AL Jet Ski Rental Service Moves To Zeke’s Landing and MarinaKey Takeaways:A2Z Powersport has relocated its premium jet ski rental service to Zeke’s Landing and Marina in Orange Beach providing customers with enhanced waterfront access.They offer brand new 2024 Yamaha VX...Monday A2Z Powersport has officially relocated its premium jet ski rental operations to the prestigious Zeke’s Landing and Marina in Orange Beach This strategic move positions the company at one of the area’s most sought-after waterfront destinations enhancing its ability to provide exceptional experiences for water sports enthusiasts As a leader in watersport rentals along the Alabama Gulf Coast, A2Z Powersport continues to raise the bar with its commitment to quality The new location at Zeke’s Landing provides customers with direct access to some of Orange Beach’s most beautiful waterways enhancing convenience for visitors staying in nearby accommodations Zeke’s Landing and Marina sits at a prime location along Perdido Beach Boulevard offering ideal access to both the Gulf of Mexico and the calm waters of the bay area This dual access allows A2Z Powersport to provide varied riding environments suitable for different experience levels and preferences The marina’s protected waters make for easier launching and returns especially beneficial for first-time riders or those seeking a smoother start to their adventure riders can venture further to experience more dynamic water conditions The new location features improved docking facilities that streamline the rental process Customers now enjoy a more efficient check-in and boarding experience meaning less time on land and more time enjoying the water The professional dock staff ensures that transitions from land to water are smooth and hassle-free The marina’s facilities also provide added convenience with nearby amenities making the overall experience more comfortable for everyone in your group whether they’re riding or just along for the day at the marina Zeke’s Landing puts A2Z Powersport in the heart of Orange Beach’s entertainment and dining district Customers can easily combine their jet ski adventure with other popular activities creating full-day experiences without complicated logistics or long drives between destinations This central location is particularly beneficial for tourists with limited transportation options or those wanting to maximize their vacation time with minimal travel between activities A2Z Powersport doesn’t just offer any watercraft – they provide the latest premium models on the market Their fleet features brand new 2024 Yamaha VX Jet Skis The integrated Bluetooth audio systems allow riders to enjoy their favorite music while cruising the waters adding another dimension to the experience These watercraft represent the perfect balance between power and comfort making them suitable for both thrill-seekers and those simply looking to enjoy a leisurely tour of Orange Beach’s waterways The Yamaha VX models also feature stability-enhancing hull designs and intuitive controls that make them approachable for beginners while still offering enough performance to satisfy experienced riders A2Z Powersport maintains their fleet to the highest standards Daily inspections and regular maintenance ensure that every jet ski performs optimally and safely for each customer This commitment to maintenance means fewer mechanical issues and interruptions allowing customers to focus entirely on enjoying their experience rather than worrying about equipment reliability Jet ski rentals form the core of A2Z Powersport’s offerings at their new Zeke’s Landing location Customers can tour Orange Beach’s stunning waterways at their own pace aboard premium 2024 Yamaha VX Jet Skis equipped with Bluetooth audio systems These cutting-edge watercraft deliver the perfect balance of performance and comfort for riders of all experience levels What sets these jet skis apart isn’t just their impressive specifications – it’s the freedom they provide Picture cruising along Alabama’s picturesque coastline with your favorite music playing through the integrated speakers while the Gulf breeze washes over you It’s an experience that combines excitement with relaxation in a way few other activities can match The well-maintained fleet ensures reliability and safety allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying your ride rather than worrying about equipment issues A2Z Powersport provides thorough orientation to help you get comfortable before hitting the open water One of the most memorable aspects of renting from A2Z Powersport is the opportunity to potentially encounter dolphins in their natural habitat The local waters around Orange Beach are home to dolphin pods that can sometimes be spotted during your jet ski adventure While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed many customers have experienced the joy of seeing these magnificent creatures swimming nearby during their rentals It’s the kind of magical moment that transforms a fun outing into an unforgettable memory A2Z Powersport offers a comprehensive range of water activities including: This variety ensures there’s something for everyone A2Z Powersport has simplified the booking process with their user-friendly online reservation system This convenient system enables you to plan your water adventures from anywhere at any time – perfect for vacationers who want to secure their activities before arriving in Orange Beach The platform clearly displays all pricing and options making the decision process transparent and straightforward For those who prefer a more personal touch or have specific questions A2Z Powersport offers multiple direct contact options: Their responsive team can provide detailed information about their offerings help you select the right adventure for your group and address any concerns you might have before booking Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions about weather conditions or any special accommodations you might need The team at A2Z Powersport prides itself on being knowledgeable not just about their equipment They can offer recommendations for the best times to ride areas with the highest likelihood of dolphin sightings and other local attractions to complete your Orange Beach experience When you book with A2Z Powersport at their new Zeke’s Landing location you can expect a premium experience from the moment you arrive Their waterfront facility offers easy access to some of Orange Beach’s most stunning waters setting the stage for an unforgettable experience The company’s focus on customer experience is evident in every aspect of its operation From the quality of their equipment to the knowledge of their staff everything is designed to ensure your time on the water exceeds expectations you’ll receive a thorough orientation to your jet ski including safety instructions and operational guidance The 2024 Yamaha VX Jet Skis are intuitive to operate making them accessible even for first-time riders while still providing the performance that experienced enthusiasts appreciate you’ll have the freedom to move at your own pace enjoying the integrated Bluetooth audio system that lets you create your own soundtrack for the adventure Many riders report that the ability to play music enhances their experience adding another sensory dimension to the thrill of skimming across the waves To make the most of your time with A2Z Powersport A2Z Powersport provides all necessary safety equipment including properly fitted life jackets for all riders Their commitment to safety ensures you can enjoy your adventure with confidence While the premium jet ski rentals are the flagship offering at A2Z Powersport’s Zeke’s Landing location they provide a comprehensive range of water recreation options to suit different preferences and group sizes Their boat rentals are ideal for larger groups or families looking to explore Orange Beach’s waters together the dolphin tours offer a chance to observe these magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat eco-friendly experience might opt for kayak rentals which allow for a peaceful exploration of areas that may not be accessible by motorized watercraft This variety ensures that regardless of your water activity preferences Many visitors create memorable Orange Beach experiences by combining different activities across multiple days using A2Z Powersport as their trusted provider for all water adventures during their stay Securing your water adventure at A2Z Powersport’s new Zeke’s Landing location is straightforward and convenient provides 24/7 access to their availability calendar allowing you to select your preferred date For those who prefer direct communication or have specific questions, their team is readily available by phone at (954) 296-1862 or via email at [email protected] The knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations based on your group’s size A2Z Powersport’s convenient location at 26619 Perdido Beach Blvd in Orange Beach makes it easily accessible from most area accommodations allowing you to maximize your vacation time without long commutes to your water activities Beyond their website and direct contact options A2Z Powersport maintains an active presence on social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram (@a2zpowersport) Following their accounts can provide inspiration for your trip and glimpses of the experiences that await you at their Zeke’s Landing location Their social media channels also showcase the beautiful Orange Beach waterways and occasionally feature photos of happy customers enjoying their premium jet skis and other watercraft It’s a great way to get excited about your upcoming adventure or share your own experiences after your visit The A2Z Powersport team is passionate about creating memorable experiences on the water and takes pride in helping visitors discover the beauty of Orange Beach from a unique perspective Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of their operation from the quality of their equipment to the knowledge and friendliness of their staff A2Z Powersport’s relocation to Zeke’s Landing and Marina represents an exciting new chapter in their mission to provide premium water experiences in Orange Beach With their fleet of 2024 Yamaha VX Jet Skis featuring Bluetooth audio they offer a combination of advanced technology and thrilling adventure that’s unmatched in the area Whether you’re planning a family vacation their diverse offerings ensure there’s