Sunset Properties Blog – Gulf Shores

February 27, 2018

5 Things Every Tween Should Do While in Gulf Shores

Tweens: the kids who aren’t quite teenagers but they’re not babies anymore, either. They’re kind of stuck in “b-tween”. We love those guys! When you’re too old for baby stuff but not quite old enough to enjoy the things teenagers do it can sometimes be hard to find activities to entertain you.

We want you and them to know they will not be bored while vacationing in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan and Orange Beach. Our Island Paradise is a great place for families and we are surrounded with lots of things for tweens to do.

Additionally, Sunset Properties features condos and beach homes all over the island making it easy for your family to lodge near all the fun.

We know you’re here to play on our sugar white sandy beaches and swim in The Gulf of Mexico, but then… after that… then what? Here are 5 Things Every Tween Should Do While in Gulf Shores:

Hang Out at The Hangout

Only minutes from Island Sunrise 468 and Lighthouse 607, The Hangout in Gulf Shores has always been a great spot for kids of all ages to play. First opened back in the 1950s, the Hangout in Gulf Shores is one of the original places to go to have fun. The Hangout is conveniently located at the Public Beach in Gulf Shores at the intersection of Alabama Hwy 59 and Beach Boulevard.

The location encompasses two and a half acres and has a 50 foot tower. You can’t miss it and tweens won’t want to! In addition to super easy beach access, The Hangout features ping pong, foosball and a Wish Wall. They also have a foam bubble party every hour on the hour. Tweens love that! The food is amazing and so is the live entertainment. Opportunities for great Snapchat and Facebook pictures are all around. Don’t forget to visit one of the tee shirt shops, to while you’re hangin’ out. After all, every tween needs a great tee to take home and show their friends!

Spend a Day at Adventure Island

Adventure Island, located on Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, is a tween’s dream! If you’re staying in Orange Beach at Moorings 414 or at the Grand Caribbean 425, you’ll love just how close Adventure Island is to your condo! This fun-filled attraction is only a few minutes away. It is really easy to find. Just look for the only volcano in Orange Beach! When you’re planning your day outing to Adventure Island, you’ll want to plan to visit for at least half a day to let your tween do it all. Go-karts, bumper boats and paddle boats are a great way to start off your day of fun. Then you’ll want to play a round of mini golf and laser tag. And don’t forget about the arcade at Adventure Island. More than 100 games will keep you tween happy and entertained for hours! Your tween can win and redeem tickets for prizes. Inside the arcade is a rock wall and there’s even a roller coaster simulator.

Make a Splash at Waterville

If you’re staying in Fort Morgan, you’re only about twenty-five minutes away from Waterville USA, the island’s only water amusement park. Since 1986, Waterville has been offering up fun for kids and adults. Perfect for a day out with your tween, Waterville has 12 water attractions including The Flowrider, Jet Scream and Screamin’ Demon. In addition to water rides and slides, there is the Cannonball Run roller coaster, a super cool arcade, and bungee trampoline call The Trampoline Thing. Waterville is also home to some of the best go-karts around. Recently, the folks at Waterville added an Escape House mystery game. While tweens will certainly enjoy this thrill-filled attraction, folks under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Get Tagged at Arena The Next Level

If you’re staying at Endless Summer, located in Fort Morgan, you’re going to experience an amazing vacation home that sleeps up to 18 people. And if you’re looking for nearly endless fun, you’re need to take your tween to Arena The Next Level. Located at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Arena The Next Level, is one of our island’s newest attractions. This 4000 square foot arena showcases a super cool sci-fi laser tag arena with lights, sounds and lasers.

While you’re at Arena The Next Level, give Bazooka Ball a try, too. This electronic glow-in-the-dark combat game features two inch round foam balls that can be shot out of low impact toy guns and travel up to 100 feet.

And Visit the Zoo, Too

Only a short drive from About Time, an amazing beach home that sleeps 10, The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an outing no tween should miss! Famously deemed “The Little Zoo That Could” The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has been an island favorite since 1989 when it was called Zooland Animal Park. The zoo sits on 17 acres located on Gulf Shores Parkway in the heart of our little beach town and welcomes visitors every day except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Today, the zoo is home to 500 animals. Pathways that wind through the zoo campus allow up close and personal (as we say down here) access to many of the animals. Expect to see lions, tigers and bears (oh my!), in addition to leopards, monkeys, wolves, birds, and snakes. There are so many animals to visit, we encourage you to plan at least four hours for this adventure. Bring your sunscreen and insect spray. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an outdoor attraction and we’re sure you and your tween will want to stay for a while without getting sunburned or being some bug’s dinner. We know you’ll enjoy all the indoor attractions and the water park, but don’t forget to visit the zoo, too!

The Alabama Gulf Coast has something to offer every member of your family. While we penned this blog with the focus on tweens, we know all of the ideas we shared here will appeal to the adults in your family, too. After all, how can you not have fun if you’re hangin’ out, on an adventure, making a splash, tagging your bestie or watching monkeys play? If you’d like some more ideas for fun things for your whole family, check out our Convention and Visitors website at www.gulfshores.com or just call us at 251.543.1370. Our vacation rental specialists here at Sunset Properties will be happy to make attractions recommendations while they help you book your vacation condo or beach home.

