Shrimp Fest Fun

Shrimp Fest Fun 

Shrimp Fest is Here! Make the Most of Your Gulf Shores Getaway

The 51st Annual Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! This annual celebration of all things shrimp is a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike. With live music, mouthwatering cuisine, and exciting activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Bring the kids out for activities like Sand Sculptures from Sand Castle University, Live Music, and even a children’s activity area! Make sure you join in on the sandcastle competition for a CASH prize. 

Sunset Properties: Your Home Base for Shrimp Fest

If you’re planning a trip to Gulf Shores for the Shrimp Festival, Sunset Properties has the perfect place to stay. Our wide selection of condos and vacation homes offer stunning views, comfortable accommodations, and convenient access to all the festival fun. Imagine enjoying a delicious shrimp dish on your private balcony after a day of festivities! Whether you need something for the two of you or the whole family we have you covered. Check out Boardwalk 1085 for a  stunning gulf view. This is perfect for a couple but can sleep up to 4 people! Hangar Outer is a beautiful bay front property that sleeps 8 people. Kick back, relax, and spend your nights watching the sunset from the privacy of your own property. 

Kick off your Shrimp Fest fun with a 5K or 10K Saturday, October 12 starting at 6 AM 

Tips for Enjoying Shrimp Fest

  • Plan Ahead: Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
  • Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and secure a prime spot for the live music.
  • Try Something New: Explore the diverse food vendors and discover new shrimp dishes.
  • Take a Break: Relax on the beach or explore the local shops and boutiques.
  • Stay Safe: Drink responsibly and designate a driver.

Make the Most of Your Gulf Shores Vacation

After the Shrimp Festival, continue your Gulf Shores adventure with a variety of activities. Take a dolphin cruise, go fishing, or simply relax on the beach. Sunset Properties offers the perfect home base for exploring all that the Gulf Coast has to offer.

Book Your Stay Today

Don’t miss out on the fun! Book your Gulf Shores vacation rental with Sunset Properties today. Our friendly staff is ready to help you find the perfect accommodation for your needs.

The Wharf Rocks: Your Guide to Unforgettable Concerts in Orange Beach, Alabama

The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach, Alabama, isn’t just a venue; it’s a launching pad for unforgettable summer nights. With its stunning location overlooking the Gulf Coast and a lineup that rocks, The Wharf is a must-visit for any music lover.

Summer Might Be Ending, But the Music Lingers On:

While the summer concert season has wrapped up for 2024 (it’s already July 22nd!), there’s still a chance to catch a big name this fall! Post Malone is electrifying the stage on October 17th. Mark your calendars and snag those tickets!

Looking Ahead to Next Summer:

The Wharf typically announces its summer concert schedule in late spring, so keep an eye out around March or April for next year’s exciting lineup. Here’s a taste of what The Wharf has to offer in terms of genres and experiences:

  • Pop Sensations and Rock Legends: The Wharf’s stage isn’t just for country! Kane Brown, Styx and Foreigner, Jordan Davis, Train and REO Speedwagon, Jon Pardi, and Coral Reefer Band
  • Open-Air Ambiance: Imagine swaying to your favorite tunes under the warm Alabama sky, with the gentle Gulf breeze carrying the melody. The Wharf’s open-air amphitheater creates an unparalleled atmosphere for a truly unforgettable concert experience.

Planning Your Wharf Concert Experience:

Here are some tips to ensure you have a blast at your Wharf concert:

  • Purchase Tickets Early: Popular concerts tend to sell out quickly, so grab your tickets as soon as they go on sale.The Wharf website and major ticketing platforms like Live Nation and Ticketmaster are your best bets.
  • Explore The Wharf: Arrive early and explore the surrounding area. The Wharf offers a variety of restaurants,shops, and entertainment options to make a full day or evening out of it.
  • Dress for the Weather: The Wharf is an open-air venue, so be sure to dress accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes are key for a day concert, while a light jacket might be helpful for an evening show.
  • Bring the Essentials: Pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Check The Wharf’s website for any restrictions on what you can bring inside the venue.

The Wharf: More Than Just Concerts

While concerts are a major draw, The Wharf offers year-round fun. Here are some other reasons to visit:

  • Family-Friendly Activities: The Wharf offers mini-golf, arcade games, and a Ferris wheel, perfect for keeping the little ones entertained.
  • Exquisite Dining: From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, The Wharf has something to satisfy every craving.
  • Shopping Extravaganza: Find unique souvenirs, beach essentials, and trendy clothing at The Wharf’s various shops.