something for everyone From heart-pounding jet ski rides to peaceful kayak trips and everything in between A2Z Powersport is your gateway to experiencing the beauty of Alabama’s coastal waters Their new location at Zeke’s Landing provides ideal access to some of Orange Beach’s most scenic waterways with the potential for unforgettable encounters with local wildlife including the dolphins that frequently inhabit these waters Don’t miss the opportunity to create lasting memories on your next visit to Orange Beach. Secure your water adventure today by visiting their website, calling (954) 296-1862, or emailing [email protected] click the link below to access their reservation system and select your preferred date and activity: A2Z Powersport is committed to providing exceptional water adventures from A to Z along the beautiful shores of Orange Beach 26619 Perdido Beach BlvdOrange BeachAL36561United States Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. XPRMedia and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact [email protected] This marks a special milestone as the event celebrates a decade of showcasing Alabama's food heritage Sweet Grown Alabama has taken over hosting duties from the Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission Each competing chef must feature Alabama Gulf Coast seafood alongside locally grown ingredients The winning chef will receive $2,500 and represent Alabama at the Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans "We are excited to showcase not just our world-class seafood but the incredible diversity of locally grown ingredients across our state," said Ellie Watson She calls the event "a true celebration of Alabama's farmers The competition features an impressive lineup of chefs Chef Ben Rosen from The Depot in Auburn specializes in Gulf seafood with global influences Chef Austin Salinas brings bold flavors from Hatch Huntsville in North Alabama Chef Emilio Urban of Coastal Orange Beach offers local seafood expertise Chef Megan Vanderford of Odette brings creative Northern Alabama cooking styles to the competition All contestants will cook in front of a live audience "Winning this competition was such a unique and fun experience," Ogden said "It's more than just a cook-off—it's a platform to tell our stories through food." Watson encourages visitors to "come early and enjoy all the wonderful restaurants and shops The Wharf has to offer." Jim Cox will serve as emcee sharing stories about local farms and fisheries PLEASANT SPRING DAY: The sky is partly to mostly sunny across Alabama this afternoon with temperatures in the 60s and 70s A few isolated showers could form this evening over the Tennessee Valley otherwise tonight will be mostly fair with a low in the 50s Read More it will likely be October before we see weather this nice again across Alabama with a few more clouds the farther north you go as an upper-level low spins over the Ohio River Valley Read More knew he made the right decision to open his own business but it wasn’t until he won the 2023 Birmingham Small Business Week Pitch Competition that he got an additional boost Read More COOL START: Temperatures are in the 40s across much of North/Central Alabama just before daybreak… for some places this will most likely be the last morning with temperatures in the 40s until late September or October Read More Sunday brought Alabama a taste of early spring and a mix of sun and clouds—especially north of the Tennessee River where a few sprinkles are still possible Read More Exceptional Anglers events at Oak Mountain State Park teach basic fishing skills to students with disabilities from Alabaster and Pelham city schools and the Shelby and Jefferson County school systems Read More Sunday brings Alabama a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively—with cooler temperatures and low humidity replacing Saturday’s storms in a refreshing pattern shift worthy of a “Cool Change.” Read More but dense fog may pose a travel hazard overnight and into Sunday morning across north Alabama and southern Tennessee Read More the severe threat is nearly over in Alabama as storms shift east into Georgia Read More strong storms remain active in eastern Alabama this evening with gusty winds Read More A new severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for northeastern Lee County and heavy rain moving east toward Auburn and Opelika Read More Severe storms continue across east Alabama with warnings active in Chambers County and strong storms impacting several others under Severe Thunderstorm Watch #221 through 10 PM Read More Strong to severe storms continue moving through east-central and southeast Alabama this evening with the threat of damaging winds and frequent lightning continuing through 10 PM Read More Severe storms with 60 mph winds and quarter-size hail are moving into Tallapoosa and Chambers counties Read More There are several reasons you might choose to lodge in one city over the other.  check out the differences between our two beach towns Rent a bike or bring your own, and get ready to ride. Gulf Shores has worked hard to become more bike-friendly. From the island's westernmost end to the Gulf State Park there are wide bike lanes on both sides of the beach road These connect to bike lanes and sidewalks on Highway 59 and the bike paths in Gulf State Park which has convenient trailheads in both towns so you can access the park no matter where you stay Whether you need to travel to the beach or ride through the park Gulf Shores makes it easy for bikers to cycle around town safely This spot is free to visit and is a living museum of native plants and animals Many are surprised to learn that in addition to the beach, our destination is teeming with various outdoor adventures that immerse visitors in our coastal environment Gulf Shores is home to two of the most popular spots to explore the natural wonders of the Alabama Gulf Coast.  Nature enthusiasts will also love the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge The refuge houses some of Alabama’s last remaining undisturbed coastal habitats Guests can traverse the property via three trails of varying lengths and terrains One of the refuge’s most traveled trails is the Jeff Friend Trail a paved one-mile loop with views of Little Lagoon and a variety of wildlife Bon Secour is a refuge for more than 300 migratory birds It’s also the home of various endangered species and food trucks nearly every weekend.  you’re bound to reel in an impressive catch in Orange Beach If shopping is your cardio, you’ll get plenty of exercise in Orange Beach. For the place with the most spots to shop, visit The Wharf Orange Beach’s premier entertainment district The Wharf has tons of shops as well as restaurants you can find everything from clothes and shoes to handmade jewelry and soaps there are plenty of locally owned restaurants to fuel up for the rest of your day of shopping Another haven for shoppers in Orange Beach is SanRoc Cay Marina From resort beachwear and shoes to unique gifts and high-end salon products SanRoc Cay houses close to a dozen stores and boutiques Shoppers will also be pleased to know that this area has several restaurants and a courtyard bar with live music nearly every night (WPMI) — The Orange Beach Police Department is expanding the use of license plate readers to help fight crime The technology scans license plates as cars go by and police say they receive instant alerts when there is a problem but with the help of a $48,000 grant awarded last week According to Governor Kay Ivey's office some of the LPRs will be located at the entrances to the city "What we like about these license plate readers is and it'll let us know the car just drove by with the warrant Johnson says police will also be notified when LPRs detect a registered sex offender's vehicle "If a plate comes through that hits on a registered sex offender we at least know that they're in our area," said Johnson Johnson says the city saw the benefits of LPRs several years ago when a private homeowner's association installed them and it cracked open a years-long theft case Johnson says he understands people have privacy concerns but he says they're not storing the data collected for very long "We have absolutely zero interest in keeping the data Another best-case scenario is if we get a violent assault that's occurred and somebody manages to get a partial tag we can actually enter that tag into these license plate readers if we're not able to find you in the 90 seconds when we make it to the call but you drive past one of these license plate readers another officer in the city will be able to pick that up but we're not going to store that data and keep it forever I think it's a limit of 30 days is the most that they would keep it," said Johnson Residents and visitors alike can enjoy everything from saltwater fishing classes to coastal boat tours and even themed dance parties at Bird Island the Gulf Coast has a full lineup to help you make the most of your week May 5th - It’s Cinco de Mayo at LuLu’s in Gulf Shores Join the fun with festive food and drink specials all day long Whether you’re a local or visiting the coast LuLu’s is the place to be—known for its vibrant atmosphere and a sandy beach area for kids to play while adults relax It’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a coastal experience that captures the spirit of the Gulf Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with great eats LuLu's Gulf Shores  SONG WRITERS FESTIVAL GULF SHORES LIBRARY Orange Beach’s Trailhead Challenge Encourages May Hikes Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier Angler Academy | Alapark Flora-Bama Coastal Cruiser There’s no better place to be on the nation’s birthday than the beach and a day on the water are just what you need for a perfect Fourth of July Let freedom ring this year in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach with these events and activities Celebrate Independence Day the right way with these events on Alabama's Beaches Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach offers an Independence Day Celebration jam-packed with activities Guests of the resort can enjoy a fireworks show without ever leaving the property The fun starts at 5 pm and includes kids’ activities It’s a great event with something for the whole family to enjoy The City of Gulf Shores is celebrating the big day with a fireworks show on the beach. The display will begin at 9 pm and is shot