Sunset Properties Blog – Gulf Shores

February 7, 2018February 27, 2018

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

January 28, 2018

Top 5 Reasons to Attend the 2018 Alabama Gulf Coast Mardi Gras Celebrations

Laissez les bon temps rouler!

Everyone along the Alabama Gulf Coast is getting ready to “Let the good times roll!” As we put away our holiday trimmings, we get out the purple, green and gold of Mardi Gras. Most folks know about Mardi Gras in Mobile and even more famous is Mardi Gras in New Orleans. But did you know we have our own kind of Mardi Gras here in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? We may not be as famous as the others, but we love the carnival season here along the Gulf Coast and invite you and your family and friends to come and celebrate with us.

Here are five reasons why you should plan to attend Mardi Gras on the Alabama Gulf Coast:

Lodging Choices are Something to Cheer About

Gulf and bay front homes in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan welcome late winter guests for the Mardi Gras season. Whether you’re planning a couple’s getaway, family vacation or group outing, Sunset Properties has your perfect vacation home ready! When booking your Mardi Gras rental with Sunset Properties, use Promo Code #lovevacation and save 10%.

With daytime highs in the 50s and 60s and very little rain during the month of February, Mardi Gras is the perfect time for a beach getaway. The beaches are much less crowded than in the summer months and beach treasures are typically abundant. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and shades. It may be late winter, but the sun shines brightly on the Alabama Gulf Coast all year long.

No Hassle Parking

You’ve heard the horror stories about folks having their cars towed in Mobile and New Orleans. Here on the Alabama Gulf Coast, parking for a Mardi Gras parade in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a breeze! Because the main parade routes of Alabama Hwy 59 / Gulf Shores Parkway and Hwy 181 / Perdido Beach Boulevard are lined with business and retail parking lots, parking as easy as eating a Moon Pie!

Kid and Family Friendly Fun

Fat Tuesday in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a family friendly, fun-filled day. Our parades feature high school marching bands, colorful creative floats, and masked revelers. We have something to entertain each family member. Mardi Gras here is such a family day, in fact, our kids even get a school holiday just so they can attend!

Lots of Throws

What would a parade be without throws? After all, that’s what it’s all about, right? We believe in showering revelers with lots of beads, cups, Moon Pies, stuffed toys and other surprises. With so many treasures raining down from the floats, you’re going to need a big bag to carry them all.

Practice yelling this phrase: “Hey Mister! Throw me somethin’!” and grab your traveling buddies and come on down!

More Than Just a Parade

Sure parades are the backbone of Mardi Gras, but here on the Alabama Gulf Coast, we do it just a little different. We will celebrate together with both night and day parades, as well as our own Mardi Gras balls. There is even a boat parade planned! In addition to these organized celebrations, several of our favorite restaurants are offering special food, music and fun all day long on Fat Tuesday. Visit http://www.gulfshores.com for more details. And don’t forget to visit our sugar white sandy beaches while you’re in town. Colorful sea shells are perfect Mardi Gras treasures to take home!

When making your Mardi Gras plans, be sure not to miss:

Night Parades

Mystical Order of Mirams Parade Feb 9, 2018 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Mystics of Pleasure Mardi Gras Parade Feb 10, 2018 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Day Parades

Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade Feb 13, 2018 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade Feb 13, 2018 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Mardi Gras Balls

Birds of Paradise Mardi Gras Ball Tuesday, February, 6, 2018 7:00pm

We hope you will book your Mardi Gras stay right away. Sunset Properties has rentals available in both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Some are so close to the parade routes, you could even walk to the parade! If you’d rather stay just a short drive away from the noise of the revelry, make sure to book your vacation home in the Fort Morgan area. Remember to pack your sunscreen, bring a big ole goodie bag to take home all your treasures and plan to have the time of your life at Mardi Gras 2018 on the Alabama Gulf Coast!

From all of us at Sunset Properties:

Happy Mardi Gras and Laissez les bon temps rouler!

www.SunsetProperties.com or call 251.543.1370

#LoveVacation 10% discount Promo code good for week of Mardi Gras. Some restrictions may apply.

January 28, 2018

Top 3 Reasons to Take Your Valentine to the Alabama Gulf Coast

So Valentines is just a couple of weeks away and you’re trying to come up with something original to wow your Sweetheart. Sure, chocolates, wine and roses are nice. But why not plan a fun and romantic getaway for you and your Valentine? Why not make Valentines 2018 a destination holiday this year?

