There is not much argument that Alabama's Gulf Coast has some of, if not, the prettiest beaches in the world. However, with the dense population, you will also find in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach the many shops, restaurants, entertainment, and other service and shopping opportunities that you might expect. In Gulf Shores (about 18 miles from our homes) there are amusement parks, putt-putt, water parks, go-cart tracks, a zoo, etc. for the kids' (young and old) enjoyment. (The kids will see these parks on the way into Gulf Shores, so you'll have to plan some time to visit the attractions- no way around it!!) Orange Beach also features several large deep sea fishing charter fleets.

 

If you are member of the 'shop til you drop' club, you'll love the Rivera Centre, about 10 miles north of Gulf Shores in Foley, Alabama. The Rivera Centre is an outlet mall, featuring numerous (in excess of 100) factory outlet stores. It is very easy to spend the day there seeking out bargains.

 

Even further east, past Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, at the Alabama/Florida line, is the world famous Flora-Bama. If you are into night life, the adults need to schedule an evening, or at least an hour or two there. You will enjoy live music nightly- on weekends, there are usually several groups performing.

 

Within a 15-30 mile area, there are literally hundreds of holes of golf for your enjoyment. At last count, there were some seventeen (17) courses, each offering at least 18 holes, some with 36 and 54 holes.

 

Whether it is recreation, shopping, fine dining- the Gulf Shores area offers something for everyone who visits.