Sunset Properties Blog – Gulf Shores

October 10, 2014

Guardian on the Bay – Historic Fort Morgan

Originally established as a Third System Coastal Defense Fort, Fort Morgan served to provide a stronger line of defense along the eastern and southern coastlines. The fort’s star shape allowed fort defenders to fire a heavy concentration of artillery on the enemy as the enemy approached. Its isolated location with a large amount of land defenses enabled it to stand up against a siege.

When the Civil War occurred, however, Fort Morgan’s brick defenses could not withstand cannon fire and steam-powered warships. Over time, the Army worked to improve the coastal defenses once again, making major updates to Fort Morgan in the process. Concrete batteries were built in 1896 and 1905 and were used during the Spanish-American War and World War I.

Today, Fort Morgan stands as a peek into the past. Some wooden structures from the beginning of the 20th century still remain, along with the batteries and several cannons. While touring, guests can check out batteries, the Lightkeeper’s House, cannons, cisterns, and the Brick Lighthouse Site. Views out over the water show what an incredible vantage point fort protectors would have had during wartime.

In 2014, Fort Morgan celebrated the Battle of Mobile Bay and Siege of Fort Morgan 150th Anniversary. The anniversary event featured reenactments, including artillery and aerial pyrotechnic explosions! On the average visit, guests can learn more about the history of Fort Morgan in the Fort Morgan Museum and while exploring at the annual Confederate Garrison living history event (check the calendar for dates). Self-guided tours at the fort include a tour map and plaques throughout, and field trip groups can enjoy special rates.

After a day at the fort, be sure to pick up some souvenirs (picking up driftwood off the beach is encouraged!) at the gift shop in the museum. Find everything from books and toys to home goods and accessories. A day at Fort Morgan is fun, educational, and interesting for people of all ages. The beautiful backdrop of the beach and water is an added perk!

Recreation at Fort Morgan
Along with tours of Fort Morgan, visitors can enjoy recreation in and around the fort. Boating, birding, hiking, fishing, and picnicking are some of visitors’ favorite activities here. There is even a dog-friendly beach between the Engineer’s Wharf and the Fishing Pier on the bay side of Mobile Point.

Admission Prices
Adults: $7
College students: $5 (with ID)
Seniors: $5 (age 65+)
Military: FREE, plus admit one (active, with ID)
Military: FREE (reserve, retired, or veteran, with ID)
Ages 6-12: $4
Under 6: FREE
Family: $18; each additional child $3 (2 adults and 2 children, under 12 years old)

110 State Highway 180
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
251.540.7127
fortmorgan.org
Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CST

October 3, 2014

October Events in Fort Morgan

Ahh, the summer season…sweltering temperatures, busy beaches, and plenty of traffic. The arrival of the beautiful fall season in Fort Morgan, Alabama, is wonderful for a number of reasons – but particularly the absence of the things listed above! Many families only think of vacationing to the beach during the summer, but believe it or not, the month of October is a wonderful time to pack your bags and vacation to Alabama’s pristine Gulf Coast.

The fun doesn’t stop with the arrival of fall in Fort Morgan and surrounding towns; in fact, the coast is still very much alive with activities and events! There are many great October events you may want to take part in, from the annual and much-anticipated bird banding to art shows, music festivals, and more. Reserve your Fort Morgan vacation rental today and check out these spectacular October events!

Fall Bird Banding
First and foremost, one of Fort Morgan’s biggest attractions is bird banding! This biannual event takes place once in the spring and once in the fall, with the coast being a very important stop for migrating birds making their treks to Central and South America. The fall bird banding takes place from October 4 through October 11, starting around 8:00 a.m. and usually wrapping up around 4:00 p.m. The bird banding is free to enjoy, but there is admission charged to historic Fort Morgan. Bring along a lawn chair, binoculars, and a mind ready to learn all sorts of new things about these migratory birds!

20th Annual Bayfest Music Festival
At home in Mobile, Alabama, for its 20th year, the Bayfest Music Festival is the largest in Alabama. This year’s artists and performers include some big names, from Alabama, Ludacris, and Joan Jett to Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, and more! Multiple stages are set up throughout the weekend, giving you a variety of artists to check out no matter when you come by. The festival kicks off on October 3 and ends on October 5. More than 150,000 people are expected to attend this October event! There will be activity areas for the children along with plenty of vendors and food. You won’t want to miss this one – consider it your last hurrah of the summer before preparing for next year’s Hangout Festival!