The Final Encore:

The Wharf Amphitheatre is a vibrant hub for music and entertainment in Orange Beach. Whether you’re swaying to country tunes, headbanging to rock legends, or simply enjoying the open-air atmosphere, The Wharf promises an unforgettable experience. So, mark your calendars for next year’s concert season, and get ready to rock out under the Alabama sun!

Need a place to stay? Sunset Properties has you covered from condos for 2 to houses for the whole family! Make sure to give us a call at 251-543-1370 or check us out online at www.SunsetProperties.com to see what we have to offer. 

Hangout Fest Packing Essentials!

Here are some essentials to pack for Hangout Fest in Gulf Shores, Alabama, happening May 17-19, 2024:

Essentials for the Sun and Heat:

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher): Reapply frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
  • Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will protect your face and neck from the sun.
  • Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses are ideal for reducing glare.
  • Breathable Clothing: Pack light, loose-fitting clothes like t-shirts, shorts, and sundresses. Consider moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool.
  • Swimsuit: You’ll likely want to cool off in the Gulf between sets!

Hydration and Comfort:

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial. A reusable water bottle helps you avoid single-use plastics and save money on festival drinks.  They also have a water refilling station! Hangout Fest is cashless, so plan accordingly.
  • Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so choose comfortable shoes that can handle sand, grass, and crowds. Consider bringing flip-flops for the beach.

Protecting Yourself:

  • Cash (Optional): While the festival is cashless, some vendors outside the festival might accept cash.
  • Hand Sanitizer: Festivals can be crowded, so pack hand sanitizer to keep germs at bay.
  • Wet Wipes: These can be refreshing for cleaning up after a long day at the festival.
  • Phone Charger: A portable charger will ensure you can stay connected and capture all the memories.

Optional but Useful:

  • Fanny Pack or Small Backpack: A hands-free bag is ideal for carrying essentials like sunscreen, phone, wallet, and sunglasses.
  • Bandana: This multipurpose item can be used for shade, sun protection, or to sit on.

Things to Leave at Home:

  • Glass containers: These are not allowed in the festival.
  • Large bags or backpacks: Only small backpacks and fanny packs are permitted.
  • Professional cameras: Unless you have media credentials, professional cameras are not allowed.
  • Illegal substances: Security checks are in place, so don’t even think about bringing anything illegal. Baldwin County PD takes it very serious!
  • Pets: Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the festival.

Additional Tips:

  • Download the Hangout Fest app: The app has the festival schedule, artist information, maps, and more.
  • Check the weather forecast: Pack accordingly for the expected temperatures and chance of rain.
  • Bring a positive attitude and your dancing shoes! Hangout Fest is all about having fun and enjoying the music.

Get ready for a genre-bending good time at Hangout Fest 2024! The lineup boasts headliners like country music star Zach Bryan, dreamy alternative rock queen Lana Del Rey, and electronic dance music giants ODESZA and The Chainsmokers. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. From alt-rock favorites like Cage The Elephant and pop-punk mainstays A Day To Remember to rising hip-hop stars like Dominic Fike and Doechii, Hangout Fest 2024 promises a musical smorgasbord for every taste.  Dance music fans can groove to sets by  established DJs like Alison Wonderland and Dom Dolla, while country enthusiasts will be toe-tapping to Koe Wetzel and Megan Moroney.  This is just a sampling of the incredible artists taking the stage, so be sure to check out the full lineup and plan your festival itinerary! By packing these essentials and following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic time at Hangout Fest 2024!

Need a last minute place to stay? Check out properties like Phoenix 1108 for a 3 bedroom unit that sleeps 8! This unit opens up to the Gulf of Mexico with breathtaking views. Need something a little bigger? USA 2 has openings and has 5 bedrooms. This house is located in Fort Morgan but is a quick drive over to the festival! Check us out online at www.SunsetProperties.com or give us a call/ text to 251-543-1370 and let us help you out. 

Mom’s Magical Escape: A Mother’s Day in Gulf Shores with Sunset Properties

This Mother’s Day, treat Mom to an unforgettable escape to the pristine shores of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Imagine sparkling turquoise waters, sugar-white sand between her toes, and the gentle rhythm of waves washing away any stress. Sunset Properties can be your partner in creating a truly special Mother’s Day experience for the most important woman in your life:

Beach Bliss for Mom:

  • Sunrise Serenity: Surprise Mom with a breathtaking sunrise walk along the beach. Sunset Properties offers a variety of beachfront rentals, allowing her to step right out onto the sand and witness the first rays of light paint the sky with vibrant hues. Pack a picnic basket for a breakfast on the beach – a delightful way to start the day.
  • Relaxation Redefined: Let Mom unwind on a private balcony with a good book, listening to the calming sounds of the ocean. Many of our rentals boast stunning beachfront views, creating a serene haven for Mom to relax and recharge.

