vacation rentals where the air conditioner simply can’t stand up to the heat, just barely cooling the property enough so as not to be dangerous or illegal. Proper maintenance is the key, as is knowing when it is time to throw in the towel and invest in a new unit altogether, and when you choose our holiday hideaways, our systems work so well that goosebumps may be an issue when you leave the heat of the outdoors and step back into the air conditioned coolness of our retreats.
Ceiling Fans
The air can be heavy on a particularly hot day in the summer, and although the air conditioning we offer will keep the space cool, a good ceiling fan will circulate the air, adding even more chill to the air. Taking a nap under a ceiling fan on the couch will refresh and at night, it is always going to be so much easier to sleep when you have the soft whir of the fan overhead lulling you into a deep and restful sleep. Ceiling fans can make the difference between ok and just right, and although many designers hate their look, we know how much they will add to your vacation experience, and you will find them in most bedrooms and living rooms.
Wine Refrigerators, Coffee Makers (or Keurigs) and Blenders
Summer beverages are fun beverages and whether you like to start your morning with an iced coffee or smoothie, and end your day with a glass of wine, a frozen margarita, or a cold beer, we’ve got you covered. No self-respecting vacation rental would offer a kitchen without a coffee maker, that is something even hotels provide, but the blenders that are found in many of our retreats are equally important. Raise a frothy margarita in toast to the beauty of a summer sunset, skip the heavy breakfasts at our comfort food restaurants with a smoothy, and live your best hydrated life during your summer getaway to Gulf Shores. Not every property we offer will feature wine refrigerators, but if the one you rent does, you can relax and drink well, knowing that it can chill not just your wine, but your beer, sodas, and bottled water as well.
Televisions and Board Games
The lush Alabama countryside doesn’t happen by magic, it takes rain to get that verdant beauty, and chances are the rain may fall during at least one day or night of your vacation. But you won’t mind because a rainy day or night is the perfect time to pop some popcorn, pour yourself your beverage of choice, and settle in for a night of movie watching on our state of the art televisions. Some will be Smart televisions, allowing you to stream all your favorite services and others will be cable access, connected to DVD players, and providing cabinets of movies for our guests to watch. But on the nights you want to stay unplugged, perhaps teaching your children a life lesson, you may also discover shelves stacked with board games and puzzles, inviting you and your family to rediscover the joys of game night. Rainy days and nights may even end up being your favorite ones as you chill with the family and learn again all the reasons you wouldn’t trade your life for anyone else’s.
Book Our Gulf Shores Rentals Today!
This Way to the Beach
As you can see, we spent the first part of this guide talking about amenities that are inside, which means the next part will tell the story of outside fun, but we think this amenity deserves its own section as it will be enjoyed both inside and out. We are, of course, talking about our beachfront rentals, the properties that combine salt air and serenity and really do become the most important part of your Gulf Shores journey. There are a variety of reasons you may not be able to rent a beachfront escape, and that’s ok, all our properties are close enough to the beach that you will still reap most of the benefits, but if you can, choose the beach, just as it will choose you. Waking up every morning and rushing to the windows to discover what vibe the ocean brings each day, sitting on the balcony and watching the sky turn to fire before the sun drops behind the horizon, and on cooler days, opening the windows, and letting in salt air breezes and the roar of the ocean, and all the peace and tranquility you never knew you needed; these are just some of the benefits of choosing beachfront instead of beach adjacent.
Taking the Good Times Outside
Now it’s time to go outside and play, to explore the summer amenities we know will make your Alabama journey one that is fun, exciting, and entertaining. The sun will shine down on your outdoor adventures (until it rains) and your skin will develop a golden glow that will be the envy of your friends and family who weren’t able to join you on this southern vacation in paradise. So change into your shorts and tees, slip into your flip flops, and pour yourself a tropical drink as you prepare to go on a tour of summer fun in our Poole & Associates exciting backyards and communities. We’ll start with our outdoor condo amenities first.
