Author: Eva Faircloth

How to Spend Thanksgiving in Orange Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

The holidays can be filled with hustle and bustle, but this year resolve to make Thanksgiving different. Leave the season’s stress behind and opt for an Orange Beach Thanksgiving. Autumn is one of the perfect times of year to visit Alabama’s beaches, thanks to milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

A holiday getaway on Alabama’s beaches offers the perfect time to reflect on the past year and give thanks. Thanksgiving falls on November 23 this year, so make sure your reservations are placed!

How do you make the most of the holiday in Orange Beach? Read on for details.

The Ultimate Orange Beach Thanksgiving Experience

grocery-delivery

Enjoy an Orange Beach holiday by taking advantage of conveniences like grocery delivery when you take your holiday getaway to Turquoise Place in Orange Beach.

What could be better than arriving in your luxury Orange Beach condo to find your groceries stored away in the refrigerator and pantry?

Orange Beach Thanksgiving Dinner Options for 2023

Thanksgiving turkey on rustic wooden table

Do you love preparing the Thanksgiving turkey and all the fixings? You’re in luck! Orange Beach condo rentals at Turquoise Place feature large, oversized kitchens that include:

  • Plenty of counter space for prepping the perfect Orange Beach Thanksgiving dinner
  • Top-of-the-line appliances
  • A gas range for the very best food preparations
  • And a large dining table for everyone in the family to enjoy a “home” cooked meal

After you’ve enjoyed your Turkey Day preparations, savor the Gulf-front views from your upscale condo.

Thanksgiving Dinner To-Go Option

If you want to enjoy the comfortable surroundings of your condo but don’t want to cook an entire meal, take advantage of Orange Beach Concierge Chef David Pan’s Thanksgiving To-Go menu. You can order the full meal or just the sides. And guests booking their stay with Spectrum Resorts and providing their confirmation number when ordering will be treated to a complimentary pie. Orders must be placed by noon on Friday, November 17 for pickup at The Pantry at The Wharf on Wednesday, November 22. Reheating instructions will accompany your order. Call 251-228-6729 to order. View the menu.

Thanksgiving at Coast Restaurant

If you prefer someone else to handle the meal prep and clean up from start to finish, make reservations for the Thanksgiving feast at Coast Restaurant.  Located at our sister resort in Gulf Shores, The Beach Club Resort & Spa, you can leave the cooking to us. Award-winning Chef John Hamme will prepare a feast that’s sure to put you in nap mode when you’re finished! This year’s Thanksgiving meal includes roast turkey and all the trimmings, as well as house-smoked Scottish salmon.

Prices for Thanksgiving Day at Coast is $45 for adults. Reservations are required and seatings are from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

More Thanksgiving Options

The Hangout

Where: 101 E Beach Avenue, Gulf Shores

Contact: (251) 948-3030

Open: 11 am to 4 pm

Reservations: Recommended

Cobalt the Restaurant

Where: 28099, Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach

Contact: (251) 923-5300

Open: 10 am to 4 pm

Reservations: Recommended

GTs on the Bay

Where: 26189 Canal Road, Orange Beach

Contact: (251) 980-8400

Open: 10 am to 4 pm

Reservations: Recommended

Flora-Bama

Where: 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Perdido Key, FL

Contact: (251) 980-5118

Open: 1 pm

Reservations: None

Things to Do in Orange Beach for Thanksgiving

woman holding shopping bags

When you’re not feasting on turkey and dressing, there’s plenty to do – or not to do – during Thanksgiving in Orange Beach. Tackle a little holiday shopping on Black Friday at The Wharf or visit Tanger Outlets in Foley.

Send the kids to play a round of laser tag at Arena Next Level, also at The Wharf. Top off a day of shopping at Red or White with savory appetizers and your favorite glass of wine.

Turquoise Place Amenities & Activities

Of course, we can’t forget the beach! Whether you’re playing a game of beach volleyball, sand football, or just soaking up the sun, the white-sand beaches are ready to welcome you back for a hassle-free Thanksgiving in Orange Beach. Check out the Turquoise Place amenities and activities here.

Reserve your Orange Beach condo at Turquoise Place and enjoy a holiday to write home about with family and friends.

Fall into Paradise with Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice at Turquoise Place

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Just when you thought the Alabama Gulf Coast couldn’t get any more splendid, fall sweeps in, scattering golden hues and a touch of pumpkin spice magic over Turquoise Place in Orange Beach. Life is gourd here during the fall season, a cozy oasis of comfortable weather, sparse crowds, stunning beach sunsets and fun events. If you haven’t experienced the ahh-mazement of autumn on Alabama’s Beaches, get ready – with just the right amount of cozy coastal charm, we’re about to leaf you spellbound.

Cozy Fall Fireplaces

When those salty beach breezes get a tad chilly, nothing says snug like the gentle flicker and warmth of an indoor fire. Our beachfront condos feature toasty gas fireplaces that will wrap you up in a warm embrace. Whether you’re curling up with a bewitching book or sipping on spiced cider, a night by the fire will surely make you fall in love with autumn all over again.