from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier It's not a holiday on the beach without live music! Alabama natives The Red Clay Strays will be performing at The Wharf Amphitheater on July 3-5 That means you've got three chances to catch this incredible Gulf Coast band under the stars Watch Now Kay Ivey has awarded nine grants totaling more than $376,000 for towns and cities in six south Alabama counties to purchase equipment for police officers “These grants will make communities safer by helping to ensure that law enforcement officers have the tools and resources they need,” Gov “I commend city and town leaders for recognizing the need for a well-equipped police force and working to secure these funds.” The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants with funds made available by the U.S “Communities of all sizes deserve to have law enforcement agencies with up-to-date equipment,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said Ivey in support of these grants to properly equip these essential first responders.” ADECA manages a range of programs that support law enforcement energy conservation and water resource management The definition of success in every fishing trip is catching a fish it can be if you do a little homework first Every angler knows that having the right rod is meaningless if you don't have the right bait It's the first thing needed to bring a line tight on a fish Let us break down the decision process as to what bait to use and where to get it which usually coincides with the forage offerings in each environment we will look at a few popular fishing locations on Alabama's Beaches and the most common baits to use in each Live shrimp and different baitfish may be used as well and finger mullet.  Dead baits of shrimp We have covered some best bait for inshore fishing by location and habitat but what if it is a certain species that you're after we will list some of the better natural bait options to use for several popular species along Alabama's Beaches Redfish – live and dead shrimp Pompano – sand fleas Speckled trout – live and dead shrimp live baitfish like finger mullet and croakers Whiting – small pieces of cut shrimp Flounder - live baits of bull minnows Sheepshead – live fiddler crabs Gray snapper (mangrove snapper) – live and dead shrimp Black drum – whole or cut blue crab Some of the bait choices above are available at your local bait supply and tackle shops, while others take the extra effort to catch yourself. Dead baits are easier to obtain and can be carried in a small cooler, bucket, or even a bag. Purchasing live bait will generally require a bucket or livewell system of some kind to transport to and from the bait shop to the fishing location Here is a list of bait types that are readily available at local bait shops: Some bait choices are going to require extra effort to obtain there are many ways to catch your own bait and your local tackle shop will have the following tools Cast Nets: Cast nets are great for catching mullet Ask the staff in the local shop about sizes and weights to best suit your bait needs Sand Flea Rakes: Sand flea rakes are used for catching sand fleas Sand flea rakes are very easy to use and come in a few sizes Ghost Shrimp Pumps: Ghost shrimp pumps are cylindrical shaped manual pumps that are used for catching ghost shrimp arguably the best bait choice for surf fishing The opening of the cylinder is placed over the opening of a ghost shrimp "hole" or "burrow" while a core of sand is extracted by the pump Ghost shrimp pumps can be made/purchased from PVC and stainless steel Sabiki Rigs: Sabiki rigs are multi-hook rigs that come in dozens of sizes and styles They are used for catching baitfish of various types in all locations and scenarios Choosing the right sabiki rig depends on what types of baitfish are desired ask the staff in the tackle store for the right size Kahle hooks are commonly used for speckled trout and smaller redfish double-strength hooks are better for sheepshead small black swivels to avoid line cutting by fish and leader material like fluorocarbon or monofilament line Jigheads: It's advised to have jigheads of different sizes The choice depends on the water depth and the need to get the bait to the bottom quickly inshore species like speckled trout and redfish are not very picky making artificial lures effective in addition to live bait find that plastic minnow-imitation bodies with lead jigheads are effective alternatives to live baits when looking for inshore saltwater fishing lures ranging from 2 ½ to 4 inches and in various colors and designs mimic the baitfish that sportfish species prefer Including shrimp-imitation soft plastics in various sizes and colors can also be an effective strategy and Berkley Gulp shrimp imitations are recommended when lure fishing inshore It's unpredictable which type the fish will prefer Now that you've been able to narrow down the right bait choices for inshore fishing I hope this guide helped in narrowing down the proper bait choices and how to acquire them contact your local bait and tackle shops for more info Community members of all faiths are encouraged to attend Organizers hope for a large turnout to promote unity and hope The peaceful waterfront setting offers a peaceful and reflective backdrop The National Day of Prayer was first established in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress It was signed into law by President Harry S President Ronald Reagan updated the law to fix the date The first Thursday of May is now the official observance president has issued a proclamation supporting the day The tradition invites Americans to come together in prayer Organizers say this year's observance continues that meaningful legacy traveling alone can feel overwhelming and a bit daunting from booking lodging and planning activities to the journey itself a solo trip to Alabama's Beaches offers visitors the vacation of a lifetime filled with adventure Our small beach towns provide plenty of activities and our friendly locals will greet you with open arms and southern hospitality Here are a few pieces of advice and ideas for those traveling solo to our stunning beaches grab a pair of binoculars and experience the plant and wildlife within the park's nine distinct ecosystems You'll have plenty of opportunities to chat with other nature enthusiasts venturing along the trails your friendly instructors will happily guide you along your journey The food of the Alabama Gulf Coast is unmatched, as our area is home to more than 200 exceptional restaurants Eating out in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a great way to experience our incredible cuisine and meet locals and other travelers as parties of one typically have short or no wait times Grab a seat at the bar and make friends with those around you Locals and seasoned visitors are your best resource for suggestions on what to do Don't let the fear of traveling alone prevent you from encountering new adventures. Plan your next solo trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and experience an exhilarating vacation Biking is a favorite activity for both locals and visitors here in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach all year long The Alabama Gulf Coast offers plenty of amazing trails and paths for bikers to explore the area and get around Whether you're looking for a nice ride to the beach or a lengthy trek in the park The convenient sidewalks along Perdido Beach Blvd. in Gulf Shores allow riders to cruise right along the beach. Gulf Place Public Beach has paved walkways surrounding its grassy lawn and playground making it a great spot for young children to pedal around grab a bite to eat at one of the fantastic restaurants in the area or take a dip into the Gulf.  Distance: Over 28 miles of trail options Difficulty: Easy to moderate (if you do a long trip) and back to the trailhead on the Twin Bridges but most of the trip is well off the road behind a barrier of trees The trail is ideal for families since it is a paved but a round-trip with children could be challenging due to the length You may consider doing a short segment with them.  Graham Creek Nature Preserve is the best off-road mountain biking trail in the area and while not as technically challenging as racing around a mountain You'll find two stream crossings and several areas that are low-lying swales They fill with water after rain and present some good mud-running as they dry out This paved biking path makes a loop in Gulf State Park and uses the bike lanes of Highway 135, State Park Road 2, and Highway 182 to navigate around Lake Shelby The loop offers beautiful views of the lake and its wetlands keep your eyes peeled for birds like bald eagles Difficulty: Moderate to difficult due to distance Advanced riders should check out Fort Morgan Road West. The bike path starts at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge's Pine Beach Trailhead on Highway 180 and heads west using bike lanes for 12 miles to Historic Fort Morgan The fort is famous for being the site of the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War in which Union Admiral David Farragut uttered those immortal words especially on the first few miles of this ride but it widens and gives you spectacular views of Mobile Bay to the north and the Gulf to the south as you bike along between the sand dunes Difficulty: Difficult due to distance Originally written by RootsRated for Gulf Shores Ready to go for a ride along Alabama's beaches? Be sure to take a look at all the biking routes and rentals in the area That means any family getaway isn’t complete without them But bringing your pooch on vacation isn’t as simple as packing their favorite squeaker and hitting the road your pup could end up spending most of the trip stuck inside your rental we can make traveling to Alabama’s Beaches with your pet a walk in the park First, visit our pet-friendly lodging to book your stay with your four-legged friend add one or all these pet-friendly places to your itinerary to be sure that Fido gets his share of fun Below are the best places to walk your dog in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Give your pup a taste of the local life at the Gulf Shores Dog Park There are chairs where you can take a seat and watch your pup romp among the trees There are also separate areas for small (under 25 lbs) and large dogs so you can be sure your pup will have plenty of safe room to play.  