Eight years ago, the O’Mahoney family of Mandeville bought a vacation home in Gulf Shores, Alabama. They visit at least once-a-month and more often in the summer. “It is a year-round retreat,” says Susie O’Mahoney, who is the mother of four children. Even in the winter, her kids bundle up in sweaters and fly kites on the beach.
“Gulf Shores is fun, casual and relaxed,” says Susie. Her favorite activity is sitting on the beach and spending the day reading. The family’s house is located in a secluded area, and it “feels as if we have a private beach.”
The O’Mahoney children frequently invite their friends to Gulf Shores and so does their Mom. Susie hosted a girlfriend getaway for her pals from California. A favorite excursion is the spa at the Beach Club. After, the girls enjoyed a massage and manicures, they spent the afternoon lounging at the resorts outdoor swimming pool.
The O’Mahoneys enjoy exploring Gulf Shores and discovering new diversions. Susie frequently stops at the Alabama Visitor Center and picks up brochures that describe area attractions. She keeps the information in a binder to share with her guests.
Here is a sampling of entertaining activities in Gulf Shores:
SHOPPING
Tanger Outlet
2601 S McKenzie Street
Foley, AL
The O’Mahoney clan spends every Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) shopping for holiday gifts at the Tanger Outlet. The outlet has 120 brand-name stores including: Coldwater Creek, Eddie Bauer, Zales, Samsonite, Nine West and more.
Pelican Place at Craft Farms
3800 Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL
Just over the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge is Pelican Place at Craft Farms. It has a healthy mix of large scale national stores and local shops--a favorite is Hooch’s Mama. Pick up a new DVD at Coastal Video or catch the latest flick at Cobb Theatres.
Paperbacks III
Highway 180
Gulf Shores, AL
(251) 968-6636
An avid reader, Susie recommends Paperbacks III. The used book store is located next to the O’Mahoney’s favorite coffee shop, Dizzy Beans.
ENTERTAINMENT
The 7,000 acre Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is home to the endangered Alabama beach mouse and nesting sea turtles. Hike or bike along the winding trails. Just a few miles down the road is Fort Morgan State Park—the guardian of Mobile Bay. Kids love exploring the Civil War era fort. Crowds flock to the park for the bird banding sessions that are held every April and October. The Hummer/Bird Study Group (HBSG), which organizes the event, gathers valuable information about the health, behavior and habitat of migratory birds in addition to giving visitors the chance to touch, hold and release the birds. Learn about oystering techniques, shrimping , and crabbing along the backwaters of Longs Bayou and Wolf Bay aboard a Sailaway Charters trip.
DINING
King Neptune’s Seafood
1137 Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL
The family-run restaurant serves more than 150,000 pounds of oysters every year. Friendly service and a casual atmosphere make it a local favorite.
Jesse’s Restaurant
14770 Oak St.
Magnolia Springs, AL
About a half hour drive from the beach is the town of Magnolia Springs—population 750. A cornerstone of the community is a quaint market and small restaurant, Jesse’s. The main dining room was formerly the town’s Post Office. A glass-enclosed, raised sunroom creates an airy, relaxed atmosphere for upscale dining. Fried catfish and grits are served alongside crab cake salads and grilled seafood. The key lime pie is baked with a pretzel and gingersnap crust.
Ribs and Reds
128 East first Ave.
Gulf Shors, AL
The O’Mahoney family recommends Ribs and Reds. The tasty ribs and seafood are best enjoyed on the patio overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
Stacey Rexall Drugs and Old Tyme Soda Fountain
121 W. Laurel
Foley, AL
The oldest drug store in Foley serves up the perfect treat on a hot summer day—malts, shakes and ice cream sodas.
LODGING
The Beach Club
925 Beach ClubTrail
Gulf Shores, AL
(866) 627-1259
Located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula, The Beach Club Resort has vacation rental condos and homes. Each condo has a full-size kitchen, but you’ll want to make a reservation at The Restaurant. Our favorite dish is the lobster and shrimp risotto followed by the strawberry and chocolate bread pudding. With six swimming pools, a racquet club, full-service spa, playground and recreational activities, there is plenty to enjoy.
The Wharf
4985 Wharf Parkway
Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 224-1008
A multi-use resort development located on the Intracoastal Waterway, The Wharf’s luxury waterfront condos offer guests an onsite water park, golfing and daily fishing charters. The Wharf has a movie theatre, Ferris wheel and 10,000-seat amphitheater that hosts live concerts. More than 30 retail shops and 15 restaurants round out the amenities.
TRAVEL TIPS