Category: Traveler Tips

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 28 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 2024

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 The Beach Mom’s Thanksgiving dinner delivery.  Call 251-979-8400 to order.

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.

Top Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parades & Events in 2024

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Celebrate Mardi Gras Alabama style with a slew of Orange Beach Mardi Gras parades and events happening in 2024. From colorful parades to evening Mardi Gras masquerades, there’s plenty to do in and around Orange Beach for Mardi Gras!

Discover the best Orange Beach Mardi Gras parades and festivities happening in 2024!

Mystics of Pleasure and The Marshals Parade

Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024
Starts: 6:00 p.m.

This fun parade began in 2001 to become Pleasure Island’s first nighttime Mardi Gras parading society. Watch as the Mystics of Pleasure and The Marshals roll down Perdido Beach Boulevard on motorcycles, floats, and more for this year’s one-of-a-kind Mystics of Pleasure Mardi Gras Parade.

Fort Morgan Mardi Gras Parade

Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024
Starts: 1:00 pm

For the 5th year, Fort Morgan is putting its own coastal spin on Mardi Gras fun. This is not your average parade; you’ll see golf carts, cars, jeeps, trailers, and even boats all making their way down the coast spreading Carnival cheer. The parading route will run along the coast on Ponce De Leon Ct from Triple Tail Lane to Bernard Ct E.

MoonPies on Main at The Wharf

Monday, Feb. 12, 2024
Starts: 4:00 pm

The Wharf’s annual MoonPies on Main event offers Mardi Gras fun for all, even your furriest family members! It kicks off at 4pm with the annual Kid + Pet Parade, which is open for public participation (so dress in your carnival best and bring some throws for the crowd.) The official float parade will roll at 6pm, followed by the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience and a festive evening of DJ-led music, kids’ activities and more.

Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024
Starts: 2:00 pm

The 2024 Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade will continue the rich tradition of Fat Tuesday celebrations. Thousands of onlookers have been on hand in years past to witness the many floats and costumes during the Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade. The Mystical Maids of Miram and the Mystics of Pleasure contribute to the parade, as do groups from Foley to Perdido Key. The parade will begin at 2:00 pm east of Phoenix West, making its way down a two-mile stretch to Highway 161. Visit the city’s Mardi Gras Information Page for details and get there early to find the best seating so you can see all of the excitement!

Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024
Starts: 10:00 am

Take the short drive west to Gulf Shores for the 45th annual Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade, courtesy of the oldest parading order in Baldwin County. Since 1978, the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras parade has adorned the streets of Gulf Shores with vibrant floats, costumes, and more, bringing smiles and excitement to spectators every year. This year’s parade will begin at 10 am on Fat Tuesday. The route starts at the intersection of Highway 59 and East Beach Boulevard (Highway 182) and will travel along East Beach Boulevard to the Gulf State Park Pier Road. Visit the official city website for information on parking, traffic modifications and more.

Lulu’s Mardi Gras Anniversary Celebration & Boat Parade

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024
Starts: 10:00 am; the boat parade starts at 3:00 pm and arrives at Lulu’s at 4:00 pm

Lulu’s in Gulf Shores will be celebrating Mardi Gras (and their 25th birthday) with a full day of festivities, and you’re invited! The day will be jam-packed with fun and excitement, including live music from the TIP TOPS, tons of delicious food, a costume contest and complimentary cake! The boat parade will set sail at 3:00 pm from The Wharf, making its way towards Lulu’s and Homeport Marina. After the boat parade, the party will continue with live music and much more!

Book your Orange Beach Mardi Gras vacation and get in on the Carnival fun!

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.

An Easy Guide to Getting Around Orange Beach and Gulf Shores

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

As your partner in paradise, Turquoise Place is always looking to provide advice that helps you enjoy an amazing experience on the Alabama Gulf Coast. We recently asked our followers to share their most pressing questions about the area – and you didn’t disappoint! We got so many great answers that we can’t wait to cover, starting with this great question:

“Are there any taxis, Ubers, or other car services to go to restaurants and attractions?”

We’re glad you asked! Transportation isn’t one of the most fun parts of planning a trip, but it’s extremely important if you aren’t bringing your own car. Some of the most wonderful parts of our area aren’t easily walked to, even from a convenient location like Turquoise Place!

