Category: Gulf Coast Dining

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.

Tropical Drink Recipes That’ll Have You Dreaming of the Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Shaken, not stirred? That’s just the way we like our craft cocktails, too! When you can’t have the sand between your toes, at least you can have a little rum in your cup to remind you of your Orange Beach vacation. Get shakin’ and start sipping. It’s time to daydream of your next Turquoise Place vacation.

Ultimate Mai Tai

1.25 oz. Spiced Rum
3/4 oz. White Rum
3/4 – 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3/4 – 1 oz. Pineapple Juice
3/4 – 1 oz. Orange Juice
Dark Rum Floater

Mix the first six ingredients together and top with a dark rum floater.

Kid’s Mai Tai

3/4 – 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3/4 – 1 oz. Pineapple Juice
3/4 – 1 oz. Orange Juice
3 oz. Sprite
Grenadine Floater

Mix the first five ingredients together and top with a splash of grenadine.

The Turquoise

1 1/4 oz Calypso Coconut Rum
1/4 oz Blue Curacao
Equal Parts Pineapple Juice and Sprite

Mix all ingredients together.

Top Shelf Margarita

1 1/4 oz Altos Tequila
Margarita Mix
Splash Orange Juice
Grand Mariner Floater

Mix the first three ingredients together and top with a splash of Grand Mariner.

Hangover Remedy Bloody Mary

1 1/4 oz Tito’s Vodka
4 oz Bloody Point Bloody Mary Mix
Pickled Okra
Pickled Green Bean
Bacon Garnish
Season Salt Rimmer

Mix the first two ingredients together. Top with the remaining ingredients.

Drink responsibly and enjoy!

Chef John’s To-Die-For Beef Tenderloin

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Serve up a mouthwatering feast with Chef John Hamme’s recipe for Pecan Smoked Coffee and Chili Rubbed Beef Tenderloin. This recipe is sure to have your family coming back for seconds! Finish it off with a delicious Warm Berry Sabayon.

Pecan Smoked Coffee and Chili Rubbed Beef Tenderloin

Yields:

4 Servings

Ingredients:

4 Tenderloin Filets
1/2 Cup Ancho Chili Peppers, dried & powdered
1/2 Cup Expresso Beans, ground fine
1 fl. Oz. Paprika
2 Tbsp. + 2 Tsp. Dark Brown Sugar
1 fl. Oz. Dry Mustard
2 Tbsp. Maldon / Flake Sea Salt
2 Tbsp. Black Pepper, ground
2 Tbsp. Coriander, ground
2 Tbsp. Oregano, dried
1 Tbsp. Ginger, ground
1 Tbsp. Aleppo Pepper, ground
1 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil
1 Cup Pecan wood pellets
or 2 Cup Small wood chips soaked in water for approximately 10 minutes.

Directions:

Prepare peppers by lightly toasting them in a sauté pan to release their oils. Cool and grind in coffee mill. Prepare coriander, black pepper and oregano following the same process. Combine spice ingredients.

Coat your portioned Tenderloin filets with olive oil then heavily season them with the coffee rub.

To smoke the steaks place the wood chips in smoker box or wood pellets in smoke tube and light letting the flame burn for 5 minutes to ensure they will stay lit and produce smoke.

Blow out the flame on the wood and place the steaks and the smoke box / tube into a cold grill. We are using a cold smoke process to smoke the steaks. Place the lid on the grill and vent to keep the smoke chips burning.

* Smoke time is 20 minutes. 

Why Pecan Wood Chips?

Pecan wood provides a light smoky flavor.  This makes them suitable for almost any meat.  Do not make the mistake of thinking Hickory will work as a substitute. Although Pecan is a varitey of hickory, it’s flavor is much more mild.  For this application we do not want the smoke to be the dominant flavor.  

Warm Berries Sabayon

Yields:

6 Servings

Ingredients:

1 Qt. Strawberries, stemmed and washed
1 Pt. Raspberries
1 Pt. Blackberries
1 Pt. Blueberries
4 ea Egg Yolks
4 Tbsp. Water
4 Tbsp. Marsala Wine
4 Tbsp. Sugar

Directions:

Top strawberries and wash them placing them in a mixing bowl. Inspect the remaining berries discarding any that are bruised placing them in the bowl with the strawberries.

Divide berries into 6 heat proof serving dishes.

Place a sauce pan on the range to simmer. Separate eggs placing the yolks in a large mixing bowl. The bowl needs to be oversized to allow room to whisk the mixture while it cooks.