Blissful Balcony Hot Tubs

Speaking of sipping, nothing goes better with hot buttered bourbon than a private balcony hot tub. Imagine sinking into bubbling bliss as the cool beach air caresses your cheeks, stars above and the sounds of waves below. Or spend a crisp fall morning snuggled under blankets as you sip hot coffee and enjoy sunrise views that steal your breath away.

Savor Fall Flavor

What’s fall without a bountiful harvest? Change of Pace is rolling out a feast of fall food and drink specials that are sure to drive you nuts. Savor your favorite fall flavors right on the resort, or make a quick trip to Southern Grind Coffee House to sample their fall coffee creations. And if you’re in the mood for a full fall food festival, don’t miss the Annual Shrimp Fest Oct. 12-15 for pounds of Gulf shrimp and seafood delights, or join the shell-ebration at Experience the Oyster on Nov. 3 and 4.

Enjoy Fall Fun

We haven’t forgotten you autumn adventurers! This time of year, the area comes alive with fall festivals, events, and, of course, pumpkin patches ripe for the picking. Watch the Blue Angels perform aerial feats, join in the fun at Orange Beach Freedom Fest, or make your way to Magnolia Corn Maze for hayrides, corn cannons, and other fall a-maze-ment.

Whether you’re a lover of fall-tastic scenery, a foodie eager to feast on fall’s bounty, or just can’t resist the charm of a cozy sweatshirt, Turquoise Place is your go-to autumn abode. Book your condo, pack your bags, and get ready for a cozy fall on the coast. It’s guaranteed to be a gourd time for all!

Top 10 Fall Events in Orange Beach for 2023

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are serving up fall’s hottest events! From toe-tapping, legendary bands to succulent seafood festivals, there’s something for every vacation style with fall events in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

While fall brings visitors from near and far to enjoy the beach’s best events, mild temperatures, warm water and unbelievable sunsets keep them coming back each year. Browse some of our favorite fall events in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores and get ready to keep on summering.

2023 Fall Events in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores

2023 Blue Angels Practice Schedule

Aug. 1, 16, 22, 23, 29
Sept. 6, 12, 19
Oct. 8, 24, 25
All practices start at 10:30 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
National Museum of Naval Aviation
1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola, FL 32508

A Blue Angels practice is a must-see when you’re spending time on the Alabama Gulf Coast. These famous aircraft perform unbelievable tricks that will leave you astonished. For more information on what you should bring and what you shouldn’t, see their website.

OWA Labor Day celebration fireworks

OWA’s Labor Day Weekend Party

Sept. 1-3, 2023
1501 S. OWA Blvd., Foley, AL 36535

If you haven’t celebrated a holiday on the Gulf Coast, you’re missing out! Join OWA Sept. 1-3 for a full weekend of less work and more play with daily activities for all ages. Start the fun on Friday with a family scavenger hunt and hot dog eating contest. Saturday is stacked with a classic car show, a live outdoor concert, and a fireworks show at the end of the night. Head back on Sunday to enjoy kids activities, more live music shows, and browse the boutique shops of downtown OWA. For more information on daily schedules, visit the event website.

2023 Bulls on the Beach

Sept. 7-9, 2023
Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar
17401 Perdido Key Dr., Perdido Key, FL 32507

Dust off your cowboy hat and head to the beach Sept. 7-9 for an unforgettable bull riding show. This event hosts bull riders from across the country and is a fun experience for the whole family. Up to a challenge? Ride the mechanical bull in the Flora-Bama tent to test your skills. Rides are $5 each.

Orange Beach Freedom Fest

Oct. 6-7, 2023
The Wharf in Orange Beach
4830 Main St., Orange Beach, AL 36561

If you love fast cars and freedom, don’t miss the 3rd annual Orange Beach Freedom Fest and Bama Coast Cruisin’ Car Show. Head to the Wharf Oct. 6-7 to view cool and classic automobiles, enjoy live music, browse vendor booths and more. This event is family-friendly (check out the on-site Kids Zone!) and free to the public.

Flora-Bama Oktoberfest

Oct. 9, 2023
Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar
17401 Perdido Key Dr., Pensacola, FL 32507

Break out your lederhosen for the Flora-Bama’s Oktoberfest. Receive a free drink upon entry for those 21 and up, free stein to the early arrivers until depleted, 25% off in the gift shop, and complimentary German food from the buffet while supplies last. Food is served at 4 p.m. and the menu includes beer brats, sauerkraut, and German potato salad. The stein-hoisting competition sponsored by Samuel Adams will begin at 5 p.m., followed by live music by The Brats in the Bama Dome. This New Orleans based polka band will have you laughing and dancing all evening at one of the best fall events in Orange Beach!

