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 We know the beach is what you brings you here and
we have to admit, they are pretty breathtaking. Here are just a few of the many
places to feel the sand between your toes.
Gulf Shores Public Beach
If you're looking for parasailing, banana-boat-riding, beach-bar-hanging
fun-in-the sun, this is the spot for you. For a small fee, you get all-day, up-close
parking, making it easy to unload your gear. When you're hungry or thirsty, just
drag yourself out of your chair and up to one of the beachside restaurants
serving up great food and entertainment. Forgot your skim board or sunscreen?
No sweat. There's plenty of shopping within easy walking distance.
Florida Point (Gulf State Park)
There must be
something magic about this stretch of Gulf and the pass leading into the back
bays. The water here always seems to be that glistening turquoise you see in magazines.
Sitting on the beach, you see nothing but dunes, sparkling white sand and miles
of open water. This is a spot for serious relaxation. Set your beach chair to
maximum recline and just TRY not to drift off to dreamland. It's a little bit
of a walk out across the dune line, so pack lightly and focus on the simple pleasures.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Want to commune with Mother Nature? Then take a hike...down Pine Beach
Trail. The trail meanders two miles through an enchanted forest of palmettos,
live oaks and Spanish moss - past Gator Lake and Little Lagoon - to a spectacular
ridge of dunes and a pristine, undisturbed beach. Along the way, you'll see
an astounding variety of birds and other wildlife. Do remember, this is a wildlife
refuge. You'll want a good pair of shoes and plenty of bug spray while you're
hiking. The breathtaking view at the end of the trail is well worth it.
Of course, we could tell you about loads of
other places to spread your beach blanket. But discovering your
own secret spot is part of the joy of being on vacation. (If you stop by one of
our Welcome Centers, they'll clue you in to even more.) | 
There's great fishing along 
If there's one thing we love here along the coast,
it's a great meal. Succulent, fresh-off-the boat seafood is the specialty of the
house. Fried. Steamed. Boiled. Blackened. Etouffee. There are even places that
will cook your very own catch of the day. And if seafood doesn't grab you, don't
worry. From steaks to salads, breakfast to midnight snack, cook in or carry out,
you'll have no trouble blowing your diet. 