February 21, 2018February 27, 2018

7 Things to Know About The Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018

There is so much to do while you’re vacationing with Sunset Properties in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan. The wonderful vacation homes and pristine beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast call to your spirit all year long. Spring is an especially nice time to visit our area and enjoy the welcoming beaches and soothing waters of The Gulf of Mexico. Along with all the year-long attractions that we never seem to tire of, The Orange Beach Festival of Art, held in March, is one event you won’t want to miss.

Here are 7 things to know about The Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018 to help make your outing a fun and memorable one:

Dates and Location

For more than 40 years, this arts festival has been an island staple and a local family favorite. Mark your calendar for March 10-11, 2018 and plan to attend the Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018.

The setting for this festival is unmatched. Held at Waterfront Park located at 26389 Canal Road and nestled among the hundred year old oaks that line Wolf Bay, this year’s event features not only the fine art mediums, but performing arts, as well. The Orange Beach Festival of Art will be open from 10-5 on Saturday and 10-4 on Sunday.

Artists

Expect to see potters, watercolorists, glass blowers, wood carvers and textile artists, just to name a few. This is a juried show with spaces for 100 artists so you can be sure you’ll see the best of the best artists displaying and selling their wares. Musical guests including Lisa Zanghi, Roman Street, Three Bean Soup and Strickly Isbell are scheduled for Saturday. Island Youth Band, Poarch Ninjas, and All Star Band are slated to perform on Sunday.

Admission and Parking

Admission to the festival is free, but there is no vehicle parking on site. All parking for the Art Festival will be located at the Orange Beach Sportsplex on Williams Silvers Parkway. Baldwin Regional Area Transit Service (BRATS) will provide a shuttle service and will offer rides to the festival site throughout the entire two-day event. Why walk when you can catch a ride and get dropped off right at the festival site? A daily BRATS pass can be purchased for $5. If you prefer to ride your bike to the festival, there will be an area for bicycle parking within the festival grounds. You are encouraged to bring your own bike lock.

Family Friendly

All of us here along the Alabama Gulf Coast love family friendly events. This festival is no exception! A Kids Art Alley will open at noon on Sunday. Your little guys and girls will get the opportunity to have some hands-on fun while you all enjoy your weekend outing. The newly renovated Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach will also be open. This 10,000 square foot art gallery is definitely an island attraction worth a visit. Adjacent to the gallery, you’ll want to check out the Hot Shop and Clay Studio. Throughout the year, the Coastal Arts Center offers classes in glass blowing and pottery.

What to Wear

The average high temperature in Orange Beach in March is 71 degrees. That’s a perfect shorts-and-flip-flop-perfect-day if there ever was one! You’ll need to bring some sunscreen, too. It’s probably a good idea to thrown on a ball cap and your shades. While it is not nearly as hot as the summer sun, the springtime sun’s rays in our area can quickly burn winter skin.

Volunteer Opportunity

If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity while you’re vacationing, the staff at The Orange Beach Festival of Art may be looking for you. For more information on volunteering, visit Festival Volunteers. Volunteers will receive a tee shirt and a special gift from the Clay Studio, while supplies last. Please remember to register with the festival folks if you’re planning to donate 4 or 5 hours of your time to help make this event continue to be the first class festival it is.

Snacks, Potties, ATMs

Festival planners will have food booths on site and have sodas and snacks available. Restrooms will be conveniently located, as well. You’re should also plan to take a look at the festival merchandise stand while you’re visiting the venue. We’re sure they will have the perfect tee for each member of your family. Forgot your cash? No problem! ATMs are also scheduled to be available.

Spring is truly a magical time on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Azaleas and oleanders adorn yards and streets. Sea oats are starting to reach new leaves toward the sun. And the animals are starting to come out from their winter habitats. If you haven’t ever visited our beach neighborhood in the spring, now is the time to do it. Plan on staying with Sunset Properties in one of our stylishly decorated and fully stocked condos or beach houses located in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We even have pet friendly rentals available, so you can bring the whole family! With so many options available, we know we have your perfect vacation home ready.

We look forward to helping you make your March 2018 Beach Reservation and to seeing you at The Orange Beach Festival of Art 2018.

February 12, 2018February 14, 2018

Top 10 Most Romantic Things To Do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

One of the most romantic places on earth is the beach. Beaches offer a natural ambiance unmatched by any other venue. The beaches that wrap the Alabama Gulf Coast are no exception. The sugary white sandy beaches that stretch 32 miles along the Alabama Gulf Coast are a remarkable site. Just beyond the dunes covered with sea oats blowing in the Gulf breeze, the lapping waves of the Gulf of Mexico kiss the shore. Whether you prefer long walks into the sunset holding your sweetheart’s hand or a brisk jog at dawn before your morning coffee, for romance, you’ve come to the right place!

Have you made your reservation yet? Let’s start there! For an incredible view of the beaches of Fort Morgan, check out The Dunes or The Indies. Consider Beachview 223 if you want to stay in Gulf Shores. Would you prefer Orange Beach? Check out Moorings 414. Sunset Properties also has beach homes and cottages available if that’s your preference. Truly, the beach is for lovers and these condos are sure to please!

But what do you do if you want to kick it up a notch? What can you and your sweetie do to make something that’s already great just a tad bit better? Well, we have a few suggestions that we believe might make your romantic getaway one neither of you will soon forget.