Luckily, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have you covered for car services. There are a variety of ways to get around the area that can help you explore everything with ease!

Taxis in Orange Beach

First, let’s talk Taxis. There are several local taxi services that can easily and affordably transport your group to any destination in our area. Companies like Ms. Mary Taxi Service or A-1 Taxi Service provide 24/7 service to all the local areas and can even make some recommendations of their own.  Coast Cab is another great option that offers easy online scheduling, fast response times and family-friendly service.

Shuttle Service in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

If you’re traveling with a larger group, you may want to select a shuttle service. Coastal Express Shuttle is a local company that uses multi-passenger vans to transport large and small groups across the area. They even offer pre-set excursions to some of the area’s best acts and entertainment – some with prices that include show tickets and onboard snacks!

Gulf Coast Tours is another great choice that offers a line of comfortable coach buses with great features like onboard Wifi, restroom facilities, and satellite TV.  You can even reserve a luxurious limousine to paint the town in proper style!

Ridesharing in Orange Beach

Uber and Lyft both operate in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, offering easy rideshare options to those who want to explore economically. These types of transportation are extremely convenient, allowing you to request a ride right from your device by downloading the company app. Simply type in your location and desired destination to have a certified driver pick you up in front of your Turquoise Place condo.

Of course, Turquoise Place is so packed with great amenities and activities that you may never want to leave! Just in case, tuck these transportation services away for your next trip to our relaxing resort!

Travel Tips for Flying to Orange Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

I’m a land-locked beach lover stuck in Ohio – so every chance I get – I run to the airport and make the quick flight path to Pensacola, Florida. All to get to my favorite destination: Orange Beach, Alabama. Why? Because I’m two steps from the beach at my favorite spot – Turquoise Place!

Here are a few travel tips:

Turquoise Place in Orange Beach

Why Turquoise Place?

I’m currently planning my next trip – this time with my BFF – and we looked at other destinations – but I knew – I wanted to come back to Orange Beach and Turquoise Place!

Everything I love is in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach! The food, the drinks, the fun – I have all my favorite places I can’t wait to go back to!

There’s always something new!

Every visit, I’ve found someplace new to visit! I discovered the Pink Pony Pub on my last visit – um – yes please! #beachdrinks

Outdoor Pools at Turquoise Place Orange Beach Alabama

Turquoise Place is perfection!

These condos are really a destination in themselves. The beach is right there. There are great places to eat, multiple indoor and outdoor pools, a lazy river, gym, and more – plus the condos are incredible. The view – the hot tub – it’s just amazing! A quick trip to the grocery and you’re set for the week! And, if you use The Beach Moms exclusive concierge package for Spectrum Resorts guests, then you don’t even have to go to the store.

Another plus? If you do feel the need to venture out – you’re a quick Uber ride from all the best restaurants and attractions.

How do I Get to Orange Beach?

For me – It’s all about “de plane de plane!” I’m not a fan of driving more than 3-4 hours and, unfortunately, that will not get me to a beach! So, I fly! For me, it’s easiest to fly into Pensacola. They have a good selection of affordable flights and they’re always on-time (knock on wood). There’s no direct flights from Cincinnati – but other cities are lucky enough to have direct flights.

While I can’t go direct – it’s typically a quick layover and if I leave in the morning – I’m toes in the sand that afternoon! THAT is a vacation win!

How do I get around Orange Beach?

Rental Car
When I’m going on my own or like this upcoming BFF trip – I’ll rent a car. I have so many favorite restaurants and activities I want to do – a rental car makes it super easy. Plus – my BFF is flying in from Iowa – so we’re timing the flights so we can meet up in Pensacola and jump in the rental car together! GIRLS TRIP!

Uber
Other visits, I meet up with my friend that lives a few hours away – so she drives in. For those trips, I grab an Uber from the Pensacola International Airport to Turquoise Place. It’s a relaxing ride and I chat up with my driver to find a new place that is a must-stop place!

Plus, if you’re mainly just hanging at out at the resort you can always find an Uber to head to the fun can’t-miss adventures like the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo or one of the dolphin cruises.

All in all, traveling to Orange Beach by air is easy and Turquoise Place always helps me make sure that I have sand between my toes as quickly as possible! (Don’t forget to reserve those beach chairs!)

