10 Fun Family Late Summer Things to Do at The Beach

So your summer’s almost over and you are taking the kiddos to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan one last time before you have to get back to PTA, homework and, of course, football.  But what do you do?  When you guys came down to the Alabama Gulf Coast and stayed with Sunset Properties earlier this year, you did it all, right?  You hit all the great spots:  Waterville, The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Adventure Island.  So what’s left?

 

Here are ten great family outings that you must do before everyone goes back to school:

 

  1. Dine with pirates and princesses

“Arrgh, Matey!  Pass me them there eggs,”  might be what you hear when you having breakfast at The Hangout with pirates and princesses.  These unusual characters can be found most mornings at this local spot.   Have you ever dined with pirates before?  Most folks haven’t.  But, trust me on this,  you’re in for a treat!  This summer at The Hangout, you can have breakfast with these infamous folks from the High Seas. Come dressed in your best costume, enjoy some great food and stay for the treasure hunt.  This is a really cool way to start off any late summer day in Gulf Shores.  Contact the groovy staff at The Hangout for exact times and dates of this unique breakfast experience.

 

  1. Enjoy a live play

Remember The Lion King?  Everyone loves The Lion King!  Bring the whole family to see a live production of this timeless classic at the South Baldwin Community Theatre.  With several show times in August, there is sure to be one to fit your vacation schedule.  This production features bright costumes, great music and, of course, your favorites from the jungle including Simba and Rafiki.  If you enjoyed the animated version (and who didn’t, right?!) this live version is sure to take it to the next level.  Tickets are limited, so you will need to grab those as soon as you decide to put this fun outing on your “must do list”!

 

  1. Dance in the streets

The Wharf hosts the biggest street party on the island.  Enjoy island life outside in the evening summer breeze when DJ Matt and mascot Starla the Starfish get the party started around 7 PM on Saturday nights.   There are contests and prizes at this summertime event.  With all kinds of retail shops and restaurants right in front of you, once you get to The Wharf, you won’t want to leave before you see and do it all!  So throw on your boogie shoes or your favorite flip flops and head on over to Main Street at the Wharf and dance the night away with your whole crew.

 

  1. Take a segway tour

Coastal Segway Adventures offers 2-hour guided Segway® Personal Transporter tours through the beautiful Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.  The Trail features seven pathways through six different ecosystems totalling a 15 mile outing.  For two hours, your guide from Coastal Segway Adventures will lead you through the trail and talk about what you’re seeing all around.  We can’t think of a better way to enjoy nature in Gulf Shores than to explore your way through Gulf State Park.  Make sure you bring your insect repellent and sunscreen.  Oh, and don’t forget your camera.  You’ll probably see plants and animals not found in your own backyard!

 

  1. Visit a Nature Center

Speaking of Gulf State Park, have you ever been to the nature center at the campground on Lake Shelby? The nature center is a living museum of plants and animals that are native to our Alabama Gulf Coast region.  The good folks at the nature center want to create awareness about the plant and animal life in our area.  As much as this is educational, it is entertaining.  It’s a fun hands-on learning experience unlike any other around.  Through this kind of personal connection with nature, the staff there hopes to encourage others to share the same love for our environment that they have.  Don’t just visit Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, then leave without seeing this.  Stop by our little nature center and become a nature-loving part of our extended family!

 

  1. Have a family date night

Who says “date night” can only be for couples?  We think Family Date Nights are amazing, too!  But what do you do for a Family Date Night?  Gather up your whole crew and head on over to the Gulf State Park Pier.  It is great for way more than just fishing from.  Did you know that you can walk out on the pier even if you’re not fishing?  Yep!  It’s a great little walk, too!  The pier is 1540 feet long and 20 feet wide and features indoor seating as well as rail seating.  Here’s a fun fact:  they have Blue Bell ice cream in the concession store.  This outing may not be as flashy and sparkly as some of the others you and your family go on, but how great would it be to just get some ice cream, find a nice peaceful spot, sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of The Gulf of Mexico as the waves roll around underneath you?   Sometimes the simplest things make the best memories.

 

  1. Check out some cool fireworks

There is always something cool going on at The Wharf.  In addition to being your Saturday night boogie spot, come to The Wharf on Monday nights all summer to catch some great fireworks!  Sparks after Dark Fireworks has become a summer tradition at The Wharf.  Find your spot on Main Street before 8:45 PM and get ready to watch the skies light up in all kinds of fabulous colors.  Be sure to follow this link for more details on this weekly fireworks show.  We definitely don’t want you to miss this!

 

  1. Be a groupie

All summer long, Pelican Place at Craft Farms is hosting their annual Sounds of Summer Event.  Every Saturday night from 6:00-8:30 PM bring your lawn chair and see a free concert.  What better way is there to start your own groupie “career” than at a free outdoor concert at the beach? This is a family friendly event, so the kiddos can officially become concert groupies, too!  There will be food and other vendors on site, so all you really need to bring is a lawn chair or a blanket.  Expect to see some of the best entertainment around and we are pretty sure you won’t be disappointed!