The Alabama Gulf Coast is a wonderful place to visit for the most romantic of all days!

Here are the Top 3 Reasons to take your Valentine to the Alabama Gulf Coast this February 2018.

The Weather

The weather in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama during the month of February is perfect for day outings and a few evening snuggles! The normal high temperature is around 65 degrees and lows are usually in the mid 40s. On average, it only rains about 4 days during the month, so chances are, you will enjoy beautiful sunny days. Talk about perfect!

Great Dining & Entertainment Options

There are many options available for Valentines adventures. Here are a few of our favorites:

Dinner at Cobalt. Cobalt, The Restaurant, located in Orange Beach offers so much more than just a great menu. It is an experience. With a super nice staff and choices including tuna, catfish, oysters, burgers, salads and chicken, there is something for everyone at Cobalt.

Picnic at Gulf State Park Pavilion. If dining out isn’t your idea of romance, how about packing a picnic and taking your love for a nice romantic dinner for two at the pavilion at Gulf State Park? There is literally no better view of our wonderful beaches and The Gulf of Mexico anywhere on the island. Remember how great we said the weather in February is? This is one of the best places to experience a really nice late winter day. And by the way, lots of folks get married here, too, so be on the lookout for Cupid. He might be visiting the same day you do!

Play a round of golf. Mini – golf, that is. Remember how much fun you had as a kid playing mini-golf? Grab your bestie and visit Pirate’s Island on Highway 59 in Gulf Shores or Adventure Island in Orange Beach for 18 holes of flirty fun!

Take in a movie. Cobb Pinnacle 14 Theatres, located on Gulf Shores Parkway, features 14 auditoriums with stadium seating and Dolby digital sound. Share some popcorn and a large soda with your Valentine while you enjoy one of the latest releases on the big screen.

Visit a museum. The City of Gulf Shores Museum, located on West 19^th Avenue in Gulf Shores, provides a perfect venue for some hand-holding time. You and your honey can take a leisurely stroll back through the history of this Alabama beach town. Be sure to check out their calendar for upcoming book signing and any special video series, too.

Wonderful Accommodations

Visiting Baldwin County’s Alabama Gulf Coast in February has some definite advantages when it comes to rental accommodations. The Island is less crowded than in the summer months and rental choices are usually pretty great! Sunset Properties offers accommodations rental options in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and in Fort Morgan. Beach houses and condos are available. We even have penthouses available. How romantic would it be to sit on your private balcony with your sweetie and look out over The Gulf of Mexico from the 14^th floor of The Caribe? Break out the wine, chocolate and roses. Romance is definitely in the air here!

To help you celebrate Valentines with your special someone, Sunset Properties is offering a rental discount for the week of Valentines. Book a three or four night stay in a qualifying rental and mention offer code #lovevacation at checkout and receive 10% off your stay. Some restrictions apply.

If you’ve never experienced the Alabama Gulf Coast in mid-February, you really are missing out. The weather is great. There is so much to do. And a 2018 Valentines stay discount code is available. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead! Give us a call at 251.543.1370. We would LOVE to help you plan your Valentines Trip!

www.sunsetproperties.com

Or call 251.543.1370

January 9, 2018

Oh Wow! OWA!

3 Things You Must Do At Owa

Owa is The Alabama Gulf Coast’s newest entertainment, dining and shopping venue. OWA, which is a Muscogee Creek term for “water”, offers something for the whole family. Located between AL Hwy 59 and The Foley Beach Express at 1501 South OWA Boulevard in Foley, Alabama, Owa should definitely be part of your next beach adventure! While there is way more stuff than you can do in one day, here are 3 things we recommend you not miss while in our area:

1. Ride a coaster or a frog

Owa is proud to offer 21 amusement park rides. For the thrill seekers among us, Owa is sure to please! Whether you prefer rides that spin like the Wave Runner or have G-force thrusts like the Air Racer or swing high over the park like the Freedom Flyer, you’re sure to have a blast experiencing them all. Oh, and don’t miss the roller coaster. Rollin’ Thunder, a super fast thrill coaster, has drops, loops, hairpin turns and speed sure to get your adrenaline going! You’ll be telling your friends about that ride for years to come!

Owa also has several family friendly amusement park rides. The Flying Carousel, Sky Balloons and Tea Time spinning teacup rides are just a few.

And what would an amusement park be without kid specific rides? Don’t let the kiddos miss the Zip Zap Race, the Gully Washer or the Leap Frog ride. After all, who wouldn’t want to ride an actual leaping frog?