Unleashed Dog Park in Orange Beach is a full-scale pup paradise It offers spacious and separate areas for small and large dogs multiple training stations and obstacles for engaging play There are also benches and shaded areas for humans Take your pup back in time with a visit to Historic Fort Morgan Take a self-guided tour through the century-old masonry fort to immerse yourself in American military history and then enjoy a romp around the site’s recreational areas You and your pup can play on a large section of beach and enjoy an afternoon snack at the picnic area If you’re looking for an easy scenic walk, look no further than Wade Ward Nature Park This pedestrian boardwalk meanders over some of the most beautiful wetland scenery in the area and provides a comfortable stroll for humans and dogs alike (no worrying about tripping over roots or rocks) Otters and alligators are commonly seen in the water below and are unphased by a little friendly barking However we can’t say the same for your fellow walkers.  Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park is a great place for a stroll for you and your dog It boasts 15 inter-connected nature trails that span more than 27 miles through six diverse ecosystems Your pup will have plenty to sniff and see as you make your way through swampland You’re also sure to come across any number of wildlife creatures that call the trails home (but please If your pup is the beachy sort, bring them to Pirates Cove Marina & Restaurant in nearby Josephine for a chance to get some sand between their paws This popular dive establishment offers pet-friendly beaches fur parents enjoy American fare and world-famous bushwhackers (but only for the humans Your pup will love cooling off in the spacious swimming area or playing fetch along the shore Most prefer to get there by boat (it’s a beautiful ride up Wolf Bay) The Dog Pond at Gulf State Park was made for man’s best friend! It sits on the shores of Lake Shelby and offers your pup waterfront views and a host of amenities There are plenty of obstacles for agility training and an exercise course that includes jumps If you have human and fur kids, the Orange Beach Waterfront Park is a great place for both This beautiful family park includes a 400-foot fishing pier a scenic walking path and picnic areas complete with grills and covered pavilions Your pup will love the cool breezes coming off the water as you stroll down the paved walking path (along with all of the new smells their sniffers can handle) but that doesn’t mean we don’t know how to get a little green for St lots of restaurants and bars serve specialty food and drinks to celebrate the day Get ready to shake your shamrocks and check out these places on Alabama’s Beaches on St Iron your best green shirt and visit The Hangout for a day of nonstop fun on St This iconic beachfront restaurant will have live music starting at 10 am and lasting until it closes its doors at 10 pm You can expect to shamrock and roll all day long You’ve got to have a green beer to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and there’s no better place to sip one than Big Beach Brewing it’s the premiere place for unique and barrel-brewed craft beers Patrick’s Day weekend to jam out to live music and try a few of the beers on tap - especially the green ones You obviously have to make a stop at the local Irish pub during St Patrick’s Day. Galway is the ultimate spot to grab a plate of traditional Irish fare and a pint of Guinness they’ll be serving up three days of live music Bring your appetite to O’Choppers as this restaurant serves some of the best Irish staples on the Gulf Coast and shepherd’s pie are just a few of the delicious offerings on the menu and the festivities begin immediately after Party by the water at Tiki on March 17, and you may leave with cool swag! The festivities at this beachy restaurant include a shamrock scavenger hunt and drink specials like a green tiki lager and Irish mule Check out all the wild residents at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and then celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Savanna This fantastic restaurant located at the zoo is offering a festive dinner on Saturday If you want to keep it beachy this St. Patrick’s Day, swing by High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas and sip on a colorful and tasty daiquiri The picturesque waterfront restaurant and bar serves a fabulous green drink: the Irish Flag daiquiri Guinness and coffee lovers must make a pit stop at The Southern Grind at The Wharf for a Guinness cold brew AKA a nitro draft cold brew coffee mixed with Guinness the slightly creamy and sweet flavor of the smooth stout pairs perfectly with the coffee shop’s homemade cold brew on tap Of course, we can’t let a holiday go by without crafting a fun bushwacker to go with it. This month, you’ll find St. Paddy’s Day-themed bushwackers at several spots on the island to celebrate our 50th Bushwacker Anniversary. One of our favorites is Avenue Pub’s classic vanilla bushwacker drizzled with green syrup and topped with Lucky Charm marshmallows and green clover sprinkles Top of the mornin’ to ya! If you want to keep it simple or get fueled up before a big day of shenanigans, stop by Foam Coffee for an fall-green breakfast or lunch Grab a slice or two of yummy avocado toast and pair it with a matcha latte (hot or iced) The best news is you can order these items all year long Yoho Rum & Tacos is adding a little Irish flare to their Mexican-inspired menu This waterfront restaurant at The Wharf is keeping the party going all month long wash it down with a drunk leprechaun whiskey cocktail Make your meal extra green with an order of chips and guac.  The best thing to find at the end of the rainbow? Bushwackers and cheesecake! You’ll find double the sweets at Tacky Jacks this March Sip on a lucky leprechaun bushwacker topped with green shamrock sprinkles Pair your cocktail with a delicious slice of Irish cream cheesecake and savor both as you relax by the water Don’t forget to add an order of tacky shrimp You’ll be charmed if you indulge in a box of irresistible Crumbl Cookies This popular spot has several special cookies to celebrate St From mint chocolate and Lucky Charm mallow creme to the gold coin sugar cookie your sweet tooth will thank you for snacking on these treats Orange Beach City Schools have announced the appointment of Coach Chris Laatsch as the new Assistant Athletic Director for Orange Beach City Schools: Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) –   Sea turtle nesting season has officially begun along Alabama’s Gulf Coast marking a critical time for conservation efforts endangered sea turtles—including loggerheads and Kemp’s Ridleys—return to the beaches of Orange Beach This ancient ritual is vital for the survival of these species which are protected under the Endangered Species Act Local volunteers and organizations are mobilizing to ensure the safety of both nesting turtles and their hatchlings the first sea turtle nest of the season was discovered in Orange Beach signaling the start of this year's nesting period The 2025 sea turtle nesting season kicked off a day early.  The first nest in Alabama was laid yesterday the day before the official start of sea turtle nesting season The first turtle nest this year was laid by a very rare and endangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle please call: 866-SEATURTLE (866-732-8878) to report it Artificial lighting poses a significant threat to sea turtles as it can disorient both nesting females and hatchlings local authorities and conservationists advocate for the use of turtle-friendly lighting—low Residents and visitors are encouraged to turn off or shield lights visible from the beach during nesting season Beachgoers can contribute to conservation efforts by adhering to guidelines such as avoiding the use of flashlights or flash photography at night and removing beach equipment and trash after use These actions help create a safer environment for sea turtles to nest and for hatchlings to reach the sea The community's involvement is essential for the protection of sea turtles along Alabama's coast By following recommended practices and supporting local conservation programs residents and visitors alike can play a part in ensuring the survival of these remarkable marine animals for generations to come claims its property on Roscoe Road will lose value if it's de-annexed The company applied for permits to build a multi-unit housing development last year The lawsuit states the property is worth more in the city because it can charge higher rent for being zoned for Orange Beach City Schools "The City has consistently slow-rolled automatic approvals and taken every other action available to it in order to stop multi-family housing from being developed on the Property while simultaneously approving multi-family that is being built to lodge tourists These actions have been driven by Mayor Kennon’s desires to exclude families with less privileged backgrounds from integrating into Orange Beach City Schools," the lawsuit states Though Prosper Orange Beach apartment complex is included in a proposed map showing areas that could be de-annexed Kennon stated during the Tuesday night council meeting that they will amend the proposal and remove all properties that include currently enrolled students A lawsuit filed Tuesday accuses city leaders of purposely blocking minority families from moving to the city and unlawfully de-annexing the Prosper Orange Beach apartment complex The lawsuit states city leaders think students at the complex "have an allegedly disproportionately negative impact on grades and test scores within the school." "Whoever wrote that crap trying to depict them as our problem children that's that is just BS," said Kennon during the council meeting Kennon says the city reviewed all properties north of the Intracoastal waterway in considering de-annexing Kennon says future planned developments prompted the move "The genesis of this started with the 2,500 acres that will have 1,700 homes on it that was originally brought in the city because the Wolf Bay bridge would connect us That no longer is a possibility," said Kennon Kennon says the city's school system can't support that kind of growth There’s something soothing about finding some familiarity in our daily lives while traveling sitting down for a cup of coffee at our favorite local coffee shop is a part of our weekly or daily routine locally-owned coffee shops that will make you feel