Community Pool
Yes, you can swim in the sea pretty much anytime you want, but sometimes you just want crystal clear chlorinated water and a short distance away from your blender where pitchers of margaritas are waiting to be sipped. The community pools found in our condo communities are another tool used to combat the summer heat and as you splash with your kids, tan on loungers that surround said pools, or simply sit at pool’s edge, your feet dangling in the cool waters, you will be experiencing one of summer’s most favored activities.
Hot Tubs
Hot tubs aren’t as popular as the pools are in the summer months, but when evening falls, they can help tired and achy muscles heal and add some romance to your vacation adventures. When the sun sets, the nights can really cool down, so that might be when you choose to use the hot tub the most. Or you could keep it in mind for a return trip in the cooler months, savoring the hot and bubbling waters when the temperatures dip into the cooler numbers.
Sports Courts
The family that plays together may squabble a bit, but playing basketball, volleyball, or tennis together will still bring you closer. Again, this is an activity you may want to participate in during the early morning or late evening hours, before and after the temperatures have risen or lowered, but we have seen many of our guests shooting hoops in the middle of the day. People from cooler climates particularly, seem to never get enough of the heat!
Private Pools
When you rent a standalone home, you have another set of amenities that will enhance your vacation experience and although we have already discussed the benefit of community pool, there are some key differences when you choose a home with a private pool. Especially when you learn that a nighttime swim can help lower your core body temperature, leading to a night of peaceful and not sweaty sleep. We’ve been known to leave the pool with teeth chattering, needing to pull out the heavy blankets on the hottest nights of the year, but even if you don’t get cold, there is joy that can be found while floating on your back, staring up into a sky filled with twinkling stars and, if you visit at the right time, the glow of a full moon. If your vacation home is close to the beach, you may even be able to hear the roar of the waves, enhancing the experience and making memories you will never forget.
Barbecues and Patio Tables
The summer barbecue is a uniquely American experience that can be enjoyed in our private homes, as all of them offer either a gas or charcoal grill. Flip burgers, gulp down cold beer, and laugh at the antics of your kids who are splashing in the pool as your favorite Yacht Rock channel plays the music you know all the words. Char up the fish you caught on an earlier fishing trip after cleaning them at the fish cleaning stations that can be found in the backyards of some of our vacation home rentals. And when you don’t want to leave the beauty of your Alabama backyard an al fresco dinner can be enjoyed at the patio tables that are placed in shaded areas, covered patios, or under colorful umbrellas that accompany the tables.
Boat Slips
This is another amenity that may be included in both our condo communities and in our private homes, and the freedom they offer will never let you down. Rent a boat from a local rental place, there are plenty in the area, and keep your boat tied to the slip, ready to use every morning of your stay. Whether you are waterskiing, fishing, or simply zipping around the waters, enjoying the sea spray, the salt air, and perhaps wondering if your retirement plans could include a beach cottage in Gulf Shores and your own boat tied to your private boat dock. Beach life is the best life and who knows? Maybe your beach dreams will come true and you can live in Gulf Shores during every season, not just the summer months!
Outdoor Showers, Tiki Bars, and Screened Patios
Beach houses need outdoor showers and travelers need tiki bars located close to the pool, which are two more amenities you may find in our summer sanctuaries. Keep the sand outside where it belongs while experiencing the luxury of showering under the open sky, and when your shower is complete, fix yourself a drink at the tiki bar. Not all our homes will offer these amenities, if it is important to you, be sure to read the listing carefully to determine if the property you fell in love with has what you want. Screened-in patios can be another amenity you will appreciate, keeping debris and creepy crawlies outside where they belong!
Our Seasonal Sanctuaries Will Bring You Joy Any Time of the Year
The best news of all is that all our summer sanctuaries will bring you joy no matter what time of year you choose to visit. Offering comfort to travelers that have been uncomfortable for too many hours, relaxation to guests who have been too busy to relax for months, and peace to everyone who steps inside, these spaces are all designed to be the best part of your vacation experience. Contact us to reserve your favorite Poole & Associates Gulf Coast escape today and explore which summer amenities are your favorite!