 

  1. Walk on water

Ever thought about walking on water?  Wouldn’t it be great if you could just strike out across a body of water and not sink?  Well, now you can!  Lucy Buffett’s Lulus now hasl Water Walkers.  A water walker is an inflatable sphere that you can get inside of and actually walk across the water without getting wet.  You can run, roll, flip and flop inside your Water Walker and enjoy seeing down through the water with a whole new perspective.  While you’re at Lulus, you’re probably going to want to stay for a while and enjoy some of the best seafood on the island, so set aside a couple of hours for this adventure.

 

  1. Marvel at the Blue Angels

Oh my goodness!  Have you ever seen the Blue Angels in action?  This is thrill like none other.  Grown ups and kids alike love watching from the ground as the Blues fly overhead, barely missing each other in the air.  You will find yourself saying the word “wow” out loud before you even know it.  The Blue Angels practice at the museum at NAS Pensacola on just a select few days each year.  But you’re in luck, they should be in the air at least one of the days while you’re down this way.  Practices last almost an hour and admission is free.  With some careful planning, you can schedule your outing to include meeting these amazingly skilled Navy pilots and maybe even getting their autographs. Who wouldn’t want to get a Blue Angel’s autograph?  They truly are the heros and stars of the American skies.

 

Using this list as a guide, we know you’re sure to enjoy your late summer stay in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.  But what if you’re not quite ready to make this your last beach trip for the year?  Well, here are two more reasons you need to come back to the Alabama Gulf Coast before the holidays:  The Annual National Shrimp Festival and The Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival.  

 

Don’t forget to contact us at Sunset Properties and make all your reservations early!  We still have a few rentals available in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan during these festival times, but keep in mind, our island tends to be pretty full of out-of-town folks who attend both of these and we don’t want you to miss out!  Book early and ensure you get the perfect vacation home for your family’s needs.  We look forward to speaking with you and helping you get on your way to having a perfect later summer vacation!

 

www.sunsetproperties.com

Phone 251.543.1370

info@sunsetproperties.com

 

7 Things to Know About The Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018

There is so much to do while you’re vacationing with Sunset Properties in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan.   The wonderful vacation homes and pristine beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast call to your spirit all year long.  Spring is an especially nice time to visit our area and enjoy the welcoming beaches and soothing waters of The Gulf of Mexico.  Along with all the year-long attractions that we never seem to tire of, The Orange Beach Festival of Art, held in March, is one event you won’t want to miss.

Here are 7 things to know about The Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018 to help make your outing a fun and memorable one:

  1. Dates and Location

For more than 40 years, this arts festival has been an island staple and a local family favorite.  Mark your calendar for March 10-11, 2018 and plan to attend the Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018.

The setting for this festival is unmatched.  Held at Waterfront Park located at 26389 Canal Road and nestled among the hundred year old oaks that line Wolf Bay, this year’s event features not only the fine art mediums, but performing arts, as well.  The Orange Beach Festival of Art will be open from 10-5 on Saturday and 10-4 on Sunday.

 

  1. Artists

Expect to see potters, watercolorists, glass blowers, wood carvers and textile artists, just to name a few.  This is a juried show with spaces for 100 artists so you can be sure you’ll see the best of the best artists displaying and selling their wares.   Musical guests including Lisa Zanghi, Roman Street, Three Bean Soup and Strickly Isbell are scheduled for Saturday.  Island Youth Band, Poarch Ninjas, and All Star Band are slated to perform on Sunday.

 

  1. Admission and Parking

Admission to the festival is free, but there is no vehicle parking on site.  All parking for the Art Festival will be located at the Orange Beach Sportsplex on Williams Silvers Parkway.  Baldwin Regional Area Transit Service (BRATS) will provide a shuttle service and will offer rides to the festival site throughout the entire two-day event.  Why walk when you can catch a ride and get dropped off right at the festival site?   A daily BRATS pass can be purchased for $5. If you prefer to ride your bike to the festival, there will be an area for bicycle parking within the festival grounds.  You are encouraged to bring your own bike lock.

 

  1. Family Friendly

All of us here along the Alabama Gulf Coast love family friendly events.  This festival is no exception!  A Kids Art Alley will open at noon on Sunday.  Your little guys and girls will get the opportunity to have some hands-on fun while you all enjoy your weekend outing.  The newly renovated Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach will also be open.  This 10,000 square foot art gallery is definitely an island attraction worth a visit.  Adjacent to the gallery, you’ll want to check out the Hot Shop and Clay Studio.  Throughout the year, the Coastal Arts Center offers classes in glass blowing and pottery.

 

  1. What to Wear

The average high temperature in Orange Beach in March is 71 degrees.  That’s a perfect shorts-and-flip-flop-perfect-day if there ever was one!   You’ll need to bring some sunscreen, too.  It’s probably a good idea to thrown on a ball cap and your shades.  While it is not nearly as hot as the summer sun, the springtime sun’s rays in our area can quickly burn winter skin.

 

  1. Volunteer Opportunity

If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity while you’re vacationing, the staff at The Orange Beach Festival of Art may be looking for you.  For more information on volunteering, visit Festival VolunteersVolunteers will receive a tee shirt and a special gift from the Clay Studio, while supplies last.  Please remember to register with the festival folks if you’re planning to donate 4 or 5 hours of your time to help make this event continue to be the first class festival it is.

 

  1. Snacks, Potties, ATMs

Festival planners will have food booths on site and have sodas and snacks available.  Restrooms will be conveniently located, as well.  You’re should also plan to take a look at the festival merchandise stand while you’re visiting the venue.  We’re sure they will have the perfect tee for each member of your family.  Forgot your cash?  No problem!  ATMs are also scheduled to be available.

