Sunset Properties Blog – Gulf Shores

December 1, 2016

Gulf Shores Alabama Grocery Stores You Need to Know

Gulf Shores Alabama Grocery Stores

When you take the trip to the Gulf Shores of Alabama, you’ll love the sugar white beaches, incredible things to do, and gulf breeze. And, if you’re staying in a vacation rental with a full kitchen, you may want to skip the restaurants for a night and cook! Here are the best grocery stores in the Gulf Shores.

Are you looking for the best things to 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 ways to spend your time. You’ll love everything on the list, and we guarantee it will give you the best Gulf Shores vacation you’ve ever had!

Gulf Shores Alabama Grocery Stores

Rouses Market

You’ll love the selection at the Rouses Market in Gulf Shores. The chain grocery store offers great quality deli meats and cheeses, sushi bar, seafood, and an extensive wine and beer selection will satisfy you. You’ll love how close it is to the beach, as well!

Pier 33

Convenience is the name of the game at Pier 33. Located within walking distance from the beach, Pier 33 is a quick and easy place to get anything from basic groceries to bait and tackle to beach toys to souvenirs. This is the perfect place to plan your beach day!

Winn-Dixie

Located on Gulf Shores Parkway, the easy-to-get-to Winn-Dixie will impress you with its clean store and quality selection. Friendly, helpful staff await you and the high-quality meat selection means grilling out is a breeze!

Publix Super Market

The Gulf Shores Publix is one of the highest rated grocery stores in the area and with good reason. Publix’s selection far outweighs the smaller grocery stores in the area, and with their BOGO sales, you’ll save money. It’s the perfect place to fill up the cooler before a day on the beach!

Waves Groceries & Beach Apparel

At Waves Groceries & Beach Apparel, you’ll have convenient access to beach necessities and fast! While the grocery store doesn’t have an extensive selection, it has the necessaries for you to have the best beach day! It’s perfect for grabbing a drink or ice cream or here and there things.

Cook in Your Beach House or Vacation Rental

Load up on groceries from any of these great grocery stores and come home to a Sunset Properties vacation rental! Our kitchens are spacious and ready for you to cook, all with the luxury of being just minutes from the beach. You’ll love our comfortable rentals and luxurious amenities so much, you won’t want to leave! We guarantee you’ll feel right at home, so contact us today to book your stay! And, if you need more ideas for how to spend your time in the Gulf Shores, then check out our Activities page today!

November 23, 2016

What is There to See at the Fort Morgan Historic Site?

The beauty of the sandy shores of the Gulf Shores of Alabama is only matched by the rich history and culture of the area. The Fort Morgan Historic Site is a literal bastion of history, solidifying the area as one of the most well-rounded vacation spots in the country. You’d be remiss to not visit it during your time on Alabama’s coast. But, what is there to see there? Read on to learn more!

Are you looking for the best ideas for things to see and do in the Gulf Shores, AL, area? Then, look no further than the Activities page provided by Sunset Properties! It’s full of the best ideas for ways to spend your time! That is if you ever decide to get off the beach!

Fort Morgan Historic Site is Well Worth Your Time

Whether you’re a history buff or not, the Fort Morgan Historic Site in Fort Morgan, AL, will amaze you with its well-preserved history and backstory! You can go visit the site daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Construction of the historic fort began way back in 1819. It was designed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with manual labor coming mostly from African-American slaves. The name “Morgan” comes from a celebrated Revolutionary War hero, General Daniel Morgan. It was completed in 1834. Only 27 years later, Fort Morgan came under Confederate control at the start of the Civil War. Toward the end of the war in 1864, Union forces gained victory over a powerful Confederate force that included the U.S.S Tennessee, one of the strongest ironclad warships of the time. The fort was occupied once again from 1900 to 1923 and once again in 1942 in response to World War II. At the end of the war, the fort was abandoned.

