Beach Restoration | Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Beach Restoration

UPDATE 11/1/23: See link below for live updates of the ongoing progress/locations of the beach restoration

If you’re a regular visitor to the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area in the winter months, or planning a getaway during that time, this year (Winter 2023/2024) might not be the best time to come. A massive beach restoration project, complete with heavy equipment and plenty of noise, will be conducted between November and April. 

However, if you plan appropriately and are flexible on when you come, and where you stay, you may find some spots and times to visit that enable you to avoid the construction project (see below).

Consisting of dredge barges off the coast, pumping thousands of metric tons of sand onto the beaches, which is then spread by bulldozers and other heavy equipment, this vital restoration initiative aims to address the extensive damage done by Hurricanes Nate and Sally. The focus is to repair and rehabilitate the beaches, which lost a lot of height and width to the hurricanes.

According to plans released by the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the project's implementation timeline is as follows:

November: Initiation of beach restoration activities, with a primary focus on the severely impacted area east of Little Lagoon Pass.

December: Continuation of beach restoration activities, shifting the efforts to the west of Little Lagoon Pass.

January: Gradual transition to beach restoration within Gulf State Park.

February: Initiation of beach restoration along Romar Beach.

March: Progression to beach restoration along Perdido Key.

April: Phasing out of equipment and concluding the project operations.

So, if you plan your dates and locations carefully, with a little luck that the project stays on schedule, you may find that you can have a relatively normal experience on our beaches this winter. The map below illustrates the schedule for the planned work outlined above. 

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NOTE: This is advice, not a promise. Projects like this experience delays and revisions all the time. Come at your own risk!

LIVE UPDATES

Beach Wedding in Gulf Shores | A Guide

Credit: Paradise Beach Weddings

Considering having a beach wedding in Gulf Shores, AL? This article will help you decide and start your planning. 

The combination of soft white sands, gentle waves, and stunning sunsets creates a romantic backdrop that's hard to rival. But before you say "I do" with your toes in the sand, there are several important things to consider. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about planning a beach wedding in Gulf Shores, AL.

How to Set Up a Beach Wedding

Setting up a beach wedding requires thoughtful preparation. Start by choosing a reputable local wedding planner who specializes in beach weddings. These experts can handle the logistical challenges that come with outdoor ceremonies, ensuring your big day goes off without a hitch. Websites for local beach wedding planners like Your Dream Beach Wedding, Paradise Beach Weddings, and Gulf Shores, Orange Beach Weddings offer valuable insights and services for couples looking to tie the knot on the beach.

Best Month for a Beach Wedding

Selecting the right month for your beach wedding is crucial. The months of April to October tend to be the most popular due to warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. Keep in mind that peak months (June-Aug) will mean higher costs for accommodations and crowded beaches, so consider a slightly off-peak time to enjoy a more intimate ceremony, cheaper accommodations, and more pleasant temperatures.

Is a Beach Wedding a Good Idea?

Opting for a beach wedding is a fantastic idea if you're captivated by the idea of a natural, breathtaking backdrop. The soothing sound of waves and the salty breeze can add an unparalleled romantic ambiance to your special day. Beach weddings also allow for a more relaxed and casual atmosphere, giving you the freedom to be creative with your dress code, décor, and overall vibe.

Getting Married on a Gulf Shores Beach

Yes, you can absolutely get married on the beaches of Gulf Shores, AL. The area offers a range of picturesque locations where you can exchange your vows with the ocean as your witness. From public beach access points to private beachfront resorts, Gulf Shores has options to suit every couple's preferences. You'll need to obtain the necessary permits and adhere to any local regulations, so it's advisable to work closely with your chosen wedding planner to ensure a smooth process.

Important Considerations

Before committing to a beach wedding, it's important to be aware of a few key factors. Weather can be unpredictable, so having a backup plan for indoor or covered spaces is essential. Wind and sand can also impact your ceremony, so consider providing guests with comfortable seating and footwear options. Hiring a professional photographer experienced in beach settings will ensure your photos capture the magic of the moment.

In conclusion, a beach wedding in Gulf Shores, AL offers a unique and enchanting experience for couples seeking a memorable way to say their vows. By partnering with reputable wedding planners such as those found on Gulf Shores' official wedding page, you can navigate the logistics with ease. Whether you choose to wed during the popular months or opt for a more intimate ceremony in the off-peak season, the natural beauty of the Gulf Shores beaches will make your special day truly unforgettable.