Heather Johnson

Heather Johnson is the voice behind Food Hussy, a food and travel blog since 2008. Heather shares about her travels, great eats and copycat recipes from the destinations she visits on her website. Follow Heather’s travels on her website and social media.

3 Great Reasons You Need to Rent a Cabana at Turquoise Place

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Are you ready to upgrade your Turquoise Place Orange Beach vacation? We’ve got the perfect option to add even more luxury and convenience to your getaway – a Gulf-front cabana at Turquoise Place.

Located just steps from the main outdoor pool, the cabanas feature a full bathroom with walk-in shower, couch, mini-refrigerator, microwave, sink, blender, icemaker and TV. Just outside your air-conditioned cabana is a private patio area with loungers, as well as a table and chairs.

Want to know more about upgrading your Turquoise Place vacation? Read on to learn three fun reasons to schedule the exclusive use of a cabana.

Easy Place to Gather

Turquoise Place cabanaRather than venturing back upstairs to your condo, a Gulf-front cabana at Turquoise Place offers the perfect spot for your family and friends to gather throughout the day. Because the cabanas are fully equipped, it’s easy to bring down drinks and snacks when you’re not filling your patio table with sushi and cocktails from our poolside bar and grill, Change of Pace.

A cabana can serve as your home base while everyone enjoys their favorite activities, whether on the beach or poolside. If you have small children, the cozy couch inside the cabana also makes a great spot for naps as you’re relaxing on private patio.

Close to Everything

Complimentary Kid's ActivitiesA cabana puts you close to the hub of activity at Turquoise Place. The kids will be near many of the resort’s most popular activities, including tie-dying T-shirts, sand art necklaces and more. Mom and Dad will be near the poolside grill where they can order up their favorite craft cocktails and a heaping helping of the chef’s Smoked Tuna Dip. Three pools are just steps from the cabana, including the zero-entry pool and kiddie pool. And, you’re also just a short walk to the beach.

Limited Availability

While there are hundreds of luxury condos at Turquoise Place in Orange Beach, there are only four fully-equipped cabanas available for rent. To ensure a cabana is available during your vacation, be sure to reserve it in advance. All guests can book the cabanas, however, guests of Spectrum Resorts receive a 10% discount on the daily rate. To rent a cabana, call a concierge specialist at (251) 923-5400.

Make the most of your family vacation this year by booking a cabana. But first, start by reserving your place in the sun at Turquoise Place Orange Beach.

Avoid These Four Costly Mistakes When Booking Your Orange Beach Vacation

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Summer vacation is a time designed for relaxation and fun, but a lack of planning can eat up valuable time, cost more money and leave you feeling like you missed out on things you wish there had been time for.

Let’s be totally honest. Usually mom is the vacation planner, along with all the other hats she wears, so often it’s a major feat just to get rooms booked and get everyone packed. Finding the best value or looking up kids activities may only be an afterthought. This year make the most of your vacation by avoiding these four costly mistakes when planning your Orange Beach vacation.

Did You Book Direct?

Fun for the Whole Family Spectrum Resorts is the official onsite management company at Turquoise Place in Orange Beach. Booking with a different rental management company may leave you jealous or even frustrated once you arrive. Families miss out on the benefits of having an onsite staff available for maintenance and security 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

Booking with a rental management company other than Spectrum Resorts at Turquoise Place also means missing out on onsite discounts on food and drinks at Change of Pace Bar & Grill and shopping discounts at Cabana 8, as well as complimentary kid’s activities and so much more. You also won’t have access to the exclusive Spectrum Club Lounge where daily complimentary breakfast is served, and entertainment like pool, ping pong and video games are available. Now, THAT can really be a let down!

*The Spectrum Club Lounge, Cabana 8 and Change of Pace are open seasonally. 

Don’t make the mistake of booking through a third party or with someone you’re “hoping” will turn out to be decent. Book with peace of mind and assurance you’re getting high-quality standards on your vacation rental with every amenity and added benefit your family could possibly want. Take the guesswork out and deliver a family beach vacation that will create happy memories for years to come. After all, that’s what every mom dreams of…a happy, rested and reconnected family.