 

Spring is truly a magical time on the Alabama Gulf Coast.  Azaleas and oleanders adorn yards and streets.  Sea oats are starting to reach new leaves toward the sun.  And the animals are starting to come out from their winter habitats.   If you haven’t ever visited our beach neighborhood in the spring, now is the time to do it.  Plan on staying with Sunset Properties in one of our stylishly decorated and fully stocked condos or beach houses located in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores and Orange BeachWe even have pet friendly rentals available, so you can bring the whole family!  With so many options available, we know we have your perfect vacation home ready.

We look forward to helping you make your March 2018 Beach Reservation and to seeing you at The Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018.

Top 10 Most Romantic Things To Do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

One of the most romantic places on earth is the beach.   Beaches offer a natural ambiance unmatched by any other venue.  The beaches that wrap the Alabama Gulf Coast are no exception.  The sugary white sandy beaches that stretch 32 miles along the Alabama Gulf Coast are a remarkable site.  Just beyond the dunes covered with sea oats blowing in the Gulf breeze, the lapping waves of the Gulf of Mexico kiss the shore.  Whether you prefer long walks into the sunset holding your sweetheart’s hand or a brisk jog at dawn before your morning coffee, for romance, you’ve come to the right place!

Have you made your reservation yet?  Let’s start there!  For an incredible view of the beaches of Fort Morgan, check out The Dunes or The Indies. Consider Beachview 223 if you want to stay in Gulf Shores.  Would you prefer Orange Beach?  Check out Moorings 414Sunset Properties also has beach homes and cottages available if that’s your preference.  Truly, the beach is for lovers and these condos are sure to please!

But what do you do if you want to kick it up a notch? What can you and your sweetie do to make something that’s already great just a tad bit better?  Well, we have a few suggestions that we believe might make your romantic getaway one neither of you will soon forget.

Here are 10 Romantic Things to do while you’re staying with Sunset Properties in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores or Orange Beach:

1     SAVOR A GOURMET DINNER

You drove all this way down to the coast and you’re too tired to cook.  It happens.  We know and we understand.  You want to rest, relax, unpack and enjoy your time with your honey.  How nice would it be to have a gourmet meal available or a bag of snacks and fruit waiting on your when you arrive at your beach home?  Orange Beach Concierge Services located at The Wharf offers both.  If you’d like to have your dinner prepared, they have an extensive list of menu items including lasagna, New Orleans dishes, salads and seafood to choose from.  In addition, they offer grocery shopping and will deliver your groceries right to your condo or beach house.

If you’d rather go out for dinner, we suggest Wolf Bay Lodge located in Orange Beach. The folks at Wolf Bay Lodge have been preparing local seafood dishes since 1973. With menu items like lump crab cakes, rib eye steaks, and oysters rockefeller, you cannot go wrong with a dinner from Wolf Bay Lodge.

2     STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES

There isn’t a much more romantic gesture than giving your true love a bouquet.  It really doesn’t  matter if your prefer roses or a pretty vase of mixed seasonal flowers, we know just who to call to arrange your delivery.

The talented staff at Flowers by the Shore has been serving the Gulf Coast for over 20 years.  Check out their website for pictures of their colorful bouquets, cut flowers, fine wines and gift baskets.  Order early and have your special arrangement ready to be delivered when you arrive.

Another option for flowers and gift baskets is All Island Flowers.  Browse their website to see the most popular floral arrangements currently trending on the Gulf Coast.  They also offer a great selection of snack and fruit baskets ready for delivery.

3     FEED YOUR SWEET TOOTH

You have a craving for something sweet and you don’t know where to go.  Visit the Chocolate Corner located near the intersection of Fort Morgan Road and Gulf Shores Parkway for delicious homemade butter fudge, pecan caramel paws, gourmet truffles and other chocolates.  And we have to mention their barks.  They have the best barks!  From Sea Salted Almond Bark to Peppermint Bark to their famous Beachy Bark, they have you covered.   They also serve Blue Bell Ice Cream, Frappuccinos, fruit smoothies and espresso.  Stop by and try a treat or two, your whole mouth will thank you.

If you happen to be on Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, stop by Kayden’s Candy Factory for so “oh-my-goodness-yummy” treats!  From truffles, to fudge, to coconut clusters to caramel apples, Kayden’s has something for everyone’s sweet tooth.  They also serve ice cream and shakes.  Gift boxes available, as well, and we know you’ll want to grab one of those to take back home.

4     WATCH THE SUN SET FROM THE SKY

Have you ever seen the sun set from 500 feet above the ground?  What an amazing site!  Contact the folks at Orange Beach Helicopters and book your evening outing. You’ll fly over the beaches and waters near the Caribe Resort for about 30 minutes as you watch the sun’s rays fade and the evening’s darkness take over.  This ride is a special way to end a day of romance or begin an evening of enchantment.

Ever considered skydiving with your sweetie?  The good folks at Lost Bay Helicopters, a veteran owned and operated Gulf Shores company that leaves out of Jack Edwards National Airport in Gulf Shores, will fly you up and allow you to skydive down.  You don’t have to skydive if you choose to ride with these guys, but if you want to give it a try, skydiving could be a lot of fun!  Beach tours and special occasion tours are also available.  Contact them for reservations and details.