Here are 10 Romantic Things to do while you’re staying with Sunset Properties in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores or Orange Beach:

1 SAVOR A GOURMET DINNER

You drove all this way down to the coast and you’re too tired to cook. It happens. We know and we understand. You want to rest, relax, unpack and enjoy your time with your honey. How nice would it be to have a gourmet meal available or a bag of snacks and fruit waiting on your when you arrive at your beach home? Orange Beach Concierge Services located at The Wharf offers both. If you’d like to have your dinner prepared, they have an extensive list of menu items including lasagna, New Orleans dishes, salads and seafood to choose from. In addition, they offer grocery shopping and will deliver your groceries right to your condo or beach house.

If you’d rather go out for dinner, we suggest Wolf Bay Lodge located in Orange Beach. The folks at Wolf Bay Lodge have been preparing local seafood dishes since 1973. With menu items like lump crab cakes, rib eye steaks, and oysters rockefeller, you cannot go wrong with a dinner from Wolf Bay Lodge.

2 STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES

There isn’t a much more romantic gesture than giving your true love a bouquet. It really doesn’t matter if your prefer roses or a pretty vase of mixed seasonal flowers, we know just who to call to arrange your delivery.

The talented staff at Flowers by the Shore has been serving the Gulf Coast for over 20 years. Check out their website for pictures of their colorful bouquets, cut flowers, fine wines and gift baskets. Order early and have your special arrangement ready to be delivered when you arrive.

Another option for flowers and gift baskets is All Island Flowers. Browse their website to see the most popular floral arrangements currently trending on the Gulf Coast. They also offer a great selection of snack and fruit baskets ready for delivery.

3 FEED YOUR SWEET TOOTH

You have a craving for something sweet and you don’t know where to go. Visit the Chocolate Corner located near the intersection of Fort Morgan Road and Gulf Shores Parkway for delicious homemade butter fudge, pecan caramel paws, gourmet truffles and other chocolates. And we have to mention their barks. They have the best barks! From Sea Salted Almond Bark to Peppermint Bark to their famous Beachy Bark, they have you covered. They also serve Blue Bell Ice Cream, Frappuccinos, fruit smoothies and espresso. Stop by and try a treat or two, your whole mouth will thank you.

If you happen to be on Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, stop by Kayden’s Candy Factory for so “oh-my-goodness-yummy” treats! From truffles, to fudge, to coconut clusters to caramel apples, Kayden’s has something for everyone’s sweet tooth. They also serve ice cream and shakes. Gift boxes available, as well, and we know you’ll want to grab one of those to take back home.

4 WATCH THE SUN SET FROM THE SKY

Have you ever seen the sun set from 500 feet above the ground? What an amazing site! Contact the folks at Orange Beach Helicopters and book your evening outing. You’ll fly over the beaches and waters near the Caribe Resort for about 30 minutes as you watch the sun’s rays fade and the evening’s darkness take over. This ride is a special way to end a day of romance or begin an evening of enchantment.

Ever considered skydiving with your sweetie? The good folks at Lost Bay Helicopters, a veteran owned and operated Gulf Shores company that leaves out of Jack Edwards National Airport in Gulf Shores, will fly you up and allow you to skydive down. You don’t have to skydive if you choose to ride with these guys, but if you want to give it a try, skydiving could be a lot of fun! Beach tours and special occasion tours are also available. Contact them for reservations and details.

5 PAMPER YOURSELVES

You’re at the beach. You just went skydiving with your sweetie, took some amazing pictures on the way down, and now you need to relax a bit. It’s time to book a couples’ massage or salon outing. It’s time to pamper yourselves. To have a massage right in the comfort of your own beach house, contact Austin Massage Therapy located on Gulf Shores Parkway in Gulf Shores. They have a 5.0 rating from TripAdvisor and, with an appointment, they will come to you. If you’re in Orange Beach, visit Spas of Eden for a day of pampering. They offer facials, skin, nail and hair services from their location at Palm Pointe Shopping Plaza. Serenity at the Beach, located in Orange Beach, features Aveda products. For deep tissue or hot rocks massages, check out this lovely salon. If your romance happens to lead to a marriage, they also offer wedding services.

6 DELIGHT IN A DOLPHIN CRUISE

You’ve heard about dolphin cruises. Your friends have been out on the bays and coves that surround Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to see the dolphins up close, but you haven’t. Well, it’s time to take the plunge, so to speak. While you can’t swim with the dolphins when you book an outing on The Southern Rose, you will surely see a few swimming alongside. This double-decker cruiser has both inside and outside seating. Choose from an open-air view or an air conditioned one. Cruises last from one to two hours and there is a snack bar on the boat offering sodas, chips, wine, beer and other snacks. We know you will have a delightful time watching some of our area’s most playful and friendly local wildlife.

7 LET OUR LOCAL THEATRE CAPTIVATE YOU

You don’t have to be in NYC to see a great live performance. Gulf Shores is home to the South Baldwin Community Theatre. That’s right! You and your honey can experience a well directed, tastefully staged, live play right here. Our actors are locals from all around South Baldwin County and, though we’re probably a little biased, we believe they are every bit as good as those guys in the big cities. The theatre is located at 2022 West 2nd Street in Gulf Shores. Upcoming plays this year include: Picasso at the Lapin Agile, The Snow White Variety Show, and Disney’s The Lion King Jr. Give them a call. The box office folks are waiting to make your reservation now!