What You’ll Find at the Museum

Over 200 years of historical artifacts are archived at the Fort Morgan Historic Site. In the museum, you’ll have the chance to see artillery, uniforms, local historical artifacts, and even two lighthouse lenses. In addition to these, during the months of June and July, uniformed historical interpreters will guide you through the museum and site. These experts will amaze you with their thorough knowledge and intrigue you with their garb. It’s well worth your visit, so be sure to plan it into your stay!

Just Minutes Away from the Best Place to Stay

When you visit the Gulf Shores of Alabama, you have to visit the Fort Morgan Historic Site. And, when you stay at any of the luxurious vacation rentals from Sunset Properties, you’ll be just minutes away. So, take a look at our beach houses and condos! You’ll feel right at home with our luxurious amenities, too. Why wait? Book your stay today! And, if you need more ideas for ways to spend your time in the Gulf Shores area, then look no further than our Activities page. It’s full of the best ideas for things to see and do while you’re here. We guarantee it will make for an incredible time!

November 18, 2016

You Need to See These 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!

November 9, 2016

Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Seafood Restaurants in Gulf Shores, Alabama

When you come to the sunny shores of the Gulf Coast of Alabama, the easy-going atmosphere will welcome you! The area is famous for its sugar-white beaches, beautiful sunsets, and amazing seafood. The seafood restaurants in Gulf Shores, Alabama are particularly delicious and worthy of your visit. But, where are the best places to try the local catch? You’re in luck! Here is our ultimate guide to the Gulf Shores seafood.

Are you looking for the best things to do in the Gulf Shores area? Then look no further than the things to do page from Sunset Properties! It’s full of great ideas to make the most out of your vacation, getaway, or get-together here in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan areas.

The Best Seafood Restaurants in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Bahama Bob’s

The seafood favorite that is Bahama Bob’s is a living testament to the mantra that, “The lower the latitude, the better the attitude!” The easy going environment perfectly complements the delicious seafood this joint offers up daily. Everything from wings to crab legs, and crawfish to coconut fried shrimp. At Bob’s, there’s something for everyone!

Desoto’s Seafood Kitchen

The award-winning restaurant is an Alabama family-favorite for many reasons! From their easy lunch menu to their exquisite dinner menu, you’ll find something delicious, guaranteed. Check out Cajun-style seafood dishes, New Orleans-inspired dishes, Mediterranean, Caribbean, or even Hawaiian rib eye. The seafood is to die for, using only the freshest daily catch from the Gulf.

Sea-N-Suds

It is as it sounds! Here you’ll find the best offerings of seafood and brews in the area. It’s the perfect, easy waterfront dining experience in Gulf Shores. Their great selection of gumbo, crab claws, steamed shrimp, salad bar, sandwiches, and fried seafood dinners will entice you to overeat!

Fish River Grill

The Fish River Grill claims to be the “original” seafood restaurant in Baldwin County, serving up authentic Southern takes on the freshest Gulf seafood. Their famous burgers will also tempt you. Try their Southern comfort take on seafood, oysters, catfish, frog legs, gator, and crawfish. You won’t regret it!

Original Oyster House

The Original Oyster House is a must if you’re looking for the best Gulf Shores seafood. Enjoy the panoramic waterfront setting, excellent service, and Southern hospitality. It’s the best place for hand-shucked, fire-grilled oysters. They also make delicious homemade gumbo, cheese grits, and blackened shrimp. You’ll also want to try their famous desserts, including peanut butter chocolate chip pie. Drooling yet?

Tacky Jack’s

The local favorite, Tacky Jack’s, has a diverse and delicious menu perfect for the whole family. Offering up tasty takes on breakfast, lunch, and dinner is their specialty. Try their “Tacky Shrimp,” Mexican Garbage nachos, and other unique dishes meant to excite your taste buds all while giving you a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t soon forget.