10th Annual Halloween Pumpkin Patch Express and Ghoul Family Night Train
Itching for some Halloween fun amidst your October events? Head to the Wales West RV Resort in Silverhill from October 3 through 31. Climb aboard an authentic steam train to venture into the haunted barn where ghouls and ghosts are abound! There is also a kid-friendly pumpkin patch and plenty of activities for you to enjoy. Decorate your own pumpkin, try out the impressive pumpkin cannon, sing songs on the hay ride, or grab a bite to eat at the snack shop – the possibilities are endless!

Annual National Shrimp Festival
Who comes to the beach without enjoying a plate of fresh, Gulf-caught seafood? No one who attended the Annual National Shrimp Festival (Shrimp Fest), that’s for sure! Presented by Zatarain’s and hosted the second weekend in October, this event is definitely one not to be missed. Here you will find dozens of restaurants and vendors serving up your favorite shrimp dishes, a retail marketplace, arts and crafts section, and much, much more. The 2014 music lineup for Shrimp Fest is also sure to impress, bringing names such as Keith Anderson, Fly By Radio, and the Shrimp Idol singing competition!

September 26, 2014

Lick your lips for Shrimp Fest 2014!

Dubbed the “fruit of the sea” by Bubba Gump, shrimp can truly be served up just about any way you can think of – barbecued, boiled, sauteed, broiled, baked, fried, stir fried, in shrimp salad, along with potatoes and onions, on a burger, in a sandwich, and alongside almost any other dish. And at the 43rd Annual National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores, referred to as the Shrimp Fest by most, you’ll likely find all those varieties and more.

Art, music, and games are featured, along with a massive amount of shrimp, at this fun and family-friendly beach event. This year’s festival will be held October 9-12 and is presented by Zatarain’s (so you’ll definitely run across some Cajun flavors) on the gorgeous beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Best of all, Shrimp Fest is FREE to all! Just head to the public beach access (in Gulf Shores) at the intersection of Highway 59 and Highway 182 for some delicious flavors, live music, beautiful beach weather, and tons of fun!

Bringing in an estimated 250,000 people, Shrimp Fest is one of the biggest and best outdoor festivals in the country. More than 300 vendors will be on hand to showcase and sell their fantastic arts and crafts, fine art, clothing, accessories, and of course, shrimp!

No one is left out at the Shrimp Fest, with stages, vendors, and designated areas that will appeal to people from 1 to 100. Live music goes round the clock at the two stages, and the Children’s Activity Village offers art activities and games for kids. The Outdoor Village will appeal to the guys. It’s all about fishing, hunting, boating, and outdoor recreation. Others will enjoy the goods at the Retail Marketplace, the fine arts tents, and the arts and crafts exhibitors.

Want to do more than just look around? The 43rd Annual National Shrimp Festival will feature contests for all. Lace up your tennis shoes and take part in the 5K or 10K run on October 11, show off your skills at the Sand Sculpture Contest from 11 a.m – 5 p.m. on the same day, or sign up to be a vendor at next year’s show (the application process for 2014 is closed). Also, come out and support area schools and students as you listen to the most talented youths in Baldwin County, Alabama. The Shrimp Festival Idol Contest is back by popular demand (at the west stage) and will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Food & Drink
Saturday will feature the announcement of the 7th Annual Restaurant Challenge winners at 3:15 p.m. It’ll give you great ideas on where to eat while you’re in town! While it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to resist trying the shrimp (and why would you want to?), there are lots of other options for those so inclined. Shrimp Fest vendors will have dessert, burgers, tacos, and more, so everyone can find something they love.

Music
The Annual National Shrimp Festival doesn’t disappoint when it comes to great music, and this year’s festival is no exception. Everyone from The Sand Band and The Tip Tops to Meghan Linsey and Keith Anderson will be setting the stage for tons of fun. Check the lineup online to see a full list of performers and show times.

