Gulf Shore Getaway

Storm packs strong winds along beach

Strong winds and thunderstorms with gusts estimated at 60 mph moved southwest across Baldwin County on Friday, forcing officials to evacuate Gulf State Park, temporarily housing people in the park's bathhouses, said Hugh Branyon, park superintendent.

After hearing police reports of a tornado touching down near Alabama 59 at 2:25 p.m., Branyon called the evacuation.

"We tried to notify everyone we could to go to the nearest bathhouse," he said. "We had begun evacuating the golf course because of the thunder and lightning already in the area."

The initial reports of a tornado were incorrect, and it was more likely a strong updraft, said Gulf Shores police officials. The National Weather Service acknowledged hearing that a tornado had been seen in the beach city, but forecasters could not confirm those reports.

Good Housekeeping pick for summer vacation: Gulf Shores

Good Housekeeping put together a short article about getaway vacation values this summer. Alabama's Gulf Shores tops out their list of vacation recommendations.

Go South
Hotels in winter destinations like Florida, the Caribbean and Mexico often scramble to fill rooms in the hot months. That's especially true this year on Alabama's Gulf Coast, which has rebuilt after 2004's Hurricane Ivan. You'll find plenty of Alabama bargains in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Foley. And the barrier islands...

Fun Vacations — Cheap!

Gulf Shores open, great value for vacationers

In a follow up to the previous story about how Gulf Shores area vacation destinations are open for business, the Mobile Register elaborates on the $1 million promotion jointly funded by the Southeast Tourism Society and the United States Department of Commerce.

The belief is that last year's storms have led to a widespread belief that Alabama's Gulf Coast - Gulf Shores and Orange Beach primarily - were damaged and remain out of commission.

Gulf Shores area vacationers are delighted to learn the value of their vacation dollar. They are finding the Alabama Gulf Coast running at full speed, but at less capacity than normal.

Presales open at Bel Air Towers at Mariner Lakes

Presales have begun on 105 units in the first tower at Bel Air Towers at Mariner Lakes, off Loop Road in Orange Beach, according to David Abel of the Broadmoor Group, the project developers. The property is north of Bruno's Shopping Center and has deeded beach access.

The 20-story tower will have 16 floors of residential units and four floors for parking. The one-bedroom, two-bath units are priced at $399,900 and include a media room. The two-bedroom, two-bath units with media rooms range from $459,900 to $489,900.

The amenities include an indoor heated pool, outdoor pool, fitness center, tennis courts and clubhouse.

There will be four towers with a total of 480 units when the project is complete.

Vacation Alabama Gulf Coast? You bet!

Yes, let's be as clear as possible about this. The Alabama Gulf Coast is open for business. Thinking about a summertime vacation getaway? Book your travel to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or any other destination on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The beaches are gorgeous. Condos, Bed & Breakfasts, vacation rental homes, hotels... they're all up and running and ready to accommodate you and your family.

It's all here at the Alabama Gulf Coast, just waiting for you.

...Orange Beach and neighboring Gulf Shores had an almost sold-out Memorial Day weekend _ with about 13,000 rental units occupied. Officials hope to repeat that success on the Fourth of July.

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Boggy Point boat launch reopens

Boggy Point Boat Launch Opens

Boggy Point Boat Launch is open to the Public from June 16, 2006, on a 24/7 basis.

After several months of redesign and construction, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Marine Resources Division and the City of Orange Beach are pleased to announce the opening of Boggy Point Boat Launch, effective 6 AM Saturday, June 17th.

The redesigned facility at the end of Marina Road in Orange Beach, Alabama, will accommodate 36 vehicles with trailer and offers improved launching ramps, docks and parking area. City of Orange Beach Mayor Pete Blalock states “we are pleased to see Boggy Point reopen which will give immediate relief to the Cotton Bayou area and will provide boaters easier access to waterways and additional parking options. We encourage the public to take advantage of this newly renovated facility, and enjoy the access and views this site provides.”