8 WISH UPON A STAR

It is so hard to see the stars when you’re surrounded by city lights. We often miss meteor showers, too. They happen all year long, but we’re just too busy to even notice them. How about doing a little star gazing while you’re in our neighborhood? Grab your sweetheart, you favorite blanket and something cool to sip on. Then kick back and watch the night sky from a perfect vantage point: the beach. Let the sound of the Gulf waves lull you into relaxation, while the sky flickers and dances with the natural lights of the stars, planets and meteors. EarthSky.org provides a list of all the meteor showers and their visibility times. We suggest paying special attention to the Leonid, Orionid and Perseid Meteor Showers. Those star shows are usually pretty awesome! Oh, and don’t forget to make your wish!

9 CREATE YOUR OWN SOUVENIR

Creating something together is a great way to make a special memory. Visiting an art gallery is also a great way to spend a day. Why not do both in one place? The Coastal Art Center of Orange Beach, located on Canal Road, is a 10,000 square foot art gallery overlooking Wolf Bay. The center itself is a sight you won’t want to miss. This art center is not only a gallery, but also a place to create. Visit The Hot Shop and make your own blown glass sculpture or visit the The Clay Studio to create a personal piece of pottery. Instructional classes on watercolor painting, mixed media and acrylic are also available throughout the year. We know the quality time you spend together here, coupled with the personal treasure you make and take home, will make an imprint on your heart that will last a lifetime.

10 PHOTOGRAPH YOUR MEMORY

Your stay has been an amazing one. You’ve made some great memories and you know the time is coming when you’ll have to go back to your busy job and home life. Why not take a professional snapshot of your trip back with you? Sure your phone takes nice pictures, but wouldn’t you love to have a professionally done, beautiful portrait reminder of your special romantic getaway hanging in your family room? The good folks at Chasing the Son and Sun Shots Photography can work with you in an effort to get you exactly the portrait you want. They will meet you at your desired location and make every effort to get the exact pictorial memory you can see in your mind’s eye. Both of these local companies offer extensive information about their services on their websites and, as you’ll see, their photography is wonderful!

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan towns and beaches are spectacular all year long. Any time is a great time to visit them. Sometimes, though, we know the best time to go is when you’re celebrating the love you share with someone special. We also know planning a romantic getaway can be a challenge and we hope these ideas are helpful. We, at Sunset Properties, will be happy to offer any assistance we can when you contact us to make your accommodations reservation and we’re looking forward to seeing you when you arrive.

When you visit, we ask that you leave only footprints. However, when you leave, we hope you take home romantic memories that will last a lifetime.

www.sunsetproperties.com

251.543.1370

February 7, 2018February 27, 2018

5 Tips To Make Your 2018 Hangout Festival Experience Super Groovy

Take a great beach, add some fabulous live music, sprinkle with about 40,000 of your closest friends and what to you get? The Hangout Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama! This annual music festival is held at The Hangout located at the intersection of AL Hwy 59 and Hwy 182. The festival spills over into the public beach area of Gulf Shores, and comes complete with food & drinks, old & new friends, music, and plenty of beach time! The Alabama Gulf Coast will be rocking May 18-20, 2018, and you won’t want to miss it!

Get your ticket early

To get into this three-day, music-filled festival, you’re gonna need a ticket. Tickets are available for purchase now. Tickets quantities are limited, so get yours before they’re all gone! Both general admission and VIP ticket options are available directly from the Hangout Festival. Folks under 17 years old will be admitted with a ticket, but will require adult supervision by someone at least 21 years old. Little guys and girls under 5 years old get in free with an adult ticket-holding parent or guardian.

Know your music

The Hangout Music Festival Lineup for all three days has already been set. Talk about some great artists! Each year we say, “It just can’t get any better!” and then they do! We are so excited to see these bands perform on our own beach! Headlining acts expected to perform are The Killers, The Chainsmokers, and Kendrick Lamar. Check out 2018 Hangout Music Fest Lineup for a complete list of musicians and bands.

Park your car and ride a shuttle

Why drive when you can park and ride? There is no parking available at the festival site, but shuttle lines will be set up to help festival goers get around easily and safely. Shuttle lines include: North Line – Pelican Place (parking available); West Line – Pier 33, Waves, West 13th (pick up and drop off only); East Line – Gulf State Park Pavilion (parking), and numerous stops along Hwy 182 for pick up and drop off including one at The Gulf Restaurant. Other stops are also available. For a complete list and a link to purchase a shuttle pass, visit this link: Hangout Fest Shuttles.

For other transportation options, visit our Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism website or call 1-800-745-SAND.

Stay in a great beach home

The Hangout Festival has just about everything you need to have a fun-filled weekend at the beach, except a place to sleep. Unfortunately, you can’t camp out on the beach. But, no worries! We have your weekend getaway vacation home waiting! Beachview 223 is just a short walk away from the festival grounds. Check it out. It is literally almost next door to The Hangout venue! Other great options for easy festival access are Island Sunrise 468 and Lighthouse 607. These beach condo homes sleep from 3-8 guests comfortably. Would you rather have your own beach house? Check out Pat-Ti-O ! This super cozy beachfront home sleeps 10. It is just a couple of miles from the festival, and with the West Shuttle Line, you should have no problem getting to the festival with ease!