5     PAMPER YOURSELVES

You’re at the beach.  You just went skydiving with your sweetie, took some amazing pictures on the way down, and now you need to relax a bit.  It’s time to book a couples’ massage or salon outing.  It’s time to pamper yourselves.   To have a massage right in the comfort of your own beach house, contact Austin Massage Therapy located on Gulf Shores Parkway in Gulf Shores.  They have a 5.0 rating from TripAdvisor and, with an appointment, they will come to you.  If you’re in Orange Beach, visit Spas of Eden for a day of pampering.  They offer facials, skin, nail and hair services from their location at Palm Pointe Shopping  Plaza.   Serenity at the Beach, located in Orange Beach, features Aveda products.  For deep tissue or hot rocks massages, check out this lovely salon.  If your romance happens to lead to a marriage, they also offer wedding services.

6     DELIGHT IN A DOLPHIN CRUISE

You’ve heard about dolphin cruises.  Your friends have been out on the bays and coves that surround Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to see the dolphins up close, but you haven’t.  Well, it’s time to take the plunge, so to speak.  While you can’t swim with the dolphins when you book an outing on The Southern Rose, you will surely see a few swimming alongside.  This double-decker cruiser has both inside and outside seating.  Choose from an open-air view or an air conditioned one.  Cruises last from one to two hours and there is a snack bar on the boat offering sodas, chips, wine, beer and other snacks.  We know you will have a delightful time watching some of our area’s most playful and friendly local wildlife.

7     LET OUR LOCAL THEATRE CAPTIVATE YOU

You don’t have to be in NYC to see a great live performance.  Gulf Shores is home to the South Baldwin Community Theatre.   That’s right!  You and your honey can experience a well directed, tastefully staged, live play right here.  Our actors are locals from all around South Baldwin County and, though we’re probably a little biased, we believe they are every bit as good as those guys in the big cities.  The theatre is located at 2022 West 2nd Street in Gulf Shores.  Upcoming plays this year include:  Picasso at the Lapin Agile, The Snow White Variety Show, and Disney’s The Lion King Jr.  Give them a call.  The box office folks are waiting to make your reservation now!

8     WISH UPON A STAR

It is so hard to see the stars when you’re surrounded by city lights.  We often miss meteor showers, too.  They happen all year long, but we’re just too busy to even notice them.  How about doing a little star gazing while you’re in our neighborhood?  Grab your sweetheart, you favorite blanket and something cool to sip on.  Then kick back and watch the night sky from a perfect vantage point:  the beach.    Let the sound of the Gulf waves lull you into relaxation, while the sky flickers and dances with the natural lights of the stars, planets and meteors.  EarthSky.org provides a list of all the meteor showers and their visibility times.  We suggest paying special attention to the Leonid, Orionid and Perseid Meteor Showers.  Those star shows are usually pretty awesome!  Oh, and don’t forget to make your wish!

9     CREATE YOUR OWN SOUVENIR

Creating something together is a great way to make a special memory.  Visiting an art gallery is also a great way to spend a day.  Why not do both in one place?  The Coastal Art Center of Orange Beach, located on Canal Road, is a 10,000 square foot art gallery overlooking Wolf Bay.  The center itself is a sight you won’t want to miss.  This art center is not only a gallery, but also a place to create.  Visit The Hot Shop and make your own blown glass sculpture or visit the The Clay Studio to create a personal piece of pottery.  Instructional classes on watercolor painting, mixed media and acrylic are also available throughout the year.  We know the quality time you spend together here, coupled with the personal treasure you make and take home, will make an imprint on your heart that will last a lifetime.

10   PHOTOGRAPH YOUR MEMORY

Your stay has been an amazing one.  You’ve made some great memories and you know the time is coming when you’ll have to go back to your busy job and home life.  Why not take a professional snapshot of your trip back with you?  Sure your phone takes nice pictures, but wouldn’t you love to have a professionally done, beautiful portrait reminder of your special romantic getaway hanging in your family room?  The good folks at Chasing the Son and Sun Shots Photography can work with you in an effort to get you exactly the portrait you want.  They will meet you at your desired location and make every effort to get the exact pictorial memory you can see in your mind’s eye.  Both of these local companies offer extensive information about their services on their websites and, as you’ll see, their photography is wonderful!

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan towns and beaches are spectacular all year long.  Any time is a great time to visit them.  Sometimes, though, we know the best time to go is when you’re celebrating the love you share with someone special.  We also know planning a romantic getaway can be a challenge and we hope these ideas are helpful. We, at Sunset Properties, will be happy to offer any assistance we can when you contact us to make your accommodations reservation and we’re looking forward to seeing you when you arrive.

When you visit, we ask that you leave only footprints.  However, when you leave, we hope you take home romantic memories that will last a lifetime.

www.sunsetproperties.com

251.543.1370

5 Tips To Make Your 2018 Hangout Festival Experience Super Groovy

Take a great beach, add some fabulous live music, sprinkle with about 40,000 of your closest friends and what to you get?  The Hangout Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama!  This annual music festival is held at The Hangout located at the intersection of AL Hwy 59 and Hwy 182.  The festival spills over into the public beach area of Gulf Shores, and comes complete with food & drinks, old & new friends, music, and plenty of beach time!  The Alabama Gulf Coast will be rocking May 18-20, 2018, and you won’t want to miss it!