A summer beach vacation is always a good idea and when you are ready to start planning yours, planning a summer beach vacation in the Gulf Shores area is an even better one! Offering white sand beaches, exciting attractions, and all the comforts of home in our Poole & Associates Alabama sanctuaries, the only downside is that you have to wait a few weeks or months to actually begin your vacation in paradise. This guide to your summer vacation in the Gulf Shores area will help paint a picture of perfection, giving you a little something wonderful to look forward to in the days leading up to your trip of a lifetime!
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
Plan a Summer Vacation in the Gulf Shores Area
The white sands cover a lot of acreage on the Alabama Gulf Coast and our Poole & Associates escapes can be found in each of the three towns of this particular area, with each town offering its own distinctive vibe and personality. Planning a beautiful summer vacation in any of three towns, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan can ensure adventures that are as different from each other as they are the same, and our homes, villas, and condos will reflect the vibe of the town they reside in, adding that final touch to a vacation that promises to be one you will never forget.
Gulf Shores
Blending history, nature, and fun, the town of Gulf Shores was incorporated as a city in 1958, but its history goes all the way back to the 1800s, offering humble beginnings as small fishing community. Today, its vibe is a laidback one that shares more than a hint of Southern charm and a whole lot of family friendly fun. Your time in Gulf Shores will be relaxing and your memories will last a lifetime, especially when you partake in the activities and visit the attractions we list below, and when you come home to our Poole & Associates vacation hideaways at the end of every day.
A Tale of Two Beaches
You have been dreaming about a lazy day on the beach since before you even knew that Gulf Shores existed and the many beaches in Gulf Shores will each give you a different experience, but remember, the basics are the same. You can still laze under colorful umbrellas, build sandcastles in the white sand, and frolic in the blue waters of the Gulf, no matter which beach you choose to explore.
Gulf Place (The Main Beach in Gulf Shores)
If you are looking for a typical beach experience, Gulf Place, which is Gulf Shores main public beach, is the beach you want to visit. This is where you can engage in a pickup volleyball game with strangers that will soon become friends, where you can enjoy a picnic with your family as the surf crashes against sandy shores, and when you want a break from salt, sand, and sun, you can toss on a cover-up, slip into your flip flops, and hit the shops and restaurants that are within walking distance.
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
West Beach
West Beach is where the families go, offering a quieter experience that is more peaceful and less crowded. This is the beach that will make you wish your sandcastle construction skills were stronger, but you need not worry, your child will just be happy to have spent these moments with you and whatever you build will look like the Taj Mahal to them. (If they knew what the Taj Mahal looked like.) There aren’t volleyball nets or crowds of people on West Beach and the shops and restaurants are a little further away, but this beach is pristine, the vibe is peaceful, and the crowds often go elsewhere.
Take a Bite Out of Gulf Shores
Our Gulf Shores escapes all offer fully equipped kitchens, but you won’t want to eat every meal in, especially when you realize all the wonderful restaurants Gulf Shores has to offer. Lulu’s Gulf Shores, located at 200 E 25th Avenue is owned by the sister of American superstar, Jimmy Buffett, is known for its eclectic coastal fare menu and for offering a large yard in which guests can dine, listen to live music, and watch the littles run around, playing on the ropes course, play games at the arcade, and get their pictures drawn by the resident caricature artist.
Orange Beach
Only incorporated in 1984, Orange Beach also has a history that dates back to the 1800s. The settlers at the time tried to make a success out of citrus groves, but the name Orange lasted far longer than those original citrus groves. Today, it is known for its family-friendly vibe, its relaxed atmosphere, and the tranquility that permeates the town. The activities and attractions listed below reflect the charm and beauty of this Alabama Gulf Coast town.
The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road
Orange Beach is perhaps best known for the Wharf, a shopping paradise that is more than a mall, offering a Ferris Wheel, arcade room, shops, restaurants, and an outdoor amphitheater with a stage that has heard the performances of some of the music world’s best performers. Although you are going to love your beach days in Orange Beach, in the summer the Wharf provides some seasonal competition, offering a variety of activities (bubble bashes and inflatable playgrounds) that are geared towards kids, but because there is live music and lots of places to order frosty cocktails from, adults will love spending time at the Wharf as well!
