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Enjoy These Unique Places to Stay in Alabama

When deciding where to go on your next family vacation, the number of possibilities can be overwhelming. If you’re dreaming of somewhere with idyllic weather, sandy beaches, and more adventures than you can count, look no further than Alabama. There are several unique places to stay in Alabama, including Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. 

Both of these coastal towns are known for their wealth of things to do and see, but each has its own personality. No matter which one you decide to visit, you can find the perfect home base from Young’s Suncoast. Our incredible Gulf Coast vacation homes and condos are close to everything you need to make the most out of your vacation. Keep reading to learn more about these charming Alabama Gulf Coast towns.

A Brief Guide to Gulf Shores

Once the Intracoastal Waterway was completed in 1937 and Gulf State Park opened in 1939, people started flocking to the Gulf Shores area. The town itself started work to become incorporated in 1956, with it becoming official in 1958. Today, the beachside town attracts countless visitors looking to enjoy an unforgettable getaway.

This spot is home to two of the most popular area attractions: Waterville USA and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Another entertaining option is the Gulf Shores Museum, housed in a building that dates back to pre-World War II. For anyone hoping to spend time outdoors, there are plenty of options, including spending a day exploring Gulf Shores State Park 

What to Know about Orange Beach

For a more laid-back destination, head to Orange Beach, the sister city of Gulf Shores. With miles of white-sand beaches, bayous, and interior bays, this town is known for its wide selection of water sports. Cast your line at the Waterfront Park fishing pier or set off on a guided fishing trip with Distraction Charters. If you’re looking to spend a relaxing day out on the water, book your spot on a Back Bay Sailing Adventures cruise.

There’s also plenty of fun to be had on dry land. Go for a stroll along part of the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, or enjoy a sunset stroll along the shoreline at Cotton Bayou, a Gulf State Park beach area. If you’re hoping to sneak in a bit of learning, take your kids to Orange Beach History Museum.

Don’t Forget about Fort Morgan

Found west of Gulf Shores is Fort Morgan. Most of this peninsula is the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a popular attraction for bird lovers. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love spending time at Historic Fort Morgan, famous for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. Make the most out of your time in these unique places to stay in Alabama by reserving a vacation rental from Young’s Suncoast.

One of the Best Gifts for Foodies Is a Gulf Coast Vacation

When you think of reasons to visit Alabama’s Gulf Coast, you probably think of sandy beaches, emerald waters, and memorable adventures. However, this region is also home to an incredible food scene. For anyone looking for gifts for the foodies in their life, plan a getaway with Young’s Suncoast.

From cooking delicious meals in your Gulf Shores vacation rental to dining out at some of the best local restaurants, there are countless ways to discover the deliciousness of Alabama cuisine. To help you make the most out of your food-focused vacation, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best things to do.

3 Ways Alabama Coast Cuisine Makes Great Gifts for Foodies

  1. Explore a Food Trail

Perhaps one of the best ways to taste as much of the incredible food the Gulf Coast has to offer is on a food trail. There are several options that cater to all palates, including sweet treats. Try a signature drink of the Alabama Gulf Coast, the Bushwacker, at places like Flora Bama Ole River Grill, or visit CoastAL to try the Bushwacker tiramisu.

If you are looking for gifts for foodies who love fresh seafood, you’re in luck. Several routes, including the Oyster Trail, Crab Trail, and Shrimp Trail, showcase the world-class seafood this area is known for.

  1. Dine Out at Popular Restaurants

You don’t have to follow a food trail to discover exceptional places to eat. From spots known for expertly cooking the catch of the day to somewhere to grab a burger piled high with tasty toppings, the restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have it all. Some great gifts for foodies are dining at:

  1. Create Delicious Dishes

Whether staying at one of our spacious Alabama condo or home rentals, you’ll have a fully-equipped kitchen at your fingertips. Take a break from eating out and try creating a scrumptious meal. For a quintessential Alabama experience, make a Low Country Boil, complete with fresh Gulf shrimp and spicy cocktail sauce. If you’re looking for something to help warm you up, enjoy a bowl of Swamp Soup, a light soup perfect for a rainy day.See why the best gifts for foodies are vacations to the Gulf Coast by reserving your stay with Young’s Suncoast today!

Enjoy Hiking in the Alabama Gulf Coast

Whether you’re seeking adventure or reconnection with the natural world, the hiking trails in the Alabama Gulf Coast offer something for everyone to enjoy. Your senses will be ignited with the salty taste of the Gulf Coast, the earthy aroma of the diverse ecosystems, and the sound of crashing waves, creating a soothing symphony of nature. Young’s Suncoast is your gateway to exploring this wonderful coastal paradise. Book your stay from our massive selection of vacation rentals in the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan area.