 

  1.  Get your ticket early

To get into this three-day, music-filled festival, you’re gonna need a ticket.  Tickets are available for purchase now. Tickets quantities are limited, so get yours before they’re all gone!  Both general admission and VIP ticket options are available directly from the Hangout Festival.   Folks under 17 years old will be admitted with a ticket, but will require adult supervision by someone at least 21 years old.  Little guys and girls under 5 years old get in free with an adult ticket-holding parent or guardian.

 

  1.  Know your music

The Hangout Music Festival Lineup for all three days has already been set.  Talk about some great artists!  Each year we say, “It just can’t get any better!” and then they do!  We are so excited to see these bands perform on our own beach!  Headlining acts expected to perform are The Killers, The Chainsmokers, and Kendrick Lamar.  Check out 2018 Hangout Music Fest Lineup for a complete list of musicians and bands.

 

  1.  Park your car and ride a shuttle

Why drive when you can park and ride?  There is no parking available at the festival site, but shuttle lines will be set up to help festival goers get around easily and safely.  Shuttle lines include:  North Line – Pelican Place (parking available);  West Line – Pier 33, Waves, West 13th (pick up and drop off only); East Line – Gulf State Park Pavilion (parking),  and numerous stops along Hwy 182 for pick up and drop off including one at The Gulf Restaurant.  Other stops are also available.  For a complete list and a link to purchase a shuttle pass, visit this link:  Hangout Fest Shuttles.

For other transportation options, visit our Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism website or call 1-800-745-SAND.

 

  1.  Stay in a great beach home

The Hangout Festival has just about everything you need to have a fun-filled weekend at the beach, except a place to sleep.  Unfortunately, you can’t camp out on the beach. But, no worries!  We have your weekend getaway vacation home waiting!  Beachview 223 is just a short walk away from the festival grounds.  Check it out.  It is literally almost next door to The Hangout venue!  Other great options for easy festival access are Island Sunrise 468 and Lighthouse 607.  These beach condo homes sleep from 3-8 guests comfortably.  Would you rather have your own beach house?  Check out Pat-Ti-O !  This super cozy beachfront home sleeps 10.   It is just a couple of miles from the festival, and with the West Shuttle Line, you should have no problem getting to the festival with ease!

 

  1.  Prepare for your beach weekend

When you go to the Hangout Festival, there are a couple of other things you should be aware of.  Food, drinks and water will be available onsite, so you won’t need to pack a lunch.  No outside food will be allowed.  Bring a water bottle and get it refilled as you need to while you’re inside the festival.  You can bring your small backpack (20” x 15” x 13”)  or fanny pack, but expect it to be searched by festival security.  Don’t forget your sunscreen.  Bring a hat, shades and a beach towel or blanket.   And your phone.  Bring your phone.  We know you’ll be instagramming like crazy and texting your buddies all the great shots and videos from your weekend.

 

The Hangout Festival weekend will be here before we know it.  Tickets are limited.  Accommodations choices are still great.  The weather on the Alabama Gulf Coast in May is perfect!  Your friends are already making their plans!  What are you waiting for?

Come for the music.  Stay for the beach.  And take home memories that can only be made in beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama.  We at Sunset Properties are looking forward to your arrival!

 

www.sunsetproperties.com

Or call 251.543.1370

Top 5 Ways to Spend New Year’s Eve on the Alabama Gulf Coast

Top 5 Ways to Spend New Year’s Eve on the Alabama Gulf Coast

Any day at the beach is a good day, but New Year’s Eve is a great day to be on the Alabama Gulf Coast!  There are so many fun things to do as you say “so long” to 2017 and “hello!” to 2018.  The hard part won’t be finding a place to go to take your family or meet some friends.  The tough part will be deciding which place to choose!   As you plan your annual countdown to midnight, consider these five options:

#5  Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s

The fun starts at 10 AM at Lulu’s in Gulf Shores.  For those of you who are not looking for a late New Year’s Eve Celebration, but an early one, this is for you!   Grab your camera, throw on your shades and flip flops, and bring the kiddos to Lulu’s early on December 31.  They will be getting ready for their massive Beach Ball Drop at noon.  Expect kid friendly events and lots of entertainment for the whole family.  Oh, and about the flip flops, you might want to bring along some warm shoes, too, just in case!

#4 Moon Pie Drop in Mobile

Yep!  You read that right!  There is a giant 600 pound Moon Pie that shines over downtown Mobile on New Year’s Eve and it drops at exactly midnight!  If you’ve experienced an Alabama Mardi Gras, you know the significance of the Moon Pie in Mobile.   However, if you’ve never seen the giant pie in the sky, you’re in for a treat that can only be rivaled by catching the real thing during carnival season.  This is the 10th year for this fun event where you can expect to see fireworks, hear live music and get some great local food and drinks as you look forward to all that 2018 has to offer.  This event is fun for families, friends and couples, alike.

