Author: Eva Faircloth

25 Fun Things to Do at The Beach Club

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

The Beach Club Resort & Spa is far more than a place to sleep (though your dreams will be sweet in our beachfront abodes). Our world-class resort offers a full vacation experience, with on-site activities and exclusive guest perks that create fun for the whole family. You can shop, dine, play, and relax right at the resort as you spend your stay just steps from our sugar-white sand.

In celebration of our 25th anniversary, we’re taking a look at 25 fun things to do at The Beach Club in Gulf Shores. Add these activities to your agenda for a fun-filled stay The Beach Club way!

25 Fun Things to Do at The Beach Club

1. Bask on a private and pristine beach that spans the length of five football fields. Remember to reserve your beach chairs for front-row priority seating (subject to availability).

2. Book a beach campfire package to enjoy s’mores and spooky stories on our moonlit shores. Note: campfires are seasonal and are only allowed when booked through the resort. No other fires are allowed on the beach.

3. Take a quiet break overlooking the beach as you lounge on our wooden swings. The swings are a popular photo-op for many families year after year!

4. Make your own waves with our on-site water sports rentals.

5. Enjoy a magical mermaid experience with Aqua Tails Underwater Shoot and Swim, which includes swimming lessons, photos, and your own tail to take home!

6. Pose like a pirate or make like a mermaid with a themed photoshoot at the beach.

7. Strike a pose on our selfie wall to capture your trip with a cool beach-themed background.

8. Spend some time at Sand Island to soak up some sun and play games like beach volleyball, life-sized checkers and chess, corn-hole and more. During the summer, keep an eye out for activities like water balloon fights and inflatable slides.

9. Splash in our outdoor pools to cool off in resort-style comfort (without worrying about sand or stings).

10. Take a turn on our tennis courts or book a lesson with Tennis Pro Joey Carney to strengthen your skills.

11. Get moving on the QR F.I.T. Trail, our new outdoor exercise system that combines scenic views with heart-healthy cardio and fun instructional videos.

12. Book a session at The Spa to pamper yourself from a full menu of soothing spa services, including massage therapy, facials, body treatments, mani/pedis and more.

13. Give yourself a great new look with a professional cut and color at The Salon.

14. Play in our heated indoor pool to make a splash on a rainy day.

15. Spend some time in our sauna and steam rooms to sweat out your stress and relax aching muscles.

16. Take the kids to The Village Hideaway Arcade to enjoy family fun with classic games like pool, air hockey, claw games and shuffleboard. Modern gamers can take a swing on our golf simulator or check out our Xbox gaming stations.

17. Spend a night under festival lights at The Village Lawn, where families can gather and kids can run free with lawn games, live music, food trucks and more. Note: The Village Lawn is open seasonally.

18. Shop at The Village Mercantile for fashionable beachwear, gifts, jewelry, logo wear and other sundries. Spectrum guests receive a 10% discount on purchases!

19. Pop by the playground to burn off some pre-nap energy with slides, tunnels, and obstacles for children to climb on.

20. Catch up with Toby the Turtle at The Clubhouse pool, where he hangs around to throw dance parties, hand out popsicles, help with kids’ crafts and shell-ebrate the summer. You can even book a Toby Birthday Party!

21. Stroll along our scenic walking trails to get some fresh air and exercise along our flower-lined paths. Be sure to watch for wildlife!

22. Rent bikes for the crew and cruise the resort at a comfortable speed for just $20 per day.

23. Dine at Coast Restaurant for waterfront views and the freshest Gulf seafood in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

24. Pop over to The Village Creamery for sweet treats like hand-dipped ice cream, soda floats, and sundaes.

25. Follow our weekly resort guide for a full schedule of fun family activities happening right on the resort. From kids crafts and contests to yoga, line dancing, and live music for adults, there’s fun for all ages at The Beach Club.

Check out our blog for more travel tips and book your stay at The Beach Club to enjoy the easiest access to our guest amenities.

