Gulf Shores, AL 251-543-1370

Sustainable Tourism on the Gulf Coast

Sustainable tourism, also referred to as responsible tourism and ecotourism, is a big deal here on the Alabama Gulf Coast and vacation destinations around the world. Sustainable tourism is all about vacationing in a way that minimizes negative impact on the local environment, economy, and society in general. While that might sound boring, sustainable tourism actually makes your vacation much more fun and enjoyable! Here’s what sustainable tourism might mean for your trip:

Keeping the beaches free of waste means more room for sandcastles!
Using the proper porch lights allows freshly hatched sea turtles to find their way to the sea!
Recycling your metal, glass, and paper keeps the local environment clean and ready for your next visit!

Sunset Properties is dedicated to providing memorable Gulf Coast vacation experiences for our guests for years to come, which is why it’s so important that we do our part to advocate for responsible tourism. Learn more about our sustainable tourism initiatives below, or start planning your trip to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or Fort Morgan today!

Recycling Info

Orange Beach has designated spots for trash recycle, and the recycle pickups are divided into 2 zones. Each zone has one pickup every other Wednesday.

Please check the Orange Beach Recycling page (Here) to see your zone and schedule pickup day.

Leave Only Footprints

Each of us is responsible for protecting and preserving our beach, and the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach strive to provide a safe, clean, family-friendly environment for everyone visiting. To help you do your part, here are some tips for enjoying our coast responsibly, along with some rules, regulations and resources.

Any structures or equipment left on the beach an hour after sunset will be removed and disposed of by beach patrol.
Individual lodging properties and land owners may allow tents and shelters in designated areas during the day.
These items are not allowed on our beaches:

Glass containers - Fireworks - Metal shovels - Excessive digging - Loud Music - Litter - Fires - Large Tents or structures - Pets - Overnight camping - Vehicles

Staying off the dunes will help us to preserve our dune system and the habitat it provides. Use beach walkovers and boardwalks where provided.
Observe and obey the Beach Warning Flag System.
Be respectful of private property beyond the bounds of your lodging property.

Beach Safe Campaign

Gulf waters can be very dangerous. Although we’ve put several measures in place to help you stay safe, ultimately, it’s up to you to stay informed and understand the danger. We want the vacation memories you take home to be happy ones.

CHECK WEATHER AND SURF CONDITIONS

Gulf Shores: 251-968-SURF
Orange Beach: 251-981-SURF
Online: VisitALBeaches.com/safety

DAILY BEACH CONDITIONS TEXT ALERTS

Text “ALBEACHES” to “888777”
Text “STOP” to opt out of notifications upon your departure

KNOW THE BEACH WARNING FLAGS

Yellow: Moderate surf and/or currents
Purple: Dangerous marine life
Red: High surf and/or strong currents
Double Red: Water closed to the public

For more information about the Safe Campaign Click Here

Share the Beach

All sea turtle species are struggling to survive a multitude of threats in today’s environment, but tragic events like this are made more palpable because they are preventable.

Here are some ways that you could help the Sea Turtles:

Never disturb a sea turtle nest. If you suspect you’ve found an unmarked nest, report it by calling 866-732-8878.
During a boil, do not touch hatchlings. Only trained Share the Beach volunteers are permitted to guide or assist hatchlings while wearing protective gloves.
Bring your camera! Watching a boil is a rare opportunity. Don’t forget to snap plenty of photos and take video, too. However, do not use flash photography on the beach at night.
Avoid using flashlights on the beach after dark. Sea turtles are attracted to the light and become disoriented while being guided by the moonlight or starlight.
Remove all beach gear and trash from the beach each night. Sea turtles can become entangled. Nesting turtles will return to the Gulf without laying eggs if they meet obstacles on the beach.
Do not dig large holes in the sand. If you find holes, help by refilling them. Not only can sea turtles become trapped, but holes are also dangerous for the people who walk along the beaches.