Prepare for your beach weekend

When you go to the Hangout Festival, there are a couple of other things you should be aware of. Food, drinks and water will be available onsite, so you won’t need to pack a lunch. No outside food will be allowed. Bring a water bottle and get it refilled as you need to while you’re inside the festival. You can bring your small backpack (20” x 15” x 13”) or fanny pack, but expect it to be searched by festival security. Don’t forget your sunscreen. Bring a hat, shades and a beach towel or blanket. And your phone. Bring your phone. We know you’ll be instagramming like crazy and texting your buddies all the great shots and videos from your weekend.

The Hangout Festival weekend will be here before we know it. Tickets are limited. Accommodations choices are still great. The weather on the Alabama Gulf Coast in May is perfect! Your friends are already making their plans! What are you waiting for?

Come for the music. Stay for the beach. And take home memories that can only be made in beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama. We at Sunset Properties are looking forward to your arrival!

www.sunsetproperties.com

Or call 251.543.1370

January 28, 2018

Top 5 Reasons to Attend the 2018 Alabama Gulf Coast Mardi Gras Celebrations

Laissez les bon temps rouler!

Everyone along the Alabama Gulf Coast is getting ready to “Let the good times roll!” As we put away our holiday trimmings, we get out the purple, green and gold of Mardi Gras. Most folks know about Mardi Gras in Mobile and even more famous is Mardi Gras in New Orleans. But did you know we have our own kind of Mardi Gras here in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? We may not be as famous as the others, but we love the carnival season here along the Gulf Coast and invite you and your family and friends to come and celebrate with us.

Here are five reasons why you should plan to attend Mardi Gras on the Alabama Gulf Coast:

Lodging Choices are Something to Cheer About

Gulf and bay front homes in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan welcome late winter guests for the Mardi Gras season. Whether you’re planning a couple’s getaway, family vacation or group outing, Sunset Properties has your perfect vacation home ready! When booking your Mardi Gras rental with Sunset Properties, use Promo Code #lovevacation and save 10%.

With daytime highs in the 50s and 60s and very little rain during the month of February, Mardi Gras is the perfect time for a beach getaway. The beaches are much less crowded than in the summer months and beach treasures are typically abundant. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and shades. It may be late winter, but the sun shines brightly on the Alabama Gulf Coast all year long.

No Hassle Parking

You’ve heard the horror stories about folks having their cars towed in Mobile and New Orleans. Here on the Alabama Gulf Coast, parking for a Mardi Gras parade in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a breeze! Because the main parade routes of Alabama Hwy 59 / Gulf Shores Parkway and Hwy 181 / Perdido Beach Boulevard are lined with business and retail parking lots, parking as easy as eating a Moon Pie!

Kid and Family Friendly Fun

Fat Tuesday in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a family friendly, fun-filled day. Our parades feature high school marching bands, colorful creative floats, and masked revelers. We have something to entertain each family member. Mardi Gras here is such a family day, in fact, our kids even get a school holiday just so they can attend!

Lots of Throws

What would a parade be without throws? After all, that’s what it’s all about, right? We believe in showering revelers with lots of beads, cups, Moon Pies, stuffed toys and other surprises. With so many treasures raining down from the floats, you’re going to need a big bag to carry them all.

Practice yelling this phrase: “Hey Mister! Throw me somethin’!” and grab your traveling buddies and come on down!

More Than Just a Parade

Sure parades are the backbone of Mardi Gras, but here on the Alabama Gulf Coast, we do it just a little different. We will celebrate together with both night and day parades, as well as our own Mardi Gras balls. There is even a boat parade planned! In addition to these organized celebrations, several of our favorite restaurants are offering special food, music and fun all day long on Fat Tuesday. Visit http://www.gulfshores.com for more details. And don’t forget to visit our sugar white sandy beaches while you’re in town. Colorful sea shells are perfect Mardi Gras treasures to take home!

When making your Mardi Gras plans, be sure not to miss:

Night Parades

Mystical Order of Mirams Parade Feb 9, 2018 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Mystics of Pleasure Mardi Gras Parade Feb 10, 2018 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Day Parades

Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade Feb 13, 2018 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade Feb 13, 2018 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Mardi Gras Balls

Birds of Paradise Mardi Gras Ball Tuesday, February, 6, 2018 7:00pm

We hope you will book your Mardi Gras stay right away. Sunset Properties has rentals available in both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Some are so close to the parade routes, you could even walk to the parade! If you’d rather stay just a short drive away from the noise of the revelry, make sure to book your vacation home in the Fort Morgan area. Remember to pack your sunscreen, bring a big ole goodie bag to take home all your treasures and plan to have the time of your life at Mardi Gras 2018 on the Alabama Gulf Coast!

From all of us at Sunset Properties:

Happy Mardi Gras and Laissez les bon temps rouler!

www.SunsetProperties.com or call 251.543.1370

#LoveVacation 10% discount Promo code good for week of Mardi Gras. Some restrictions may apply.

January 28, 2018

Top 3 Reasons to Take Your Valentine to the Alabama Gulf Coast

So Valentines is just a couple of weeks away and you’re trying to come up with something original to wow your Sweetheart. Sure, chocolates, wine and roses are nice. But why not plan a fun and romantic getaway for you and your Valentine? Why not make Valentines 2018 a destination holiday this year?