Get Your Oyster Fix at the Fort Morgan Oyster Fest

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, our Alabama Gulf Coast oysters are certainly something to shell-ebrate. And that’s exactly what you can do at the 2023 Fort Morgan Oyster Fest, an annual event that celebrates locally-grown oysters by serving them up in a variety of delicious ways. Sponsored by Spectrum Resorts, Sassy Bass, and Navy Cove Oysters, the 2023 event is set to take place on Saturday, February 25, at The Beach Club Resort & Spa.

Here’s what you can expect.

The Freshest Local Oysters

This fun foodie festival will feature the finest local oysters from Navy Cove and other Fort Morgan farms, all just a shell’s throw from The Beach Club Resort (and it doesn’t get fresher than right out of our nearby bay). Raw, topped, steamed, stewed, grilled – no matter how you like them, you’re sure to find happiness on the half shell. Admission includes 10 food and drink tickets you can use to sample, savor, and even slurp your way through the mouthwatering selections. And if oysters don’t exactly bring you out of your shell, Sassy Bass will be onsite with other (equally yummy) local dishes. Your food and beverage tickets are valid on Sassy Bass food purchases, as well!

Tons of Family Fun

It’s not all about the food – Oyster Fest is a ton of fun for all ages! Attendees can enjoy a slew of great activities, games, contests, and entertainment throughout the day. There will be a special kid’s area for crafts and fun activities, an oyster-shucking contest, live cooking demonstrations, and other exciting options. Oyster shell painting is always a crowd favorite – paint a masterpiece on one of Navy Cove’s flawless Fort Morgan oysters for a lifelong souvenir from the shore.

Arts & Entertainment

Speaking of souvenirs, there will be more than 40 local arts and crafts vendors onsite with artisanal goods and products for purchase. Be sure to browse their wares for one-of-a-kind gifts and mementos of your time at Oyster Fest!

In addition to savoring and shopping, you can stop by the music stage to catch live performances from two great local bands. Joshua Lindsey and Funky Lampshades will be providing toe-tapping tunes throughout the day for your enjoyment.

A+ Accommodations

The Beach Club Resort & Spa isn’t only hosting the event – the beachfront resort is also the festival’s official lodging partner. Their upscale condos and cottages will keep you just feet from the fun and surrounded by luxurious comfort. Guests who book direct with Spectrum Resorts will also enjoy exclusive perks like discounts on spa services and shopping!

Tickets to the 2023 Fort Morgan Oyster Fest are now on sale and can be purchased online at the event website. Quantities are limited and prices will increase after February 1, so snag yours before they sell out!

Share the Beach: Saving Sea Turtles on the Alabama Coast

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Families and flip-flops aren’t the only things that make their way onto our beaches from May to October. Sea turtles, too, enjoy the summer season on our shores – that’s when three endangered species come to lay and nest their eggs on our soft, sugar-white sands.

Visitors and locals alike love viewing this remarkable event, but that doesn’t mean you may get the chance to take home a turtle. Protected by law and crucial to the health of our coastal ecosystems, our sea turtle populations benefit from strict regulations that teach us how to correctly share our beaches with our slow-but-steady friends. And thanks to two local programs – Share The Beach and Leave Only Footprints – visitors can also get involved with impactful ways to protect our native sea turtles for generations to come.

Share The Beach

Share The Beach is Alabama’s official sea turtle conservation program. Founded in 2005, the program follows protocols set forth by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect and conserve our nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings. Program volunteers patrol the beach during nesting season to monitor nests and hatchlings, educate the public, and provide needed supplies and equipment. They cover all 47 miles of Alabama’s beachfront coastline, devoting their time to searching for new nests, marking and monitoring them, and protecting the nests and hatchlings from natural and human-related dangers.

