Posts
Birding in Fort Morgan
Birding, also known as bird watching, is the observation of birds in their natural habitats. Birding can be done with the naked eye, through a pair of binoculars, even though the powerful lens of a camera. The town and historic sites in Fort Morgan, Alabama, have been designated as one of the “One Hundred Globally Important Bird Areas,” being the site of annual migration routes from everything from hummingbirds to bald eagles!
While the beautiful beaches of Fort Morgan offer many guests all that they could ask for, the wildlife in the area is one of the most impressive features. Birding is a seasonal venture, particularly spectacular in the spring and fall, however, migrations take place all year-round. The unique peninsula of Fort Morgan is the first landfall and last departure point for thousands of migrating birds!
Bird banding has become quite a venture in Fort Morgan, Alabama. Bird banding entails capturing large numbers of migrating birds and harmlessly placing a band around their leg as a way to track and monitor population levels as well as the condition of the birds. Bird banding allows researchers to gain crucial insight into the effects that variables such as temperature, storms, and other weather conditions have on these migrating animals.
Bird banding gathers a remarkable crew of trained and dedicated volunteers to capture and release these animals, and it is quite a sight to see! Bird banding in Fort Morgan is open to the public, inviting one and all to come check out this unique and impressive adventure. The bird banding takes place over the course of a little over one week’s time, both in April and in October.
Fort Morgan, Alabama, is also home to several sites on the Alabama Costal Birding Trail. Considered to be a birder’s paradise, the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail spans over two counties and was developed during the late 1990s as a way to offer bird enthusiasts a way to enjoy the incredible diversity that this area has to offer. Each loop that the trail offers features different ecological regions, and the one in Fort Morgan features five different sites for your recreational use!
The Fort Morgan birding loop starts AL 180, which runs until the end of the peninsula. The majority of the Fort Morgan birding trail is nestled in Fort Morgan Historic State Park. Serious birding enthusiasts can pick up a checklist at the museum in preparation for the wonderful wildlife activity they are about to witness!
If storms are in the area during the springtime migration, many guests get to witness awe-inspiring “fallouts” of migratory birds. The animals retreat to the peninsula to take refuge, in numbers and types greater than what are normally seen. Spring is one of the best times to view colorful neo-tropical birds – photographers flock to the area during this time to capture these spectacular animals on film.
The season of fall brings the neo-tropical birds back to Fort Morgan, and in addition, hundreds of migrating hawks! During this time you can view everything from red-tailed to sharp-shinned hawks. Winter brings many water birds and sparrows to the area, including chipping sparrows and white pelicans. Summer is considered to be the “slow” season of birding in this area, but can bring sandwich terns and rock pigeons to the area.
Birding in Fort Morgan is a popular activity that draws many tourists to the area. Since there are few hotels in the area, many visitors choose to stay in our lovely beach condos and houses right along the Fort Morgan beaches. Migration season is an excellent reason to enjoy a beach vacation to Fort Morgan, Alabama!
Sunburns at the Fort Morgan Beach
When you’re basking on the beaches of Fort Morgan, Alabama, time can pass rather quickly. The delightful combination of sun, sand, and lapping waves make it easy to tilt your head back for a nap or sunbath. This time without clocks, schedules, or to do lists allows you to truly relax and forget every single one of your worries and cares.
Unfortunately, the sunshine on the beach can quickly turn your skin red. As the rays reflect off of the sandy beaches, you get more sunshine than you would sitting by your pool back at home. For some, this means days of a Fort Morgan beach vacation with red noses, itchy arms, and sweltering skin.
Luckily, sunburn is easily avoidable and can be prevented if you take proactive measures when your vacation begins. For some, the sunburn has already set in and they are left wondering how they will manage the rest of their vacation with uncomfortable red skin. We have years of experience dealing with sunburn – how to avoid it and how to treat it. Check out our helpful tips below to keep yourself cool, safe, and comfortable on your vacation to Fort Morgan!