Just Minutes Away from the Best Place to Stay

When you come to the Gulf Shores of Alabama, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful views and fresh air that will rejuvenate you. You’ll also have the opportunity to try some of the best seafood in the country. You’ll need a beautiful place to stay to match the experience, so check out the luxurious vacation rentals Sunset Properties has available! We are eager to accommodate your every need, so contact us today to book!

November 3, 2016

What are the Best Pet Friendly Beaches in Alabama?

When you plan your visit to the Gulf Shores of Alabama, there’s no need to worry about boarding your furry friends! Besides, it’s expensive anyway. Just bring them to the beach! There are plenty of great options for your pup to sniff, explore, and have fun at the pet friendly beaches in Alabama! You’ll never see those sad puppy dog eyes as you leave again when you come to coastal Alabama. But, where are the best pet friendly beaches? Read on to find out!

Want to know more about the best things to do near Sunset Properties? Then check out our Local Activities page today! It’s full of the best ideas to make your visit the vacation of a lifetime. And, with all the great activities, you’ll be sure to please the whole family, including Fido!

The Best Pet Friendly Beaches in Alabama

Fort Morgan, Alabama
Head west out of Gulf Shores and you’ll eventually run out of land. This is where Fort Morgan sits, at the tip of Mobile Point. It’s also the first of our best pet friendly beaches in Alabama! Fort Morgan allows your furry friends to play on the public beaches as long as they are on a leash. You can access the city’s public beaches from inside the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. At the end of the peninsula near the Fort Morgan State Historic Site grounds, you have access to the beach through an unnamed access road. The other point of entry is just past the refuge visitor center and just off of Mobile Street. Parking there is on a first-come, first-served basis. Also of note: the Fort Morgan State Historic Site property does not allow dogs.

Dauphin Island, Alabama
Away from Gulf Shores and three miles south of the mouth of the Mobile Bay is the barrier island of Dauphin Island. The island’s beaches are pet-friendly and open to the public year-round! There is a small fee during the spring and summer, and dogs must remain on leash on the beach. Again, parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis and you may re-enter the park as many times as you like during the same day by furnishing your ticket. Dogs are only allowed on Dauphin Island’s public beaches. The West End Beach Park on the west side of the island does not.

Other Great Places to Take Your Dog

Unleashed in Orange Beach Dog Park
Unleashed in Orange Beach Dog Park has separate fenced-in areas for all sizes of dogs. Training stations, water stations, and plenty of benches with shade make this the perfect mid-day stop for your pup to run free! Open daily for free from sunrise to sunset.

Gulf State Park
What better way to get both you and your pup out than to explore Gulf State Park? Hike along the pristine dog-friendly trails and see nature up close! Dogs must be leashed at all times in the park, including in the campgrounds. The best part? The Dog Pond at Lake Shelby is the perfect place for your pooch to explore the water. The dog park is to your immediate left when you enter the parking lot. For just a $2 daily pass, it’s the perfect way to let your dog explore!

Pet Friendly Rentals to Go with Your Pet Friendly Vacation

You can’t take your dog on vacation with you if you don’t have a pet-friendly place to stay! Here at Sunset Properties, we have the most comfortable pet-friendly vacation rentals in the area. You and your pup will feel like you’re at home when you stay with us. So, check out our pet-friendly options and contact us today! We’re eager to accommodate you and your pooches every need so you can have the best vacation!

April 18, 2016

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.

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.

“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

April 11, 2016

Delta Wildlife Boat Eco Tour

A don’t miss trip for nature lovers big and small take a Delta Safari! This charter departs daily from Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores and tours the scenic and historical and Mobile Delta system. You can learn local history enjoy beautiful scenery and learn about our unique ecosystem and the animals that live here on this family friendly hour and a half trip.

Experience the swamps of the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta on this highly rated wildlife tour. This is the “must do” tour for all avid lovers of nature and its creatures when visiting Mobile, Alabama. The Mobile-Tensaw Delta is Mobile’s biggest jewel – If you do nothing else, take this trip!