Explore the Best Coastal Hiking Trails in Alabama

  1. Wade Ward Nature Park: Take a delightful stroll through an elevated boardwalk and wetlands that connect to Lake Shelby and Little Lagoon. This park is on the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, and other wildlife you might see in your surroundings during your hiking journey include otters and alligators. 
  2. Baldwin County Trailblazers: This nonprofit organization promotes expanding and improving hiking and biking trails in Baldwin County, Alabama. Venture on the 22-mile Eastern Shore Trail that will take you on a scenic journey through North Daphne and South Fairhope.
  3. Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail System: Explore 26 hiking trails through nine diverse ecosystems on the Alabama Coast. The Backcountry Trail is filled with local legends. It has been said a “Catman” lives within the trail swamps and woodlands.  
  4. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge: Embark on a hiking journey through the dunes, maritime forests, and scrub habitats in some of the last remaining undisturbed Alabama Coast barrier habitats. The park staff offers guided birding walks, night prowls, and dune hikes. 
  5. Fort Morgan: Enjoy hiking through a National Historic Landmark on the Alabama Coast that was once an important Mobile Bay guardian. This is also a great spot for bird watching, as the American Bird Conservancy named it a Globally Important Bird Area. 
  6. Gulf State Park: Venture through the paved and unpaved hiking trails in this lovely Alabama State Park. Live Oak Trees covered in Spanish Moss, Bobcats, and alligators are some of the many wonderful sights you might find.
  7. Best Beach Trails in Gulf Shores: If you’re searching for hiking trails that feature breathtaking waterfront views, the Alabama Coast is your slice of paradise waiting for you to explore. There is a trail perfect for a wide range of skill levels.

Find your gateway to the Alabama Gulf Coast by booking your stay with Young’s Suncoast!

Best Winter Soup Recipes To Make in Your Gulf Shores Rental

Winter getaways in one of Gulf Shores’ vacation rentals offered by Young’s Suncoast are a serene escape from the chilly temperatures elsewhere. As you step into your cozy beachfront Gulf Shores rental, you’re greeted by the gentle sounds of waves crashing against the sugar-white sand shore and the warm embrace of Gulf Coast hospitality. Our vacation rentals feature fully-equipped kitchens and plenty of living space you can’t find in a cramped hotel room. Let us help you find a rental that’s a home away from home. We have curated this guide to some of the best soup recipes for your winter getaway!

Your Virtual Recipe Book for the 15 Best Winter Soup Recipes

  1. Lobster Bisque: This is a delicious winter soup recipe, whether paired with grilled cheese or enjoyed on its own.
  2. Chicken Tortellini Soup: This is one of the best winter soup recipes for a filling and satisfying meal. 
  3. Easy Hamburger Soup: Enjoy one of the tastiest comfort foods in soup form.
  4. Best Lasagna Soup: This is one of the best winter soup recipes to satisfy hungry stomachs. 
  5. Easy Taco Soup: Indulge in this tasty soup recipe to truly enjoy the winter season.
  6. French Onion Soup: This is one of the best recipes for one of the most beloved winter soups.
  7. Egg Drop Soup: Pamper your taste buds to this delicious soup recipe. 
  8. Turkey and Wild Rice Soup: This tasty soup recipe will make a delightful meal on the Alabama Gulf Coast during your winter getaway.
  9. Best Ever Potato Soup: As the title suggests, this is one of the best winter soup recipes to try out in your vacation rental.
  10. Cheesy Ham Chowder: Serve up this cheesy goodness during your stay in the Alabama Gulf Coast.
  11. Mini Meatball Soup: This soup recipe is sure to be a crowd favorite!
  12. Creamy Two-Mushroom Soup: This is an easy but delicious soup to whip up during your vacation.
  13. Miso Soup: This is one of the best healthy soup recipes to whip up this winter.
  14. Beef Stew with Root Vegetables: Meat lovers will love this tasty soup recipe.
  15. Black Bean Soup: This high-fiber soup recipe is nutritious and delicious. 

Transcend the monotony of everyday life and embrace the tranquility of Gulf Shores in the winter by booking your stay with Young’s Suncoast!

Enjoy a Beach Getaway for Valentine’s Day 2024

Valentine’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate love, and what better way to spend it in 2024 than with a romantic retreat in the Alabama Gulf Coast? Young’s Suncoast offers a range of vacation rentals that provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable and intimate getaway in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach, Alabama. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves gently crashing on the shore with your special someone by your side in your beachside condo rental. The team at Young’s Suncoast is delighted to offer our guests a gateway into their personal slice of paradise with options that will suit the desires of every personal taste.

5 Romantic Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day 2024

  1. Picnic Date: Take advantage of the stunning Alabama Gulf Coast by organizing a romantic date for your loved one. Pack a basket with your favorite treats, a bottle of wine, and a cozy blanket. Check out some recipe ideas you can whip up in the fully equipped kitchen of your vacation rental, such as Three-Cheese Mortadella Pockets With Olive Oil Crust and Three-Cheese Mortadella Pockets With Olive Oil Crust.  
  2. Dolphin Cruise: Experience the magic of the Alabama Gulf Coast by embarking on a dolphin-watching cruise for Valentine’s Day 2024. The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area boasts a variety of cruise options, such as Back Bay Sailing Adventures and Hammock Time Tiki Tours
  3. Delicious Alabama Coastal Cuisine: The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area boast a variety of excellent restaurants perfect for romantic dinner dates during your Valentine’s Day 2024 getaway. Indulge in the region’s seafood restaurants, breakfast spots, beach bars, ice cream shops, and so much more.
  4. Explore Nature Trails: For nature-loving couples, you can venture through the hiking trails and nature reserves in the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers a serene environment where you can walk hand in hand through 26 trails featuring nine diverse ecosystems. The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge features some of the last undisturbed coastal beauty in Alabama. 
  5. Helicopter Tour: For a unique and thrilling date, consider taking a helicopter tour over the breathtaking Alabama coastline. Lost Bay Helicopters offers comfortable and invigorating helicopter rides with a romantic sunset tour option perfect for Valentine’s Day 2024.

Make Valentine’s Day 2024 extra special by booking your stay with Young’s Suncoast!