The Alabama Gulf Coast is a wonderful place to visit for the most romantic of all days!

Here are the Top 3 Reasons to take your Valentine to the Alabama Gulf Coast this February 2018.

The Weather

The weather in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama during the month of February is perfect for day outings and a few evening snuggles! The normal high temperature is around 65 degrees and lows are usually in the mid 40s. On average, it only rains about 4 days during the month, so chances are, you will enjoy beautiful sunny days. Talk about perfect!

Great Dining & Entertainment Options

There are many options available for Valentines adventures. Here are a few of our favorites:

Dinner at Cobalt. Cobalt, The Restaurant, located in Orange Beach offers so much more than just a great menu. It is an experience. With a super nice staff and choices including tuna, catfish, oysters, burgers, salads and chicken, there is something for everyone at Cobalt.

Picnic at Gulf State Park Pavilion. If dining out isn’t your idea of romance, how about packing a picnic and taking your love for a nice romantic dinner for two at the pavilion at Gulf State Park? There is literally no better view of our wonderful beaches and The Gulf of Mexico anywhere on the island. Remember how great we said the weather in February is? This is one of the best places to experience a really nice late winter day. And by the way, lots of folks get married here, too, so be on the lookout for Cupid. He might be visiting the same day you do!

Play a round of golf. Mini – golf, that is. Remember how much fun you had as a kid playing mini-golf? Grab your bestie and visit Pirate’s Island on Highway 59 in Gulf Shores or Adventure Island in Orange Beach for 18 holes of flirty fun!

Take in a movie. Cobb Pinnacle 14 Theatres, located on Gulf Shores Parkway, features 14 auditoriums with stadium seating and Dolby digital sound. Share some popcorn and a large soda with your Valentine while you enjoy one of the latest releases on the big screen.

Visit a museum. The City of Gulf Shores Museum, located on West 19^th Avenue in Gulf Shores, provides a perfect venue for some hand-holding time. You and your honey can take a leisurely stroll back through the history of this Alabama beach town. Be sure to check out their calendar for upcoming book signing and any special video series, too.

Wonderful Accommodations

Visiting Baldwin County’s Alabama Gulf Coast in February has some definite advantages when it comes to rental accommodations. The Island is less crowded than in the summer months and rental choices are usually pretty great! Sunset Properties offers accommodations rental options in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and in Fort Morgan. Beach houses and condos are available. We even have penthouses available. How romantic would it be to sit on your private balcony with your sweetie and look out over The Gulf of Mexico from the 14^th floor of The Caribe? Break out the wine, chocolate and roses. Romance is definitely in the air here!

To help you celebrate Valentines with your special someone, Sunset Properties is offering a rental discount for the week of Valentines. Book a three or four night stay in a qualifying rental and mention offer code #lovevacation at checkout and receive 10% off your stay. Some restrictions apply.

If you’ve never experienced the Alabama Gulf Coast in mid-February, you really are missing out. The weather is great. There is so much to do. And a 2018 Valentines stay discount code is available. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead! Give us a call at 251.543.1370. We would LOVE to help you plan your Valentines Trip!

www.sunsetproperties.com

Or call 251.543.1370

January 9, 2018

Oh Wow! OWA!

3 Things You Must Do At Owa

Owa is The Alabama Gulf Coast’s newest entertainment, dining and shopping venue. OWA, which is a Muscogee Creek term for “water”, offers something for the whole family. Located between AL Hwy 59 and The Foley Beach Express at 1501 South OWA Boulevard in Foley, Alabama, Owa should definitely be part of your next beach adventure! While there is way more stuff than you can do in one day, here are 3 things we recommend you not miss while in our area:

1. Ride a coaster or a frog

Owa is proud to offer 21 amusement park rides. For the thrill seekers among us, Owa is sure to please! Whether you prefer rides that spin like the Wave Runner or have G-force thrusts like the Air Racer or swing high over the park like the Freedom Flyer, you’re sure to have a blast experiencing them all. Oh, and don’t miss the roller coaster. Rollin’ Thunder, a super fast thrill coaster, has drops, loops, hairpin turns and speed sure to get your adrenaline going! You’ll be telling your friends about that ride for years to come!

Owa also has several family friendly amusement park rides. The Flying Carousel, Sky Balloons and Tea Time spinning teacup rides are just a few.

And what would an amusement park be without kid specific rides? Don’t let the kiddos miss the Zip Zap Race, the Gully Washer or the Leap Frog ride. After all, who wouldn’t want to ride an actual leaping frog?

For specific guidelines like height requirements for these must-do attractions, visit OWA amusement park guidelines.

2. Eat something good

If you’re looking for a quick snack between rides, check out one of Owa’s many food carts. Yummy hot dogs, tacos, shaved ice and ice cream are just some of the choices available at the food carts.

Not quite what you were craving? Then check out Shady Arbor or the Veranda. For mouth-watering pulled pork, fresh delicious salads and perfectly prepared beef brisket, visit the Veranda. Nachos, popcorn shrimp and gator bites are also available. Shady Arbor’s menu includes hamburgers, hotdogs, pizza and chicken. And, of course, there is ice cream!