To Prevent Sunburn in Fort Morgan
Let’s start with the time of day – one of the best ways to avoid a sunburn is to stay out of the strongest sunlight. The hours of 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon are when the sun’s rays are strongest. Bring along your own shade, such as tents and EZ-Shades, to protect your skin while you lounge on the beach.
The type of clothing you wear will greatly affect your sun exposure. If you aren’t working on your tan, cover up with lightweight and light-colored clothes. Some clothes even offer sun protection built in, which is great for both children and adults. Protect your face and neck with a wide brimmed hat – one of the first areas to begin to burn! Remember to protect your eyes with sunglasses that offer both UVA and UVB protection.
Of course, sunscreen is one of the best ways to avoid a sunburn. Select a type that touts at least SPF 15 protection and always check the expiration date of those bottles that have been sitting in your beach bag since last summer! Apply before heading to the beach and remember to reapply frequently, especially after swimming or toweling off.
To Treat Sunburn in Fort Morgan
Of course, lotion with aloe is one of the best ways to treat sunburn. Lotion with soy also helps to soothe achy, sunburned skin. The thick gel from the aloe vera plant quickly reduces the sting and redness. You can also apply cool compresses – soak a washcloth in cool water and place in the refrigerator for about five minutes. Place the compress on your skin and enjoy the relief.
Soaking in a bathtub full of cool water can also provide relief, but don’t soak for too long! Avoid using soap that can dry out your skin and opt to soak in a bath of baking soda, oatmeal, or even tea…yes, tea! Add several bags of Earl Grey tea to a pot of simmering water, let steep, and allow the tea to cool. Add to your bath for a homemade remedy.
If your sunburn is very bad, consider taking ibuprofen to help alleviate the aches. Your skin is burned, so be sure to drink a lot of water to help ward off any dehydration. Your skin needs plenty of water to help repair the burn and keep you cool and comfortable.
First Floor and Fantastic!!! Indies 104
This 3 bedroom, 2 bath condominium is equipped with every comfort and convenience you would need for the perfect vacation. This condo is located in the perfect spot to have easy pool access and great views of the water. Free wireless internet access is available for each guest in this unit. The
kitchen is fully equipped and features granite counter tops, GE Profile appliances and a full-size pantry. The kitchen is open to the living and dining room. The living room features comfortable seating, flat screen TV with awesome views of the Gulf of Mexico. The dining room features seating for 4 at the dining room
table and seating for 4 at the breakfast bar. The over-sized master bedroom features views of the Gulf of Mexico out the sliding glass door, a king size bed, flat screen TV, DVD, walk-in closet, private master bath w/double vanity sink and garden tub. The 2nd bedroom features also
features a king bed, flat screen TV, DVD, and views of Mobile Bay. The 3rd bedroom sleeps 3 with a bunk bed that has a full on bottom and a bed on top, flat screen TV, and DVD. There is also a sleeper sofa that sleeps 2 more comfortably.
This property sleeps up to 9. The generously large balcony looks directly over the Gulf of Mexico and features comfortable patio furniture. The condo’s interior is decorated with comfortable high-end furniture. Appliances include cordless phones, high-speed internet, stainless steel refrigerator w/ ice maker, dishwasher, microwave, stove and cook top, washer/dryer, coffee maker, toaster, blender, mixer and all of the cookware you could ever need. No smoking and no pets allowed. Come sit on the balcony and watch the beautiful sunsets.
150th Annivarsary Of The Battle of Mobile
When I started researching this battle I had no idea of it’s importance not to mention the key players in the battle. I honestly knew little beyond the Union won! So let me give you a brief history lesson. A northern born boy enters the southern navy at an early age, almost the same time a southern boy enters the northern navy. The two boys rise in ranks and grow in valor over almost 50 years each.
The meet in battle off the coast of Alabama these great warriors, in an event that will help to determine the future of our nation.
