Our Superstar Beaches

Three of Alabama's beaches were recently awarded the title of "superstar beach" in the Natural Resources Defense Council's 24th annual "Testing the Waters" report.

From a list of hundreds of contenders, the NRDC ranked only thirty-five national beaches as consistently outperforming the others because their 2013 readings did not exceed previous standards by more than two percent between 2009 and 2012. In addition, this year's "superstars" also did not exceed the EPA's new, more stringent water quality thresholds, or "Beach Action Value (BAV)" by more than two percent in 2013.

And now, without further adieu, the awards for the 2014 Superstar Beaches in Alabama go to: 

The Gulf Shores Public Beach in Baldwin County

The Gulf State Park…

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An Orange Beach BBQ Bonanza

BBQ TRADITION in Orange Beach

Forty-eight years ago, in 1966, an Orange Beach tradition, the annual Orange Beach Fire and Rescue "Cookout on the Coast," was born.

In the early years, pork was slow-cooked over open stone pits, and firemen used shovels to rake the coals and turn the meat in the heat of the summer sun and flames. A bit later, the Department commissioned the largest available custom grill on three axles from Klose BBQ Pits in Houston, Texas. This is the same behemoth you would see belching out fragrant smoke in front of the Community Center on Canal Road today. 

On June 14, 2014, I sat down and talked with Lt. Craig Stephenson, Orange Beach Fire Marshal, about the fundraiser. He spoke with pride about how the event draws people from…

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Key Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Condo

Condo Buying Tips

If you're planning to buy a condo in Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, Alabama, there are certainly many fantastic options to choose from! Each building will have a different combination of recreational amenities and features, its own unique views, and various degrees of waterfront and beach access. If you are downsizing or retiring, or maybe buying a condo as a rental investment property, here are a few important things to know and review as a smart condo buyer! 

1. The most important thing when buying a condo is to read and understand the condo association by-laws, covenants, restrictions, and regulations. You will be provided a copy of the "condo docs" to review as a buyer. These are the be-all and end-all when it comes to life in a…

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Island Tower in Gulf Shores: Gulf-front Luxury

Gulf-front in Gulf Shores, Island Tower

Island Tower is a truly exceptional condo community on West Beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Condos in Island Tower have floor-to-ceiling windows that provide a truly stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico. Many condos boast high-end finishes, including stainless steel appliances and beautiful granite countertops. In addition, the condos are typically sold fully furnished! The complex features both indoor and outdoor pools, along with fitness facilities. It comes with plentiful covered parking and a wonderful central Gulf Shores location.

Great Amenities Nearby

Island Tower is in a fantastic location within walking distance o many shops and restaurants. Also close by are several spas, and even a water park. Many…

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The Grander: A Boater's Paradise on Deep Water

The Grander Townhomes in Orange Beach

For those looking to live in a boater's paradise, you will love The Grander townhomes. These luxury units are located bayfront on Terry Cove. The Grander is a fabulous gated marina community that's right on the water. Each unit comes with a private, covered boat slip located within the upscale complex. You'll quickly find The Grander Townhomes have all you need to live a great coastal lifestyle.

The Grander Townhomes feature three bedrooms with three-and-a-half baths. Each unit is approximately 2,400 sq. ft. with an elevator and 2.5 car garage with a storage area. In addition, these fine homes feature granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and tankless water heaters. Just call it maintenance-free…

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2013: A Record-Setting Year for Gulf Coast Real Estate

Despite a very cold winter, I am happy to report that 2013 was a great year for our beautiful island! The local business community is enjoying yet another year of record sales as more and more people discover our beautiful Gulf Coast.

2013 Highlights

• Meyer Real Estate and other management companies reporting 10% + growth in rental income for the 3rd year in a row
• RE/MAX Sales increased 40% in 2013
• Average buyer spending $350,000 vs. $250,000 in 2012
• Average property appreciation was 3% vs. 2.6% in 2012 – Some developments are seeing much higher appreciation
• New Construction is popping up all over the Island in the form of Single Family Beach Homes, Condo Developments, Restaurants, and Shops
• Record Sales to Permanent Residents 30%…

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Escape This Winter to Alabama's Sun-Drenched Beaches

Welcome Snowbirds!

Every year, thousands of snowbirds "flock" to Alabama's Gulf Coast to escape the long and dreary winter months up north. Coastal cities like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer residents and visitors a sun-soaked oasis with mild, welcoming temperatures that average in the 50s and 60s from November to March.

With luxurious white sand beaches and stunning turquoise waters, the Gulf Coast offers an ideal respite for those looking to avoid the winter blues.

Things to Do in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

The Gulf Coast has everything you need to keep your days as busy or relaxed as you like. In addition to the famed beaches, you'll find tennis courts, golf courses, day spas, fine dining, shopping, nature trails, rec centers,…

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The Beach Club in Gulf Shores: Exceptional Coastal Living

The Beach Club in Gulf Shores

As a member of the renowned Spectrum Resorts family, The Beach Club in Gulf Shores is sure to impress. Beach Club condo owners can choose between two living options: a charming beachside cottage or a luxurious Gulf-front condo. All condos enjoy a direct view of the Gulf of Mexico and access to the sugar sands right at the resort's doorstep.

Beach Club Cottages

The Beach Club Cottages are located among the white sand dunes of Gulf Shores and provide everything you could want in a seaside home. Each cottage offers a spacious floor plan, with plenty of room for families or those who just need to spread out a little. All cottages feature fully-equipped kitchens, private outdoor living space, and sizeable bedrooms,…

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The National Shrimp Festival Celebrates 40 years of Fun

The Shrimp Fest in Gulf Shores

Alabama is known worldwide for its fresh, delicious seafood, and for many, the jewel of the Gulf's mouthwatering bounty is, without a doubt, the shrimp! This tasty crustacean — plentiful in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico — has been an integral part of the area's economic and cultural heritage for hundreds of years.

Every year, the people of Gulf Shores honor this delightful seafood with four days of fun and festivities. The Annual Shrimp Festival is always a major event on the state's calendar, but this year, the event will be even bigger and better than ever as it celebrates its 40th year. Initially conceived as a one-day event to attract tourists to the region outside the peak vacation season, the Shrimp…

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Ono Island in Orange Beach: Your Island in the Sun

Ono Island in Orange Beach

Ono Island is a barrier island in southern Orange Beach, Alabama, situated at the mouth of Perdido Bay on the northern Gulf of Mexico.  It is bordered by Bay St. John to the north and Old River to the south.  Ono is populated by sand dunes, live oak trees, and many natural grasses and plant species. This gated community on the Alabama Gulf Coast is accessible via a private bridge, and for boaters, this provides quick access to the Gulf of Mexico. The island was discovered in the 15th century by the Spanish, who named it Orinoco, which means "a place to paddle," and Ono still has the charm and beauty that attracted Spanish explorers. 

Boating Paradise

There are more than seven hundred homes on the island, many of…

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