For a whole different dining experience, visit the Groovy Goat or Wahlburgers located right outside the park. The Groovy Goat offers a vast menu including breakfast all day, specialty burgers, steaks and salads. They offer a wide variety of beers, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. And TVs. There are TVs all around so you can watch your favorite sporting event while you dine!

And Wahlburgers is at Owa, too. We all love Wahlburgers! Known for hamburgers as famous as the Wahlberg Family, Wahlburgers is sure to be a hit with your whole family! From mac and cheese, to specialty burgers to chili, there is something on the menu for everyone. Wahlburgers also has drink menu that is unmatched! Featuring Coke products, coffee and tea, locally brewed beers, and adult frappes, the drink menu has something for everyone. Wahlburgers also has a tee-shirt shop right on site, so don’t forget to grab yourself a cool tee before heading out.

3. Visit the arcade

If your idea of a great day is not riding thrill rides, but playing arcade versions instead, you’re in luck! One of the newest additions to the Owa property is an amazing arcade located right outside the park gate. Showcasing 50 different arcade games, a variety of interactive video games and a redemption center, the arcade at Owa just opened in December 2017.

Owa is still growing. This is just a short list of things we love and believe you will, too. As more restaurants and attractions are added, we will be sure to highlight them in our blogs.

While you’re making your plans to visit OWA, don’t forget about our sugar white Alabama Gulf Coast Beaches and Mobile Bay just a short 20 minute drive away. Sunset Properties has Gulf front beach houses, condos with and without boat parking, and fabulous penthouse rentals available for vacationers.

Make your plans to visit OWA, but be sure to stay with us!

www.sunsetproperties.com or call 251.543.1370

January 2, 2018January 2, 2018

2018 New Year’s Resolutions you can keep!

Have you made your 2018 New Year’s Resolutions yet? Lose ten pounds. Join a gym. Save more money. Learn a new trade or skill. Read more. Ugh. Those sound more like punishments than resolutions!

How about this instead:

With the new year rapidly approaching and everyone making New Year’s Resolutions for 2018 that seem nearly impossible to keep, we, at Sunset Properties, suggest making resolutions that are fun, memorable and attainable.

In short, make resolutions you can keep!

Resolve to:

Take a nap on the beach

Stretch out on a comfy beach lounge chair under a big colorful umbrella and let the sounds of The Gulf of Mexico lull you to sleep.

Wear flip flops all day

Spend a whole day shopping in shoes that pop when you walk. SanRoc Cay in Orange Beach and Pelican Place in Gulf Shores offer superior retail therapy options. Flip flops welcome!

Leave your phone and tablet turned off

Let the only calls you hear be the ones seagulls make to each other.

Walk a nature trail

Take a leisurely stroll along one of Gulf State Park’s fabulous nature trails and just unwind within your surroundings.

Cast a line from a pier

Watch a bobber dance in the waves from Alabama’s 1540 foot long Gulf State Park Pier. Fishing licenses are available online and day permits are available right from the pier office.

Visit a Fort

Listen for the sounds of soldiers’ conversations from centuries ago you tour historic Fort Morgan. Built in 1812, Fort Morgan is surrounded with some of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in Alabama.

Ride a ferris wheel

Enjoy an amazing view from atop the ferris wheel at The Wharf. Check out the concert schedule for the Amphitheatre at The Wharf, as well. One of your faves may be playing soon!

Eat oysters

Add some Tabasco, salt, and lemon to top off your raw or fried oysters at Doc’s Seafood Shack in Orange Beach or Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores.

Take a dolphin cruise

Book a day or evening trip out on the water and watch dolphins play. Sunset Properties has a program called Xplorie, where when you stay with us you receive one free ticket everyday during your stay to some of the local attractions, one of them being Cetacean Cruises.

Volunteer

Participate in the Alabama Coastal Cleanup in September or The Annual National Shrimp Festival in October and make new friends who love the beach just as much as you do.

Don’t these sound so much better than the traditional resolutions we’re supposed to make? We think so, too!

We, at Sunset Properties, want to welcome you to the Alabama Gulf Coast in 2018 where resolutions are enjoyable, memorable and even relaxing. Happy New Year and we’ll see you soon!

December 26, 2017

5 Reasons to Vacation in Fort Morgan for Spring Break 2018

Spring Break 2018 is only a few weeks away and you haven’t made your vacation reservations yet.

Most folks know there are a lot of things to do and see in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We want to tell you about one of our favorite Alabama Gulf Coast communities: Fort Morgan. Fort Morgan, Alabama located between Mobile Bay and The Gulf of Mexico is one of Alabama’s unsung treasures. Here are 5 reasons why Fort Morgan should be on your short list of places to stay for Spring Break 2018.

Accommodations are Amazing

Whether you choose to rent a Beach House or a Condominium, your choices are amazing and views unparalleled! Only a short 15 or 20 minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Gulf Shores, perfect vacation homes are waiting for you and your family. Many homes offer pet options, so no one in the family gets left behind. WIFI, grilling stations, hot tubs and pools are just a few of the amenities you will find in these tastefully decorated and fully stocked vacation homes. Consider sitting on your balcony, listening to your favorite iTunes, sipping a cool drink and looking out across the Gulf right to the place where it seems to drop off into the horizon. Get ready to take it all in. You’re ready to break for spring and your Sunset Properties vacation home in Fort Morgan is waiting for you.