Remember, the decision to have a beach wedding is as personal as your love story. If you're captivated by the idea of a beachside celebration and embrace the unique challenges and charms it offers, a Gulf Shores beach wedding could be the perfect choice to start your happily ever after.

For more insights and tips on planning a beach wedding, be sure to check out the article "Important Things to Know Before You Plan a Beach Wedding". This resource offers valuable information to help you make informed decisions as you embark on your journey to create the wedding of your dreams.

Sources:

Your Dream Beach Wedding

Paradise Beach Weddings

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach Weddings

Gulf Shores Official Wedding Page

Important Things to Know Before You Plan a Beach Wedding

Bahama Bob's Restaurant Fire | When Will it Re-open?

Photo by WKRG News

UPDATE 5/14/24: GREAT NEWS! Bahama Bob's is NOW OPEN AGAIN AND BETTER THAN EVER!

Approximately one month following a July fire that forced the closure of Bahama Bob’s Beachside Cafe in Gulf Shores, there are promising signs of a revival for the iconic restaurant in Alabama.

In an interview with WKRG's Debbie Williams, Whit Spellman, the manager of the establishment, expressed strong optimism about the restaurant's future. He affirmed, "We are committed to making a comeback. Currently, we are in the process of evaluating the extent of the damage. However, as we gradually clean up the aftermath, the situation is progressively improving."

Tina Wesner, another manager at Bahama Bob's, acknowledged the restaurant's history of encountering adversity. She stated, "I've experienced challenges like [hurricanes] Ivan and Katrina, but, as my colleague mentioned, this is an unprecedented situation for us." According to both Spellman and Wesner, it is estimated that the fire caused significant damage to around 30 to 35 percent of the building.

The incident occurred on the evening of Sunday, July 16, during dinner service when patrons began to notice the emergence of smoke within the popular tourist destination. Beverly Cross, who was present at the time, recollected, "We were enjoying our meal when the scent of smoke reached us. Soon after, there were urgent shouts instructing everyone to evacuate. It's truly unfortunate. Thankfully, everyone managed to escape."

Photo by Gulf Shores FD

The staff promptly guided customers out of the premises, with Cross observing the unfolding events from across the street. She recounted that it took merely seven minutes before flames engulfed the restaurant. Matt Mauller, vacationing with his family, had a similar experience. He shared, "Right after placing our orders, we detected smoke. Before we knew it, the entire area was filled with smoke and the front of the building was ablaze. Despite the chaos, the team at Bahama Bob's exhibited remarkable efficiency in evacuating and ensuring the safety of everyone. Even the wait staff ensured that all their assigned tables were accounted for amidst the fire."

Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames within a span of 30 to 40 minutes after the evacuation.

In the aftermath of the disaster, the local restaurant community came together in a remarkable display of support, absorbing all 60 of Bahama Bob's employees into their establishments.

Tina Wesner expressed lightheartedly, "When we are ready to reopen, they'll need to return to us." However, the reopening date remains a distant goal. She added, "Although it might take some time, we are dedicating our efforts to expedite the process as much as possible."

Best Restaurants by Category

A reader suggested that it would be helpful to post an article here that outlined some of the locals' favorite restaurants by category, so here it is! We will continue adding more categories to the list, but here are some great ones to help you get started on your planning so that you can eat and celebrate like a local.

Best Seafood Restaurants 

Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Best Fine Dining Restaurants

Gulf Shores Resorts

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Gulf Shores offers a lot of great beach resorts. From Orange Beach, throughout Gulf Shores, and out to Fort Morgan, you'll find the perfect beach resort for you. To make your vacation truly unforgettable, we've compiled a list of some of the very top resorts for you to consider. 

