Head South to Gulf Coast of Alabama, by Caitlin Moore: When you imagine typical beach vacations, you probably think of the peninsula that's home to Mickey Mouse or the string of islands where everyone says "aloha." These are great places to visit, but don't forget about America's southern sandy strips.
Perdido Point Public Beach
Gulf Coast Alabama, in particular, is a region bursting with energy, carefree activities, and beach beauty. The miles and miles of available coastline means that every day of vacation can find you at a different beach. Highway 182 is a long line of dunes, boardwalks, and lounge-worthy landscape, so feel free to start at one end and work your way to the other. Perdido Point Public Beach is large and accommodating, as it is equipped with paved parking and 6,000 feet of white sand. When hunger strikes, head down to Gulf State Park Picnic Area, where you'll find over 100 picnic tables, boat rentals, a snack bar, and a bath house. anywhere in the world.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach
Anywhere along the shore you'll find places to fish, float, and suntan. Start
up a volleyball game if you feel like getting some exercise, or simply stretch
out and take a well-deserved nap. All in all, the Gulf Coast has what it takes
to quench your desire for some quality beach time.
Check out the place where Little Lagoon and the
Gulf of Mexico meet at Lagoon Park, and then finish off your tour by spending
some time at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach. This protected region
of the coast will show you the most natural side of Alabama, so be sure to
notice the live oaks and Spanish moss, the birds, and the wildlife (including
the Alabama Beach mouse). A four mile trail will allow you to truly appreciate
this untamed and untainted portion of the beach.
Fort Morgan
Visitors with any interest in history will be
happy to discover that this area has had its fair share of noteworthy events
during the past several hundred years. Travel west to visit Fort Morgan, which
was once controlled by the Spanish. It was rebuilt in time to serve as the site
of a Civil War skirmish, and the Union Army ended up gaining control of this
valuable port entrance.
Dauphin Island, eight
miles out to sea and accessible by ferry, also served a key role in the North
vs. South battle for Mobile Bay, and if you end up here during the months of
October through May, you might have the chance to witness a reenactment of the
contentious face-off. This dimension of the Alabama coast will leave everyone
in your group capable of impressing the people back home with lots of newfound
knowledge and perspective.
As long as you're living the life
of a pleasure-seeker for a little while, you might as well go
all the way and become a full-fledged beach bum. Check into
renting a place that will allow you easy access to the gulf as
well as all the amenities you'll need to breathe deeply and
forget about the real world. Assorted condos and villas are
available in this area that will provide you with stunning
views, access to stores and restaurants, and family-pleasing
conveniences like electronics, games, and a bed for everyone.
Alabama's Gulf Coast has what it
takes to give you the vacation you deserve, so don't be afraid
to head south for an excellent escape. Go online to find the
Gulf Coast Vacation Rental that will keep you housed in
comfort as you soak in the pleasures of sand, sun, and
whatever else you happen to discover.
About The Author
For a more
light-hearted diversion, visit Waterville USA, a water and
amusement park that boasts dozens of rides, slides, and
adrenaline rushes. Also, check out the renowned golf courses
that can be found throughout the area. From Scottish style to
beachside, you'll be challenged and amazed at the beauty of
these professionally designed greens. Souvenir seekers have
plenty of options here, and as for dining, you'll have as many
fresh seafood choices as you can handle.