Parking is on a first come, first serve basis, and it will be crowded. It’s often smart to take advantage of the shuttle services. Shuttles are just $2/person/way, and they run from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. A list of pick up and drop off spots can be found online.

Because Gulf Shores is so busy during Shrimp Fest, Fort Morgan is the perfect place to stay. You’ll be just down the road from all the action, but you’ll be far enough away to avoid the worst of the traffic. Enjoy peaceful days on the beach in Fort Morgan before you head to the packed festival! When you don’t feel like hanging out at Shrimp Fest, you won’t be fighting crowds to relax on the beach. Check out our condos or beach houses for a great place to stay in Fort Morgan!

September 19, 2014

Home Away Groceries in Fort Morgan

Perhaps you are vacationing to Fort Morgan from somewhere in Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, or even another part of Alabama. Maybe you are even coming from farther than that! Regardless, after a long car ride to arrive at your Fort Morgan condo or beach house, one of the last things that you will want to do is to stop by the grocery store to stock up on all of your supplies.

When you are staying at our Fort Morgan vacation rentals for an entire week (or more,) it can be surprising just how many groceries and items you will need. The Fort Morgan area doesn’t offer many options in the way of grocery stores, making this task even more tiring.

Luckily, there is another option! Don’t stress over perishable produce, packing coolers full of ice for a car ride, or cramming more items into your already packed vehicle. Check out Home Away Groceries, a grocery delivery service that can have all of your items delivered and waiting in your condo or beach house rental upon your arrival!

Home Away Groceries knows that you value your time on vacation – that’s why you are taking one in the first place. Spending your valuable hours walking through the grocery store aisles, standing in checkout lines, and making those trips up the stairs with groceries is no way to kick off your vacation. When you choose to do your shopping with Home Away Groceries, all of the hard work will be done for you!

So how does this work? Visit their website to browse the grocery categories, select the quantity of what you need, and simply add the items to your shopping cart. Proceed to checkout, provide them with contact and delivery information, and that’s it! Home Away Groceries will contact the property manager to arrange entry into your Fort Morgan condo or set up a delivery time that works best for your schedule. It’s just that simple!

Home Away Groceries in Fort Morgan features a variety of fresh produce, meats, pastas, breakfast items, and baking supplies for all that you need on your beach vacation. They even offer sections for paper products, baby supplies, and personal products such as shampoo and soap. Practically everything that you could find in your grocery store back home can be ordered online at Home Away Groceries in Fort Morgan.

In addition to items that can be purchased separately, Home Away Groceries features several pre-made meals and packages that make the ordering process even easier. Purchase their Easy Lunch package to have everything from bread and sandwich meat to chips, cookies, and drinks delivered right to your Fort Morgan condo. One of everyone’s favorite items is their Low Country Boil, serving up to eight people for a seafood meal that will make it truly feel as if you have arrived at the beach.

Home Away Groceries in Fort Morgan requests that orders be placed 72 hours before your arrival date and will deliver and stock your vacation rental the morning or day of your arrival. A nominal delivery fee will be placed on top of your order – a small price to pay for peace of mind and the added convenience. Their user-friendly website and easy check out ensures that there is no hassle with your ordering process.

Check out the variety and selection of Home Away Groceries in Fort Morgan by visiting their website.

August 15, 2014

Birding in Fort Morgan

Birding, also known as bird watching, is the observation of birds in their natural habitats. Birding can be done with the naked eye, through a pair of binoculars, even though the powerful lens of a camera. The town and historic sites in Fort Morgan, Alabama, have been designated as one of the “One Hundred Globally Important Bird Areas,” being the site of annual migration routes from everything from hummingbirds to bald eagles!

While the beautiful beaches of Fort Morgan offer many guests all that they could ask for, the wildlife in the area is one of the most impressive features. Birding is a seasonal venture, particularly spectacular in the spring and fall, however, migrations take place all year-round. The unique peninsula of Fort Morgan is the first landfall and last departure point for thousands of migrating birds!

Bird banding has become quite a venture in Fort Morgan, Alabama. Bird banding entails capturing large numbers of migrating birds and harmlessly placing a band around their leg as a way to track and monitor population levels as well as the condition of the birds. Bird banding allows researchers to gain crucial insight into the effects that variables such as temperature, storms, and other weather conditions have on these migrating animals.