Adventure Island, 24559 Perdido Beach Boulevard
Adventure Island is an amusement center that your entire family will love, offering a little something for all ages. The kiddy rides include tot sized Ferris Wheels and the teacup ride, but adults and teens will have the adventure of a lifetime on the bumper boats and go karts. Mini Golf and Glow Golf (indoor black light miniature golf) offer both a traditional and unusual family activity, and the arcade games don’t need any explanation, other than to say yes, there will be tickets you can win to exchange for cool prizes!
Epicurean Adventures
When you think back to some of your most memorable vacations, the odds are that many of your memories involve the food you ate and the epicurean adventures you enjoy during your summer escape to the Gulf Coast will be ones that you will never forget.
Doc’s Seafood Shack and Oyster Bar, 26029 Canal Road
Orange Beach is known for its seafood, as you might imagine, and its signature dish, fried crab claws, must be sampled with a visit to Doc’s Seafood Shack and Oyster Bar. Offering a menu filled with seafood treasures, its kids’ menu will ensure that even the pickiest eaters in your traveling group will find a meal that appeals to their immature palates. Their “U catch em, U clean em, We cook em” menu listing is quite popular with amateur anglers, especially ones who may not know quite how to prepare a fish dinner.
Cobalt the Restaurant, 28099 Perdido Beach Boulevard
In fairy tales, there are trolls living under bridges but our real life fairy tale in Orange Beach offers a delicious and popular restaurant living under the Perdido Bay Bridge, a version of the story that we much prefer. Cobalt the Restaurant is that restaurant, offering a menu filled with seafood, Italian specialties, burgers, and a Creole Cheesesteak that truly is the perfect summer dessert.
Fort Morgan (The Town)
Although Fort Morgan has never incorporated, its residents have fought against incorporation, it has been the third leg in the tripod of towns since the fort it was named after was completed in 1934. The vibe is a peaceful one, with its beaches being uncrowded, and its secluded and private ambience makes it a very popular vacation destination for those who feel the need to get away from it all.
Fort Morgan (The Fort)
Made of over 46 million cubic feet of red bricks and having stood guard over Mobile Bay through four wars, Fort Morgan is one of the most historically important sites in the region. Open every day and offering daily tours, the fort has also become known for being an inexpensive and extremely romantic wedding venue as well as being a prime spot for paranormal investigators to explore.
The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, 12295 AL-180
Home to some of the nation’s last remaining coastal habitats, Bon Secour (translated to safe harbor) National Wildlife Refuge is destined to be the site of some of your most treasured natural adventures. Offering 7000 acres of coastal lands, including pristine beaches and pine woodlands, the refuge is great for hiking, birding, or just communing with nature.
A Taste of Fort Morgan
When we are celebrating a special occasion we make our way to Jesse’s on the Bay, located at 1631 Crosswinds Court and offering an elevated menu of surf and turf favorites that will be the perfect addition to your night out. This hidden gem features sunset views of the water, while also offering a laidback vibe that somehow works well with its elegant meal presentation and exemplary service.
Poole & Associates Escapes in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan
To make the best summer vacation you need a recipe with a perfect blend of ingredients, beginning, and ending, with our Poole & Associates Gulf Coast retreats. Condos, villas, and private homes are waiting to give you a summer vacation experience filled with relaxation, comfort, and all the serenity the sea can bring. The majority of our properties are beachfront ones, and although you will be able to watch beach movies on state of the art televisions, cook family meals in our well-equipped kitchens, and sleep hard during your stay, your favorite moments may be the ones spent soaking in the beauty of the sea. Step out onto balconies where salt air breezes will kiss your cheeks and tousle your hair, sunrise and sunset views will take up permanent residence in your heart, and the roar of waves crashing against sandy shores will become your theme song for life.
Family Moments at Home
Our retreats are designed to be an integral part of your vacation experienced and from your first moments inside you will feel welcomed and at home, eager to discover all that awaits you at home with Poole & Associates. Living rooms are spacious and comfortable, encouraging guests to watch movies after the sun has set and with many of our TVs being smart ones, you can stream your favorites. Our dining rooms are more than just a spot in which to eat the meals just prepared, they are where your favorite family moments may take place. Playing board games on a rainy summer day, using one end of the dining room table to build a puzzle, working together to complete it before your visit comes to an end, and sitting with coffee in the morning, wine in the evenings and just talking about life’s mysteries and family stories that should never be forgotten.