Add remaining ingredients to the mixing bowl. Whisk to combine.

Place the mixing bowl over the simmering sauce pan and cook the egg, water, Marsala and sugar mixture.

Whisk the mixture constantly but not vigorously the entire cooking time. If you notice the mixture cooking too fast remove from the heat and continue whisking until the temperature drops.

As needed return the mixture to the heat until the mixture reaches the consistency of a mousse. When this consistency is reached the eggs are fully cooked. The cooked egg is what thickens the sauce.

The mixture needs to be cooked just prior to serving. Once finished spoon the sauce over the berries and lightly torch to brown the sauce. Serve immediately.

2 Craveable Cocktail Recipes at Turquoise Place

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

A taste of the beach is just a shaker away. Our bartenders are sharing recipes for some of our most-requested craft cocktails. When you can’t be at the beach, this may just be the next best thing. 

Hideaway Stress Reliever

1 oz. Malibu Rum
1 oz. Absolut Vodka
1/4oz. Peach Schnapps
Cranberry, pineapple and orange juice to fill the glass.
Garnish with an orange and cherry.

Skrewball Peanut Butter Old Fashioned

1.5 oz Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
.75 oz Bulleit Rye Whiskey
4 dashes Angostura Bitters
Garnish with a brandied cherry and orange peel.

Drink responsibly and enjoy!

Spectrum Resort’s Crab Cake Recipe

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Ready to sink your teeth into something divine? Chef John Hamme is sharing Spectrum Resorts’ mouthwatering recipe for crab cakes. We invite you to bring a taste of the beach into your home with this delish recipe. When you visit us next, it’s worth the short drive to Coast Restaurant to have the Chef prepare these for you. Coast is located at our sister resort in Gulf Shores, The Beach Club.

Yields:

6 Servings

Chef John Hamme

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp Mayonnaise

2 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

1 Tbsp Baking Powder

2 tsp French’s Mustard

1 Tbsp Parsley Flakes

2 tsp Old Bay Seasoning

1 Lemon, Juiced

1 Egg, Beaten

1 lb Jumbo Lump Crabmeat

1 lb Claw Crabmeat

4 Tbsp Saltine Cracker Crumbs

4 Tbsp Vegetable Oil

Creole Mustard Butter:

1 oz Cider vinegar

1 oz White Wine

2 sprigs Thyme

2 Shallots, Chopped

1/2 lb Butter

1 Tbsp Creole Mustard

Crab Cake Directions:

1. Combine ingredients in a mixing bowl to make the crab cake mix.

2. Place crabmeat in a pan large enough to spread into a thin layer.

3. Sprinkle Saltine crumbs over crabmeat, toss. Add crab mix and fold, be careful not to break the lumps.

4. Shape into 6 5 1/2 oz cakes. Place cakes in the refrigerator at least 30 minutes prior to cooking.

5. Heat Vegetable oil in a teflon pan and brown crab cakes on both sides. Once golden brown transfer to a baking sheet and bake to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Creole Mustard Butter Directions:

1. Place the vinegar, white wine, thyme and shallot in a small sauce pan and reduce until almost dry.

2. Cut butter into cubes and rest at room temperature.

3. Add the heavy cream to the sauce pan and reduce by 2/3. Remove from heat and add butter stirring to incorporate as the butter melts.

4. Place sauce in a warm area (approx. 130 degrees) to hold or service.

Chef John’s Mouthwatering Gumbo Recipe

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Are you craving a taste of the beach? Spectrum Resorts’ Executive Chef John Hamme is serving up his award-winning gumbo recipe for you to prepare at home. If you’ve ever visited The Village Hideaway at our sister resort, The Beach Club in Gulf Shores, you’ve probably feasted on this mouthwatering dish. Now, you can make it from the comfort of your home.

Yields:

1 Gallon

Ingredients:

6 oz Oil

1 cup All-purpose Flour

1 qt Diced Onion

2 cup Diced Celery

2 cup Diced Bell Pepper

1 oz Minced Garlic

4 oz Andouille Sausage

2 lb Chicken Thighs (Bone in)

1 gal Chicken Stock

2 cup Diced Tomato

8 oz Okra

1 ea Bay Leaf

1 oz Basil

½ oz Oregano

To taste Salt and Pepper

To taste Louisiana Hot Sauce

1 oz Chopped Parsley

To taste Chicken Bullion as needed

Procedure:

1. In a large saucepan heat the oil to the smoke poing. Add the flour and cook to a chocolate brown color.

2. In a separate pan brown the chicken thighs on all sides. Once browned add to the simmering soup once all ingredients are added.