1. Perdido Beach Resort: Located in Orange Beach, this luxurious waterfront retreat offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, elegant rooms, a private beach, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and renowned dining options. Whether you're lounging by the pool or exploring nearby attractions, this resort caters to all your needs.
2. Gulf Shores Plantation by Vacasa: Situated in Gulf Shores, the Gulf Shores Plantation resort is a family-friendly gated resort community that offers comfortable condos and townhouses with access to amenities such as pools, hot tubs, tennis courts, and a championship golf course. With its serene atmosphere and proximity to the beach, it's an ideal choice for a relaxing vacation.
3. The Beach Club Resort & Spa: Located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula, The Beach Club Resort & Spa is a beachfront oasis offering well-appointed accommodations, a full-service spa, multiple pools, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options. Guests can indulge in activities including beach volleyball, kayaking, or simply basking in the sun on the resort's private beach.
4. Kiva Dunes Resort & Golf: Nestled just west of Gulf Shores, toward Fort Morgan, Kiva Dunes is a golfer's paradise. With a stunning 18-hole championship golf course one the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, this resort offers comfortable accommodations, a clubhouse, a restaurant, and access to private beaches. 
5. Southern Shores Beach Resort: Located in Gulf Shores, the Southern Shores Beach Resort offers excellent beachfront condos with spectacular Gulf views. With direct beach access, a pool, and spacious accommodations, this resort provides a relaxed and intimate atmosphere for a memorable vacation.
6. The Beach Club: Another gem in Gulf Shores, The Beach Club offers a wide range of vacation rentals and amenities. From well-appointed condos to spacious cottages, guests enjoy access to pools, a spa, restaurants, and easy access to the beautiful sugar sand beach.

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, AL, are home to several of the best resorts along the Gulf Coast. Whether you're seeking a luxurious vacation, a family-friendly get-away, or a golfing adventure, these resorts have something for everyone. From pristine sugar sand beaches to luxurious amenities and activities, these resorts will make your stay in Gulf Shores' coastal paradise truly unforgettable.

VISIT OUR WHERE TO STAY PAGE for a list of additional accommodations 

Best Seafood Restaurants | Local Favorites

There are a ton of great seafood restaurants in the Gulf Shores area, but not all are equal. Locals tend to avoid the tourist focused restaurants in favor of smaller, locally owned places that tend to offer really great locally sourced seafood that is fresh and more reasonable priced. Here are the local favorites that you should consider trying.

Mikee's Seafood - located in Gulf Shores near the intersection of  Gulf Shores Pkwy & West Beach Blvd, is a local family-owned establishment, offers an extensive menu featuring a wide selection of fresh catches from the nearby Gulf of Mexico. From succulent shrimp to fresh oysters and the catch-of-the-day, the seafood is sourced locally, ensuring freshness, and supporting the community's fishermen. This writer particularly loves grabbing a seat at the bar and enjoying a cold brew (or 3) with a plate of the best fried cheese sticks in the area (5 stars!).

Doc's Seafood Shack  - located in Orange Beach, Doc's is a longtime local favorite that has been voted among the Top 10 seafood restaurants in America for its delicious fried local shrimp, fresh oysters, and its "Create Your Own" seafood platters. Like other restaurants, in peak season, the waits can be long, so this local advises you to skip lunch and hit Doc's with a starving belly at 4:30pm. You'll get in much faster and the food will taste all that much better.

Bahama Bob's - Unfortunately, Bahama Bob's suffered a fire in July, 2023 and has not re-opened yet. We'll update you on that as we learn more.

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Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Families travelling to the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area often look for restaurants that are kid-friendly. While all the restaurants in the area welcome families with kids, some offer a lot of kid-focused games and activities to make the whole experience fun. Here are the top two places you definitely need to visit for good food and a great time for whole family.

LuLu's - located in Gulf Shores on the Intracoastal Waterway next to the Gulf Shores Parkway (Hwy 59) bridge, LuLu's is owned by LuLu Buffet, Jimmy Buffet's sister. While this place is an enormous restaurant that focuses on tourists, it offers not only good food but also a large play area for kids of all ages. There is a fenced beach area with games, volleyball, buckets and shovels, sand castle making tools, and a huge ropes course for the teens and tweens. Situated right in the playground area is a really nice outdoor bar for mom and dad to enjoy while the kids play safely within sight. 

The Hangout - located on the main public beach at the foot of Gulf Shores Parkway, The Hangout is another large, tourist-focused restaurant the offers good food and tons of activities for kids. There is a large play area with fun activities, an hourly foam party, and plenty of singing, dancing, and partying during your meal. Its a chaotic, wild, and fun time for the whole family.