Rentals to Benefit Historical Fort Morgan

Sunset Properties donates $1 from every reservation made in the Fort Morgan area to the historical Fort Morgan.

The Fort Morgan was built between 1819 and 1833, it has played a significant role in several military conflicts during the United States history. Located at the tip of the peninsula, the historic fort is a great stop for history buffs and military enthusiasts. The site also regularly hosts events throughout the year including demonstrations and military tributes.

Search Fort Morgan Rentals

Items Left Behind

If you leave something behind we will do our best to return it to you! There is a minimum fee of $25 to cover the cost of mailing it back to you. If an item is not claimed in 30 days, it is donated to a local church's thrift shop.

Guest Property Review -
What a great little place!! Everything you could possibly want to do is within walking distance. The room was very clean and the bed was extra comfortable! It was the perfect size for 2 people and the property manager was very helpful. She answered all questions immediately upon texting her. If you are looking for a very affordable place for a few days, Beachview 223 is the one!

Renee

Finding your next home with Sunset Properties -
John looks after the little things and does not let you forget. Example was the $450 savings he reminded me about by using my existing title insurance. I forgot to look for it and John made sure it was done. John's wisdom during our price discussions with the buyer really showed his experience. He also shined at closing with some last minute negotiations he took on with the Condo Owners Association. Pro through and through.
J.Livergood

Working with Sunset Properties -
I have vacation properties in Gulf Shores, and they are all with Sunset Properties. Although I live close by the job of renting, managing, promoting plus handling the maintenance and cleaning in order to maximize my rental income, takes a lot more time and effort than one person can oversee. They are a fantastic company.
A

Finding your next home with Sunset Properties -
We had the privilege of working with realtor, Shelly Dzwonkowski, on our recent purchase of a condo for our 2nd home in Gulf Shores. Shelly is an awesome realtor, trusting and a knowledgable person of the area. Her professionalism was outstanding and she went so much further than we ever expected to make sure everything was covered and we understood every aspect of the property. Highly recommend Shelly.
L.Christofferson

Renting with Sunset Properties -
Can I stay forever? We really enjoyed our stay at our Phoenix condo in Orange Beach. We loved that it was right on the beach, gulf front. My husband unfortunately had some work to do our first full day there, but he did it with an amazing view from the balcony. My 14 yr old daughter is somewhat bougie so her standards are pretty high. She doesn't get excited about much and she loved it! We'll definitely be back, and when we're ready we're calling Monica because she was so helpful and amazing.
K.DeJesus

Finding your next home with Sunset Properties -
Sunset Properties is the best! The owners are so kind, knowledgable, and helpful with whatever our needs are. Thank you John! We will be back for sure.
S.Peele

Renting with Sunset Properties -
We stayed at Dream and what a dream it was. This is our 3rd time renting with Sunset and at this point I see no point in renting anywhere else. No drama. The property was awesome. Location was ridiculous. We can't wait wait to come back.
S.Nelson

Renting with Sunset Properties -
I cannot say enough good things about Indies 603 and the amazing staff at Sunset Properties!! Everything was spotless, had everything we need and the check in and checkout process was flawless. Communication was amazing with the staff and very easy! Do not hesitate to book here or any other location with Sunset Properties.
J.Eagle

Renting with Sunset Properties -
The location of the property itself was very nice and clean. The condo was even nicer in person and actually very roomy. Everything was clean and stocked very well. There's a great view of the beach. My favorite part was how quiet the location was. There wasn't much traffic and we rarely even seen other people. The beach was beautiful and very private. At most, we shared it with maybe 20 other people at one time. One time we were the only ones on the beach. There's a 20-30 drive to all the tourists type things depending on traffic which isn't too bad and there's a Dollar General just a few miles up the road in case you forgot something.
S.Parker

Finding your next home with Sunset Properties -
John was available as needed and conducted himself in a professional manner.
J.Fallert