3. Add the vegetables to stop the cooking of the roux.

4. Add the Sausage and cook a moment longer.

5. Gradually add remaining ingredients stirring to a paste after each addition. Simmer until the flour flavor dissipates.

6. When the chicken thighs are cooked remove and pull the meat adding it back into the soup for garnish. Discard the skin and bones.

7. Finish with salt and pepper, hot sauce and parsley.

8. If needed, boost the flavor with Ham Base.

Bon appétit’!

Best Spots in Orange Beach for Local Flavor

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Vacations are a time to rest and relax, but they can also be a time to explore and experience the local flavor of your destination. And, by flavor, we don’t just mean all the great beach eats in Orange Beach. We’re talking about what makes this beachside city tick – from restaurants to attractions to the people who live and play here. With that in mind, check out some of our favorite spots to dive into coastal culture, whether it’s with your taste buds or your walking shoes.

Eats & Drinks

The Gulf

27500 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 424-1800

The Gulf is certainly one of the best spots in Orange Beach for local flavor. The hip design is built around shipping containers for environmental stability, their vibe is chic yet casual, and forget being waterfront – this charming restaurant is on its own beach! Enjoy a cocktail with your toes in the sand, get to know the locals at a communal table, or grab a spot near the firepit in the evening. The menu features fresh, local seafood and changes daily. If you’re looking for local flavor, you’ve got to stop here first.

Hangout Gulf Shores

The Hangout

101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 948-3030

This popular spot is known as a great place to do just that – hangout! Located right on the beach, this family-friendly restaurant features an open design that feels perfect for the coast. Venture out into the courtyard for live music, a kid’s play area, games, foam parties and more! When you’re ready for a bite, check out the large menu and indulge in a customizable cocktail. Order up a Wipe Out Burger while you’re there. It’s on the list of 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die! Local flavor? Absolutely!

The Royal Oyster

807 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 923-4882

If you really want to taste some local flavor then you’ve got to try raw oysters – and there’s no better place to do it than The Royal Oyster. This quaint waterfront dive serves up oysters and cocktails from all over the country, as well as, from local oyster farmers. Navy Cove Oysters and Shellbank Selects are both served here and are straight out of Fort Morgan. Customize your oysters with their impressive topping selection – they have everything from gin to housemade pickled watermelon rind. There’s also fresh seafood and burgers for the oysterphobes. Order a flight and try several different preparations.

The Flora-Bama Lounge & Package

17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL 32507
(850) 492-0611

No Orange Beach vacation is complete without a trip to the last, great American roadhouse, Flora-Bama Lounge & Package. It ranks high on our list of best spots in Orange Beach for local flavor. This historic dive bar has been voted one of the best beach bars in the world and it stands for all things Alabama coast – delicious cocktails, live music, beachfront views and a heaping helping of Southern hospitality. You can grab a bite at one of their three food spots, jam to tunes on one of their five stages, or enjoy the beach sunset. Just don’t forget to try out the world-famous bushwhacker before you go – it’s the official cocktail mascot of Alabama’s beaches!

The Big Beach Brewing Company

300 E 24th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 948-2337

If you’re looking for a taste of local craft brews, this one’s for you. Beach Beach Brewing Company is located in the heart of Gulf Shores and crafts everything from IPAs and Stouts to Cream Ales and Belgian Style Beers. They always have 12 housemade beers on tap in their comfortable taproom, so be sure to stop by and sample some local brewskis. You’ll know you’re hanging out with the locals when 5 p.m. rolls around. A popular spot for post-work talk and relaxation, you can strike up a conversation and get locals intel on what to do and where to go during your Gulf Shores vacation.

Arts & Culture

The Hot Shop Orange Beach

The Coastal Art Center of Orange Beach

26389 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 981-2787

This waterfront art center gives you a glimpse into the local arts of Orange Beach – and then lets you take part in the fun! View the gallery of local works, try your hand at glassblowing at The Hot Shop, or take a turn at the clay wheel in the Clay Studio. The center also offers a variety of art classes for crafters of all ages.

Sand Castle University

(251) 600-9771

What better way to immerse yourself in the local beach culture than to leave your mark with a killer sandcastle? The masters at Sand Castle University will come to your spot of sand at Turquoise Place and show you all the tips and tricks of building the perfect sandcastle. Their classes are great for all ages and include all of the tools you’ll need to make your sand creation.