Shrimpy's Grill & Golf - located next to Mikee's Seafood restaurant in Gulf Shores (and owned by the same local family) is Shrimpy's, which is popular with locals and tourists alike for its generous portions of good food, respectable drink prices, and a fun putt-putt golf course for the kids to enjoy while the old folks enjoy themselves in the air conditioning. Plus, you'll find Shrimpy's a nice change after you've spent a lunch or dinner at either of the big touristy places.

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Jellyfish | What Purple Flags at the Beach Mean

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Wondering what the purple flags at the beach mean? It is a warning that “dangerous marine life” is present in the Gulf’s waves. While it could be any type of “dangerous marine life,” in Gulf Shores it almost always means jellyfish. Here’s some local advice on what you can do to best protect yourself, your kids, and the quality of your vacation.

While swimming or snorkeling in the Gulf can be a delightful experience, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with jellyfish stings. Jellyfish stings can range from mildly irritating to potentially life-threatening, depending on the species and an individual's sensitivity. Most jellyfish you may encounter are pretty mild as far as the level of pain experienced, and the duration of the pain. You may never see these jellyfish, because they are clear, snot-like creatures. You may not even feel the sting when it happens. Instead, you may just feel like a particular part of your body feels like a bad sunburn for several minutes to an hour or so.

On the other hand, if you see any jellyfish that is blue in color, stay away! If you see a blue jellyfish washed up on the beach, don’t touch it – and assume a few million more are still in the water. Blue jellyfish in this area are most often the Portuguese Man O' War, and believe me, they will ruin your day. The Portuguese Man O’ War causes intense pain, swelling, redness, and can even lead to systemic symptoms like difficulty breathing or nausea.

If you arrive for your vacation and see purple flags are flying, don't worry that you will have to pee on a family member to treat a jellyfish sting. This local recommends you find a nearby pharmacy and get Stingaway Jellyfish Treatment. It’s an over-the-counter treatment specifically designed to alleviate the symptoms of jellyfish stings. It comes in a “regular” jellyfish version and it also comes in a version for blue jellyfish stings. Might as well grab them both and keep them in your beach bag just in case. 

From the Stingaway website: This topical solution contains active ingredients that neutralize the venom, providing quick relief and preventing further harm. The application of Stingaway helps to alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and minimize the risk of secondary infections. It is important to note that Stingaway should be used in conjunction with seeking medical attention, particularly for severe or allergic reactions.

Having Stingaway with you at the beach might just save you a ruined beach day, or worse, a trip to the ER.

Best Fine Dining Restaurants | Local Favorites

If you're in the mood for some white tablecloths, fancy wines, and gourmet food prepared by trained chefs, look no further. Here are the places locals love and visit regularly for our anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and these are not the only excellent places you can visit. These are just the perennial favorites of us locals, where you can't go wrong.

DON'T FORGET - You need to make reservations for all these restaurants well in advance.

Jesse's on the Bay - located out Fort Morgan Rd in Gulf Shores, Jesse's on the Bay offers an extensive menu that showcases a fusion of coastal and international flavors. This newly opened location offers the same quality and precision execution the original location in Magnolia Springs, AL became famous for. There is literally nothing bad on the menu, including the many fresh seafood dishes, but it is STEAK that Jesse’s is most prized for. They serve unique cuts of dry and wet-aged steaks and bone-in cuts, overseen by Executive Chef Laurence Agnew. While the steaks aren’t exactly underpriced, they certainly over-deliver. The mixologists behind the bar can make you anything you want, and they offer several signature cocktails that will delight any beach vacationer. All this is delivered to you by highly trained staff providing top-notch service. 

Cosmo's - located on Canal Rd in Orange Beach, Cosmo's is a fantastic restaurant to take your family to for a delicious gourmet meal prepared under the supervision of highly trained chef. Offering a fusion of Southern and global fare in a quiet and intimate setting inside, and the same great food in a more open and casual setting outside, Cosmo's has long been a favorite for locals' special occasions. The bar offers the island's best selection of craft beers, wines and fine cocktails too. All this is provided by highly trained staff who bring you superior service.

Villaggio Grille - located in The Wharf entertainment complex in Orange Beach, Villaggio Grille is a great fine dining establishment offering a fusion of Italian and local fresh seafood dishes, plus an excellent selection of fine wines to choose from. They offer fine seating indoors, and more casual seating on the outdoor patio. Like the other restaurants listed here, Villaggio does not disappoint with its gourmet chef prepared meals delivered by its attentive and well-trained staff. 