The Union Navy is coming in from the south through the Gulf of Mexico. A fleet of wooden ships and a handful of ironclad steam ships led by David Farragut. The Confederate Navy led by Buchanan had a well armed Fort on each side of the entrance of Mobile Bay along with a torpedo (mine) laced net narrowing the entrance of the bay. With guns aimed at Farragut and his forces Fort Gaines on the West and the larger Fort Morgan on the East of the Bay it seemed The Union forces had no chance to make their way through the confederate line of Fort cannons, torpedoes, ships and its own iron clad gun ships.
Farragut was determined to get his ships through. He lashed the wooden ships together allowing the larger stronger ships to take the heavier hits
from the larger weapons and allowing the smaller or damaged ships to be pulled along with them. With a couple of nervous halts by his generals Farragut finally called from where he was lashed to the rigging of one of his strongest ships, ” Damn the torpedoes Full Steam Ahead!” While the Union did not come out unscathed they still ultimately came out victorious. The loss of one of their prized ironsides that led the battle to a torpedo (mine) was truly a dramatic moment. Buchanan also a force in his own right chasing the Union with his under armed fleet. He was not ready to give up the battle but was injured when his ship was hit. In one moment the to lead ships were so close tone another that the only bayonet injury in a navy battle was able to be inflicted. The confederate army surrendered after Buchanan’s injuries left him with a broken leg.
This Anniversary Celebration is sure to be a do not miss event. A three day event including live battles and a fireworks show on Saturday night. Be sure to book you room soon as we are running out quickly for this event. We have rentals closest to the Fort and all of the activities, be sure to book soon! For a more detailed schedule see this website set up for this event! https://fortmorgan.org/150th/
Announced schedule for the events:
Naval Battle
Saturday, August 2, 10am
Artillery Firing
Friday, August 1, 6:30pm, Water Battery
Saturday, August 2, Noon-4p, Siege
Sunday, August 3, 10am-1pm, Siege
Civil War Music
Friday, August 1, 7pm, Bobby Horton Performs after Artillery Firing
Siege of Fort Morgan
Saturday, August 2, Noon-4pm, with Infantry and Artillery Firing
Sunday, August 3, 10am-1pm, with Infantry and Artillery Firing
Confederate Sortie
Saturday, August 2, during the siege
Grand Bombardment
Saturday, August 2, 8-9pm, Nighttime event with artillery and aerial pyrotechnic explosions
Surrender Ceremony
Sunday, August 3, 1-2pm, Ceremony to include Salute to the Colors
Naval Exhibits
All Shook Up!!! A Must See From Summer Tide Theratre
This performance is put on at the George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center in Gulf Shores, from June 6 until July 4th, 2014, by the Universtiy of Alabama SummerTide Theatre group.
This talanted group of college students and professors are putting on what has been proclaimed by our staff as the “Best Show They Have Ever Done!!!” ” Really Funny!” “Everyone Should Go See This!”
So let me give you an idea of what the show is about! A wayward motorcycle rider breaks down in a small sad lonely town. After his arrival everything starts to change and the fun and love abounds. ” All Shook Up” Features song by Elvis masterfully preformed by the players as you move through this
funfilled story.
In this small intimate theatre you sit so close to the stage you feel as though you are part of the show. The George C. Meyer center has been the home of Summer Tide Theatre for over a decade and produced many talented actors and actresses, and all those who are behind the scenes that make the magic happen. Many of these students have gone on to broadway either either in front or behind the scenes.
This years cast includes Killian Azalirad in the lead as Chad, Rachel Baber as Silvia, Will Erwin as Dennis, Sandra Gates and Lorraine, Ben Haupt as Dean, Brianna Heller as Sandra, Kelly Kohlman as Natalie, and Dr. William A. Martin as Jim. This wonderful cast will have you laughing so hard you are in tears as singing along to the Elvis. This show is a don’t miss if you are a local or just hear on vacation.