Shrimp

50th Annual National Shrimp Festival

Oct. 12-15, 2023
Gulf Shores Main Public Beach (Gulf Place)
101 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores
(251) 968-7200

Packed with thousands of pounds of fresh Gulf shrimp cooked every way imaginable, this four-day festival is scheduled Oct. 12-15. The National Shrimp Festival attracts more than 300,000 visitors annually and offers lots of vendors, a 5k and 10k race, a Kids Activity Village and so much more! Admission is free so plan to enjoy food; live music from national, regional, and local artists; art and more. It’s one of the most popular fall events in Gulf Shores.

Original German Sausage Festival

Oct. 28, 2023
Elberta Town Park
13052 Main Street, Elberta, AL 36530

Hot Dog! Get your fill of authentic German sausage and sauerkraut at this tasty food festival. Thousands of foodies fill the town each year to sample yummy German cuisine, browse over 200 arts and crafts booths, enjoy live music and take part in family fun. Be sure to try Elberta’s famous sausage dog (ask for One With and Two Without) and take home a local trinket; event proceeds benefit the town fire department!

Experience the Oyster

Nov. 3-4, 2023
The Hangout
101 E Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL

You just can’t miss this seafood shell-ebration. Back for its 2nd year, Experience the Oyster is a culinary showcase of delicious Gulf Coast seafood made by renowned chefs from across the country. Feast on raw and cooked oysters fresh from local farms (be sure to try the butter babies from Murder Point Oysters), listen to live music, attend cooking demos and catch the game on the big screen. Not a fan of oysters? Shrimp, gumbo, jambalaya and more are also on the menu.

2023 Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

Nov. 3-4, 2023
National Museum of Naval Aviation
1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola, FL

If you’ve never witnessed the Navy’s precision flight team in action, don’t let another year go by without watching the Blue Angels Homecoming Show, Nov. 3-4. This event is held at the National Museum of Naval Aviation. Note: the museum is currently open to Department of Defense (DoD) ID cardholders and their guests only.

39th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

Nov. 9-19, 2023
Various Locations and times

A favorite festival for locals and visitors alike, the annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival offers listening events across various venues between Nov. 9 and 19. Venue sites stretch from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama to Pensacola and Perdido Key, Florida showcasing almost 200 songwriters from across the country and around the world. It’s a fun time to hear some of your favorite tunes in a listening-room setting. The best way to research venues and times is on the event website. With so many dates to choose from, it’s easily one of the top fall events in Orange Beach.

Choose from your favorite fall events in Orange Beach and book your weekend (or weeklong) vacation at Turquoise Place. The spacious and oversized condos are right in the heart of the action, yet offer privacy and luxury surroundings.

The Perfect Last-Minute Back-to-School Getaway in Orange Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

As summer winds down and the new school year draws near, it’s time to start getting back to the grind. But before you start thinking about school supplies and schedules, say goodbye to summer break the right way: with a last-minute beach getaway to Turquoise Place in Orange Beach. With luxury accommodations, world-class attractions and top-notch amenities, our luxury resort offers everything your family needs to recharge and get ready for school right at your fingertips.

Because we know your to-do list is long, we’ve prepared some tips and ideas to help you plan the perfect back-to-school getaway in Orange Beach.

The Beach is Calling

Students (and many working adults) spend long hours sitting at a desk. Before you head back to the classroom, stretch out on our sugar-white sands and let your muscles melt under a warm summer sun. At Turquoise Place, miles of pristine beaches stretch across the rolling Gulf, setting the stage for long days spent sunbathing, swimming, building sandcastles and hunting for seashells. Be sure to reserve your beach chair set to snag a comfy (and shaded) seat near the waves.

Some Edu-tainment Before the Bell Rings

Before it’s time to hit the books, give your summer brain a boost with local attractions that are exciting and educational. Explore the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to discover the diverse habitats and species that call our coastline home. Visit Historic Fort Morgan to tour an authentic masonry fort that played a key role in several military battles. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is home to over 200 species and offers a chance for your children to learn about conservation (and snuggle a baby sloth). You can even join in a round of Family Trivia at our on-site Kids Activity Center to compete with other families in history and pop culture.

Family Fun and Games

You’ll soon have plenty of to-do’s to tackle, so be sure to leave some time in your schedule for simple family fun. Float our winding lazy river or visit Tropic Falls to slide, swim and scream your way through an award-winning theme and water park. Book a family dolphin cruise or enjoy watersports like jet ski rentals and parasailing right in your backyard. Play a game of life-sized checkers, splash in our luxury outdoor pools, or spend a rainy day in our Spectrum Club Lounge playing board games, ping-pong, billiards and gaming consoles.

Enjoy Resort Activities

There’s always something fun going on at our luxury beach resort. Each week of the summer features a fun resort theme, including “Space Week” (it’s truly out of this world!), “High Seas Week” (better pack your sea legs), “Circus Week” (we’re just clowning around), and “Out West Week” (cowboy boots not required). Join in themed activities like an alien egg toss, mermaid meet-and-greets, and panning for gold on our white-sand beaches. You can also attend fitness classes, family movie nights, live music shows and more. Download your weekly resort guide and check out the many scheduled activities your whole family can enjoy.