For specific guidelines like height requirements for these must-do attractions, visit OWA amusement park guidelines.

2. Eat something good

If you’re looking for a quick snack between rides, check out one of Owa’s many food carts. Yummy hot dogs, tacos, shaved ice and ice cream are just some of the choices available at the food carts.

Not quite what you were craving? Then check out Shady Arbor or the Veranda. For mouth-watering pulled pork, fresh delicious salads and perfectly prepared beef brisket, visit the Veranda. Nachos, popcorn shrimp and gator bites are also available. Shady Arbor’s menu includes hamburgers, hotdogs, pizza and chicken. And, of course, there is ice cream!

For a whole different dining experience, visit the Groovy Goat or Wahlburgers located right outside the park. The Groovy Goat offers a vast menu including breakfast all day, specialty burgers, steaks and salads. They offer a wide variety of beers, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. And TVs. There are TVs all around so you can watch your favorite sporting event while you dine!

And Wahlburgers is at Owa, too. We all love Wahlburgers! Known for hamburgers as famous as the Wahlberg Family, Wahlburgers is sure to be a hit with your whole family! From mac and cheese, to specialty burgers to chili, there is something on the menu for everyone. Wahlburgers also has drink menu that is unmatched! Featuring Coke products, coffee and tea, locally brewed beers, and adult frappes, the drink menu has something for everyone. Wahlburgers also has a tee-shirt shop right on site, so don’t forget to grab yourself a cool tee before heading out.

3. Visit the arcade

If your idea of a great day is not riding thrill rides, but playing arcade versions instead, you’re in luck! One of the newest additions to the Owa property is an amazing arcade located right outside the park gate. Showcasing 50 different arcade games, a variety of interactive video games and a redemption center, the arcade at Owa just opened in December 2017.

Owa is still growing. This is just a short list of things we love and believe you will, too. As more restaurants and attractions are added, we will be sure to highlight them in our blogs.

While you’re making your plans to visit OWA, don’t forget about our sugar white Alabama Gulf Coast Beaches and Mobile Bay just a short 20 minute drive away. Sunset Properties has Gulf front beach houses, condos with and without boat parking, and fabulous penthouse rentals available for vacationers.

Make your plans to visit OWA, but be sure to stay with us!

www.sunsetproperties.com or call 251.543.1370

January 2, 2018January 2, 2018

2018 New Year’s Resolutions you can keep!

Have you made your 2018 New Year’s Resolutions yet? Lose ten pounds. Join a gym. Save more money. Learn a new trade or skill. Read more. Ugh. Those sound more like punishments than resolutions!

How about this instead:

With the new year rapidly approaching and everyone making New Year’s Resolutions for 2018 that seem nearly impossible to keep, we, at Sunset Properties, suggest making resolutions that are fun, memorable and attainable.

In short, make resolutions you can keep!

Resolve to:

Take a nap on the beach

Stretch out on a comfy beach lounge chair under a big colorful umbrella and let the sounds of The Gulf of Mexico lull you to sleep.

Wear flip flops all day

Spend a whole day shopping in shoes that pop when you walk. SanRoc Cay in Orange Beach and Pelican Place in Gulf Shores offer superior retail therapy options. Flip flops welcome!

Leave your phone and tablet turned off

Let the only calls you hear be the ones seagulls make to each other.

Walk a nature trail

Take a leisurely stroll along one of Gulf State Park’s fabulous nature trails and just unwind within your surroundings.

Cast a line from a pier

Watch a bobber dance in the waves from Alabama’s 1540 foot long Gulf State Park Pier. Fishing licenses are available online and day permits are available right from the pier office.

Visit a Fort

Listen for the sounds of soldiers’ conversations from centuries ago you tour historic Fort Morgan. Built in 1812, Fort Morgan is surrounded with some of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in Alabama.

Ride a ferris wheel

Enjoy an amazing view from atop the ferris wheel at The Wharf. Check out the concert schedule for the Amphitheatre at The Wharf, as well. One of your faves may be playing soon!

Eat oysters

Add some Tabasco, salt, and lemon to top off your raw or fried oysters at Doc’s Seafood Shack in Orange Beach or Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores.

Take a dolphin cruise

Book a day or evening trip out on the water and watch dolphins play. Sunset Properties has a program called Xplorie, where when you stay with us you receive one free ticket everyday during your stay to some of the local attractions, one of them being Cetacean Cruises.

Volunteer

Participate in the Alabama Coastal Cleanup in September or The Annual National Shrimp Festival in October and make new friends who love the beach just as much as you do.