Father's Day Hot Air Balloon Glow
Come join us for a 4 day Super Sale during the Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival weekend that begins on Thursday, June 12. Come enjoy hot air balloon displays which will fire up for a Glow Event at dusk that evening. Take advantage of special opportunities to spin our
prize wheel and a chance to win store merchandise, gift cards, carousel rides and other prizes. Free Shuttle Service in the East back parking lot behind Nike Friday, June 13th and Saturday, June 14th from 2pm – 10pm. You don’t want to miss this weekend filled with fun family events and specially priced merchandise.
The Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will kick off at Tanger Outlets beginning at 7:00 p.m. on June 12th with a hot air balloon display and children’s entertainment. Hot air balloons will fire up for a Glow Event at dusk. Be certain to take advantage of special opportunities to spin our prize wheel with a chance to win store merchandise, gift cards, carousel rides and other prizes.
On Friday morning, June 13th, at 6 a.m. hot air balloons will begin to take flight from Tanger Outlets Foley during a special media event, weather permitting. Once the balloons are in flight, stay and shop our super sale!
*The Balloon Glow is weather and wind permitting.
This is such a beautiful chance to make some memories with Dad find some good deals and maybe even take a ride in a Hot Air Balloon! What an experience to hod on to with the one you love. This is a don’t miss area event. Be sure to take some picture!
Indies 307, Beautiful Place , Great Price!
Enjoy unencumbered luxury in this privately owned 3 bedroom, 2 bath condominium. It features breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, resort pool and gorgeous sunsets from the over-sized balcony. Free wireless internet access.
The interior of the unit has been professionally decorated is truly peaceful with every upgrade from granite counter tops to tile flooring. The kitchen is open to the family room and is incredibly well
appointed. High-end appliances include; cordless phones, high-speed internet, dishwasher, microwave, stove/cook top, washer/dryer, coffee maker, toaster, blender, mixer, gorgeous dish and glassware and all of the cookware you could ever need, nothing has been overlooked! A unique espresso pub table
comfortably seats six to eight without crowding the room. Kick back after a day at the beach and enjoy the 42-inch TV/DVD while relaxing on the comfortable L -shaped sofa. The master bedroom boasts top of line furniture with king mattress and gorgeous boutique bedding. The guest room with its queen bed features beautiful rich furniture and upgraded bedding. The third bedroom has two top of the line twin
beds TV, DVD/VCR with front plugs for easy access to connect all your games. With these three rooms, this unit only sleeps 6 total! Come visit Ft. Morgan and stay in this beautiful condo where you can relax and forget about your responsibilities if only for a few days. Give us a call to book this amazing condo. It is a secret worth sharing!
Great Places to Listen to Live Music
What’s a vacation to Fort Morgan, Alabama without some groovy live music? The restaurants and nightlife of Fort Morgan and Gulf Shores, Alabama were practically designed for live entertainment, with ocean views and a salty breeze that will melt all of your worries away. If you find yourself on the Gulf Coast for a beach vacation this summer, take the time to check out these great live music venues!
Tacky Jacks 2
Located on Fort Morgan Road, Tacky Jacks 2 has long been a favorite of vacationers in the area. With dishes like fish burritos, shrimp and grits, and seafood salads, it is easy to see why! The oceanfront location offers diners an opportunity to watch the sun set over the water while friendly staff makes everyone feel right at home. They feature Karaoke every Thursday and Saturday starting at 8:00pm, so make time to check out this local favorite!
LuLu’s
This large oceanfront bar and restaurant offers fun for both kids and adults alike! This establishment caters to a crowd that enjoys live music, with performers kicking off at 5:00pm every day. Try their blackened shrimp quesadilla or crab melt – we promise you won’t be disappointed! In the summer, you can enjoy two live bands every day – one on the outdoor pavilion and one in the restaurant. Their live music is always free, so don’t hesitate to come see what they are all about!