There’s no time like the present to book your perfect back-to-school getaway. Browse our available rentals and book your beachfront condo to unwind and relax before it’s time to hit the books. There’s plenty of time to make the grades, but only a few weeks left to make precious summer memories with your loved ones.

The 7 Best Places for Crave-Worthy Cocktails in Orange Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

With its vibrant bays, sugar-white sands, and stunning waterfront sunsets, Orange Beach is a place of intoxicating bliss. If you’re looking for a little more relaxation during your stay, a handcrafted cocktail or local craft beer can help you sink into a vacation state of mind. Whether you’re a margarita maven, a martini maestro, or a cosmopolitan connoisseur, our slice of paradise has something for everyone – and they’re all close at hand when you stay at Turquoise Place.

Change of Pace

Few things beat a poolside cocktail, and Change of Pace at Turquoise Place provides just what you need for sipping and sunning. Belly up to the bar and ask for your favorite drink or ask about the day’s drink special for fun concoctions featuring everything from popsicles soaking up your libations to breakfast cocktails.

Coast Restaurant

First up is Coast, our sister resort’s on-site restaurant and a local favorite for fine cocktails and specialty spirits. You can order at the bar and sit out on the veranda to sip delicious drinks with a salty beach breeze and waterfront views. From mules and martinis to bourbon-based concoctions, there’s a cocktail for everyone at Coast. You can also choose from an extensive wine and beer list or the brown water menu, which features an expanded whiskey and scotch collection and wood smoked options.

CoastAL Orange Beach

One of the newest restaurants on the Alabama Gulf Coast, CoastAL has made a big reputation for its open-air bar and beachfront views. CoastAL Beach Bar is right on the sand and serves signature cocktails guests can enjoy as you listen to live music and rolling Gulf waves. Try their version of The Bushwhacker, a booze-y milkshake that tastes like a creamy, chocolate pina colada.

Big Beach Brewing

We can’t forget you craft beer connoisseurs! Big Beach Brewing Company is a local treasure that boasts a 10-barrel brewing system, six on-site fermenters, and a tank to tap operation that offers the freshest craft beer on the coast. Lounge in the open-air taproom to sample 12 exclusive taps; we recommend the Area 251 Hazy IPA, a hoppy blend with a tropical taste that goes down like orange juice.

The Gulf

A hip beach bar with cocktails as colorful as its shipping-container exterior, The Gulf is the go-to place for Insta-worthy drinks. They’re known for cocktails almost too pretty to drink, like their scratch-made mojitos that are made fresh to order and muddled on-site. Try the Seasonal Berry Mojito, their best-selling blend of fresh lime, berries, and mint that are muddled together and topped with a dash of simple syrup, light-aged rum, and a splash of club soda.

8 Reale Speakeasy

Hidden behind a secret vault door that only opens with the right password, 8 Reale Speakeasy is not your average bar. The opulent space boasts a wide variety of ultra-premium sprits, from rare bourbons and wines to cordials made by master mixologists. Their signature cocktail recipes are carefully guarded, but they’ll tell you what to expect with adjectives like “smokey”, “balanced”, and “tart”. Find the daily password on their Facebook page to try it out for yourself.

Bonus: The Liquor Cabinet

Why settle for just any cocktail when you can become your own bartender? Visit The Liquor Cabinet at The Wharf in Orange Beach, where you’ll find a vast selection of top brands and unique small-batch liquors. Skip the restaurant and create craft cocktails at your condo, with everything you need conveniently available in one place. From premium spirits to mixers and provisions, The Liquor Cabinet is your go-to destination for elevated drink experiences.

There you have it – the six best places for cocktails in Orange Beach. And speaking of best places, Turquoise Place is a perfect choice for an intoxicating beach vacation. With a dizzying array of luxe amenities and one of the best spots on the beach, every hour is a happy one when you stay with Spectrum Resorts. Book your stay today!

5 Unique Activities for Littles at Turquoise Place in Orange Beach, Alabama

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

It’s a fact of life that family vacations often cater to the tiniest travelers. If you’re taking a trip with toddlers or kids, you’ll want a destination that offers fun for the littles while not leaving the older crowd bored to tears. Enter Turquoise Place, a luxury family resort on the beautiful shores of Orange Beach, Alabama. Here, families can enjoy endless entertainment that’s perfect for creating cherished memories, and you never have to leave the resort. Let’s take a look at five of our favorite activities that are tailor-made for littles at Turquoise Place.

1. Play with Piper the Pelican

Piper the Pelican is our official resort mascot, and she leads our flock with tons of high-flying fun. She’s usually found hosting poolside dance parties, where she pumps up the kids with lively conga lines and grooves to kid-favorite tunes. Piper also loves meet-and-greets, and she shares hugs and bumps feathers at noon on Mondays and Fridays with our youngest guests.