TOUR COST: Adult: $19.99, Child (6-15): $14.99, Under 5: FREE.

DEPARTS: Daily. Charters available 7 days.
LENGTH: 1.5 hours. Reservations suggested.

BOOK NOW! Click For Calendar

As we float among the open Marsh watching for a variety of wildlife including Alligators, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Heron, Cormorant, Pelicans, Nutria and more, learn about these unique animals of the swamp and how they live. Commentary includes points on the history, geology, ecology and characters of the Delta, as well as Alabama State Lands mission in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and the ‘Forever Wild’ program.

Perfect for children of all ages, Delta Safaris operates over 100 school field trips annually – we know kids and welcome yours aboard. For Children 5 and Under, please email us after booking and we will add their FREE tickets to your booking.

All commentary provided by experienced Delta Nature Guides.

Includes: The best eco-tour in Alabama, showing off the best delta eco-system in the USA. As seen in National Geographic – Adventure Magazine, Southern Living Magazine and on National Morning Shows.

Operates: Additional tours are offered on busy days. This public tour operates 5 days a week from February 15 – December 31st each year. From January 7 – February 14, it operates on Saturdays and Sundays only. Closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Private Group Charters available year round. Book Online above, Call: (251) 259-8531 or Email: info@5RDS.com for more information.

Delta Safaris is the only State of Alabama authorized Concessionaire offering tours of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Bottle Creek Indian Mounds and Champion Cypress. We believe in a Leave No Trace policy, in educating and preserving these amazing jewels for future generations.

Policies & Disclaimers:
Cancellation Policy: Rainchecks will be provided in the event of inclement weather. Unsafe passage call will be made by Captain on day of event. All other cancellations require 24 hour notice for refund.

What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, cameras and binoculars. Packed food and drink is welcome on board – no glass containers please.

Should I Tip?: Tips are not required but are graciously received. Our guides strive hard to educate and entertain. Please let your guides know how they did.

Cancellations: Rainchecks will be provided in the event of inclement weather. An unsafe passage call will be made by Captain on day of event. All other cancellations require 24 hour notice for refund.

Be sure to call and book your trip to enjoy this unique trip with your family!

April 4, 2016

12th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

May 5th until the 8th enjoy all of the fantasy and adventure that follows hot air balloons. I know as a child it was such a special even to get to see even one hot air balloon floating along. In early May you have a chance to see up to 30 hot air balloonists from across the country floating through and around our area to celebrate the 12th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Of course It is not just balloons that are at this festival. The big events are as follows.
May 5 – Balloon Glow at Tanger Outlets from 6pm – 7pm
May 6 – Festival Grounds from 2pm – 10pm (open to public)
May 7 – Festival Grounds from 9am – 10pm (open to public)
May 8 – Enjoy the balloons from afar as they soar through the sky! (NOT open to public)
This is just a taste of what is happening at the balloon festival that weekend.

Take a look at all the fun you and your family can enjoy. Information provided by The Foley Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, May 5

Balloon Glow at Tanger Outlets in Foley, Alabama. Come get up close and personal with 10 hot air balloons as they light the sky! Talk to pilots and crew and see the inside of balloons!
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Friday, May 6

Color Dash 5k. Run under 40 balloons and get colorful! Run begins at the Chamber office and ends at the Festival Grounds! Learn more and register today by clicking here. Also check out where to park.
Registration begins at 6:00am Race starts at 7:00am
Festival Grounds open to the public
2:00pm
Disconnected K’9s Frisbee Dog Show presented by Papa John’s
3:00pm, 5:00pm, 7:00pm
Interactive Hot Air Balloon Display (weather permitting). Walk inside a hot air balloon!
5:00pm – Dusk
Tethered Rides. Purchase tickets here to go up in a hot air balloon! (weather permitting)
Dusk
Balloon Glow and Mass Ascension! Watch the balloons glow and soar through the night sky! (weather permitting)
Dusk
Have fun with the kiddos at the carnival that will be available all day! (rides for the whole family!) Purchase your tickets early by clicking here.
2:00pm – 10:00pm
Live Music featuring Mustache The Band! Check out their band here.
8:00pm – 10:00pm