The Hangout
A great place to dance, grab a frozen drink and some delicious food, The Hangout is one of the best live music venues in the area. They features one to two live musical acts every day, catering to everyone from country fans to contemporary hits. Join them on their Countdown to The Hangout Festival every Saturday now until May 10th! Try their bacon wrapped sea scallops or their fresh catch of the day – yum!
Papa Rocco’s
Fast service and casual dining is what Papa Rocco’s specializes in! If you call yourself an oyster aficionado, you don’t want to pass up the chance to dine here – this restaurant has been voted best raw oysters for eight years in a row! Join them for live music every night – after sunset is when this eatery really picks up! Try their shrimp pizza or oysters alfredo for a tasty dinner your taste buds will thank you for.
Some of the biggest names around regularly visit Gulf Shores, Alabama at The Amphitheater at The Wharf. This venue has brought in some of the hottest names in today’s music, from Taylor Swift to Widespread Panic! Arrive by boat or car and enjoy a great evening of live music at this venue.
Catherine Mitas
Social Media Specialist
Cabins For You
Indies 410 - The Perfect Condo For a Crowd
A quiet secluded beach paradise! Relax and let warm ocean breezes surround you in our beautiful three bedroom three bath condo. We have a heated pool
Living Room 410and are only a short walk to the beach. You will be amazed by the beautiful sunsets and ocean views from your wrap-around deck. The peaceful memory that will stay with you forever will be the long walks on sugar sandy beaches. No crowds, just privacy and family fun. Come swim in the pool or the Gulf of Mexico and come back from your vacation rejuvenated. This great Condo has wireless internet access and unlimited long distance too! At the marina across the street you will be able to book a charter boat for the fishing
King in master bed in 410trip of a lifetime or just to buy bait to fish off the piers. You can have your fresh catch grilled or fried at the Tacky Jacks restaurant located at the marina. There is also a convenience store for your convenience.
The condo has one of the largest living areas you can have in a condo. The 3 Bedroom , Bath condo is great for a crowd. The master bedroom has a King size bed and a bath that includes a garden tub and a stand in shower.
Bedroom 2 Twins 410The second bedroom has a queen size bed. The bath attached to this room has a stand in shower. The third bedroom has 2 twin beds and the bathroom is shared with the living area. There is a shower bath combo for this bathroom. This condo also has a sleeper sofa for a couple of extra friends.
*This property rents by the week (7 nights arriving Saturday)from March until September, This is a Saturday only check-in during these months..Please call with questions before booking a shorter stay. Queen Bedroom
Indies 604 the perfect spot for your family!!!!
Imagine your vacation with the entire family in a high end condo overlooking the Gulf. This awesome condo has three bedrooms and two baths. The master bedroom has a luxurious king bed and
private bath with a garden tub. You also have a private entrance to the balcony from the master bedroom. There is also a queen bed and two twins;
sectional has a pull out queen sleeper sofa. Designer fabrics and custom bedding and drapes make every room beautiful and comfortable for each member of the family. Professionally decorated upscale furnishings everything needed for a comfy and plush stay including feather and
down bedding and pillows (same as Ritz Carlton Pillows). There are T. V.’s and DVD’s in all rooms. We provide a few games, movies and books. The kitchen is fully stocked. There is a table that seats 6 and a 3 more spaces at the bar just in case some friends stop by. Oh and if you want to eat out on the balcony there is a table for 4 to enjoy the sunset or just enjoy the view of the dolphin playing just off shore! This condo has a washer and dryer in the unit. There are also all small and large appliances in the condo as well so you will have everything you need to make some great meals for your family and friends. There are two grills located to the west of the Indies building for your
outdoor cooking enjoyment. Golf lovers will enjoy Golf at one of the many professional and challenging courses in the area. The top area attraction of course is the famous white sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico which are only about 300 yards from your condo. Once you put your toes in this special sand no other beach will be able to compare. We look forward to seeing you soon!