Memories in the Making:

  • Building Memories Together: Gather the family for a fun-filled afternoon building sandcastles on the pristine beach. Sunset Properties rentals provide the perfect base for beach adventures, with easy access to the shore. Get creative, work together, and unleash your inner child.

Indulging Mom’s Senses:

  • Sunset Soiree: Prepare a delicious feast for Mom on the private balcony of your Sunset Properties rental. Imagine enjoying refreshing salads, succulent grilled seafood, and decadent desserts with the sound of waves crashing in the background. Sunset rentals with fully-equipped kitchens allow you to create a special meal for Mom. 
  • Romantic Dinner for Two: For an extra special touch, arrange a romantic dinner reservation at a beachfront restaurant. The combination of delicious food, breathtaking sunset views, and the gentle ocean breeze will create an unforgettable ambiance for Mom.

Sunset Properties: Making it Special

  • Local Expertise: Sunset Properties’ knowledge of the area allows them to recommend the perfect rental for your needs. Whether you desire a beachfront haven or a spacious house with a pool, they have the ideal option for your Mother’s Day getaway. 

This Mother’s Day, create unforgettable memories with a beach escape to Gulf Shores. We can even sweeten the deal if you mention our discount code MOTHER24 or use it on our website for $25 off. With a thoughtfully chosen Sunset Properties rental and a sprinkle of love, you can craft a day of relaxation, fun, and appreciation, leaving Mom feeling cherished and loved.

Visit us online at www.SunsetProperties.com or give a call at 251-543-1370 and let us turn your Mother’s Day vision into a reality! We have a little bit of everything to choose from… Beautiful Indies condos located 300 yards from the beach, homes with private boat piers like Tortuga Bay, or homes for bigger families like Dunesberry

A Culinary Journey: Must-Try Restaurants in Orange Beach, Alabama

Hey friends! Orange Beach, Alabama, is a haven for beach lovers, but it also boasts a vibrant culinary scene that caters to diverse palates. From fresh seafood caught right off the docks to innovative takes on Southern classics, there’s something delicious waiting to be discovered.

Come with us as we take you on a mouthwatering journey, highlighting some of the must-try restaurants in Orange Beach:

For the Seafood Enthusiast:

  • The Original Oyster House: This iconic restaurant is a local favorite, serving up fresh oysters in various styles, from raw and chargrilled to Rockefeller and fried. Don’t miss their signature gumbo and other seafood specialties. 
  • Cosmo’s Restaurant and Bar: This lively beachfront restaurant offers a casual atmosphere and delicious seafood options. Enjoy fresh catches cooked to perfection, from fish tacos and shrimp and grits to mouthwatering po’boys and seafood platters. 
  • Cobalt: This seaside restaurant is always delivering mouthwatering classics. Come enjoy watching the sunset as you dine in or outside of this wonderful restaurant watching the boats dock for the night.

For the Adventurous Foodie:

  • Voyagers Restaurant: Embark on a culinary adventure at Voyagers Restaurant, known for its innovative and globally inspired cuisine. Savor dishes like seared scallops with mango salsa, pan-roasted duck breast with cherry demi-glace, and unique vegetarian and vegan options. 
  • Luna’s Eat & Drink: This local favorite offers a diverse menu with something for everyone. Enjoy delicious takes on Southern classics like shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes, alongside innovative dishes like blackened ahi tuna tacos and Korean BBQ lettuce wraps. 
  • The Wharf: This popular entertainment complex offers a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes. From fresh sushi at Ginny Lane to the lively atmosphere and Southern comfort food at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, The Wharf promises a delightful culinary experience. 

For the Casual Diner:

  • The Gulf: This beachfront venue offers a casual atmosphere and delicious food perfect for the whole family. Enjoy fresh seafood baskets, juicy burgers, and refreshing frozen drinks while soaking in the stunning views of the Gulf. 
  • Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar: This lively shack offers a laid-back atmosphere and delicious comfort food. Savor fresh seafood boils, po’boys piled high with fried shrimp or oysters, and refreshing cocktails for a casual and fun dining experience. 
  • Tacky Jack’s: A local legend, Tacky Jack’s offers a fun and family-friendly atmosphere with delicious food and stunning waterfront views. Enjoy fresh seafood platters, juicy steaks, and a wide variety of appetizers perfect for sharing. With three locations you are sure to find one near you!

Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, an adventurous foodie, or a casual diner, Orange Beach has something to tantalize your taste buds. So, embark on your own culinary journey, explore the diverse restaurants and hidden gems, and create lasting memories in this delightful coastal haven. Remember, this is just a starting point – with so many options to choose from, the perfect dining experience awaits you in Orange Beach!

Need a place to stay? Sunset Properties has you covered! Give us a call/ text at 251-543-1370 or visit our website at www.sunsetproperties.com and we will get you taken care of! Check out Dunes 501 for a relaxing and peaceful weekend down the beach! This 2-bedroom 2 bath has a beautiful view of the Gulf and boasts amazing sunsets most nights. Tortuga Bay is a 2-bedroom 1 bath that sleeps 6. This house is your own little haven. The owners have made sure that you have your own small personal beach, so you don’t have to leave the house. The best part? The boat slip included!

Food Truck Festival in Gulf Shores!

Hey friends! Everything on the Alabama Gulf Coast is winding down and cooling off ( a little anyway!). Now is a great time to come down and visit before it gets chilly in a few months.  Food Truck Festivals of America are back for another year in Gulf Shores. They will be back to the Town Green area on November 11 and 12 from 11-5 pm! They have an amazing lineup this year full of different styles of food like Venezuelan Latin Food, Mediterranean, Roasted Mexican Street Corn, and West African Caribbean. Then of course you have your food truck essentials; gourmet hot dogs, Memphis style BBQ, American Pub Style, and fair foods! This is a great way to get some of your favorite foods but also to try something new. They are planning to have booths set up of artists selling handcrafted goods and food products as well. Plan on bringing your chairs and hanging around to enjoy the atmosphere they are creating. They will have a DJ and lawn games for people to enjoy. While admission is free, they will be preselling a beer package online leading up to the festival. Click the link here to check it out.

Need a place to stay? Sunset Properties has you covered! Check us out online at www.SunsetProperties.com or give us a call/text at 251-543-1370 and let us do the hard work. Come check out our Ocean House I 1301 property that sleeps 8. This property has a beautiful view of the gulf! Do you need pet friendly? Campbell Cottage is a pet friendly 3 bedroom house that would be perfect for you! Give us a call and let us get you booked today!

Gulf Shores Seafood Festival 2024!

Hey Friends! Shrimp Fest is back and celebrating their 50th anniversary on October 12-15th, 2023! They have such a good list of things for you to try and experience. Come down and celebrate with 250,000 of people from all over the country. They will have everything from gourmet burgers to (of course) shrimp! Make sure to look for the “Best of the Fest” for the booths that have won awards from previous festivals.

The festival has a wonderful selection of handmade goods and jewelry vendors! They have over 200 arts & crafts and fine arts booths registered that will line the beach. It’s always nice to give back to the locals and support them when you can. Live Music from the Alabama Music Hall of Famer Wet Wille on October 12th to start off the weekend. To see the full lineup click here. There will be plenty for the kids to do as well. Things like a rock wall, bungee jumping, and a rock wall! Miss Shrimp Festival is open to all Baldwin County students and will be located at Erie Meyer Civic Center on September 24th.

Ike’s Beach Service will be sponsoring a Sand Sculpture Contest with the grand prize being $100 for both Family and Adult Categories and $50 Cash prize for the 5-10 yrs old and 11-15 yrs old categories! You can have up to 4 members per team and you will fall into a year category or you can just join the family category. Registration begins Saturday at 11:00 am and judging begins at 3:00 pm.

Need a place to stay? Sunset Properties has you covered! Check us out online at www.SunsetProperties.com or give us a call/text at 251-543-1370 and let us do the hard work. Come check out our Ocean House I 1301 property that sleeps 8. This property has a beautiful view of the gulf! Do you need pet friendly? Campbell Cottage is a pet friendly 3 bedroom house that would be perfect for you! Give us a call and let us get you booked today!

September at the Beach!