Amenities Make the Difference
Because vacation rentals should be fun too, we don’t rest on the fact that we offer incredible views, we build on that offering a variety of extras to make your stay that much better. Community pools and hot tubs in our condo and villa communities, private pools and hot tubs in our standalone homes, and sports courts, saunas, barbecue grills, and outdoor showers are just some of the amenities you will find in many of our homes. Spa-like bathrooms with deep tubs for soaking, updated fixtures, and soft and fluffy towels that will feel wonderful against your slightly sunburned skin. Every attention is paid to every detail that will make you feel comfortable and you will never be in doubt about how much we treasure you as a guest, making your Gulf Shores area summer getaway the vacation you will wish never had to end. Contact us to reserve your favorite summer sanctuary today and start preparing to have all your vacation dreams come true!
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.
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
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!
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
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.
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
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.
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
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.
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
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!
Book a Gulf Shores Rental Today!
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.
Book Our Orange Beach Rentals Today!
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.
Book Our Orange Beach Rentals Today!
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.
Book Our Pet Friendly Rentals Today!
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.
Book Our Pet Friendly Rentals Today!
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.
Browse Our Rentals By Amenity Here!
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.
Warm up this New Year’s with a vacation to a beach locale full of warmth, fun, sun, sand, and water. Make your New Year’s trip memorable with a trip to the beach and crashing waves of the Gulf of Mexico along the Alabama coast. Choose Gulf Shores as your ultimate destination and start planning all the New Year’s fun. There are plenty of things to see and do while you’re here, indoors and out. First, you’ll want to make sure to book a private vacation rental with Poole & Associates so you can enjoy time with loved ones in private. If you can’t stand a moment away from your furriest family members, ask about pet-friendly rentals to celebrate New Year’s in Gulf Shores with the whole family.
Lulu’s Noon Year’s Eve
Families with young children can ring in the new year, too. The family-friendly party includes crafts, a sandcastle building contest, “kid safe fireworks” – bubble wrap, face-painting, inflatable slide, and more. At this party though, when the clock strikes noon, the beach balls drop instead of the Times Square ball. Hundreds of colorful beach balls drop from above and cover the sand of the beachside restaurant in celebration of the new year!
Reelin’ in the New Year
Head to Fisherman’s Wharf for a New Year’s celebration like no other. Enjoy live music, a rock-climbing wall, camel rides, and much more. Stay until midnight for the New Year countdown and celebration, including a firework display, confetti drop, light show, and one-of-a-kind “marlin drop.” The fun kicks off at 5 p.m. on December 31, 2023 on Main street.
Flora-Bama’s Polar Bear Dip
Plunge into 2024! Take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico at Flora-Bama. Starting at noon, thousands of swimsuit-, wetsuit-, and costume-clad swimmers will run into the water with a splash. For those daring enough to fully submerge, you’ll get free beer and lunch at Flora-Bama!
Ice Skating at the Wharf
Now through January 15, 2024, you can try your hand at ice skating. The rink and all its wintertime and New Year’s fun is presented by Pepsi Co. Look for the large white tent near the Main Street entrance. Visit their website and check the event calendar for specific times. The rink is closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. General admission is $15 and includes skate rental. Cash and all major credit cards are accepted.
Spa Day
New year, new you! There are several spas in Gulf Shores and the surrounding area that are ready to pamper everyone in the group from head to toe. Choose from a menu of massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, body treatments, and more. Some spas even customize services, with special treatments that cater to men’s specific needs.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
The 5.6-mile asphalt trail is a great way to go sightseeing and get your steps in at the same time. The trail starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park and stretches west through Gulf Shores, running parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180, through tree-lined areas and neighborhoods, and finally ending at the Peninsula Golf Club. The trail is mostly flat and is an easy hike or bike for most people. However, the eastern end has only a few gentle climbs, and you can add some more difficulty on that end and continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
Gulf Shores Museum
Take a trip through years past this New Year’s. Stop into the unique museum of Gulf Shores’ history starts with its unique location. The museum is located in a house that once stood as the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile, and dates back to before World War II. The family donated the structure, originally located in West Beach. The house was moved to its current home after Hurricane Frederic in 1979. Wander through an array of permanent and temporary exhibits telling the story of local history. It also offers various programs and activities for all ages and many interests.