Bird banding gathers a remarkable crew of trained and dedicated volunteers to capture and release these animals, and it is quite a sight to see! Bird banding in Fort Morgan is open to the public, inviting one and all to come check out this unique and impressive adventure. The bird banding takes place over the course of a little over one week’s time, both in April and in October.

Fort Morgan, Alabama, is also home to several sites on the Alabama Costal Birding Trail. Considered to be a birder’s paradise, the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail spans over two counties and was developed during the late 1990s as a way to offer bird enthusiasts a way to enjoy the incredible diversity that this area has to offer. Each loop that the trail offers features different ecological regions, and the one in Fort Morgan features five different sites for your recreational use!

The Fort Morgan birding loop starts AL 180, which runs until the end of the peninsula. The majority of the Fort Morgan birding trail is nestled in Fort Morgan Historic State Park. Serious birding enthusiasts can pick up a checklist at the museum in preparation for the wonderful wildlife activity they are about to witness!

If storms are in the area during the springtime migration, many guests get to witness awe-inspiring “fallouts” of migratory birds. The animals retreat to the peninsula to take refuge, in numbers and types greater than what are normally seen. Spring is one of the best times to view colorful neo-tropical birds – photographers flock to the area during this time to capture these spectacular animals on film.

The season of fall brings the neo-tropical birds back to Fort Morgan, and in addition, hundreds of migrating hawks! During this time you can view everything from red-tailed to sharp-shinned hawks. Winter brings many water birds and sparrows to the area, including chipping sparrows and white pelicans. Summer is considered to be the “slow” season of birding in this area, but can bring sandwich terns and rock pigeons to the area.

Birding in Fort Morgan is a popular activity that draws many tourists to the area. Since there are few hotels in the area, many visitors choose to stay in our lovely beach condos and houses right along the Fort Morgan beaches. Migration season is an excellent reason to enjoy a beach vacation to Fort Morgan, Alabama!

August 1, 2014

Sunburns at the Fort Morgan Beach

When you’re basking on the beaches of Fort Morgan, Alabama, time can pass rather quickly. The delightful combination of sun, sand, and lapping waves make it easy to tilt your head back for a nap or sunbath. This time without clocks, schedules, or to do lists allows you to truly relax and forget every single one of your worries and cares.

Unfortunately, the sunshine on the beach can quickly turn your skin red. As the rays reflect off of the sandy beaches, you get more sunshine than you would sitting by your pool back at home. For some, this means days of a Fort Morgan beach vacation with red noses, itchy arms, and sweltering skin.

Luckily, sunburn is easily avoidable and can be prevented if you take proactive measures when your vacation begins. For some, the sunburn has already set in and they are left wondering how they will manage the rest of their vacation with uncomfortable red skin. We have years of experience dealing with sunburn – how to avoid it and how to treat it. Check out our helpful tips below to keep yourself cool, safe, and comfortable on your vacation to Fort Morgan!

To Prevent Sunburn in Fort Morgan

Let’s start with the time of day – one of the best ways to avoid a sunburn is to stay out of the strongest sunlight. The hours of 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon are when the sun’s rays are strongest. Bring along your own shade, such as tents and EZ-Shades, to protect your skin while you lounge on the beach.

The type of clothing you wear will greatly affect your sun exposure. If you aren’t working on your tan, cover up with lightweight and light-colored clothes. Some clothes even offer sun protection built in, which is great for both children and adults. Protect your face and neck with a wide brimmed hat – one of the first areas to begin to burn! Remember to protect your eyes with sunglasses that offer both UVA and UVB protection.

Of course, sunscreen is one of the best ways to avoid a sunburn. Select a type that touts at least SPF 15 protection and always check the expiration date of those bottles that have been sitting in your beach bag since last summer! Apply before heading to the beach and remember to reapply frequently, especially after swimming or toweling off.