South Baldwin Community Theater

2022 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 968-6721
If you’re looking for a live representation of local flavor, check out the South Baldwin Community Theater. This nonprofit organization uses a local cast and community volunteers to put on dynamic and entertaining shows. Their lineup ranges from southern classics like Steel Magnolias to well-known hits like The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. If you want to see your favorite acts with a Gulf Coast touch, be sure to stop by and enjoy the show.

Outdoor Activities

Best Spots in Orange Beach

Gulf State Park Pier

20800 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 967-3474

Fishing is a staple on the Alabama Gulf Coast, and there’s no better place to fish your fill than at the Gulf State Park Pier. The pier is the second longest on the Gulf of Mexico and has 2,448 feet of fishing space so you’re sure to have enough room to snag your own Moby Dick. Be sure to befriend the salty dogs who fish the pier every day to get the best fishing tips in the area! But, don’t worry about packing heavy – you can rent your gear from the pier’s bait shop and even get your fishing license right onsite.

Fort Morgan

110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
To really know a place, you’ve got to learn about its history. The historic Fort Morgan is an original masonry fort that played key roles in the Battle of Mobile Bay, the Spanish-American War, and both world wars. Step into Alabama history as you tour the fort, explore the local nature areas, or enjoy a picnic on the beach.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

12295 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 540-7720

Conservation is a huge part of the Alabama Gulf Coast culture. The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge encompasses some of Alabama’s last undisturbed coastal barrier habitats and provides a refuge for endangered species of birds, turtles, and more. Hike the trails or venture on a guided tour to experience the local environment in its true form and see why nature preservation is at the heart of all things Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Book your Orange Beach rental now to experience the flavors of Alabama’s white-sand beaches.

4 Fun Restaurants for Lunch in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

One thing is for certain when vacationing on Alabama’s white-sand beaches – there will be no shortage of culinary temptations! From the finest and freshest seafood to all-American cuisine and everything in between, there’s a bit of it all at these restaurants for lunch in Orange Beach. Here’s a tip that’ll help you avoid crowds and lead to an amazing dining experience while beachin’ it – choose lunch!

Lunch is often overlooked on vacation and many folks just toss a cold sandwich in a cooler and call it a day, opting for dinner out on the town, especially while at the beach. However, lunch options are plentiful in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, and they are typically less expensive while portion sizes remain the same. Crowds are thinner too, making it all the more appealing to dine out at one of these listed restaurants for lunch in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. This list of delish places to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a great way to prime your taste buds and help plan your next beach vacation.

 

The Gulf | Orange Beach, AL

Orange Beach waterfront restaurant

The Gulf is perfect for relaxing with friends and family, enjoying locally-inspired food and drinks, and the location makes it more of a destination than just an Orange Beach restaurant. Waterfront dining is always special and inviting, and lunch at The Gulf is ideal for noshing on fresh, seasonal foods. The casual vibe will make you feel right at home. Relax on the couches or lounge furniture on the sand. Stop back in for dinner under festival lights or drinks by the fire pit. The Gulf is located near Turquoise Place resort and is a great addition to any Orange Beach vacation. Call (251) 424-1800 for more information on The Gulf.

 

The Royal Oyster | Gulf Shores, AL

Gulf Shores seafood
The Royal Oyster in Gulf Shores serves up some special lunch dishes that’ll have you coming back for more! Only looking to snack at lunch? No problem. Choose favorites like THAT Shrimp (tossed in THAT sauce), Fried Calamari or have a Crab Cake Sandwich or Royal Burger. Heartier dishes like pasta, a sampler platter or the fresh catch might become favorites, as well. Our favorite selection? Order a flight of locally harvested oysters prepared more ways than you can imagine. The Royal Oyster has quickly become a go-to spot for locals, and we know you’ll love this waterside dive, too. Just a short drive from your Gulf Shores vacation rental at The Beach Club Resort & Spa, The Royal Oyster is a must-visit restaurant on Alabama’s beaches. Contact (251) 967-1124 for more information.