Don’t these sound so much better than the traditional resolutions we’re supposed to make? We think so, too!

We, at Sunset Properties, want to welcome you to the Alabama Gulf Coast in 2018 where resolutions are enjoyable, memorable and even relaxing. Happy New Year and we’ll see you soon!

December 26, 2017

5 Reasons to Vacation in Fort Morgan for Spring Break 2018

Spring Break 2018 is only a few weeks away and you haven’t made your vacation reservations yet.

Most folks know there are a lot of things to do and see in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We want to tell you about one of our favorite Alabama Gulf Coast communities: Fort Morgan. Fort Morgan, Alabama located between Mobile Bay and The Gulf of Mexico is one of Alabama’s unsung treasures. Here are 5 reasons why Fort Morgan should be on your short list of places to stay for Spring Break 2018.

Accommodations are Amazing

Whether you choose to rent a Beach House or a Condominium, your choices are amazing and views unparalleled! Only a short 15 or 20 minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Gulf Shores, perfect vacation homes are waiting for you and your family. Many homes offer pet options, so no one in the family gets left behind. WIFI, grilling stations, hot tubs and pools are just a few of the amenities you will find in these tastefully decorated and fully stocked vacation homes. Consider sitting on your balcony, listening to your favorite iTunes, sipping a cool drink and looking out across the Gulf right to the place where it seems to drop off into the horizon. Get ready to take it all in. You’re ready to break for spring and your Sunset Properties vacation home in Fort Morgan is waiting for you.

A Beach Day Your Way

Spend all day sunning and reading your favorite new novel on a private beach facing the Gulf of Mexico. Many of the beaches in Fort Morgan are a lot less crowded than those in the surrounding municipalities. If lazily letting the day go by under an umbrella doesn’t appeal to you, how about a little fishing? You can fish right from most beaches in this area. Did we mention the shell collecting? Sea treasures found on Fort Morgan beaches are wonderful! Lots of colorful shells and pretty white sand dollars seem to find their way onto the fabulous Fort Morgan Beaches.

Boating Anyone?

Several of the rental homes in Fort Morgan come complete with boat launches and boat slips for their guests to use. Why would you leave your favorite watercraft at home when you’re planning to vacation where you’ll be surrounded by water? Treat your family to a day out on Mobile Bay in your own boat! Be sure to bring your camera, too, because you’re probably going to see a few dolphins, gulls and herons, and perhaps even an osprey, along the way. Check out our Navy Cove Rentals to see exactly what’s available.

Let’s Eat! Seafood!

You’re vacationing at one of the best beach communities on the Alabama Gulf Coast, so you’re probably going to want some awesome seafood, right? Well, you’re in luck! Whether you want breakfast, seafood or steaks, Tacky Jacks 2, located right across from The Dunes and The Indies has you covered. Trip Advisor rated Fort Morgan’s own Tacky Jacks as the Number 1 restaurant in Fort Morgan. We’re kind of partial to their menu items, too!

Fort Morgan

The fort at Fort Morgan was constructed in 1812 and was originally called Fort Bowyer. Now an Alabama State Historic Site, Fort Morgan is one attraction you won’t want to miss. Family events are planned throughout the year, but even on days when there is no organized event, we suggest checking out the beach directly in front of the Fort. Some of the largest ocean-going vessels that leave Mobile Bay pass right in front of the fort. Speaking of watching boats, if you keep an eye out, you’ll probably see the Mobile Bay Ferry making its way across the bay from Fort Morgan to Dauphin Island.

We hope you will follow some of the links we provided and give this charming little beach community a look and solid consideration when you book your Spring Break 2018 accommodations. After all, sometimes it’s the overlooked treasures that make the strongest impacts on our hearts!

December 19, 2017

Top 5 Nightlife Entertainment Spots in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan

After a day filled with shopping, sun, sand and sea, you’re looking to cool off with a perfect cocktail and have some great local seafood while listening to a live band. We totally understand! Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan offer some of the greatest venues for food, fun and music!

Here are a few of our favorite night spots and we hope you will love them as much as we do!

#1 Tacky Jacks

Tacky Jacks is a great place to go unwind. With a menu sure to please almost anyone and drinks that’ll have you texting pictures to your buddies back home, Tacky Jacks is a definate stop while you’re in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan. If you are staying in the Dunes community in Fort Morgan (Dunes Condos, Indies Condos, Dunes Subdivision or even Bay to Breakers) you can even walk to Tacky Jacks! Known for their family friendly atmosphere, Tacky Jacks is a great choice for adults and kids, alike. With three locations around the Island, Tacky Jacks is convenient to almost every vacation rental home. Come hungry and expect to not just get a great meal and hear some great music, but to make a great memory. Don’t forget to get yourself a Tacky Jacks tee before you leave! You’ll be the envy of your friends back home!