Are You Driving More and Playing Less?

orange beach vacationBooking an Orange Beach vacation rental where everything isn’t onsite is another costly mistake. By choosing a resort like Turquoise Place in Orange Beach, you have more time for play and less time commuting between activities. Turquoise Place offers everything is in one place: water sports, tennis courts, kid’s crafts and activities, lazy river, indoor and outdoor pools, dining, shopping and much more to keep everyone (especially mom) happy. Stop traveling from activity to activity and start playing!

Did You Check Your Bed Linens?

Yes, we did ask you that. Sometimes peace of mind is worth it all. While other rental companies wash their sheets and pillowcases after every visitor, they only change out the comforters once a month, once a quarter or twice a year! Spectrum Resort’s Clean Bed Guarantee gives guests reassurance by guaranteeing that each condo will receive crisp, freshly-laundered duvets with every new guest. Don’t make the mistake of sleeping where you don’t know the policy on clean linens.

Did You Wait “Too Late” to Book?

Don’t wait! Why risk having your favorite condo rented by another guest during your vacation dates? Spectrum Resorts guests at Turquoise Place pay no deposit when they book more than 30 days in advance.

Avoiding these four costly mistakes can save you time, effort and headache when booking what should be the most enjoyable and relaxing days of your year. It also makes you your family’s hero for discovering a resort that is ideal for everyone.

Come rest, relax and reconnect at Turquoise Place. Book your Orange Beach vacation now and pay $0 down on reservations booked more than 30 days in advance.

How to Plan the Ultimate Girls Getaway in Orange Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

When it’s time to disconnect from the everyday to reconnect with your best girlfriends, make a beeline for the beach for sun, fun and friendship. A girls getaway in Orange Beach is the perfect opportunity to wine and dine and recharge the soul. But, what do you need to know to plan the ultimate girlfriend getaway on the Alabama Gulf Coast? We’ve got the details.

 

Girls Getaway Orange Beach Activities

You know Orange Beach is your go-to destination for 32 miles of white-sand beaches. No matter the time of year, there’s plenty of sun and sand to go around. Bring a book or your favorite magazine and veg with your gal pals while your toes are in the sand. Be sure to reserve your beach chairs at Turquoise Place prior to your trip. Get the best seat on the beach as a Spectrum Resorts guest during a girls getaway in Orange Beach.

For the ultimate in relaxation, plan a day of pampering at The Spa & Salon, located at our sister resort, The Beach Club Resort & Spa in Gulf Shores. You’re just a short drive away from saying “ahhhh” at the spa! Bring your girlfriends and reserve a Spa Sampler to create your own, personalized pampering package. With the Spa Sampler, you can select three treatments, including manicures, facials, massages and more. The full-service spa also features a relaxation room where you and your best girlfriends can soothe your souls with a soak in the hot tub or order up a spa lunch from the onsite Coast Restaurant & Sushi Bar. Sound like paradise? It is!

After you’ve checked the beach and the spa off your girls getaway in Orange Beach list, think outside the box. Sure, you could go shopping, but why not try something to get your adrenaline pumping? The Hummingbird Zipline at The Wharf can provide the perfect prescription. Soar through the air on eight lines up to 115 feet above the ground at speeds of more than 30 miles per hour. Enjoy views of the Intracoastal Waterway and zip high above a Federally-protected wetland.

Follow up your high-flying adventure at Red or White, also at The Wharf. Soak up the laughter and share your favorite memories over a glass (or two) of your favorite wine. Red or White also offers a great selection of appetizers, small plates and cheese boards and is the perfect addition to your girls getaway in Orange Beach.

 

Orange Beach Restaurants with the Girls

For beach chic fun, head to The Gulf in Orange Beach. Couple the blackberry mojito with the waterfront views and the combination can’t be beat. The Gulf is built from re-purposed shipping containers and all dining is outdoors to allow panoramic views of Alabama Point. In the evenings, the dining area is lit with festival lights and fire pits.

Of course, you can’t miss dinner at Coast Restaurant & Sushi Bar at the nearby The Beach Club Resort & Spa. Coast is open seasonally, so call (251) 224-3600 prior to your visit to confirm hours and make a reservation. Feast on your favorite sushi rolls or split several appetizers. We recommend a dozen Murder Point oysters and the Marinated Gulf Seafood platter. Make reservations and request a seat outdoors for the best views of the beach.