2. Mermaid Tails

Treat your littles to a fairy-tale adventure with a guided swimming lesson in full mermaid style. Don a brand-new sparkly mermaid tail and master the waves in our resort swimming pool as our photography team captures every moment. Your new mermaid will receive a souvenir certificate and priceless memories to take home (along with their new tail).

3. Sweet Treats at Piper’s Place

Beat the beachfront heat with a frozen treat at Piper’s Place, our on-site resort snowcone bar. Nothing says vacation like an ice-cold snow cone, and Turquoise Place (with some help from Piper) takes this summer delight to a whole new level. Stop by our poolside stand to savor a delightful array of cool and refreshing flavors. From traditional fruit to tropical combinations, there’s a snow cone to satisfy every tiny taste bud.

4. Games in the Spectrum Club Lounge

On days that are rainy (or a little too sunny), venture to the Spectrum Club Lounge to test your skills in our family gaming area. Equipped with state-of-the-art gaming consoles, table games like pool and ping-pong, and an array of family board games, it’s challenging fun for the whole crew. Games are available daily from 12pm to 7pm.

5. On-Site Activities for Kids

Turquoise Place keeps the kid-friendly fun flowing all day long with scheduled activities that help your littles shine. Craft sessions, water balloon tosses, face painting, cannonball contests and more are scheduled throughout the week during the summer season. Your kids will not only have fun, but they will also develop their skills and confidence (and make some new friends!) Remember to check out the resort guide online so your littles won’t miss out on any excitement.

Turquoise Place understands the essence of family vacations. Its array of unique and thoughtful activities cater to your children’s interests and curiosity, making their stay – and consequently yours – a magical experience. Book your stay today!

Easy Fly-In Options for an Orange Beach Vacation

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Travelers, both domestic and international, are beginning to uncover one of Alabama’s most beautiful treasures–the Gulf Coast beaches. With several airports within an hour’s drive of Orange Beach, it’s easier than ever to experience Alabama’s white-sand beaches!

Airports Near Orange Beach

There are great options for airports near Orange Beach, but depending on where you are coming from and what airline you choose, pricing can be different. Below are a few choices for consideration.

Gulf Shores International Airport (JKA)

The closest airport to Orange Beach is Gulf Shores International Airport – Jack Edwards Field (JKA), only 15 minutes from Orange Beach (nine miles) via Alabama’s Coastal Connection. JKA is a small airport with fewer airline options, mostly private flights catering to business travelers and those with a second home in the area. However, JKA is currently working with TBI/VINCI Airports to construct a new commercial terminal that could welcome flights by late summer 2023. JKA offers three car rental companies including Hertz and Enterprise, limo and taxi service, as well as ride share service (Uber and Lyft).

Pensacola International Airport (PNS)

Pensacola International Airport (PNS) is 57 minutes away from Orange Beach (30 miles) via FL-292 W. Most major airlines fly to Pensacola from a variety of U.S. cities, and you will find eight rental car companies at PNS including many popular ones like Hertz, U-Save, National and Budget. Also available is the Pensacola Airport Shuttle to or from Orange Beach for a flat rate of $75.

If you want added convenience, PNS offers nonstop flights to more than 15 U.S. Cities:

  • Charlotte, North Carolina
  • Arlington, Virginia
  • Dallas, Texas
  • Miami, Florida
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Queens, New York
  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Atlanta, Georgia
  • Denver, Colorado
  • Orlando, Florida
  • Tampa, Florida
  • Nashville, Tennessee
  • Houston, Texas
  • Kansas City, Missouri
  • St. Louis, Missouri
  • Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Mobile Regional Airport (MOB)

Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) is an hour and twenty minutes from Orange Beach (70 miles) via I-10 W. American Airlines, Delta and United all fly into MOB, with nonstop flights to four major hubs. Once you arrive at MOB, there are multiple options for ground transportation including seven rental car companies, taxi and limo service, and ride share service (Uber and Lyft).

Non-stop flights to Mobile Regional Airport (MOB):

  • Atlanta, Georgia
  • Charlotte, North Carolina
  • Dallas, Texas
  • Houston, Texas

Mobile International Airport (BFM)

Mobile International Airport (BFM) is the Gulf Coast’s newest airport terminal, located an hour and seven minutes from Orange Beach (58 miles) via I-10 W. With a convenient location near downtown Mobile, BFM makes it easy to access Orange Beach with six rental car companies and ride share service on-site. Although the site is still under construction, plans are underway to relocate all commercial flights from Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) to BFM by mid 2025. And flights are already in the works – starting May 1, 2023, Avelo Airlines will offer exclusive nonstop service to Orlando, Florida (MCO) from BFM two days per week.