 

GTs On The Bay | Orange Beach, AL

Orange Beach family restaurant

Aptly named, GTs On The Bay (Good Times On The Bay) overlooks Wolf Bay on Canal Road and is one of the fun restaurants for lunch in Orange Beach. The views are magnificent and the food is over the top! Enjoy tasty treats like stone-hearth pizzas, fresh salads, seafood gumbo, fish tacos and such. It’s kid-friendly, too, so bring on the gang! A kid’s play area features a pirate ship, life-sized games and so much more. Dine on the deck for incredible views, but stop inside to see the fish in a 5,000-gallon pool. For more information, contact (251) 980-8400.

 

Picnic Beach | Gulf Shores, AL

Gulf Shores is also home to Picnic Beach, a unique dining venue on 1st Avenue in Gulf Shores and is one of the best places to eat in Gulf Shores. Picnic Beach has, quite possibly, some of the prettiest food in town with glorious (healthy and tasty) salads and protein bowls, hearty smoked meat platters and even vegan options! Grab a snack like Picnic Nachos or a Bison Burger…the choices are endless. Picnic Beach brings the outside in with artificial turf and picnic tables. Call (251) 540-0117 for more information.

 

The Village Lawn Unique Evening Option at The Beach Club Resort & Spa

village lawn at beach club resort

While not a lunch option, don’t miss the opportunity for fun, funky casual family dining on The Village Lawn at The Beach Club, your Gulf Shores luxury resort. While it’s open to the public, it’s even more convenient for guests staying at The Beach Club. Open daily from 6 to 10 p.m., The Village Lawn offers four airstream food trucks, live music, games and so much more! Kid-friendly and definitely unique, parents can rest easy while kids run off their energy at the end of the day playing kickball, laser tag and life-sized games. Watch the sunset and have a drink from The Chill, The Beach Club’s newest bar, offering delicious, ice-cold drinks. If you love a good shrimp boil, don’t miss the Friday and Saturday evening Shrimp Boils. Chow down on fresh, Gulf shrimp, new potatoes, corn on the cob and Conecuh sausage for only $12.95 per plate, all summer long! Check out the weekly activities, hours, and more at The Village Lawn!

 

What are your favorite, unique restaurants for lunch in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores? It’s fun to grow that list and explore new options during your Spectrum Resorts vacation. And if you haven’t already, book your gulf coast accommodations today at Turquoise Place!

How to Make the Best of Valentine’s Day When You Are Single

Posted on by Jillian Pierce

It’s Valentine’s Day, and that means those lucky enough to be in love with that special someone will be doting or doted upon with gifts, heart shaped candy, flowers, romantic dinners and the sort. For those who chose the single life or the single life chose you, you can still have fun and not hate yourself for being single. Shake off those “I hate this day” blues and go out and have some fun. Who said this day is just for relationships, what about your relationship with yourself and your friends?

Dinner. I know, I know. Dinners on this night are grossly romantic for those who have a significant other, but that doesn’t mean you don’t still get a great meal at a great deal. Check out all those “romantic” Valentine’s Day specials and see what you will enjoy for yourself or with friends. There are places that offer a single price versus a couple’s price. Coast Restaurant at The Beach Club has a select three course menu, with a single and couples pricing. Choose your favorites and create your own custom meal. And who knows, when you go out to dinner by yourself you might meet a fellow “single” diner and let the magic happen.

Flowers. Everyone has flowers on their desk from someone else. Who said you can’t be your own secret admirer? Sometimes it feels great to love yourself and no one else needs to know those kind words of empowerment were your own, and besides you might make the girl in the cubicle next to you jealous over your “Secret Admirer’s” great taste.

Pamper yourself. There are so many stresses in this world and in the “single” universe there are even more. Treat yourself to some much needed alone time and pamper yourself with a spa day. The Spa at The Beach Club is a full Salon and Spa offering facials, massages, body wraps, and an in ground hot tub to relax before and after your treatments. Go in looking drab and come out looking fabulous and glowing. Show your ex you don’t need them with a change of hairstyle and a confident relaxed attitude. The best thing about Valentine’s Day is the discounts; The Spa at The Beach Club has 20% off this week for the love struck day.

The Beach. This goes without saying, but we all need a beach day. Why not grab a group of your single girl friends and make this a girl’s weekend? Dote on each other with drinks and dinner and a weekend you desperately need with a change of scenery and without the exes you left behind. Spectrum Resorts offers weekend rates and holiday specials for your perfect weekend that’s worth every moment at Turquoise Place and The Beach Club.

During this romantic holiday there is something for those that are famously in love and those that relationships just aren’t their thing. Either way, make this day enjoyable to you. Love yourself and loving others will come in time. Make life worth every moment and #creatinghappymemories a priority.