right at home stop by one of these coffee spots to get the energy you need for a day full of fun on Alabama’s Beaches Get your caffeine fix at one of these coffee shops along Alabama's Beaches Coffee isn’t the only thing you’ll find at The Southern Grind. This coffee house has locations at The Wharf and the Indigo Hotel and offers yummy comfort food and jewelry while you sip on a cold brew or cup of nitro draft coffee The locally roasted coffee and homemade pastries at BuzzCatz Coffee & Sweets are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and caffeine cravings From classic coffees and teas to simple breakfast plates and light lunches this cozy café and bakery has something for everyone has won numerous awards across the country for her delectable delights Dine outside on the patio and enjoy a chai tea latte and one of BuzzCat’z fan-favorite cinnamon rolls There’s nothing quite like a delicious cup of piping-hot coffee to start your day, and at Foam Coffee you’ll discover locally-roasted craft coffee and specialty drinks you’ll find everything from drip coffee and lattes to smoothies Foam also hosts seasonal markets featuring local art If you need a coffee fix while on the go, stop by Beach Girl Coffee in Gulf Shoes for a fresh cup served just how you like it It's so easy to swing by and pick up your favorite drink on the way to the beach thanks to their speedy service and great location Whether you're in the mood for an iced latte Beach Girl Coffee caters to all preferences Coffee and donuts make the perfect pair. City Donut in Gulf Shores provides fun flavorful donuts and drip coffee that’ll make you say “yum!” From classic glazed to unique creations Guests at The Lodge will love waking up and grabbing a freshly brewed cup from the Roasted Oak You can sit outside on the deck and sip on your coffee while watching the waves Whether you prefer a robust espresso or a delicate latte You don't have to be staying at the hotel to visit the Roasted Oak Known for its bushwacker coffee, Southern Shores in Gulf Shores is a full-service coffee shop with amazing artisan coffee and baked goods The coffee and beignets at Café Beignet Gulf Shores and Orange Beach capture the iconic taste of New Orleans’ sweets and caffeine with a beach twist These fried treats are so good that you’ll be licking the powdered sugar off your fingers Enjoy the charming atmosphere while savoring a cup of rich If you’re staying in Fort Morgan, you must make a stop at Bay's Coffee & Deli This shop roasts its beans in-house and also offers grab-and-go cold brews and lemonades in addition to its hot drinks Be sure to grab a bag of coffee to take home with you At Tambo’s Surf Shack, you’ll find surf gear, skateboard decks, and lots of caffeine. This cool store in Pelican Place has its own coffee shop, Surf, Skate, Coffee Sip on a fresh brew as you browse the shop or watch as skaters shred the indoor bowl Located in Pier 33, the area’s oldest grocery store, West Beach Coffee House is the ideal place for those staying near Little Lagoon to grab a morning or afternoon pick me up This quaint shop is right across from the beach and serves a variety of hot You can still enjoy your go-to Starbucks order while at the beach. This popular chain has locations in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach or tea latte while exploring the destination or paddle it out to experience the beauty of the islands on Alabama's Beaches Located just north of the Perdido Pass Bridge it’s lined with boats of both visitors and locals looking for fun in the sun The island is also a haven for a variety of coastal bird species Pull up to the island or anchor nearby and enjoy wading in the water or hanging on the shore Just 30 yards away from Bird Island sits Robinson Island this island is a popular hangout spot for boaters Robinson Island is named after a family of settlers who were some of the first to live in the area it offers a tranquil setting for sightseeing and exploring A sanctuary for native and migratory birds Walker Island is located just east of Bird and Robinson Island A relaxing stroll on this island will reveal its natural wonders to visitors We know you're on island time while you're here but remember that these protected islands are an essential part of the ecosystem of Alabama’s Beaches please take all your belongings with you and do not disturb wildlife be mindful of the 'no motor zones' posted on the east side of the islands Do not enter the interior of Robinson or Bird Island as these are protected shorebird nesting sites Because these islands are home to native wildlife dogs are not allowed on or in the waters near the islands swim with caution and be aware of watercraft in the area the City of Orange Beach and The Nature Conservancy are working to restore natural areas on Robinson and Walker Island wildlife habitats and water quality have been negatively impacted due to increased visitation to these islands A little over seven acres will be added to Robinson Island while Walker Island will gain around 19 acres of marsh Walker Island will not be open for public use An estimated 216,000 cubic yards of local sand will be used to help build back the area and 198,000 native plants will be placed along the islands to maintain them The project will be completed using dredge pumps be aware of signage regarding dredging and other construction activities Do not enter areas with active construction The restoration is currently underway and expected to be completed by early summer Whether you have a gluten-free allergy or just prefer to eat gluten-free, the selection of restaurants with gluten free food in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is great we find more options that make planning a gluten-free vacation easy There are countless restaurants to choose from on Alabama's Beaches we kept talking about how much we enjoyed the food We made it a point to try several restaurants we had not been to before We have passed Hog Wild Beach & BBQ several times on our way to the beach but never stopped in They have tons of gluten-free foods that are specified on their menu so I was thrilled to see that they were gluten-free A highlight of our recent trip was eating ate at Coast which is a variety of jumbo shrimp that Alabama Beaches is famous for We have not stopped talking about how amazing they were Peel-and-eat shrimp is our favorite thing to get when we’re at the beach and I think Coast takes the cake for the best ones we’ve ever had The view from the veranda at Coast is also unmatched — this restaurant is right on the property at The Beach Club and overlooks a pool and the beach It was such a romantic dinner with this beautiful view Coast was voted the “Most Romantic Restaurant at the Beach in 2023” by Gulf Coast Media Breakfast at The Southern Grind at The Wharf is a must-stop His wife (a former interior designer) is the one responsible for how cute the store is Gluten-free food is marked on their expansive menu Another favorite is Sunliner Diner for brunch We fell in love with this place immediately The menus look like old newspapers from the 50s with fun trivia and facts about what the area was like during that time The waitress offered me some gluten-free bread so make sure you ask them about gluten-free options since they do have them so we are already planning to stop in for some on our next trip to the beach Lulu’s is a familiar favorite for us because they have a VERY extensive allergy-friendly menu which is perfect when traveling gluten free They have two full pages of gluten-free food on their allergy-friendly menu They also offer gluten-free chips and queso which will always be a major win in my book!  Be prepared for a potentially longer wait at LuLu’s Visit their website to use the “get in line” feature to shorten your wait There is usually live music playing in the evening They also have a big gift shop for grabbing a souvenir or two Picnic Beach is such a cute spot right in the middle of the most popular part of the beach known to locals as the “T.” Their menu indicates which items are gluten-free making sure every table was happy with their food She even offered to take a photo of us with their swing photo-op There are a couple of spots with gluten-free food that we plan to try soon Vinny’s Pizzeria at The Wharf offers gluten-free crust options You can dine inside or outside with views of the Ferris wheel and the nightly Spectra Light & Sound Show Ristorante Carmelo is new in Orange Beach and offers a gluten-free penne that is available with any of their proteins and sauces If you have a gluten allergy like me, rest assured you will have tons of delicious GF options when you visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!  The closure marks the end of an era for many along the Gulf Coast who grew up dining at the iconic red-roofed building known for its “Eat Here!” motto and welcoming vibe In a heartfelt Facebook post shared by the restaurant it is with a heavy heart that we announce the permanent closure of Bubba’s Seafood House in Orange Beach We thank you for your many years of support and delicious memories!” Bubba sez “Thank you & farewell!” with generations of families making it a regular stop during vacations Its closure has sparked an outpouring of memories and well-wishes from longtime patrons across social media no official details have been released regarding future plans for the property If you are heading to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach during Memorial Day Weekend check out our list of things to do during your stay at the beach.  