#3 Marlin Drop at The Wharf

If seeing a Moon Pie lowering over the Port City isn’t your idea of an amazing way to  ring in the New Year, how about seeing a giant Marlin lower at The Wharf?  The Wharf in Orange Beach is known for its fabulous lights, amazing ferris wheel, superior retail shops,  and superb resturaunts all year long.  Seeing it all aglow with holiday lights while listening to the sounds of live music is a celebration no one should miss!  Plan on attending kid friendly activities early in the evening and adult-centered fun as midnight draws near. Get ready to raise your glass and welcome 2018 as you watch The Wharf’s own Giant Marlin lower as the clock ticks down.

#2 The Flora-Bama

How about spending New Year’s Eve at the best bar on any state line?  The World Famous Flora Bama Lounge located on the AL/FL state line will be hosting their annual New Year’s Eve bash.   With live music on three stages, a buffet from 7-midnight and party favors, this is sure to be one for the record books!  The Flora-Bama New Year’s Eve Bash is a ticketed event and it will most certainly sell out, so if you’re planning to attend this celebration, buy your tickets early! Sunset Properties rents two Penthouse Condos at the Caribe, which is only a half mile away from the Flora-Bama! 

#1 The Hangout in Gulf Shores

We round out our countdown of the top 5 things to do for New Year’s Eve on the Alabama Gulf Coast with one of Gulf Shores’ own original beach destinations:   The Hangout.  Located at the intersection of Highways 59 and 181 in the heart of Gulf Shores, The Hangout will be hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration for both families and adults.   Bring the wole family and come early for movies, face painting and a balloon drop.   Or wait a little later for the 21 and up celebration to enjoy a delicious buffet, complimentary midnight toast and balloon drop with great prizes.

If you have a little too much fun and decide you don’t need to drive yourself back to your condo or beach house, remember to call one of our taxi services to take you home.  Before your head out, check out www.gulfshores.com and search Taxi for a list of our fine transportation service companies.  We want to have a great time celebrating, but we also want you to arrive safely back at your vacation home when the party’s over. We also rent a studio condo directly across the street from the restaurant and one just a couple of blocks down! 

Wherever you choose to spend the last day of 2017, as long as you’re on the Alabama Gulf Coast,  we’re sure you’re in for a day and night filled with great food, music, laughter and lots of happy beachgoers.  Happy New Year from all of us locals on the Alabama Gulf Coast!  We hope your 2018 is filled with sunny days, perfect waves and a little sugar white sand between your toes!

Are You Ready for This Year’s Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival?

What is the delicious bounty from the Gulf of Mexico eponymous with the Gulf Shores? Shrimp. And, at the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival, 300,000 of your closest friends come together over the succulent shellfish to join in on a festival full of great music, food, contests, and more. So, grab a beer, grab a bud, and hit the beach for this spectacular shrimp shindig. Are you ready for the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival?

Events like the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival are just a part of what makes the Gulf Shores such an incredible vacation destination. You’ll love always having something interesting to do while you’re here! To help you find the things you want to do the most, be sure to download our free Vacation Guide! Here at Sunset Properties, we’re confident that our recommendations are the key to the very best vacation to Alabama’s Gulf Coast!

Why Look Forward to at the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival?

Great Live Music

Whether you love shrimp or not, the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival is a fun celebration of culture with more than 80 hours of live music in the lineup. Local, regional, and national acts will cover genres like southern rock, jazz, zydeco, Motown, country, and blues.

Fantastic Food

The namesake of the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival is, of course, succulent Gulf shrimp. But, the plethora of ways it will be prepared during the festival will have your mouth watering. With 50 local and regional food vendors along the boardwalk at the public beach, you’ll have the chance to try Gulf shrimp in many different fashions. In addition to these street vendors, there will be 200 pounds of shrimp prepared per day by some of the area’s best chefs to be given away as samples during the festival. So, if you love shrimp, this is the place to be!

Contests and Activities

Family-friendly contests and activities populate the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival, too. With the Annual Sand Sculpture Contest, Singing for Scholarships, and Outdoor World, there are plenty of ways to wander the festival. There will also be 200 booths of arts and crafts vendors, as well as new Chevrolet car models on display. Lastly, you can enter the 10K or 5K races to benefit the Coastal Baldwin Education Enrichment which supports Gulf Shores and Orange Beach public schools.

Plan Your Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival Getaway

For a big-time event like the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival, you’ll want to make your plans early to make sure you’re not left without a place to stay. There will be 300,000 people in town, so booking your beach house or condo ahead of time should be priority #1. Luckily for you, Sunset Properties has the most beautiful and convenient condos and beach houses available in the Gulf Shores area. With our properties, you’ll find a beachy home away from home that’s just minutes away from the best things to do here. So, why wait? Beat the rush and book your Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival getaway today!

Why You Don’t Want to Miss This Year’s Shindig on the Sand

There’s endless fun along Alabama’s Gulf Coast all year-round, and FloraBama’s Shindig on the Sand is no exception! Featuring live music, “flip-flop fine dining,” fun, and more, you should circle it on your calendar. What better way to enjoy the beach, brews, music, and food of Alabama’s Gulf Coast than in one fell-swoop at this year’s Shindig on the Sand? Here’s why you don’t want to miss it!

There’s no shortage of fun events and things to do down here, so be sure you know where to find them! Download our free Vacation Guide today for Sunset Properties’ great recommendations. We want you to have the very best vacation here, and our guide is your ticket to great memories and lots of fun.