#2 Live Bait Food & Spirits

Speaking of cool tees, do you have your Live Bait tee yet? You have to get one of those! In addition to fun colored tees, Live Bait has an amazing menu and a fun staff! They offer some of the coldest drinks on the Island and the live music can’t be beat! Whether you choose to sit inside or enjoy your evening on one their decks, you’ll be glad you put Live Bait on your must-do list.

#3 Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar

The Flora-Bama is a timeless roadhouse that just keeps getting better! If enjoyable musicians that’ll have you singing along and cold beers are what helps you unwind, then this is a definate stop for you. After a short drive to the Al/Fl state line, you’ll find yourself at one of the most famous lounges around. The Flora-Bama has been featured in Southern Breeze, The New Yorker, Bon Appetit, Boston Globe, The Huffington Post and CNN Travel, just to name a few. You don’t stay around for 55 years unless you’ve got something special to offer your guests. After you visit the Flora-Bama, you’ll see what we mean! Keep in mind, we have properties located just a few short minutes from this establishment.

#4 The Hangout

Serving specialty drinks and a menu all their own, The Hangout in Gulf Shores is so much more than just a bar. Home of the World Famous Hangout Music Festival, The Hangout is located right off the public beach facing The Gulf of Mexico in the heart of Gulf Shores. What better way is there to end a great day of shopping, fishing, or beach strolling than to bring your old friends or meet some new ones at The Hangout?

#5 Bills by the Beach

After a long day of fishing, you must visit Bills by the Beach where they will cook your catch as you listen to live music on the open air deck. West Beach Boulevard never sounded or tasted so good! If you didn’t have much luck catching your own supper, don’t worry. Bills by the Beach has a menu that is second to none. Come hungry for the cuisine and stay for the tunes!

From fishing and shopping and sunning all day, to relaxing and eating some great local seafood and listening to some fabulous music all evening, we hope you enjoy Island Life as much as we do. Remember its always the right time to have a good time when you’re living on Island Time!

December 12, 2017December 12, 2017

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!

November 27, 2017November 27, 2017

5 Things to consider when deciding to rent a Beach House or Condo for Spring Break 2018

Your family has decided you’re going to visit the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast and enjoy our sugar white beaches for Spring Break 2018, but you can’t decide if you’d like to stay in a condo or a beach house.

Location/View

Location. Location. Location. We’ve all heard the term. What does that mean here? The location of your condo or beach house often determines the view. High rise Gulf Coast Condos tend to offer better views of The Gulf of Mexico and/or Mobile Bay than beach homes located in beach neighborhoods. However, there isn’t a much better view than the one you get from a deck of Gulf Front beach house. Our homes are located throughout Pleasure Island in South Alabama. Rentals are available in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Historic Fort Morgan. No matter which you choose, you are only steps away from the Sugar White Sands of Alabama’s most beautiful beaches.

Parking/Elevators

“I wish parking was closer to our vacation front door. This parking lot is huge!”

Most beach houses offer parking right under the house or in the adjacent yard. Alabama Gulf Coast beach houses, by design, are built up on pilings or piers to prevent flooding during tropical rain storms. Most do not offer elevators. Instead they only have stairs leading up the main living floor. Taking vacation supplies and luggage can be a challenge.

Beach front condos, Mobile Bay front condos and beach view condos, on the other hand, have large parking lots. Typically, luggage carts are available and elevators are usually present, so taking people and luggage up to your vacation front door can be very easy.

Personal Space vs Price

Beach condos are usually compact versions of larger homes. If personal space is a factor in your choice, a beach home may be your best option. Usually, beach homes offer more square footage than their smaller compact counterparts. Condos tend to be more economical than beach houses, however, if you are planning to split rental costs between two or more families, a beach house may just fit the bill. When choosing the beach vacation destination home that will best fit your family’s needs, keep in mind Sunset Properties has rental houses and condos that offer a variety of choices, design layouts and pricing.