Non-stop flights to Mobile International Airport (BFM):

  • Orlando, Florida

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)

Another option is the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), located slightly more than 200 miles away (3 hours and 10 minutes) via I-10 W. Major airlines fly into MSY and ground transportation is plentiful with taxis, buses, shuttles and major rental car companies (Alamo, Avis, Dollar, Enterprise and Hertz, to name a few). Many travelers take advantage of sometimes lower rates to fly into New Orleans and enjoy a little time there before making their way to Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

MSY hosts 16 airlines that serve over 50 nonstop destinations, including:

  • Atlanta, Georgia
  • Dallas, Texas
  • Houston, Texas
  • Denver, Colorado
  • St. Louis, Missouri
  • Seattle, Washington
  • Charlotte, North Carolina
  • Memphis, Tennessee
  • New York, New York
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Detroit, Michigan
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Chicago, Illinois

For a full list of nonstop flights to MSY, visit the airport website.

For more detailed information on nonstop flights in the area, visit our blog.

Before Flying into Orange Beach

Take the hassle out of your vacation by utilizing the Beach Moms Concierge Service available to Spectrum Resorts guests. The Beach Moms are well-known in Orange Beach for their attention to detail. Services they offer include grocery shopping and putting away prior to arrival, and restaurant and excursion reservations. They can also reserve beach chairs and schedule cabana rentals by the pool just for starters.

Getting Around

Orange Beach offers big-city amenities when it comes to local transportation. There are rideshares like Uber and Lyft, taxi services and, the most convenient, rental cars at the airport when you fly in.

Balcony Hot Tub

Turquoise Place Amenities

Turquoise Place offers visitors access to beautiful spaces in gorgeous high-rise buildings showcasing 3- to 5-bedroom condos that include fully appointed kitchens, spacious rooms, washer/dryers, Gulf-front views, oversized balconies with personal hot tubs and grilling stations plus so much more. There are also plenty of on-property perks like the poolside bar and grill (open seasonally) that serves beach eats and drinks, tennis courts, three outdoor pools, two indoor pools, hot tubs, a lazy river and a playground. The beach itself is such a gem with sugar-white sand beaches juxtaposing amazing turquoise waters. You’ll never want to leave!

Book direct with Spectrum Resorts and eliminate the risk factors with the only 100% Satisfaction Guarantee in the area. Guests can enjoy a no-worry experience creating peace of mind that’s simply irreplaceable.

As visitors discover the beauty of Alabama’s stunning, unspoiled beaches, they additionally realize the value of this coastal community’s properties like Turquoise Place, scrumptious restaurants, and the myriad of activities and excursions available. All of these factors compel travelers to not only drive in for a nice getaway, but also consider flying in, both domestically and internationally, for a spectacular beach destination bar none.

Search our available Orange Beach rentals today and see why Turquoise Place continues to be a favorite among travelers.

Catch a Convenient Non-Stop Flight to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

The white-sand beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach attract travelers from every corner of the country (and even across the globe). And thanks to easy non-stop flights at several nearby airports, reaching – and relaxing at – Alabama’s Gulf Coast has never been easier. Get ready for sunsets on sugar-white sand, salty breezes, and countless opportunities for memorable experiences—all without having to transfer planes.

Non-Stop Flights to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

There are three airports within an hour’s drive of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach that offer non-stop flights from some of the country’s largest airport hubs. No matter where you’re coming from, you can reach our sparkling shores with one simple flight that takes you right to paradise.

Don’t see a nearby airport on our non-stop flight list? Don’t worry! Click here for even more fly-in options to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Non-Stop Flights to Pensacola International Airport (PNS)

Pensacola International Airport (PNS) is one of the largest airports on the Gulf Coast, hosting an average of 80 arrivals and departures each day. PNS is a quick hour drive from Orange Beach and Gulf Shores (around 35 miles via FL-292 E) and offers non-stop flights to more than 15 U.S. destinations. With airline options that range from budget-friendly to national brands, you have plenty of options for reaching (and returning from) PNS and the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Non-Stop Flights from PNS

  • Charlotte, North Carolina – Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
  • Arlington, Virginia – Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)
  • Dallas, Texas – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL)
  • Miami, Florida – Miami International Airport (MIA)
  • Boston, Massachusetts – Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
  • Queens, New York – LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
  • Chicago, Illinois – Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
  • Atlanta, Georgia – Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
  • Denver, Colorado – Denver International Airport (DEN)
  • Orlando, Florida – Orlando International Airport (MCO)
  • Tampa, Florida – Tampa International Airport (TPA)
  • Nashville, Tennessee – Nashville International Airport (BNA)
  • Houston, Texas – William P. Hobby International Airport (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
  • Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
  • St. Louis, Missouri – St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
  • Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Ft. Lauderdale Airport (FLL)

Getting Around Alabama’s Beaches: Once you arrive at PNS, multiple options for ground transportation make it easy to get around Alabama’s Gulf Coast. You can catch the Pensacola Airport Shuttle for a flat fee or take advantage of taxis, limos, and rideshare services. There are also eight rental car companies to choose from:

  • Alamo
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
  • Executive Car Rental
  • Hertz
  • National Car Rental
  • Thrifty

Non-Stop Flights to Mobile Regional Airport (MOB)

A short 70 miles from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach via I-10W, Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) connects you to the Gulf Coast with non-stop flights to four major hubs. Daily non-stop connections at MOB are serviced by the world’s largest airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and United. That means you’re guaranteed a smooth and stress-free flight that puts you just 80 minutes from our stretch of white-sand paradise.