A Beach Day Your Way

Spend all day sunning and reading your favorite new novel on a private beach facing the Gulf of Mexico. Many of the beaches in Fort Morgan are a lot less crowded than those in the surrounding municipalities. If lazily letting the day go by under an umbrella doesn’t appeal to you, how about a little fishing? You can fish right from most beaches in this area. Did we mention the shell collecting? Sea treasures found on Fort Morgan beaches are wonderful! Lots of colorful shells and pretty white sand dollars seem to find their way onto the fabulous Fort Morgan Beaches.

Boating Anyone?

Several of the rental homes in Fort Morgan come complete with boat launches and boat slips for their guests to use. Why would you leave your favorite watercraft at home when you’re planning to vacation where you’ll be surrounded by water? Treat your family to a day out on Mobile Bay in your own boat! Be sure to bring your camera, too, because you’re probably going to see a few dolphins, gulls and herons, and perhaps even an osprey, along the way. Check out our Navy Cove Rentals to see exactly what’s available.

Let’s Eat! Seafood!

You’re vacationing at one of the best beach communities on the Alabama Gulf Coast, so you’re probably going to want some awesome seafood, right? Well, you’re in luck! Whether you want breakfast, seafood or steaks, Tacky Jacks 2, located right across from The Dunes and The Indies has you covered. Trip Advisor rated Fort Morgan’s own Tacky Jacks as the Number 1 restaurant in Fort Morgan. We’re kind of partial to their menu items, too!

Fort Morgan

The fort at Fort Morgan was constructed in 1812 and was originally called Fort Bowyer. Now an Alabama State Historic Site, Fort Morgan is one attraction you won’t want to miss. Family events are planned throughout the year, but even on days when there is no organized event, we suggest checking out the beach directly in front of the Fort. Some of the largest ocean-going vessels that leave Mobile Bay pass right in front of the fort. Speaking of watching boats, if you keep an eye out, you’ll probably see the Mobile Bay Ferry making its way across the bay from Fort Morgan to Dauphin Island.

We hope you will follow some of the links we provided and give this charming little beach community a look and solid consideration when you book your Spring Break 2018 accommodations. After all, sometimes it’s the overlooked treasures that make the strongest impacts on our hearts!

December 19, 2017

Top 5 Nightlife Entertainment Spots in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan

After a day filled with shopping, sun, sand and sea, you’re looking to cool off with a perfect cocktail and have some great local seafood while listening to a live band. We totally understand! Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan offer some of the greatest venues for food, fun and music!

Here are a few of our favorite night spots and we hope you will love them as much as we do!

#1 Tacky Jacks

Tacky Jacks is a great place to go unwind. With a menu sure to please almost anyone and drinks that’ll have you texting pictures to your buddies back home, Tacky Jacks is a definate stop while you’re in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan. If you are staying in the Dunes community in Fort Morgan (Dunes Condos, Indies Condos, Dunes Subdivision or even Bay to Breakers) you can even walk to Tacky Jacks! Known for their family friendly atmosphere, Tacky Jacks is a great choice for adults and kids, alike. With three locations around the Island, Tacky Jacks is convenient to almost every vacation rental home. Come hungry and expect to not just get a great meal and hear some great music, but to make a great memory. Don’t forget to get yourself a Tacky Jacks tee before you leave! You’ll be the envy of your friends back home!

#2 Live Bait Food & Spirits

Speaking of cool tees, do you have your Live Bait tee yet? You have to get one of those! In addition to fun colored tees, Live Bait has an amazing menu and a fun staff! They offer some of the coldest drinks on the Island and the live music can’t be beat! Whether you choose to sit inside or enjoy your evening on one their decks, you’ll be glad you put Live Bait on your must-do list.

#3 Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar

The Flora-Bama is a timeless roadhouse that just keeps getting better! If enjoyable musicians that’ll have you singing along and cold beers are what helps you unwind, then this is a definate stop for you. After a short drive to the Al/Fl state line, you’ll find yourself at one of the most famous lounges around. The Flora-Bama has been featured in Southern Breeze, The New Yorker, Bon Appetit, Boston Globe, The Huffington Post and CNN Travel, just to name a few. You don’t stay around for 55 years unless you’ve got something special to offer your guests. After you visit the Flora-Bama, you’ll see what we mean! Keep in mind, we have properties located just a few short minutes from this establishment.

#4 The Hangout

Serving specialty drinks and a menu all their own, The Hangout in Gulf Shores is so much more than just a bar. Home of the World Famous Hangout Music Festival, The Hangout is located right off the public beach facing The Gulf of Mexico in the heart of Gulf Shores. What better way is there to end a great day of shopping, fishing, or beach strolling than to bring your old friends or meet some new ones at The Hangout?

#5 Bills by the Beach

After a long day of fishing, you must visit Bills by the Beach where they will cook your catch as you listen to live music on the open air deck. West Beach Boulevard never sounded or tasted so good! If you didn’t have much luck catching your own supper, don’t worry. Bills by the Beach has a menu that is second to none. Come hungry for the cuisine and stay for the tunes!

From fishing and shopping and sunning all day, to relaxing and eating some great local seafood and listening to some fabulous music all evening, we hope you enjoy Island Life as much as we do. Remember its always the right time to have a good time when you’re living on Island Time!