Saturday, May 7

8:00am – 10:00pm
Arts & Crafts Vendors, Retail Vendors and Food Vendors (open at 8am for Color Dash 5k runners only. Open at 9am to public)
8:00am – 10:00pm
Disconnected K’9s Frisbee Dog Show presented by Papa John’s, Faulkner State, Global Marketing Solutions and Bon Secour Fisheries
10:00am, 3:00pm, 7:00pm
Interactive Hot Air Balloon Display (weather permitting). Walk inside a hot air balloon!
5:00pm – Dusk
Tethered Rides. Purchase tickets here to go up in a hot air balloon! (weather permitting)
Dusk
Mass Ascension! Watch the balloons all take off at the same time! (weather permitting). Check out all the balloons and their pictures by clicking here.
Dusk
Have fun with the kiddos at the carnival that will be available all day! Purchase your tickets early by clicking here. (open at 8am for Color Dash 5k runners only. Open at 9am to public)
Live Music featuring The Molly Ringwalds! Check out their band here.
8:00pm – 10:00pm

Sunday, May 8

Unfortunately the grounds are not open but we would encourage you to be on the lookout for the balloons in the sky!
7:00am
Balloons Fly
7:00am
Cote’s Music Factory (formally known as the Bamaboys Band)
3:00pm – 5:00pm
Dancing Story Lady (provided by “The Melting Pot”, a multicultrual experience presented by the Snooke Youth Club and a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts)
2:00pm – 2:50pm
Winners from BCCA Baldwin Star Search (provided by “The Melting Pot”, a multicultrual experience presented by the Snooke Youth Club and a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts)
1:15pm – 1:45pm
Snook Youth Club Angel Bells and Fiddlers (provided by “The Melting Pot”, a multicultrual experience presented by the Snooke Youth Club and a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts)
1:00pm – 1:15pm
Color Dash Runners end at the festival grounds. Grounds open ONLY to those who ran!!
8:00am
9:00am
Festival Grounds open to public
Arts & Crafts Vendors, Retail Vendors and Food Vendors
2:00pm – 10:00pm
Festival Grounds close
10:00pm
Check out these other fun things going on…
Tara McMeans with Design Print Promote designed our beautiful 2016 poster and t-shirts. Click here to view and purchase merchandise. She will be onsite both days signing posters and shirts as well as painting the scenery. Come meet the artist!

Our VIP tent is new and beautiful with incredible appetizers from Wolf Bay Lodge Foley, a full bar and beautiful new furniture. Also, don’t miss out on meeting John and Johnna from 97.5 WABD Cumulus Radio. Our VIP tent is sponsored by: Cumulus Radio, South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, Meyer Vacation Rentals and Southern Linc Wireless. Click here to purchase passes.

Check out some really cool trucks provided by Southern Comfort!

Want to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy yourself? No worries, we have a gaming truck that is over 50′ long and has all your kids’ favorite games inside. For a small fee, drop the kids off and let them enjoy their favorites; from x-box, wii, x-box 360 and more!

Kewl Kites will be joining us this year! Check out their HUGE kites and come to the festival both days to watch them fly!

Our interactive balloon, provided by Taking Off Hot Air Balloon Company and our very own Balloonmeister Tommy Rachel and powered by the Foley Fire Explorers, will be at the Festival Grounds both days. Walk inside the balloon and get great pictures!

March 12, 2016

Rainy Summer Vacation

It is that time of year We are getting tons of calls from people planning their summer vacation. It is also the time of year for us to get tons of rain. Unfortunately, travel insurance does not cover if you have a rainy summer vacation , but just because its rainy does not limit your fun things to do in the area. We wanted to give you a few hits and helpful tips over the next few weeks so you will be completely prepared for your trip no matter what happens. This week I just wanted to talk to you about an alternate plan.