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Gulf Shores Jet Ski Rental

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Imagine renting a fast, powerful jet ski to ride in this paradise for watersports enthusiasts seeking a thrilling experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a first-timer, a quick trip over to Orange Beach offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable jet skiing experience (the city of Gulf Shores has not issued any business licenses for jet ski rentals).

With its crystal-clear waters, thousands of square miles of bays filled with playful dolphins, and shorelines filled with great water-accessible bars and restaurants, Orange Beach provides the ideal playground for jet skiing. You can hop on your jet ski and feel the rush as you blast through the waves, wind in your hair and sun on your face, or go explore the intricate network of bays, lagoons, canals, and estuaries that cover the area, discovering private, hidden coves and islands to make your own for the day.

Whether you prefer to venture out on your own or to join a guided jet ski tour, there are options to suit every preference. Here is a listing of our recommended jet ski rental companies for your Gulf Shores/Orange Beach vacation.

Alabama Extreme Watersports, located at Bear Point Marina in Orange Beach, offers jet ski rentals and private Waverunner dolphin tours in beautiful Perdido Bay. It is an ideal location because not only is Perdido Bay a beautiful body of water, but Bear Point Marina is just across the bay from Pirate’s Cove, a legendary beach dive bar popular with locals for decades. A visit to Pirate’s Cove is a must-do while vacationing and the very best way (practically the only way) to get there is by water. Ask your jet ski rental attendant to point it out to you. In addition to Pirate’s Cove, Bear Point Marina itself offers a fun outdoor bar and sit-down restaurant for you to enjoy.

Flora-Bama Marine & Watersports, located across the street from the legendary Flora-Bama beach bar, offers rentals on new jet skis and Waverunners with Bluetooth stereos so you can blast your favorite music while blasting through wakes and waves. Their location on Old River, next to luxurious Ono Island, is ideal for those who want to ride over to Robinson Island, a white-sand/turquoise water-surrounded island that is accessible only by water and an extremely popular party spot for locals. Ask your rental attendant for quick, easy directions. Then, after you’re done jet skiing, you can just hop across the street to end your day partying at the Flora-Bama.

Happy Harbor Marina, located on Cotton Bayou in Orange Beach offers jet skis for rent that can accommodate up to three riders. Their equipment is new and well-maintained, and their location offers easy access to popular Robinson Island and Perdido Bay’s thousands of square miles of open water, coves, hidden creeks, and secret islands. With plenty of water-accessible bars and restaurants around the area, you’re sure to have a fantastic experience.

Fishing from the Pier in Gulf Shores AL

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One of the most fun things you can do while visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, especially with kids, is to go fishing off the Gulf State Park Pier. The pier was damaged by Hurricane Sally a couple of years ago, but it remains open just past the half-way point and the restrooms are still accessible.

You can rent fishing equipment there, if you don’t have your own, but you will need to get your Alabama Saltwater Fishing License in advance at Walmart’s sporting goods counter or by going online here. Also, before you go, it’s a good idea to visit one of the local bait shops in the area to get yourself some frozen squid and mackerel and to make sure you have the right kind of setups for your leaders, hooks, and weights. You can ask the bait shop personnel for some advice on that and about what artificial lures might be working well at the time you go.

Live bait is best, of course, but you’ll need a bait bucket with motorized air pump for that – available at the bait shops. When you’re at the pier, there is almost always a local or two there who will be happy to give you some advice, too – especially if you offer to buy them a drink at the pier concession ;)

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There is a wide variety of fish that can be caught from the pier including Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Pompano, King Mackerel, Redfish, Whiting, sharks, and more. If you hook something too big to reel up, just yell for help from a local who has a lift basket designed for that purpose. They’ll be happy to help you land your fish – especially if you offer to give it to them after you get some pictures ;)

If you really want to learn something, the Gulf State Park Pier offers a pier fishing Angler Academy for beginners that you can attend. It costs $15 per person and lasts about 2 hours. Angler Academy is by reservation only, so contact them in advance to set it up.