Non-Stop Flights to MOB

  • Atlanta, Georgia – Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
  • Charlotte, North Carolina – Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
  • Houston, Texas – George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
  • Dallas, Texas – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Getting Around Alabama’s Beaches: Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) makes your journey a breeze with great transportation options to and from the airport. In addition to taxis, limos, and rideshare services (Uber and Lyft), you’ll find seven rental car companies that are ready to put you in a ride to our beachfront resorts:

  • Alamo
  • Dollar Rental Car
  • Hertz
  • National Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Enterprise
  • Thrifty

Non-Stop Flights to Mobile International Airport (BFM)

Have some time before your trip? The Gulf Coast’s newest airport terminal, Mobile International Airport (BFM) is conveniently located right off I-10 and just minutes from downtown Mobile. The airport is still under construction, but commercial flights are expected to fly into BFM by 2025. And non-stop flights are already starting–Avelo Airlines is now offering exclusive non-stop service to Orlando, Florida from BFM two days per week. The best part? Introductory one-way fares start at just $29 per person!

Non-Stop Flights to BFM

  • Orlando, Florida – Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Getting Around Alabama’s Beaches: Mobile International Airport (BFM) is a scenic sixty-mile drive from our white-sand beaches via I-10W. Immediate access to the interstate makes your ride a breeze, and easy transportation options get you on the road in minutes. You can catch a rideshare with Uber or Lyft in a designated spot right outside the front door, or get your own ride from one of the six rental car companies located on-site:

  • Avis
  • Budget Car Rental
  • Hertz
  • Enterprise
  • Dollar Car Rental
  • Thrifty

Non-Stop Flights to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport

If you’re down for a drive and love a good discount, you can catch one of dozens of daily and weekly non-stop flights to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Just over 200 miles from the Alabama Gulf Coast, MSY is a large, bustling airport with 16 airlines serving over 50 nonstop destinations across the country. Rates are sometimes cheaper at MSY than other local airports, and travelers enjoy getting a taste of its rich cajun culture before making their way to our coastal communities.

Non-Stop Flights to MSY

MSY offers daily and weekly non-stop connections to cities across the continental U.S., including some of the most popular airports in the world:

  • Atlanta, Georgia – Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
  • Baltimore, Maryland – Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
  • Boston, Massachusetts – Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
  • Charlotte, North Carolina – Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
  • Chicago, Illinois – Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
  • Dallas, Texas – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL)
  • Denver, Colorado – Denver International Airport (DEN)
  • Las Vegas, Nevada – Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
  • Miami, Florida – Miami International Airport (MIA)
  • New York, New York – John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
  • And Many Others!

Getting Around Alabama’s Beaches: MSY offers a variety of transportation options to get where you’re going. Renting a car will be your best bet to embark on the three-hour drive to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Luckily, the MSY Car Rental Center has nine companies to choose from and is open 24/7 every day of the year.

  • Alamo
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
  • Executive Car Rental
  • Hertz
  • National Car Rental
  • Payless
  • Thrifty

Once you arrive at your airport of choice, it’s time to hit the road to our world-class resorts. The Beach Club Spa & Resort in Gulf Shores and Turquoise Place in Orange Beach offer luxurious accommodations, first-class amenities, and an unmatched beachfront location just steps from the sand. As a guest of Spectrum Resorts, you’ll enjoy a VIP vacation experience where everything you need is right on the resort, from delicious dining and retail shops to scheduled activities and family fun. And when it’s time to head home, you’re not far away from a non-stop flight back at our nearby airports!

2023’s Best Summer Orange Beach Events

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

When the temperature starts rising, the Orange Beach events get even hotter! Whether you want to sing along with your favorite country music singer, watch the Blue Angels’ high-flying feats or dine with pirates, you’ve got plenty of options during a vacation on Alabama’s white-sand beaches. Check out some of our favorite Orange Beach events to put on your itinerary this summer.

Top Orange Beach Summer Events for 2023

Blue Angels Practice

11:30 a.m. select Tuesdays and Wednesdays
National Museum of Naval Aviation

Throughout the summer, the Blue Angels practice for about an hour on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It’s free to go to the Aviation Museum to watch the practice. Seeing the jets doing their maneuvers over the Gulf is a quintessential beach experience.

Pirates and Princesses Breakfast Adventure

8, 9 and 10 a.m. Daily
The Hangout

Join a treasure hunt, sing-along, games and see magic tricks and more during this daily breakfast your kids love. There are three shows each morning and an all-you-can-eat breakfast is $15 for adults; $8 for children; 5 and under are free.

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

May 4-6, 2023
OWA

Start your summer season with a high-flying aerial adventure at the annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival. This award-winning event includes balloon flights, glows and tethered rides (weather permitting), plus arts and crafts displays, kids activities, live music and more. Admission is free, but activities may cost a small fee.