Celebrate New Year’s 2024 in Gulf Shores
When you and your loved ones book a New Year’s getaway to Gulf Shores with Poole & Associates, you won’t be short on year-round and New Year’s activities to fill your time. Enjoy the beach, lounge around your rental, or enjoy the myriad of other activities available to build a Gulf Shores vacation that is uniquely yours. We have everything from one-bedroom units for a solo or sweetheart trip, all the way up to four-bedroom homes that include everyone this New Year’s.
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 after a long day in a private bedroom or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite movies together on a flat-screen TV with an entertainment center in the living or entertainment space.
Celebrate your love with a getaway for you and your sweetheart. If you’re on a trip with others, take some time away from the group to reconnect on a special date. No matter how you carve out time together, there are plenty of places for a romantic date on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Make that getaway to a place full of fun, sun, sand, and water when you choose Gulf Shores. Get things started out right and book a private vacation rental in Gulf Shores with Poole & Associates so you can enjoy some time together whenever you please. If you can’t stand a moment away from your furry family members, ask about pet-friendly rentals and bring them along!
Romantic Beach Time
While you may have spent the day swimming, lounging in the sand, or more adrenaline-pumping activities like parasailing during the day, the beach at night can be a romantic scene. Take a stroll hand-in-hand along the sand. Wander close to the water and slip off your shoes, letting the waves lap over your feet. Spread out a blanket and watch the sunset with a beach picnic, then head back to your accommodations and finish the night with a drink.
Dinner Out
The Alabama Gulf Coast has a myriad of options. Get dressed up a bit and choose a seafood dinner with Gulf front views at Voyagers at Perdido Beach Resort. Enjoy some live entertainment while you dine at Ginny Lane Bar and Grill at the Wharf. Choose from USDA prime beef, free-range chicken, fresh seafood, and more. If the kids do need to tag along, there are options for them, too. More relaxed atmospheres like Tacky Jacks, The Hangout, and others are not just area staples, but a more relaxed atmosphere catering to kids and adults.
Dinner In
If the trip is just you and your sweetheart, plan a romantic dinner in. The fully equipped kitchen in your unit is ready to handle any meal! Choose to cook a favorite meal together with fresh ingredients from the local market. Surprise your love and make the meal yourself. You’ll have everything you need, from utensils to cookware, right at your fingertips.
Glow Kayaking
You may like 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 on clear-body kayaks outfitted with special underwater LED lights to light up the night and the water like you’ve never seen before. You can choose a color or color pattern that suits you mood. Look down through the bottom of your boat not just for the lights, but to see the beautiful creatures swimming below you. You can choose a two-person kayak or stick close to one another during the paddle but control your own vessel.
Escape Rooms
As one of the most popular indoor activities in the last several years, escape room facilities are popping up everywhere, including the Alabama Gulf Coast. Get out of the sun and into the air conditioning to test your logic skills. Rooms are rated by difficulty and even come with age and group-size suggestions. If it’s just you and your love, you’ll likely get grouped with others. If you’ve come with multiple other couples, you’ll be able to work together. Enjoy themes like Insane Asylum, CSI: Gulf Shores, Movie Night, and many others that give your brain a workout. Solve all the clues and break out in 60 minutes to win!
Sunset Cruise
End the day with a sunset cruise. There are plenty of boat charter companies that offer sunset cruises through the waters of Gulf Shores and the surrounding area. Watch the sunset as the captain navigates you through the water, searching for dolphins, aquatic birds, and more. Sip an adult beverage as you take in the beautiful Alabama coast and Gulf waters with your sweetheart for a great way to end any day of your stay.