The pier is open for fishing 24/7, but if you need to rent fishing equipment, you’ll need to go during the hours it is staffed (6AM-10PM). There is a restaurant and concession stand available if you get hungry or thirsty, too. Here are the basic fees to expect:

Parking: $3 for 2 hours; $5 for 4 hours; $10 all day parking & includes fishing permit (not to be confused with a State Saltwater Fishing License, which much be purchased separately at Walmart or the link provided above

Fishing permit: $9 for the day; $41 for the week

Rod/Reel rental: $10 for 4 hrs; $20 all day

Sightseeing (if you don’t want to fish): $2 for all day

LEARN MORE about fishing at the Gulf State Park Pier

VISIT OUR FISHING PAGE for more local favorite guides and fishing advice

Little Lagoon | Best Place to Stay in Gulf Shores

Little Lagoon sunset

Want to see the best Gulf Shores sunsets and eat like a local? Here's a bit of local advice for you. Instead of paying a premium to stay on the beach, find a house on the south side of Little Lagoon. You'll save some money, avoid the inevitable noise, elevator waits, and congestion that comes with staying in a high rise condo, and you'll enjoy the best sunsets the northern Gulf coast has to offer while still being close to all the restaurants, bars, and entertainment.

Gulf Shores' beaches run east and west, meaning the sun does not set over the Gulf of Mexico. In the summer, the sun actually sets behind the high rise condos, ruining the view from the beach. By staying on the south side of Little Lagoon, across the street from the beach, you will not only enjoy incredible sunset water views, but also plenty of fun fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and paddle boarding opportunities.

Little Lagoon is connected to the Gulf via Little Lagoon Pass, so it is a body of water that rises and falls with the tide, keeping it beautiful and clean. Chock full of fish and crustaceans like speckled trout, red fish, founder, and blue crab, Little Lagoon is the locals' favorite place to relax and have fun away from the tremendous crowds on the beach. But when you want to hit the beach, it is just a short walk or bike ride away, giving you the best of both worlds.

Now, about eating like a local: When staying on Little Lagoon, one of the best things you can do on your first day in Gulf Shores is go to Walmart to get yourself a saltwater fishing license and buy yourself a crab trap, a length of rope, some cheap chicken (thighs or drumsticks) and a box of Zatarain's Crab Boil in Bag seasoning. Tie the length of rope to the crab trap, load a couple of pieces of raw chicken into it, drop the trap off your dock into the lagoon, and secure the rope to the dock. Leave it for 24 hours and then go check it. You're likely to have a few nice blue crabs in there, just waiting for you to boil yourself up a fantastic dinner. You can keep re-baiting and setting your trap each day until you have enough crabs to make your dinner (put the live crabs you collect into an ice chest with ice and they will go dormant). 

Then, when you have roughly one or two crabs per person, the best thing to do is go to Gulf Shores Seafood (a local fresh seafood market near the beach) and buy enough "Low Country Shrimp Boil" meals for your dinner party. It will come cooked and ready to eat with tons of fresh shrimp, smoked sausage, potatoes, and corn on the cob. All you need to do then is boil your crabs.

While someone is out picking up your prepared low country shrimp boil, start boiling a pot of water on your stove and follow the directions on your Zatarain's box to prepare your seasoned water. 

When your already-prepared low country shrimp boil meal arrives at the house, toss your fresh crabs into the prepared and seasoned water. They'll be done in just a few minutes (when they turn bright red). 

Now, just toss your finished crabs on top of your already-prepared low country shrimp boil meal and you'll have a feast fit for a King - made with your self-caught fresh crabs!

Here's a YouTube video detailing the crab boiling process, to help you understand how it works. And another video that teaches you how to eat your crabs.

You can find vacation rentals on the south side of Little Lagoon by visiting the websites of local vacation rental agencies you find on Google, or better yet you can visit the VRBO website (Vacation Rentals by Owner). 

Here are the streets you want to be on, so you can look these up when you start searching those sites:

Windmill Ridge Road, Gulf Shores

West 8th Avenue, Gulf Shores

West 8th Street, Gulf Shores

West Lagoon Avenue, Gulf Shores

West Beach Boulevard (WEST OF LITTLE LAGOON PASS), Gulf Shores

Seahorse Circle, Gulf Shores

Staying on the north side of Little Lagoon is great, too. But you won't be facing the sunsets. If you stick to rentals on the streets listed above, you can't go wrong. Just check all the photos to be sure the view isn't obstructed by anything before booking.

VISIT OUR WHERE TO STAY and WHAT TO DO PAGES for more local tips and advice