You never know from one day to the next what will happen on your vacation so the biggest tip is to be FLEXIBLE… Flexibility will save hurt feelings, and bad attitudes from taking over the trip. A little extra planning will allow for seamless transitions if it rains or if your group has just had enough sun for that week. Lucky you are on the Gulf coast it is the place to be when its rainy outside!

If you are just a group of adults looking for some great activities when it rains on your vacation. Everything from shopping at the outlet mall or beach souvenir stores to Local cultural experiences at one of the many theaters or museums in the area. Of course there is always a choice of movies and we have two movie theaters in the area The Cobb Pinnacle Theaters, and Carmike Cinemas at the Wharf.

When it rains on your summer vacation and you are planning for the ever-board teens that are here with you try Blond Johns for all of their surfing dreams. Or if surfing and skating are not on their radar and movies or shopping is not their thing visit Adventure Island they have indoor laser tag and an arcade. Or you could try Arena Next Play at the Wharf, or the indoor arcades at Waterville, or The Track.

Children have the most selections by far on rainy summer vacation days. So when planning if you have little ones all you need to know is what they are interested in. Of course just like above there are movie options shopping and arcades. But specifically for kids or anyone interested in science or animals check out the Esturairum at The Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The Esturarium is just a quick ferry ride away over to Dauphin Island. If you are up for a little bit of a car ride take a day trip to Mobile or Pensacola. In Mobile those science lovers in the family would enjoy The

href=”https://www.exploreum.com/”>Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center. With rotating exhibits throughout the year this is a fantastic place to spend the day for the entire family.

Our all time favorite spot to direct families to is the Naval Air Station in Pensacola Museum. It is free to the public although they always accept donations. The museum has more planes that you can see in a day in every corner and even hanging from the ceiling. History surrounds you at every turn and even in the cafe. They have flight simulators, cockpit trainers, and a virtual flight deck. Not to mention the Blue Angel’s practice here. The 325-seat giant screen theater features the latest in state-of-the-art motion picture projection. The theater has upgraded from 70mm film projection to stunning premium laser-illuminated 2D projection system boasting full 4K resolution—nearly 9 million pixels on-screen—the first of its kind installed in an institutional theater.

So no worries! There is plenty to do on rainy summer vacation it just takes a little planning ahead. You will be sure to have the best vacation no matter what the weather happens to do while you are on vacation.

March 5, 2016

Springbreak Gulf Shores

Spring Break Gulf Shores, 2015 the police chief made the very public and highly publicized statement “I want to make sure everyone understands the rules. A popular misconception exists that the city is more concerned with your spending than your safety or the quality of life for residents and law abiding visitors alike. This is not true and GSPD is willing to prove it to potential law breakers.” 2016 along the Alabama Gulf Coast only builds on this idea and ordinances that were enacted last year to keep the Alabama Gulf Coast the family friendly vacation destination it strives to be.

In 2016 not only will all uniformed personnel be on duty for the entire spring break holiday season but they will also be supported by plain clothed officers, sheriff’s deputies, fire and emergency medical personnel. This small army of law keepers will be an unwavering presence on our sugar white sandy beachs.

The cities have also given new authority to property managers to evict any problem makers under new city ordinances. The police and sheriff departments will be backing up any property manager that needs help evicting those making our beautiful beaches non family friendly.

Along with these new peace keeping and safety ordinances the cities have also enacted new measures to keep picturesque beaches clean. The new clean campaign is called “Leave only Footprints.”

Take it all back with you tents, umbrellas, chairs, and especially trash. Tons of new trash can will encourage you to recycle or throw away all trash. Go to cleanisland.org for more information.

Join us on the Alabama Gulf Coast! Enjoy our beautiful beaches and amazing beach houses or breathtaking views for one of the thousands of condos. Please treat this terasure better than you would your own home so it is here to enjoy for years to come.