Hey Friends! OWA is throwing a Labor Day Weekend party September 1st-3rd. They have quite the lineup with live music, their 6th annual car show, and even a hot dog eating contest! Make sure you bring the kids out to see the fun. They have live music from Stormfolk, Ryan Dyer, and Ben Loftin lined up for the weekend. To register for the hot dog eating contest, click here

Bulls on The Beach is back September 7-9th, 2023! This year they will be having 3 action packed nights of professional cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country come out and compete. Thursday night is for the junior riders on miniature bulls, a coloring contest with two winners, and ending the night with the Professional Riders in the adult competition! Tickets are available for purchase online and are $30 for adults,  15 for children 7-17 years old, and children 6 and under are free! Gates will be opening at 6 PM every night and the rodeo begins at 8 PM. Parking is extremely limited, so they strongly suggest you arrive early. The Flora Bama will be donating a portion of proceeds from Bulls on the Beach to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Need a place to stay? Sunset Properties has you covered from houses for the whole family to condos for two. Come spend the weekend in a fabulous unit at Phoenix West II! This is a 3-bedroom unit that sleeps 12 comfortably.  This unit has tons of amenities for the kiddos to enjoy while you are here as well. Make sure they check out the game room! Don’t need as much room?  Check out our unit at Grand Caribbean! This unit is a 2 bedroom that sleeps 6 and is located directly across from the public beach access. Visit us online at www.sunsetproperties.com or give us a call at 251-543-1370 and let us get you booked! We’ll See Ya at Sunset!

Fun Events coming to Gulf Shores

Hi Friends! With school about to be back in session here are a few fun events you can try to sneak in before… or maybe even on a quick weekend trip!

  1. Paddle and Paint Kayak Excursions

This 2.5 hour excursion gives you the opportunity to not only learn how to kayak, but also gives you the chance to practice your watercolor techniques as you float down Wolf Bay! Starting from Wind & Water Learning Center this activity needs at least 2 participants and is capped at 6. This unique experience is $45 per person and runs from July 7- August 30th  each Wednesday.

  • Make your own Glass or Clay Pottery lessons

The Hot Shop and The Clay Studio have classes at The Coastal Arts Center most weekdays. They are both by appointment only, so make sure you give them a call before heading over.  On most Fridays, they have a flame-working class for beginners. The class uses most of the same tecniques from the hot shop, but really fine tunes it. People that enjoy things that have a high level of detail will enjoy this class. Plus, if a class isn’t your thing, you can hang out in their gallery and browse the makings! 

  • Pickle ball

The Rec Center will be hosting Pickleball for Novice- Advanced players beginning on August 7th and running through December 19th. The schedule will be Monday- Friday 8:00 am to 1:00 with 6 courts available. This would be a fun place for anyone looking to meet new people and get in their exercise for the day! Come check it out for the day or get a membership to play for the whole fall season. 

Need a place to stay? Sunset Properties has you covered! Whether it’s a gorgeous beachfront condo or a house for the whole family we can make it work. Phoenix I 1108 is a 3 bedroom 2 bath that sleeps 8 corner unit that has an unobstructed view of the Gulf! This unit is perfect for the family that wants to sit on the balcony and sip their coffee while listening to the waves crashing. Need a little more room? Shellchase is a 5-bedroom 3.5 bath home that sleeps 12. One of the best things about this house is that its pet friendly! Be sure to give us a call at 251-543-1370 or visit us online at www.sunsetProperties.com

Non-Beach Day Activities

Some days you just wake up and the thought of lugging the family down to the beach is too much. We have compiled a list of things to do for when that happens!

  1. The Track

The track has many fun things to do for the kids. They have an inside arcade filled with every game you can imagine. Let the kids choose between the 6 go kart tracks they have to offer. Including a 3 and a half story track! If Go Karts and arcade games don’t sound fun to you check out the Skycoaster or the spinning coaster and blaster boats. The mini golf course has 18 holes and golfers can enjoy tunnels, waterfalls, and even jungle animals!

Load the kids up and get that before school shopping over with! Aerie, Coach, Columbia, and even a Hey Dude store are just a few of the places you will find here. For a full list of stores click here.  Plus, they have a promotions list on their website!

If you decided to stop by the outlets and go shopping the best place to go for lunch is Lamberts Café! Which is an experience all on its own… Lambert’s is Home of the Throwed Rolls!

  • Breakout Games

Breakout has 6 rooms to choose from! Whether you want to escape from a volcano, break into a saloon, or free passengers from a runaway train they have the rooms for you. You are given 60 minutes to get out of the room! This is the perfect activity for families or just team bonding!  For a full list of the rooms available click here.

The Axe hole is an axe throwing bar located at The Wharf! Come hang out and enjoy axe throwing, corn hole, and they have a blade store you can check out.

Need a place to stay? Sunset Properties has you covered! Check us out at www.sunsetproperties.com or give us a call at 251-543-1370 and let us do the hard work! We’ll See Ya at Sunset!