Come Stay with Us
When you book a getaway with your sweetheart 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. There are also a number of ways to plan a special and fun date during your trip. For your intimate stay, choose a 1-bedroom unit. When you fall in love with the location, or if you made the trip with multiple couples, book a 4-bedroom unit. 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 your own private bedroom or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite romantic movie together on a flat-screen TV.
Warm up with a vacation to a beach locale full of summer fun, sun, sand, warmth, and water this Halloween. 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 as your ultimate destination and start planning the fun to come. There are plenty of things to see and do while you’re here, indoors and out, Halloween-themed and year-round excitement. First, you’ll want to make sure to book a private vacation rental with Poole & Associates to spend Halloween in Gulf Shores, AL so you can enjoy time with loved ones in private. If you can’t stand a moment away from your furriest family members, ask about pet-friendly rentals and bring them along!
Flora-Bama
Have some adults-only Halloween fun. Come in your Halloween best and get in FREE, then celebrate with a costume contest. Register for the contest on-site by 8:30 p.m. Contestants will lineup at 8:45 p.m., and the contest starts at 9 p.m. in the big tent. Get $600 for first place, $500 for second, and $400 for third. Festivities take place October 31, and Flora-Bama is located in Perdido Key, Florida at 17401 Perdido Key Drive.
Beach Time
You and your loved ones chose a beach destination for your Halloween escape for a reason: the warmth and sun of the beach. 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. Turn up the adrenaline with activities like parasailing, SCUBA diving, or snorkeling. Wind down with a sunset cruise or wildlife-watching cruise at the end of the day.
Gulf Shores Dog Park
For families or groups bringing along their pets this Halloween, Gulf Shores has plenty of fun for them, too. The park has a large fenced-in green area where both large and small dogs can get their zoomies out and meet new furry friends. Humans can sit and socialize too, but make sure to keep an eye on your pup and clean up after them with the provided waste bag stations. You can bring water for yourself, but the park conveniently provides water for the pups!
Gulf State Park
Wander two miles of Gulf beachfront, swim, surf, build sandcastles, and enjoy a myriad of other beach activities with loved ones this Halloween. Have a beach picnic or move it to the pavilion for a bit of shade while you eat. If there are anglers in the group, bring along some gear for some time at the pier. For those looking for an adventure, try kayaking or soaring above the waves parasailing.
Fort Morgan Road Trail
The 5.6-mile asphalt trail starts just outside the western border of Gulf State Park and offers a fun way to exercise and see the sights at the same time. The trail runs parallel to Fort Morgan Road/Highway 180 and stretches west through Gulf Shores through tree-lined areas and neighborhoods, and finally ending at the Peninsula Golf Club. The mostly flat trail is an easy hike or bike for most. The eastern end has only a few gentle climbs, but you can add some difficulty on that end and continue on through Gulf State Park’s Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trails.
Gulf Shores Museum
Take a trip through local history this Halloween. The unique museum of Gulf Shores’ history starts with its unique location. The museum, located in a house that stood as the beach house of Valerie Cole’s family from Mobile, dates back to before World War II. The family donated the structure, originally located in West Beach. The house has stood in its current locale since Hurricane Frederic in 1979. The museum houses a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits telling the story of local history. It also offers various programs and activities for all ages and many interests, year-round.
Souvenir City
Part of your Halloween activities in Gulf Shores may include shopping. While you’ll collect souvenirs and mementos from your many beach adventures and other activities, the aptly named shop reportedly has “thousands of gifts for everyone on your list” so you’re bound to find something to remember your time here. It may even have a spooky theme to it! The shop has been a Gulf Shores staple since 1956 and is open daily.
Celebrate Halloween in Gulf Shores
When you and your loved ones book a Halloween getaway to Gulf Shores 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 one-of-a-kind Gulf Shores vacation. We have everything from one-bedroom units for a solo spooky excursion up to four-bedroom homes to include all your loved ones in the spooky fun. 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 Halloween movies together on a flatscreen TV with an entertainment center in the living or entertainment space.
Contact us today to book your Gulf Shores Halloween adventure!