 

Orange Beach Condos

Few things beat waking up to views of the Gulf of Mexico and enjoying a mimosa on a balcony. What’s even better? Relaxing in the evening with a glass of wine in your private balcony hot tub, of course! Take full advantage of all the VIP perks at Turquoise Place when you book your Orange Beach girls getaway with Spectrum Resorts. Spectrum guests receive 10 percent off on-property purchases at the Change of Pace tiki bar, open seasonally. As a Spectrum Resorts guest, you’ll also receive the Clean Bed Guarantee. Every bed receives a freshly laundered duvet with every arrival.

 

Book your Orange Beach girls getaway direct with Spectrum Resorts and enjoy VIP treatment at Orange Beach’s most exclusive resort.

Why You Should Purchase Travel Insurance

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

 

When planning an Orange Beach vacation, it’s always a good idea to have a checklist. Whether you prefer putting paper to pen, using the notes section on your phone or just making a mental note, there are reminders that need to be included. Travel insurance should be one of those things on your list, and something you never forget when traveling to our Orange Beach luxury resort.

 

It Could Cost You Your Vacation

It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case something happens. Let’s face it, hurricanes affect the Gulf Coast, family members get sick, natural disasters can prevent traveling, and sometimes the unpredictable occurs. Purchasing travel insurance isn’t just another up sell, it could cost you your annual Gulf Shores or Orange Beach vacation.

 

Reasons You Can Get Reimbursed

Don’t let all the effort, time and energy go to waste with a cancelled vacation. If your trip is interrupted due to the following reasons, you can be reimbursed for non refundable deposits by purchasing vacation rental travel insurance.

 

  • A named hurricane or natural disaster
  • A natural disaster causing a vacation home to become uninhabitable
  • A natural disaster causing your residence or travel companions residence to become destroyed
  • Illness, injury, death of family member or traveling companion

Eliminate Stress with Travel Insurance

Eliminate stress associated with canceled vacations with travel insurance. Don’t stress over making plans to relax. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance and your vacation is cancelled,  you’ve lost the money associated with your Gulf Shores or Orange Beach vacation.

Christy C. booked her well-planned vacation one month in advance and was looking forward to relaxing on the beach. The travel insurance was there to support her claim during Hurricane Katrina.

Michelle F. had a daughter who fell ill and needed medical attention.  She had to cancel her vacation. She did not have travel insurance and was unable to make a claim. The money she lost could have been used to help pay for medical bills.

Travel Insurance – It’s a no brainer. When booking with Spectrum Resorts, add the Sun Trip policy provided by Red Sky.

Tips for Planning Your Summer Vacation

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Your summer vacation is supposed to be filled with quality time and relaxing family fun. Don’t let the planning process create unnecessary hassle and stress associated with trying to plan the perfect vacation.  Ensure a hassle-free planning process by following these few easy tips.

Read reviews

Reviews by real guests provide valuable insight that some self-promoting websites do not offer. Getting the facts, straight from the source, without any marketing or promotions helps to paint a real picture. Many websites such as Facebook, Google & TripAdvisor have business reviews and are definitely worth taking the time to read before making the initial investment of a summer vacation.

Ask your friends

Check with your friends, and even their friends, on recommendations for popular vacation destinations. A simple social media post can sometimes produce a lot more information than hours of research. Friends help friends and they can potentially offer real, honest advice on personal experiences.

Download travel apps

Apps make it really easy to access current and accurate information from booking to local attractions. From driving to flying and from restaurants to rest areas, make sure you have everything you need at your fingertips. Even if you are looking for off-the-beaten-path attractions, you can find them with ease of a travel app.

Book with onsite management companies

Don’t chance the happiness of your vacation with not knowing what you are getting. Pictures can be deceiving and hidden charges can sometimes create problems with your vacation budget. Onsite vacation management companies can alleviate any unnecessary stress by providing services with the convenience of being on property and they typically offer the best rate guaranteed as well.

Visit Welcome Centers

Most employees of welcome centers are area experts and can offer valuable information on summer vacation ideas. We recommend calling, or visiting area websites, to see if they offer vacation guides like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism. Welcome Centers want you to visit their area so they are more than willing to share valuable information.

Read, request and review before planning your next summer vacation. By researching and requesting information, you could potentially save time and money and alleviate any unwanted stress. If you have valuable planning information and you would like to share with our readers, please leave it in the comments below and we may include your recommendation in one of our future blogs.