Extra Comforts

If certain vacation amenities like having a pool only steps from your home-away-from-home is a must, a condo will usually fit the bill. Most condo complexes offer pools, fitness rooms, saunas and even a lazy river either on the ground level or the roof. Beach houses, however, are single family homes and typically don’t have these adjacent to the house. Beach houses are usually a part of a beach community and have a shared pool and/or fitness area within the neighborhood. WIFI, DVRs, TVs, stereos and other entertainment comforts are available in most condos and beach houses.

Fur Baby on Board

Is your fur baby coming with you? Both beach condos and beach homes allow pets. Usually a pet deposit is required and pet size restrictions can be a factor. If bringing your fur baby with you to the beach is a must, your options are open for both condos and beach houses.

If you’re still having trouble deciding which accommodation will best suit your family, email us at info@sunsetproperties.com or give us a call 251.543.1370. One of our vacation rental experts will be happy to help you!

September 8, 2017

What Stores Will You Find at the Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama?

Shopping and vacation go hand in hand like Gulf Shores and seafood! And, some of the best shopping can be found at the Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama! There, you’ll find a variety of shops, boutiques, and stores designed to give you the ideal shopping experience on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. So, when you’re on vacation, you’ll definitely want to plan a trip to the Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama! Here are some of the stores you’ll find there!

Looking for fun ways to enjoy Alabama’s Gulf Coast? Luckily for you, there are plenty of them! You’ll find them in our free Vacation Guide download along with the best restaurants and shopping to suit your vacation needs. At Sunset Properties, we want you to have the very best vacation possible. So, download it today!

Stores at the Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama

Accessories and Jewelry

Claire’s | 116 | (251) 943-4244

Coach | 220 | (251) 943-1772

Fossil | 182 | (251) 317-3070

Francesca’s | 474 | (251) 971-1198

H&M | 200 | (855) 466-7467

Kate Spade New York | 104 | (251) 943-1736

Kay Jewelers Outlet | 102 | (251) 943-3477

Michael Kors | 100 | (251) 943-8010

Sunglass Hut | 130 | (251) 943-5899

Vera Bradley | 106 | (251) 943-3163

Zales The Diamond Store Outlet | 112 | (251) 970-1171

Apparel

Adidas | 254 | (251) 971-1018

Aeropostale | 422 | (251) 971-2834

Ann Taylor Factory Store | 494 | (251) 970-5613

Banana Republic Factory | 472 | (251) 971-1975

Bass Factory Outlet | 124 | (251) 943-2792

Brooks Brothers Factory Store | 480 | (251) 943-2829

Dressbarn | 410 | (251) 943-5281

Eddie Bauer Outlet | 260 | (251) 943-5110

Express Factory Outlet | 454 | (251) 968-0050

Francesca’s | 474 | (251) 971-1198

Gap Outlet | 140 | (251) 943-9691

Footwear

Adidas | 254 | (251) 971-1018

Clarks Outlet | 412 | (251) 943-3702

Famous Footwear Outlet | 228 | (251) 943-2022

Johnston & Murphy | 232 | (251) 943-3699

Journeys | 180 | (251) 971-6347

Nike Factory Store | 300 | (251) 970-2900

Rack Room Shoes | 108 | (251) 971-2525

Reebok | 334 | (251) 943-7802

SAS Shoes | 244 | (251) 943-7557

Shoe Carnival | 328 | (251) 970-2922

Skechers | 488 | (251) 943-9101

Under Armour | 404 | (251) 943-9357

Housewares and Home Furnishings

Corningware Corelle & More | 432 | (251) 943-7997

Kitchen Collection | 168 | (251) 943-3252

Le Creuset | 170 | (251) 943-7600

T.J.Maxx | 150 | (251) 943-6684

Westpoint Home | 308 | (251) 929-9017

Specialty Stores

Bath & Body Works | 218 | (251) 943-2666

Harry & David | 256 | (251) 943-1907

Perfumania | 240 | (251) 943-4331

Toys”R”Us Outlet | 310 | (251) 677-6112

Yankee Candle | 440 | (251) 952-0002

Incredible Candies & Gifts | 114 | (251) 952-2639

Plan Your Vacation Shopping Trip On Alabama’s Gulf Coast

These stores are just the beginning of what you’ll find at the Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama! There are many more from where these came. You could spend all day out with the girls shopping to your heart’s delight! Find the perfect souvenir or the perfect pair of shoes. You’ll love the selection and more you’ll find at the Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama. So, when you plan your vacation shopping trip, be just minutes away from the best shopping! Stay in a beautiful beach house or condo from Sunset Properties. Our spacious rentals are the perfect way to stay along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. So, browse our availability and contact us to book your vacation today!