If you’re in search of a way to celebrate spring, the shores of Alabama and the Fort Morgan area are the perfect places! It’s full of fun, sun, sand, and summertime festivals and events for you to enjoy. No matter what your interest is, you can likely find a celebration for it! If the festival celebrating your favorite thing isn’t available in the summer, check back throughout the year to see exactly when we celebrate some of your favorite things to do in Fort Morgan.
Sparks After Dark
Every year, May-July, neighboring Orange Beach puts on a weekly fireworks display that’s a can’t-miss for your summer vacation itinerary. The Wharf shopping center boasts dozens of local and national-brand shops, dining, and more where you can spend the day. Then, when the sun sinks below the water of the Gulf, the sky lights up. The day’s festivities also include magicians, stilt walkers, jugglers, camel rides, and a DJ spinning tunes perfect for dancing the night away. Cap the night with the fireworks show as well as a SPECTRA Laser Light Experience. The event takes place 6-9 p.m. Mondays, May 29-July 31. Fireworks begin at 8:45 p.m., and the laser light show can be seen at 8:30, 9, and 9:30 p.m. Parking and admission are free, and camel rides are $10/person.
Music at Meyer Park
Neighboring Gulf Shores knows how to party the summer away with music, food, and fun. The concerts are free and open to the public and go on rain or shine. This summer’s remaining dates are July 20 and August 17, so make sure to add them to your itinerary should your visit include those dates. Shows begin at 6 p.m. Meyer Park is located at 400 E. 22nd Ave in Gulf Shores, and the backup indoor location is Big Beach Brewery, located at 300 E 24th Ave in Gulf Shores.
Independence Day Celebration
Celebrate independence this summer during your trip to Fort Morgan and the surrounding area. Nearby Gulf Shores celebrate with a bang. The show begins at 9 p.m. on July 4th at the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier.
S’mores on the Shore
When you picture a beach summer you may think of waves crashing on the shore, soft sand in your toes, and a beach bonfire lighting up the night as you sit around it. Neighboring Gulf Shores knows the feeling and provides it along with plenty of other summer fun. The official celebration includes campfires, live music, and of course all the makings for delicious s’mores treats. Head to the west end of Gulf Shores Public Beach for the family-friendly event. Bring your beach blanket, chairs, and whatever you need for a fun time at the beach. The event starts at 3 p.m. on August 3.
Flora-Bama Bulls on the Beach
Since fall doesn’t officially start until September 23, hop over to Perdido Key in Pensacola, FL, just 30 minutes from Gulf Shores for plenty of rodeo fun. The annual competition is full of adrenaline-pumping bull riding – it’ll get your blood pounding while you watch! The three-night event features professional bull riders from all over the U.S. There will also be a Junior Riders tournament on Miniature Bulls, a coloring contest for kids 12 and under, and a bike giveaway (2 winners). The three-day event runs September 7-9 and includes music, food, and fun, and the kids’ bull riding event takes place September 7. Tickets go on sale July 4. Gates open nightly at 6 p.m. and the rodeo begins at 8 p.m. Find the coloring page for the coloring contest on the official event website. The venue is located at 17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL 32507
Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon
The traditional triathlon competition is one of the summer’s last events and includes a swim in the Gulf, a bike race, and a running course. The 16th annual event gives you a choice between an Olympic distance triathlon or a beginner-friendly Coastal “Tri-It-On” Triathlon. The start/finish line, packet pickup, and post-race party are all at The Hangout, a 1950s-era beachside hangout located at 101 E. Beach Blvd in Gulf Shores. This year’s race starts at 7 a.m. on September 9.
Celebrate Summer in Fort Morgan
When you and book a summer getaway to Fort Morgan that includes the fun of an event or festival, you’re sure to have a fun, relaxing stay. Enjoy the water, lounge around your rental provided by Poole & Associates, or enjoy all of the event’s daily activities and create a vacation that is uniquely yours. For a celebration that’s just for you or you and your sweetheart, choose a one-bedroom unit. If you’ve chosen an event that appeals to all of your loved ones, book a four-bedroom unit. Savor the taste of home when you prepare a home-cooked meal in the unit’s fully equipped kitchen, then 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 movie together on a flat-screen TV.
Contact us today to book your fun-filled Fort Morgan vacation, especially for Father’s Day!