C Spire Concert Series

Various Dates, May to October 2023
The Wharf Amphitheater

The fan-favorite C Spire Concert Series is back for another summer full of toe-tapping shows. Located at The Wharf’s open-air amphitheater, the show includes musical acts from some of the biggest stars in the business. The 2023 series includes names like Hank Williams Jr., Kenny Chensney, Dave Matthews Band, Eric Church, and many others.

City of Gulf Shores Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration

9 p.m., July 4, 2023
Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier

The City of Gulf Shores will celebrate the Fourth of July with its stunning annual fireworks display. Park at Gulf State Park Lake Shelby and walk across the pedestrian bridge. The pier will close to the public at 8:30 p.m., so be sure to arrive early to snag your spot for the show.

2023 Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf

July 12-16, 2023
The Wharf Marina

The Blue Marlin Grand Championship is an over-the-top weigh-in that makes for a memorable experience. It’s free to spectators, so come out to see the big catches. The event opens with a Street Party on Wednesday, July 12th and runs all weekend long.

89th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo

July 20-23, 2023
Dauphin Island Rodeo Site

Catch a reelin’ good time at the largest fishing tournament in the world. The annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo is a 3-day event that attracts more than 3,000 anglers and 75,000 spectators. Awards are presented in over 30 categories with a total awards package topping one million dollars in value.

Commemoration of the Battle of Mobile Bay

August 5, 2023
Historic Fort Morgan

Re-enactment commemorates the events that took place in Mobile Bay on Aug. 5-23, 1864. The Fort comes to life with drills and demonstration of artillery by historical interpreters. Regular admission is charged. The Commemoration is always one of the top events in Gulf Shores each summer!

9th Annual Flora-Bama Bulls on the Beach

September 7-9, 2023
Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar

Strap on your best boots and hit the beach for some exciting bull-riding action. The annual Flora-Bama Bulls on the Beach offers three full days of rodeo fun featuring professional bull riders from around the country. The action starts on Thursday evening with Junior Riders on Miniature Bulls and a kids coloring contest.

Besides these fun Orange Beach events, don’t miss out on events and activities right onsite at Turquoise Place! View the latest resort guide for all that’s happening at the resort.

Treat Mom to a Relaxing Mother’s Day Retreat at Turquoise Place

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

This Mother’s Day, treat Mom to something truly magical–memories made on a relaxing beach retreat to the Alabama Gulf Coast. Turquoise Place is a luxury resort on the sugar-white sands of Orange Beach, a charming beach community that offers stunning sunsets, mouthwatering meals, and plenty of time in the sun. And she’ll have everything she needs at our full-service resort, from on-site dining and scheduled activities to private beach access and more. With a large onsite team to tend to her needs and full suite of swoonworthy amenities, it’s Mom’s turn to be pampered with a perfect escape  on our pristine shores.

Breathtaking White-Sand Beaches

Be sure to pack Mom’s favorite flip-flops, because she’ll never be far from our beautiful beaches. Our glittering towers are right on the sand, with a breathtaking view of those gorgeous Gulf waves and a soothing saltwater breeze. She can curl up with a book, bask in the sand, or take a sunset stroll along the shore (and be back in time for dinner). Be sure to reserve her beach chair and umbrella so she has some shade and a place to stretch out as soon as she hits the sand.

Private Balconies with Breathtaking Hot Tub Views

Every Turquoise Place condo has a private beachfront balcony where Mom can relax and watch the waves in quiet comfort. Better than that, large balcony hot tubs provide a soothing setting made of warm bubbly bliss and unmatched beach views. Perfect stress-relief without sandy feet? That’s Mother’s Day done right.

Luxury Beachfront Condos

Speaking of our luxury condos, they’ll keep Mom in comfort and style with oversized floorplans, plush furnishings, and gourmet kitchens with top-of-the-line appliances. Each condo includes a starter pack of amenities, complimentary beach towels, and spectacular guest service. And she won’t have to worry about sharing her bed with strangers–our resorts offer the area’s only clean-bed guarantee that promises a clean coverlet and linens for every stay.

Delicious Onsite Dining

Mom will love the variety of delicious meals she doesn’t have to cook or clean. She can start her day at the Spectrum Club Lounge with a complimentary spread of eggs, grits, waffles, fruit, breads and more. After lounging in our resort-style pools or floating on the lazy river, Mom can pop by Change of Pace to enjoy casual poolside dining and hand-crafted cocktails (we recommend The Turquoise ). If she prefers more intimate meals, have The Beach Moms deliver her favorite food staples right to her condo before she arrives.

Fantastic Fitness

Is Mom a fitness fanatic? She’ll love working out in our onsite fitness centers that feature top-of-the-line Atlantis equipment like treadmills, free weights, press racks and more. If she seeks a little structure, she can join in on one of our scheduled classes like stretching and yoga. And after she works out a sweat, she can stop by our saunas and steam rooms to relax and soothe her senses with the smell of eucalyptus.

Ready to thank Mom for a lifetime of love with a relaxing beach getaway? Browse our available rentals and book her stay today!