To Treat Sunburn in Fort Morgan

Of course, lotion with aloe is one of the best ways to treat sunburn. Lotion with soy also helps to soothe achy, sunburned skin. The thick gel from the aloe vera plant quickly reduces the sting and redness. You can also apply cool compresses – soak a washcloth in cool water and place in the refrigerator for about five minutes. Place the compress on your skin and enjoy the relief.

Soaking in a bathtub full of cool water can also provide relief, but don’t soak for too long! Avoid using soap that can dry out your skin and opt to soak in a bath of baking soda, oatmeal, or even tea…yes, tea! Add several bags of Earl Grey tea to a pot of simmering water, let steep, and allow the tea to cool. Add to your bath for a homemade remedy.

If your sunburn is very bad, consider taking ibuprofen to help alleviate the aches. Your skin is burned, so be sure to drink a lot of water to help ward off any dehydration. Your skin needs plenty of water to help repair the burn and keep you cool and comfortable.

July 24, 2014

First Floor and Fantastic!!! Indies 104

This 3 bedroom, 2 bath condominium is equipped with every comfort and convenience you would need for the perfect vacation. This condo is located in the perfect spot to have easy pool access and great views of the water. Free wireless internet access is available for each guest in this unit. The

kitchen is fully equipped and features granite counter tops, GE Profile appliances and a full-size pantry. The kitchen is open to the living and dining room. The living room features comfortable seating, flat screen TV with awesome views of the Gulf of Mexico. The dining room features seating for 4 at the dining room

table and seating for 4 at the breakfast bar. The over-sized master bedroom features views of the Gulf of Mexico out the sliding glass door, a king size bed, flat screen TV, DVD, walk-in closet, private master bath w/double vanity sink and garden tub. The 2nd bedroom features also

features a king bed, flat screen TV, DVD, and views of Mobile Bay. The 3rd bedroom sleeps 3 with a bunk bed that has a full on bottom and a bed on top, flat screen TV, and DVD. There is also a sleeper sofa that sleeps 2 more comfortably.

This property sleeps up to 9. The generously large balcony looks directly over the Gulf of Mexico and features comfortable patio furniture. The condo’s interior is decorated with comfortable high-end furniture. Appliances include cordless phones, high-speed internet, stainless steel refrigerator w/ ice maker, dishwasher, microwave, stove and cook top, washer/dryer, coffee maker, toaster, blender, mixer and all of the cookware you could ever need. No smoking and no pets allowed. Come sit on the balcony and watch the beautiful sunsets.

June 26, 2014

150th Annivarsary Of The Battle of Mobile

When I started researching this battle I had no idea of it’s importance not to mention the key players in the battle. I honestly knew little beyond the Union won! So let me give you a brief history lesson. A northern born boy enters the southern navy at an early age, almost the same time a southern boy enters the northern navy. The two boys rise in ranks and grow in valor over almost 50 years each.
The meet in battle off the coast of Alabama these great warriors, in an event that will help to determine the future of our nation.

The Union Navy is coming in from the south through the Gulf of Mexico. A fleet of wooden ships and a handful of ironclad steam ships led by David Farragut. The Confederate Navy led by Buchanan had a well armed Fort on each side of the entrance of Mobile Bay along with a torpedo (mine) laced net narrowing the entrance of the bay. With guns aimed at Farragut and his forces Fort Gaines on the West and the larger Fort Morgan on the East of the Bay it seemed The Union forces had no chance to make their way through the confederate line of Fort cannons, torpedoes, ships and its own iron clad gun ships.

Farragut was determined to get his ships through. He lashed the wooden ships together allowing the larger stronger ships to take the heavier hits
from the larger weapons and allowing the smaller or damaged ships to be pulled along with them. With a couple of nervous halts by his generals Farragut finally called from where he was lashed to the rigging of one of his strongest ships, ” Damn the torpedoes Full Steam Ahead!” While the Union did not come out unscathed they still ultimately came out victorious. The loss of one of their prized ironsides that led the battle to a torpedo (mine) was truly a dramatic moment. Buchanan also a force in his own right chasing the Union with his under armed fleet. He was not ready to give up the battle but was injured when his ship was hit. In one moment the to lead ships were so close tone another that the only bayonet injury in a navy battle was able to be inflicted. The confederate army surrendered after Buchanan’s injuries left him with a broken leg.