A Day Full of Fun at Shindig on the Sand

There’s a lot to look forward to on a vacation to Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Events like Shindig on the Sand offer a great chance to experience culture, food, music, and more down here. So, what do you have to look forward to at Shindig on the Sand?

  • More than 70 musical acts and 200 musicians keep the party going from noon to 12 a.m. What’s more fun than a concert and party on the beach?
  • The Flora-Bama Yacht Club offers what they call “flip-flop fine dining” all day long! Plus, Ole River Bar will be serving succulent crawfish accompanied by refreshingly cold craft beer on their Sunset Deck. You don’t want to miss this! Both restaurants are family-friendly and are accessible by land or boat.
  • Some of the proceeds from the Shindig on the Sand go toward the Gulf Coast Musician’s Healthcare.
  • All ages are welcome to this family-friendly party on the beach!
  • Admission is only $5 per day!

Shindig on the Sand Logistics

Where is it?

17401 Perdido Key Dr., Pensacola, FL 32507

When is it?

September 30, 2017

What time is it?

12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

How much does it cost?

Only $5 daily admission!

Where can I find more information?

Call (850) 492-0611 or from FloraBama.

Plan Your Beach Getaway to Alabama’s Gulf Coast

Isn’t it about time you took an adventure to the beach? Here on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, our sugar-white beaches, fun atmosphere, and delicious food will give you the vacation you both want and need. So, consider a Gulf Shores getaway today! And, when you start planning your trip, be sure to download our free Vacation Guide for the best ideas for things to do while you’re here. Let Sunset Properties be your guide to the most memorable beach vacation! Our beautiful condos and beach houses are the best way to stay while you’re here. Just minutes away from everything you want to do, you’ll find that the comfort and convenience of our properties are the difference-makers for your vacation. So, browse our available condos and beach houses! Then, contact us today to book your beach getaway!

You Need to See These Gulf Shores, Alabama Concerts

Gulf Shores, Alabama Concerts

The pristine coastal waters of the Gulf Shores of Alabama make for a great concert venue. All year-round, you can enjoy the best local and international talent at any number of Gulf Shores, Alabama concerts. What makes the Gulf Shores an incredible vacation spot also makes them a great concert venue. So, which concert do you want to see first? Here are our Gulf Shores, Alabama concerts you need to see.

Are you looking for the best ideas for things to see and do in the Gulf Shores area? Then look no further than the Activities page provided by Sunset Properties! It’s full of the best ideas for how to spend your time. We guarantee you won’t get bored, and trust that your trip will be an incredible experience.

Check Out These Great Gulf Shores, Alabama Concerts

You can’t go wrong with any of these great concerts and venues. You’re sure to find good music and an equally good time!

Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

This November concert series is also the largest songwriter’s competition in the South. Every year, over 200 nationally recognized singer-songwriters converge from all over the world to compete. The 11 day festival spans 30 venues ranging from Pensacola, FL, to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, AL. You don’t want to miss it!

Hangout Music Festival

Experience a VIP experience like no other at the Hangout Music Festival. Relax in a hot tub or stageside pool while you listen to your favorite Top 40 artists like The Weeknd, Calvin Harris, Florence + The Machine, Alabama Shakes, Ellie Goulding, Lenny Kravitz, Panic! At the Disco, The Chainsmokers, Jason Isbell, Grouplove, and more! This is a concert you don’t want to miss out on. As one of the biggest concerts in the South, the Hangout Music Festival attracts thousands of people every year.

The Wharf

Nearby Orange Beach has an incredible concert venue, the Amphitheater at the Wharf, that attracts some of the biggest national musicians around. You’ll have the chance to see artists like Train, Chris Stapleton, Florida Georgia Line, Miranda Lambert, Twenty-One Pilots, Jimmy Buffett, Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, Andy Grammer, and more!

Gulf Shores Public Beach

The Main Public Beach, or Gulf Place, in Gulf Shores is the spot of the Hangout Music Festival, but also hosts its own concerts from time to time. Artists like Judah & the Lion, Ra Ra Riot, and Jimmy Buffett have set up stage on the beach!

Stay On the Beach for Any of These Great Concerts

The constant flow of great music will have you not wanting to leave! That’s okay, because with our luxurious oceanfront rentals, you won’t have to! Here at Sunset Properties, we’re all about the beach life, and we’ll do whatever it takes to guarantee your stay in the Gulf Shores is the best it can be. So, browse our available rentals and contact us today to book your stay at one of the most luxurious beach homes in the Gulf Shores!

 

18th Annual Orange Beach Billfish Classic

Are you ready for a new adventure?  Join the top anglers in the country and lots of cheering fans at the 18th Annual Orange Beach Billfish Classic.  This event takes place out of the marina at The Wharf.  The events start on the 18th of May and go through the 22nd.  You can keep track of your favorite team and check often for their weigh-ins.  The fishing starts at noon on the 19th and goes until weigh in on at 11 AM on the 22nd. There is a Weigh in on Saturday also on Saturday from 6 until 10 PM.  So come enjoy all the fun activities at The wharf and then see if your favorite team won the big prize!  Below are all the details from the Orange Beach Billfish Classic Website.

First of the Gulf Coast tournament season and the kickoff tournament of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship series.  The Orange Beach Billfish Classic was formed in 1998 for the express purpose of providing financial support for organizations that speak effectively for all recreational fishermen. The OBBC quickly became a top event on the Gulf Coast tournament circuit and serves as an important fundraiser for The Billfish Foundation and the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA). In 2011, over $50,000 was donated to these organizations, bringing the total contributed over the history of the tournament to over $500,000.