Every Memorial Day, families make their annual trip to Alabama's white-sand beaches to kick off their summer check out these exciting activities to add to your fun-in-the-sun holiday vacation agenda Here are a few fun ideas to add to your Memorial Day Weekend itinerary along Alabama's Beaches Filled with history, this third-system masonry fort built in the early 1800s stands guard on the Fort Morgan Peninsula, where the bay meets the Gulf of Mexico. Historic Fort Morgan played a role in several wars and conflicts and is now a State of Alabama Historic Site Self-guided tours are a great way to experience the grounds It's the perfect place to kick off Memorial Day weekend Is it really Memorial Day if you don't have a picnic? Grab lunch-to-go from a local Alabama's Beaches restaurant and head to the gorgeous Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge for a relaxing meal. We suggest picking up a beautifully crafted charcuterie board from Lauria’s you can view endangered species in their natural habitat and indigenous plants while feeling the warm sun on your face Pine Beach Trail leads to a sweet little white-sand beach perfect for picnicking What better way to explore Alabama's Beaches than aboard a boat or kayak searching for dolphins? You'll be able to see these friendly creatures and learn about their habitat and behaviors from your guide. Dolphin cruises are great fun for couples And don't miss out on the excitement of the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club’s Gulf Coast Masters where anglers compete for the biggest catches and prizes Slip, slide, and splash at Waterville USA This iconic waterpark has been a staple of Alabama’s Beaches for decades If heart-racing waterslides and lazy rivers aren’t your thing head into Waterville’s arcade and practice your swing at the swing suites or play a round of bowling If you aren’t driving to our beautiful beaches, you’ll need a way to get from place to place or you’ll risk missing out on anything not within walking distance of your accommodations In a place as picture-perfect as Alabama's Beaches Gulf Shores and Orange Beach aren’t just tourist-friendly; we’re transportation-friendly allowing you to explore our beloved destination without stress First-timers find that getting to our coastal community is easier than they thought Our prime location on the Alabama Gulf Coast is within a day’s drive of many major U.S and two nearby airports provide easy access from anywhere in the world.  By car: Travelers arriving by car have two options for reaching the beach, Alabama Highway 59 or the Baldwin Beach Express. Both highways are accessible from I-10 and offer direct commutes to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. You’ll find fewer traffic lights on the Baldwin Beach Express which allows drivers to bypass towns and cities along the drive.  By air: Visitors can now fly directly into our destination with a nonstop flight to Gulf Shores International Airport you can rent a car through Hertz at the airport Mobile Regional Airport and Pensacola International Airport are also each a short drive from our beaches, and both offer daily nonstop flights on several major airlines. Several shuttle services can get you from the airport to your vacation rental Some of the biggest car rental companies offer rentals at both locations upon your arrival.   Once you’ve arrived, you’ll want to experience the many attractions and sights Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer. Luckily, our big beach destination is relatively small, and getting from one place to another can be a walk in the park, depending on the season you visit. With some simple planning you can reserve a ride that transports you easily across our shores If you want to cruise with control throughout your beach vacation While renting a vehicle has a higher up-front cost than other transportation options it gives you the freedom to come and go as you please and explore the area at your own pace You can reserve a rental car at either airport or one of several locations along Highway 59 in Foley Several local taxi and shuttle companies will transport you across the area for an affordable fee. Companies like Coast Cab offer rides for up to 14 people to any local destination all from the convenience of an interactive app Most companies even have local drivers who love to share their favorite spots in the area with friendly visitors If you don’t want the expense of a rental car, ridesharing is an alternative way to travel around the area that’s safe and affordable. Uber and Lyft operate in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach download the company’s app and request a ride to your desired destination A driver will pick you up right outside your accommodations and take you where you want to go During the construction of their dream home on Ono Island started giving them the runaround after they'd paid him large sums for materials "The big moment was when we started asking for our windows because they were way behind they haven't come in," said Norton they went directly to the supply company and realized they would have to pay for the windows again After estimating they were out more than $200,000 "He quit coming around and started sending people over to collect from us what we had already paid for that this has gone too far," said Norton Straub had allegedly been involved in some activities that appeared to us on the surface Straub declined to do an interview but disputed the accusations Criminal charges have not been filed against him the Orange Beach Police Department posted a fraud alert on Facebook asking others to come forward It's been shared more than 400 times and received 136 comments I'm going to say eight to 10 more people have called in saying something similar has happened to me.' Starting with that we'll have to flesh out each one and determine whether or not it meets the criteria for actual theft," said Johnson Straub told us the social media post is ruining his business and he's talking to an attorney about his options Orange Beach Police say this investigation is still ongoing The Better Business Bureau is also advising people who've had business dealings with Straub to contact Orange Beach Police "A Taste of Ireland: The Irish Music & Dance Sensation" returns to stages across the USA in 2025 performing the show that has entertained thousands around the globe The show will stop at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center on Sunday cry and jig into the night with a Celtic production for this generation Performed by former World Irish Dance Champions and featuring dancers from Lord of the Dance and Riverdance A Taste of Ireland transports the audience through the story of Ireland's tumultuous history Watch world-class performers blend melodic folk mash-ups live jaw-droppingly acapella tap battles and heartwarming storytelling Want to give Dad a Father's Day to remember It's easy when you're in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach! Just think about all there is for Dad (and family) to do on Alabama's white-sand beaches We've got several ideas to help you start planning Want to give Dad an unforgettable Father's Day Here are our favorite things to do with Dad on Alabama's Beaches It's also something everyone in the family may enjoy Give Dad a bird's-eye view of the gorgeous waters of the Gulf with a flight in a gyroplane. He'll fly the aircraft with the help of an FAA-certified flight instructor from Magni Gyroflight and experience the gift of a lifetime He'll be outfitted with a headset before flying a loop around the beach or 60-minute flights and dazzle Dad with a one-of-a-kind experience After you've finished exploring Dauphin Island you can hop onto the ferry and travel back to Fort Morgan Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are brimming with great golf courses that are not only located in beautiful settings but are also award-winning. In fact, several of our area's golf courses landed on Golf Advisor's Top 20 list of courses in Alabama Dad will love playing a few rounds while enjoying the coastal breeze and gorgeous scenery.  Take Dad to Big Beach Brewing Company a fun taproom and 10-barrel brewhouse in the heart of Gulf Shores You'll join other craft beer enthusiasts at this indoor-outdoor alehouse featuring live music on the weekends made in-house at the locally-owned brewery You are welcome to bring a picnic lunch or order snacks from bar Let Dad captain his own vessel with a boat rental from a local marina. From pontoons to center console boats, there are lots of vessels to choose from. Once you're aboard, cruise out to Bird and Robinson Island and spend a day playing in the water Don't forget to pack some snacks and drinks If Dad is a history buff, he'll love exploring the tunnels and barracks at Historic Fort Morgan This third-system masonry fort has stood tall Dad and the kiddos will have a blast checking out the fort's grounds while also getting a fantastic view of the water from the top of the fort Spend a few hours or an entire day fishing the back bays of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Located a short walk from the Gulf and Alabama's white-sand beaches is the Gulf State Park's Lake Shelby farmers markets have sold locally grown produce and groups of all sizes and ages have enjoyed innumerable picnics under the trees Lake Shelby is a beloved piece of the Alabama Gulf Coast landscape Lake Shelby offers a scenic way to spend the day when you opt to paddle around the lake Guests can rent a stand-up paddle board or kayak onsite or bring their own and easily launch into the lake Bike rentals are also available onsite at Lake Shelby you can use the trails at Lake Shelby to venture further into Gulf State Park.  If you're looking for a unique way to explore the park, embark on a two-wheel adventure with Coastal Segway Adventures guided experience takes you through the various ecosystems of the Hugh S Bring your furry friends to the lakeside dog park, The Dog Pond All dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations and remain on a leash when they are entering and leaving the Dog Pond Bring your dog's favorite ball or toy and let them fetch to their heart's content Make a day of it at the lake and bring along food to grill in the picnic area situated in a shaded area right next the water Picnic tables and pavilion rentals are available daily from 8 am to sunset for up to 50 guests making it easy to relax while making memories with family and friends one for smaller children and one for elementary aged kids.  When you combine Lake Shelby with Little Lake and Middle Lake there are nearly 900 acres of water inviting guests to swim Lake Shelby is also believed to be the closest freshwater lakes near saltwater on the Gulf Visitors at the lake can take a quick walk across the pedestrian bridge and arrive on the beach in a few minutes According to the Office of Archaeological Research at the University of Alabama Museums some interesting finds have been noted about Lake Shelby's past Director Matt Gage said the site around the lake represents a large shell midden (mound) where people congregated to share food and ideas and to trade items from all over the region during the Middle to Late Woodland time periods as well as into the Mississippian period (AD 400-1100) Rangia shells (bivalve mollusks or clams) make up the majority of the food remains found in the shell midden; however some terrestrial vertebrates common in estuarine environments were also found The residents who built the shell midden were part of a large and vibrant culture that spread across the Gulf Coast as well as inland across the Southeast Fast forward to the 1930s when the Intracoastal Waterway was completed the lake serves as a place to join with friends and families and make memories and traditions that'll last for generations Homeschooling and traveling go hand in hand on Alabama's Beaches. Our area is home to several unique attractions and activities that allow visitors to learn while having fun Here are a few exciting ways to combine your homeschooling with a Gulf Shores and Orange Beach vacation or giraffes and hear about their habits from a zookeeper.  