This Anniversary Celebration is sure to be a do not miss event. A three day event including live battles and a fireworks show on Saturday night. Be sure to book you room soon as we are running out quickly for this event. We have rentals closest to the Fort and all of the activities, be sure to book soon! For a more detailed schedule see this website set up for this event! https://fortmorgan.org/150th/

Announced schedule for the events:

Naval Battle

Saturday, August 2, 10am

Artillery Firing

Friday, August 1, 6:30pm, Water Battery

Saturday, August 2, Noon-4p, Siege

Sunday, August 3, 10am-1pm, Siege

Civil War Music

Friday, August 1, 7pm, Bobby Horton Performs after Artillery Firing

Siege of Fort Morgan

Saturday, August 2, Noon-4pm, with Infantry and Artillery Firing

Sunday, August 3, 10am-1pm, with Infantry and Artillery Firing

Confederate Sortie

Saturday, August 2, during the siege

Grand Bombardment

Saturday, August 2, 8-9pm, Nighttime event with artillery and aerial pyrotechnic explosions

Surrender Ceremony

Sunday, August 3, 1-2pm, Ceremony to include Salute to the Colors

Naval Exhibits

During all three days – Special Naval Exhibit at Fort Morgan Museum featuring rarely exhibited artifacts from USS Tecumseh, USS Philippi and CSS Gaines, three of the ships that fought during the Battle of Mobile Bay.

June 20, 2014

All Shook Up!!! A Must See From Summer Tide Theratre

This performance is put on at the George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center in Gulf Shores, from June 6 until July 4th, 2014, by the Universtiy of Alabama SummerTide Theatre group.

This talanted group of college students and professors are putting on what has been proclaimed by our staff as the “Best Show They Have Ever Done!!!” ” Really Funny!” “Everyone Should Go See This!”

So let me give you an idea of what the show is about! A wayward motorcycle rider breaks down in a small sad lonely town. After his arrival everything starts to change and the fun and love abounds. ” All Shook Up” Features song by Elvis masterfully preformed by the players as you move through this
funfilled story.

In this small intimate theatre you sit so close to the stage you feel as though you are part of the show. The George C. Meyer center has been the home of Summer Tide Theatre for over a decade and produced many talented actors and actresses, and all those who are behind the scenes that make the magic happen. Many of these students have gone on to broadway either either in front or behind the scenes.

This years cast includes Killian Azalirad in the lead as Chad, Rachel Baber as Silvia, Will Erwin as Dennis, Sandra Gates and Lorraine, Ben Haupt as Dean, Brianna Heller as Sandra, Kelly Kohlman as Natalie, and Dr. William A. Martin as Jim. This wonderful cast will have you laughing so hard you are in tears as singing along to the Elvis. This show is a don’t miss if you are a local or just hear on vacation.

June 13, 2014

Father’s Day Hot Air Balloon Glow

Come join us for a 4 day Super Sale during the Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival weekend that begins on Thursday, June 12. Come enjoy hot air balloon displays which will fire up for a Glow Event at dusk that evening. Take advantage of special opportunities to spin our

prize wheel and a chance to win store merchandise, gift cards, carousel rides and other prizes. Free Shuttle Service in the East back parking lot behind Nike Friday, June 13th and Saturday, June 14th from 2pm – 10pm. You don’t want to miss this weekend filled with fun family events and specially priced merchandise.

The Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will kick off at Tanger Outlets beginning at 7:00 p.m. on June 12th with a hot air balloon display and children’s entertainment. Hot air balloons will fire up for a Glow Event at dusk. Be certain to take advantage of special opportunities to spin our prize wheel with a chance to win store merchandise, gift cards, carousel rides and other prizes.

On Friday morning, June 13th, at 6 a.m. hot air balloons will begin to take flight from Tanger Outlets Foley during a special media event, weather permitting. Once the balloons are in flight, stay and shop our super sale!

*The Balloon Glow is weather and wind permitting.

This is such a beautiful chance to make some memories with Dad find some good deals and maybe even take a ride in a Hot Air Balloon! What an experience to hod on to with the one you love. This is a don’t miss area event. Be sure to take some picture!