2014- Triple Crown trophy
2014- Triple Crown trophy

The OBBC is the country’s only non-profit billfish tournament with 100% of all net profit donated to qualified 501(c)(3) conservation organizations. The OBBC is an all-volunteer effort so there is no overhead to deduct from the financial support that’s provided to our conservation beneficiaries.

Beginning in 2013, The Wharf Marina Entertainment Complex hosted the Orange Beach Billfish Classic for the first time, and hosted the tournament again in 2014 and 2015. Over the course of the four day event, the crews, anglers and participants enjoy a series of fun and food-filled events, with a Captain’s Meeting on Wednesday evening and culminating with an awards brunch on Sunday morning. The organizers look forward to a big turnout this year in order to continue to support the organizations that fight for our resources.

10361061_634166736676009_1355216962380415182_n“I’d like to take a minute to personally invite everyone to join us for the 2016 Orange Beach Billfish Classic,” Dorland said in a recent interview. “Our staff will welcome you with open arms and we’ll all do our best to show you what a great experience this event has become, from the great fishing to our world-famous Gulf Coast hospitality. Come fishing with us this year — you won’t be disappointed.”

Interested participants are welcome to contact Dorland personally at (251) 402-8190 for more information.

Orange Beach Billfish Classic schedule of events is as follows.
Wednesday, May 18th• 4-11 pm: Registration and Optional Cash Awards open under the big tent • 6 pm: Cocktails and Hors d ’Oeuvres • 7 pm: Dinner • 8-11 pm: Optional Cash Awards Pot Party 2016

Schedule Of Events Thursday, May 19th • 10:00 am: Mandatory Captain’s Meeting under the big tent • 10:30 am: Boats may leave The Wharf through Perdido Bay to Perdido Pass • 12 noon: Boats may leave Perdido Pass. Any boat choosing to leave through Sailboat Bay may not leave The Wharf Marina until NOON, May 19th • 12 noon: Fishing Commences Friday, May 20th • 7-10 pm: Weigh in at The Wharf Saturday, May 21st • 6-10 pm: Weigh in at The Wharf Sunday, May 22nd • 9-11 am: Tournament Awards Breakfast

 

The 24th Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival

Are you looking for a fun Saturday event?  Of Course it needs to have something for everyone in the Family!  Well look no further.   Take the entire family out to The 24th Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival.  Not only will you have fantastic seafood but there is also a craft show, fun games and activities for kids and a classic Car Show.  This entire event is held annually and is the to raise money for the Association’s major fundraiser to support sports-related activities in our community, specifically youth baseball, softball and T-Ball.  Proceeds are used to purchase uniforms, equipment, insurance, and pay for expenses of officials and sponsor clinics.

The Festival remains the same full day of delicious food, 85 arts & crafts vendors and music for the whole family. The festival includes a silent auction, food booths, car show featuring antique, classic & hot rod vehicles, a Kids Zone with climbing wall, activities & more.

– 85 Arts & Crafts Vendorssky and cobra

– Food Booths

– Musical Entertainment

– Military Display & Memorabilia

– Open Car Show

– Silent Auction

– Kids Zone with Activities & More

Dates & Times

Feb 27, 2016   10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location

4830 Main St.Orange Beach, AL, 36561

From I-10 – Take Exit 44, Gulf Shores Parkway, and head south.  Just north of Foley turn left onto the Foley Beach Express.  The distance from the beginning of the Expressway to Orange Beach is 14 miles.  The toll for the Expressway is $3.50 per car.  After going over the bridge, the Expressway ends at Hwy. 180, Canal Road and The Wharf.  Parking will be on both sides of the Expressway.  Follow signs for parking directions.

From I-65 – Take Exit 37, Gulf Shores Parkway, and head south.  It is approximately 50 miles from I-65 to Orange Beach.  Just north of Foley turn left onto the Foley Beach Express.  The distance from the beginning of the Expressway to Orange Beach is 14 miles.  The toll for the Expressway is $3.50 per car.  After going over the bridge the Expressway ends at Hwy. 180, Canal Road and The Wharf.  Parking will be on both sides of the Expressway.  Follow signs for parking directions.

From Pensacola – Hwy. 98 – Follow Hwy. 98 from Pensacola.  Just east of Foley, turn left onto the Foley Beach Express.  The toll for the Expressway is $3.50 per car.  After going over the bridge the Expressway ends at Highway 180, Canal Road and The Wharf.  Parking will be on both sides of the Expressway.  Follow signs for parking directions.

Admission

Admission is free.

Event Info

The 24th Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival is a major fundraiser for the Orange Beach Sports Association to support sports-related activities in our community, specifically youth baseball, softball and T-Ball. Proceeds are used to purchase uniforms, equipment, insurance, and pay for expenses of officials and sponsor clinics. The Festival is a full day of delicious food, 80 arts and crafts vendors, military memorabilia and music for the whole family. This is an alcohol-free event. The festival includes a silent auction, car show featuring antique, classic and hot rod vehicles, a Kids Zone with climbing wall, inflatables and games and a children’s performance pavilion.

Contact Us

PHONE: (251) 981-1524