You’ll watch these friendly creatures pop in and out of the water as your captain shares all about their behaviors and habitats.  The Wind and Water Learning Center in Orange Beach provides on-water educational opportunities all year round One of the unique experiences the center offers is sailing lessons a certified instructor will teach you the basics of safe sailing All sailors are equipped with life jackets and each lesson begins with a safety briefing This sailing class is perfect for exploring our beautiful back bays Uncover the Alabama Gulf Coast's significant role at Historic Fort Morgan during the American Civil War you and your kids will walk through the archways and barracks of this third-system masonry fort that protected the area during the infamous Battle of Mobile Bay Stepping inside Fort Morgan will lead you to artillery the fort’s museum is home to many artifacts from soldiers and locals living in the area in the 1860s This historic spot is an excellent place to give your kids an inside look at life during the Civil War While in the Fort Morgan area, ride on the Mobile Bay Ferry to nearby Dauphin Island. You and your kids will spot birds flying overhead, and you may even spot sea life in the water below. Once you arrive, visit the Alabama Aquarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab Coastal Alabama is the fourth-largest estuary system in the country and the lab highlights the unique plants and animals that inhabit Mobile Bay Your kids will love the stingray touch pool Alabama’s last undisturbed coastal habitat holds free educational programs and guided nature walks every week.   The Alabama Gulf Coast has a rich past that is filled with some incredible stories that are perfect for a  homeschool history lesson. At the Gulf Shores Museum and Orange Beach History Museum you’ll learn all about the culture and history of Alabama’s Beaches The Gulf Shores Museum tells the story of the town and its people and even includes a special exhibit called “Hurricane Hunters.” In Orange Beach you’ll discover local artifacts and memorabilia highlighting the area’s Native American origins and fishing culture Both of these museums are free and are well worth the visit.  ceramic artist Maya Blume-Cantrell will teach you all about building The best part is that you and your children get to take home your creations at the end of both lessons The Gulf Coast Eco-Center is the hub for all things environmental and workshops that are focused on engaging people with the environment test yourself on the challenge course and take in the area from above.  Like how fast a sand crab moves or that the tide coming in will overrun a perfectly built sand castle Alabama’s Gulf Coast isn’t all about fun in the sun and traditional beach activities when you schedule a field trip here Auburn University’s Board of Trustees gave its final approval Friday for the construction of a Gulf Coast Engineering Research Station in Orange Beach.The two-story 21,000-square-foot facility — to be located at 4775 Walker Avenue — will provide direct access to the Gulf of Mexico and consist of research laboratories large meeting spaces and outdoor gathering spaces on both stories of the south elevation overlooking Terry Cove The station will provide a dedicated location for researching coastal environments and communities of the Gulf Coast while also providing opportunities for collaboration with other Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium institutions.“We are thankful to the board for its continued support of this project that will benefit Auburn University the state’s coastal communities and those who love and visit one of the most beautiful areas of this state,” said Mario Eden dean of Auburn’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering “The opportunity for collaboration with our friends and partners in the city of Orange Beach the University of South Alabama and other regional institutions and industries is exciting and this gives us a home base to address some of the most pressing coastal issues related to infrastructure resiliency and environmental protection sustainability and conservation.”The estimated total project is $14 million and it is being financed by grant funds from the RESTORE Council in cooperation with the State of Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources The city of Orange Beach provided the land for the project.The Board of Trustees initially approved the facility at its September 2022 meeting The firm ArchitectureWorks was approved in November of that year to serve as the architect on the project.Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon said the city is proud to work with Auburn and other universities to create long-term solutions for the state’s Gulf Coast and beyond.“As I’ve said from the onset of this collaborative project the city of Orange Beach is excited about the opportunity to partner with Auburn University and work with universities all over the country for the betterment and preservation of our vital coastal resources,” Kennon said.The gulf station will focus on three broad coastal research areas: water quality and quantity protection and restoration; protection restoration and conservation of habitat and living resources; and enhancing coastal community sustainability and resilience it will also provide residents and visitors with a better understanding and appreciation of the natural Auburn University and its partners will engage in fundamental and applied research of critical importance to the coastal environment and communities of Alabama and the larger northern Gulf Coast region The station will be dedicated to addressing all the goals and objectives set forth in the 2016 Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council Comprehensive Plan.  21,000-square-foot facility — to be located at 4775 Walker Avenue — will provide direct access to the Gulf of Mexico and consist of research laboratories and this ticket includes admission to:  The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo One ride on the Ferris Wheel at The Wharf Historic Blakeley State Park City of Foley Depot Museum and Model Train Exhibit USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park Anyone with a mobile device can take advantage of these passes the digital tickets are instantly accessible via text and email Remember to show your digital ticket at each attraction for admission (SBG) — Orange Beach's mayor is blasting a lawsuit filed against the city that he says wrongly accuses leaders of being racist Mayor Tony Kennon says they're considering de-annexing areas due to future growth and concerns about overloading their school system A lawsuit filed Tuesday accuses city leaders of purposely blocking minority families from moving to the city and unlawfully de-annexing the Prosper apartment complex out of the city and the city's school district that's that is just BS," said Kennon during a heated Tuesday night council meeting An attorney representing the complex noted the complex was included in a map highlighting proposed de-annexation properties but Kennon says so were other properties in Orange Beach north of the intracoastal waterway Kennon says the city reviewed all of them as it considers de-annexing He says the city ruled out de-annexing Prosper apartment complex and the 49 students who live there will not be impacted Kennon contends the decision on Prosper was not made because of the lawsuit "Everything we're de-annexing is potential development in the future There is absolutely not one student kicked out of our school because of being de-annexed," said Kennon Kennon says city leaders could vote next month Accusations, insults fly at meeting of Orange Beach City Council Orange Beach to consider de-annexation of most areas north of Intra-Coastal Waterway Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) –   In a move to preserve its natural beauty and maintain public safety the City of Orange Beach has adopted new regulations restricting business activities on beaches amends the city’s Business License Code to prohibit most forms of commercial activity in these sensitive areas City officials cited the growing number of visitors and business requests as a factor in the decision They emphasized the need to protect the natural environment and ensure the safety and enjoyment of residents and tourists businesses are prohibited from selling consumable products like food or sunscreen; selling souvenirs or trinkets; soliciting or conducting business transactions on the beaches or waterways; offering guided wildlife activities such as fishing or crabbing; renting equipment like jet skis or bikes; and hosting overnight events or campfires no commercial activity is permitted on or around Bird Island Weddings and similar events with a valid beach activity permit are allowed including associated services like photography and equipment rentals—provided that no business transactions occur on-site Commercial vessels regulated under other city codes and beach chair rental services managed by on-site attendants are also exempt from the ban City leaders stressed that the goal of the ordinance is to enhance the family-friendly atmosphere that Orange Beach is known for ensuring that beaches and waterways remain clean Violators of the new rules may face penalties through the Municipal Court The ordinance took effect immediately following its adoption and required public postings at City Hall Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Orange Beach Police Department has scheduled its next round of golf cart inspections for 2025 These inspections are required for owners to renew their permits in the front parking lot of Orange Beach City Hall These are the last opportunities for golf cart owners to renew their permits The city advises that inspection dates may change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances the market for street-legal golf carts in the U.S has grown significantly as more cities and communities adopt regulations allowing their use on designated roads These Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) are becoming increasingly popular in coastal towns and suburban neighborhoods due to their convenience and environmental benefits compared to traditional vehicles Many manufacturers now produce models equipped with essential safety features such as headlights and rearview mirrors to comply with federal and local road requirements With rising fuel prices and a greater emphasis on eco-friendly transportation the demand for street-legal golf carts continues to rise making them a practical and economical choice for short-distance travel in urban and resort areas the City of Orange Beach is adding a new path that will go from William Silvers Parkway and The Wharf.  