Unwind in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
While many coastal destinations offer scenic views, they often come with rocky terrain, deterring beachgoers from fully enjoying the experience. In stark contrast, Orange Beach, just a short drive from Nashville, boasts soft, sugar-white sands and inviting turquoise waters, ideal for leisurely swims and serene strolls along the shore. With over 32 miles of spacious Gulf Coast shoreline, families can relish ample room to soak up the spring sun beneath vibrant skies.
A Tapestry of Unique Adventures
Orange Beach and Gulf Shores is not merely a coastal retreat; its a tapestry of unique adventures waiting to be discovered. From sunset cruises aboard Hammock Time Tiki Tours to the enigmatic allure of Bamahenge, this coastal paradise teems with unforgettable experiences. Relax aboard a pontoon boat equipped with hammocks and a tiki bar or explore the mysterious replica of Stonehenge nestled among Alabama pines. Anonyme Cruises offer serene journeys through Orange Beach’s canals, while Sand Castle University sparks creativity on the sandy shores. Embark on a swashbuckling adventure aboard the American Star pirate ship, where interactive fun awaits.
Spring Festivities and Vibrant Events
Spring on the Alabama Gulf coast heralds the onset of festival season, igniting a wave of
excitement and outdoor revelry. From the Ballyhoo Festival’s artistry and cultural displays to the Orange Beach Festival of Arts celebration of visual and culinary arts, there’s something for everyone. Boating enthusiasts can’t miss The Wharf Boat and Yacht Show, while quirky fun awaits at the Mullet Toss, hosted at the legendary Flora-Bama. Car aficionados will delight in Bama Coast Cruisin, while the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival promises high-flying adventure. Music enthusiasts can groove at The Hangout Music Festival with headliners this year to include Lane Del Rey, Zach Bryan and Odesza.
Luxury Redefined at Turquoise Place and The Beach Club
There’s plenty of options in terms of accommodations in the area, my personal favorites are Turquoise Place in Orange Beach, and The Beach Club Resort & Spa in Gulf shores and I love them both for different reasons. Nestled in the heart of Orange Beach, Turquoise Place is a sight to behold with its magnificent turquoise glass- it’s a “you’ll know it when you see it” kind of place and will definitely turn heads. This upscale resort offers some really unique amenities including HUGE condominiums starting at 3,200 square feet, a lazy river, private hot tubs on every balcony (yes, you read that right), two heated indoor pools (perfect for cooler months), two outdoor pools, complimentary breakfast for Spectrum Resorts guests, AND new this spring- a 300 ft water slide, and a rooftop splash pad, putting green and amphitheater!
There’s also some really great kids activities happening all day long at the resort so there’s always something to do. I really love the free breakfast they offer in the Spectrum Club Lounge as well. One less thing to buy or plan on a vacation? Sign me up! Another thing I love is they have a super cool partnership with The Beach Moms, a local concierge service that will do your grocery shopping for you, decorate your condo for any kind of occasion, line up fun activities for you, and they even do personal chef experiences and beach side picnics.
Meanwhile, The Beach Club Resort & Spa, nestled in the Wildlife Nature Preserve is quiet, secluded and a vacation in a true sense of the word. Once you pull onsite you never have to leave- making it super easy and convenient for everyone. The resort features three restaurants (The Village Hideaway, Coast Restaurant, Gulfside Bar & Grill) , an ice cream shop (The Village Creamery), adorable boutique (The Village Mercantile), a full service spa which is out of this world, a sand island volley ball court, pickle ball, legitimate clay tennis courts and pro shop, and a calendar full of kids activities. If you’re lucky you may get to see their mascot, Toby the Turtle! My kids love the mermaid photo shoot and swim, the Tie die t-shirt craft, and the shark tooth necklaces. They have a selection of condominiums and adorable beach cottages each with their own private pool. They also have a clubhouse that sits in the epicenter of the condos that houses a gym, spa, arcade, fitness center, indoor pool, outdoor pool, poolside bar and grill, hot tub and more!
On May 19, the Village Lawn opens, which is the Beach Club’s night time family friendly entertainment area. It boasts 4 food trucks, live music, kids crafts and entertainment like
inflatables, rock walls and more nightly from 6-10pm. It takes place on a spacious grassy area and is a family favorite.