Bid farewell to winter's chill and say hello to Alabama's sunny beaches.
The chill of winter still has a grip on many parts of the country. Rugged outdoor enthusiasts are enjoying skiing in the mountains of Colorado or snowmobiling in the back country of Minnesota. But soon thoughts will turn to spring and that means Spring Break!
While snow is fine for winter fun, when it comes to spring and breaking away from winter's chill, the vacation destination of choice is the beach. It's a chance to work on your tan, to play golf, to put some vibrant colors in your wardrobe with a new outfit or two, maybe some deep-sea fishing and definitely plenty of fresh seafood for lunch and dinner.
For all this and affordable rates, people from across the country have been flocking to the Alabama Gulf Coast for family fun during spring break for generations.
Families love the area because of the great selection of fun attractions. Kids of all ages enjoy visiting the animals at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Nature lovers lace up for a walk on the trails of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and the Gulf State Park. Fishermen (and women) cast a line for the ultimate catch from the shore, the pier or aboard a fishing charter. And history buffs retrace the steps of the past at Fort Morgan. Shoppers adore the Tanger Outlet in nearby Foley and the wide selection of shops from unique boutique to kitschy and antique.
For the young adults looking to escape the stress of college for a week, the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area provides miles of white sand beaches ideal for girl and guy watching. And when the sun goes down, the fun really heats up at area nightclubs. A local must-see is the Flora-Bama, a legendary dive on the Florida-Alabama line where the decor is as eclectic as the patrons.
All of this activity is sure to work up your appetite. And with so many great choices, you'll be glad you are staying for a full week.
Many local restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach feature a wide selection of fresh seafood. You can dine on shrimp and fish cooked in a myriad of ways to delight your taste buds. And for land lovers (or just when you want some variety) you can enjoy menu options for steak, pasta, pizza, burgers and all your favorites.
Don't forget to save room for dessert. After all, this is a vacation and the calories don't count. Local sweet favorites include Hope's Cheesecake and Sweetie Pie's - both in Gulf Shores.
But perhaps the most important feature for a successful spring break is your accommodations headquarters. You want a place that offers a full array of amenities, comfortable features and a friendly staff.
At Gulf Shores Plantation you can select the condo or beach cottage that fits your needs and budget. Condos are available in sizes that range from a Sunsuite that is perfect for couples to roomy three-bedrooms that can accommodate a larger family. The cottages offer even more room to stretch out. Each unit is fully furnished with convenient kitchens and easy access to seven pools, eight tennis courts, basketball and shuffleboard courts, a putting green and an exercise room.
The grounds are perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a walk. With Kiva Dunes golf course right next door, you can be swinging a club in a matter of minutes. And of course the sugar white sand beach is only steps away with endless possibilities for sand castles, soaking up rays, watching nature - oh, and of course watching the girls or guys too!
Learn more about the Alabama Gulf Coast and the spring break options at Gulf Shores Plantation when you visit www.GulfShoresPlantation.com