it was kind of a gut punch to see this." Apartment manager Jamie Jenkins was standing before the Orange Beach City Council And what Jamie and her co-workers at Prosper Apartments saw was a plan being considered by the Orange Beach City Council to de-annex portions of the city north of the Intracoastal Waterway. A map of that plan included Prosper Apartments "...and the comments released this morning in the press," she told the council They were comments in local media suggesting at the apartment’s inclusion in that de-annexation map is because the city of Orange Beach didn't want the kids that live there to be in their school system It only took a few minutes for Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon to slap that notion down "Prosper is not included in the de-annexation,” he said it never was guaranteed or decided to keep it in." the area north of the Intracoastal Waterway is prime development land with subdivisions already on the drawing board it's not financially feasible for the city to provide services there especially when it comes to the city school system Kennon said the city met with the school board and the 49 students at Prosper Apartments are not a problem and the complex will remain in the city an attorney representing the owners of the apartments filed a lawsuit claiming the city was excluding Prosper Apartments while approving other nearby properties for annexation "These actions have been driven by City leaders’ desires to exclude families from less privileged backgrounds and Hispanic families from integrating into Orange Beach City Schools." The suit also says the school system and city collaborated to do so because "they have an allegedly disproportionately negative impact on grades and test scores within the school." one of the attorneys who filed the suit stepped up to the microphone that's when the meeting literally when off the rails essentially saying their racist?” said Kennon And everybody in this room that lives here knows this man essentially insinuated the city of Orange Beach is a racist community You probably need to go back and re-read it." "Oh I have read it,” responded Anderson from the podium and that's nonsense that I'm calling the city that I'm proud to be a part of any of those things.” those comments were directed at you and your object of getting those kids out of the city." I wear that as a badge of honor,” came Kennon’s retort be man enough to call me out and not be the little weasel that you are and denigrate all these good people here There were other insults flung by the mayor and more civil attempts by some council members to reduce the tension Prosper Apartments will remain on the Orange Beach city map as south Baldwin County and Orange Beach continue attempts to accomodate rapid growth The beach has come to OWA! Slip and slide over to Tropic Falls Indoor Waterpark at OWA Parks and Resort and get ready to make a big splash this one-of-a-kind waterpark is the largest in the region and the only one in the U.S Drop down Tangerine Scream or spin around the Citrus Cyclone the park boasts a tropical atmosphere complete with 200 palm trees Stepping outside will lead to you Big Water Bay which is home to a 30,000-square-foot wave pool This giant pool features eight settings ranging from tranquil currents to exciting surges and there’s even a stage for live performances a surf simulator where you can hang ten and ride the waves Chairs and umbrellas surround Big Water Bay so you can relax in the sun and enjoy a refreshing drink from Breakers Bar and Grill The outside area also has private cabanas that come with chairs Lifeguards are stationed both inside the waterpark and outside at Big Water Bay Want to know the best part about Tropic Falls so you can enjoy tropical vibes all year long Looking to dine outdoors on a sunny day or pleasant evening on Alabama's Beaches? Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer plenty of fantastic alfresco spots with stellar views. With comfortable temperatures, a wonderful coastal breeze, and stunning sunsets it's hard to resist eating by the water when dining on the Alabama Gulf Coast it's hard to resist eating outdoors when dining on the Alabama Gulf Coast The Gulf Restaurant in Orange Beach is constructed of blue shipping containers with unique seating and two kitchens — one with a taco bar and the other with a rotating menu Order food or drinks from your kitchen of choice at this casual self-service restaurant and take a number to your table. All the tables at The Gulf offer phenomenal views and a chance to dig your toes into the sand After eating, you can visit the on-site gift shop filled with gifts Incredible beach views, open-air green space, and an outdoor bar are just a few reasons to visit COASTAL Orange Beach This restaurant sits on the Gulf and serves delicious coastal cuisine like crab claws COASTAL is the only restaurant in Orange Beach where guests can walk up from the beach It's the ideal spot for catching a sunset over the water Located at The Lodge, Foodcraft is a relaxing restaurant on the beach with sensational food and drinks The restaurant boasts an impressive deck that wraps around the side of the building and offers unbeatable views of the Gulf Order your coastal favorites and dine at a table or grab a craft beer and unwind by the firepit The restaurant's walls are spanned by floor-to-ceiling windows so you can even enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the inside Flora-Bama Ole River Grill in Orange Beach allows guests to unwind and watch boats go by while they savor a freshly caught meal This restaurant is located on Old River and has open-air dining downstairs on the water and upstairs on its 2,500-square-foot deck With 40 TVs, refreshing frozen drinks it's the ideal place for good drinks and an even better time With coffee, drinks, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards, High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas has whatever you're in the mood for. Order a coffee and bagel and have breakfast by the water or catch the sunset as you sip a colorful daiquiri flight. After your meal, ride one of the restaurant’s pedal boats and explore Little Lagoon Offering lunch, dinner, and even Sunday brunch, GTs on the Bay is an excellent spot to grab a delicious meal and catch the sunset This family-friendly restaurant overlooks Wolf Bay and offers bayside seating with stunning views The menu offers a blend of unique culinary choices and local favorites Bahama Bob's is a flip-flop-friendly waterfront joint located right on the beach in Gulf Shores You can drive there or walk up from the water and grab a seat overlooking the Gulf This casual restaurant serves fresh seafood If you've ever wanted to dine on a pirate ship, Avenue Pub is the spot for you this restaurant shaped like a ship offers open-air dining on its deck and down below by the sand or a sriracha burger and take in the stunning views Zeke's Restaurant in Orange Beach takes waterfront dining to the next level Serving creative and delicious offerings by the water Grab a coastal cocktail and sit back and relax in the Adirondack chairs or dine under the string lights on the deck If you've ever visited our area, you've probably noticed the bubblegum pink building that sits on the beach in Gulf Shores. That's the Pink Pony Pub a staple of the area that's been around long before the Chappell Roan hit Beachgoers can walk right up from the shore and dine on the restaurant's deck as they relax in the breeze When you dine at Cobalt, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in an exquisite meal at the Caribe Marina The outdoor seating at this restaurant offers front-row viewing of boats cruising through the Intercoastal and under the Perdido Pass Bridge The food here is just as fantastic as the views with choices like surf-and-turf Don’t forget to grab a slice of the seasonal bread pudding baked fresh daily Waterfront dining doesn’t have to be a fancy affair on our shores. At Shipp’s Lower Deck, you’ll enjoy fast-casual dining, coastal breezes, and views of the impressive boats and yachts parked at the Orange Beach Marina The menu is full of coastal classics like fish sandwiches Most of the seating at Shipp’s is covered and open-air so you can savor a comfortable lunch or dinner here any time of year Nowhere else does barbecue quite like the South, and one of the best places to get a plate full of this mouthwatering cuisine is Moe's Original Bar B Que. Not only does Moe's provide award-winning barbecue but it also has outdoor seating on its deck as well as in its "backyard." Behind the restaurant is a sandy area filled with picnic tables It's the perfect spot to grab some finger-licking-good barbecue Picnic Beach has effortlessly captured the experience of enjoying a relaxing picnic without all the setup and packing The floors of this cute restaurant are all green turf Picnic tables and chairs sit inside and outside but dining on the outdoor deck allows you to feel the coastal breeze Order a shrimp boil or fresh bowl and admire the views of the shore just across the street While our area is home to plenty of fabulous beachfront restaurants, only one offers you a chance to be surrounded by greenery. Woodside Restaurant is nestled on the trails in Gulf State Park and provides park goers with a bite to eat and a place to relax play a game of ping-pong or cornhole and listen to the tunes from local musicians.