Leave Only Footprints

Leave Only Footprints is a collaborative initiative that works to protect our coastal ecosystems by promoting clean island practices among visitors and residents of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The program establishes beach rules and regulations that remind beach-goers to pick up their trash and “leave only footprints” to protect the health of our natural landscapes and the animals that depend on them. Among other species, the program policies protect the endangered sea turtles that nest on our beaches from May to October.

How You Can Help

Visitors and locals can volunteer with Share The Beach to help make a positive difference for our sea turtles and their coastal habitat. You can also help by following the guidelines and rules established by our local conservation programs:

  • Never touch or disturb a sea turtle nest. Keep your distance and call 866-732-8878 if you find an unmarked nest.
  • Don’t use flashlights or flash photography at night. It disorients the turtles. If you need a light, both of our resorts provide red flashlight filters that fit over your phone to protect our turtle tribes. You can also find these “turtle-friendly” filters at the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach welcome centers.
  • Don’t dig large holes in the sand, as hatchlings can get trapped in them. Fill all holes with sand before leaving the beach.
  • When you depart our beaches each day, leave only footprints behind. Pick up and discard all trash in designated containers. Remove all personal belongings such as tents, beach chairs, toys, etc. by one hour after sunset.

Beach Safe: Tips to Play it Safely in Gulf Shores

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Relaxation is the name of the game on Alabama’s beautiful beaches, and we want all of our Gulf Shores visitors to unwind and let loose with some fun in the sun at The Beach Club. But as we encourage you to cast your worries aside, it’s important that safety doesn’t also reach the back-burner.

Check the Daily Beach Report

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach make it easy to check the current conditions with a daily beach report that covers everything from surf conditions and water temperatures to wind speeds and more. You can access the daily report online or by calling 251-968-SURF (7873). You can also text ‘ALBEACHES’ to 888-777 to receive daily reports for the duration of your trip.

Follow the Beach Flags

Our beaches have adopted a flag warning system to keep you informed of surf conditions on the coast. The flags are posted at all public beaches and at many condominiums along the coast. The system follows a basic traffic light format so it’s easy to remember:

  • Green: Good Conditions, Low Hazard
  • Yellow: Moderate Hazard, Use Caution
  • Red: High Hazard, Swimming Not Advised
  • Double Red Flags: Water Closed to Public
  • Purple: Dangerous Marine Life is Present

Be advised that the flag warning system doesn’t guarantee safe water conditions, and you should always exercise caution when entering and swimming in the Gulf. Also note that it is illegal to enter the water within city limits when a double red flag is displayed.

Know the Lifeguard Locations

The cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach provide seasonal lifeguard services during the months of March and September. Lifeguards are posted at all public beaches during this time, and swimmers are encouraged to stay in the protected areas when lifeguards are present. Be aware of the local lifeguard locations and plan your swim accordingly, especially if you aren’t a strong swimmer. Even popular resorts like The Beach Club and Turquoise Place do not have designated lifeguards on-duty.

Beware of Rip Currents

A rip current is a narrow channel of fast-moving water that flows away from the beach with powerful force. They are common in our area and can be hard to spot from the shore. Unsuspecting swimmers can get caught in a rip current and swept outwards with surprising speed. While this isn’t inherently dangerous, swimmers who struggle against the current are quickly fatigued and can succumb to drowning.

To stay safe while swimming, learn how to spot a rip current and try to avoid hazardous surf conditions. If you do get caught in a rip current, don’t struggle – remain calm and swim parallel to the shoreline until you escape the current.

2023s Can’t-Miss Beach Events in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Have you turned on your 2023 vision and seen yourself lounging on the beautiful beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast? Us, too! Though we love a good beach day, the beach offers guests a variety of can’t-miss events in Gulf Shores. Whether you’re tantalizing your palate at a seafood festival or gazing at masterful art exhibits at a craft show, there’s something new and exciting to experience on our beaches year-round. So mark your calendars and book your Gulf Shores condo rental, because here are your can’t-miss beach events in Gulf Shores for 2023.

Fort Morgan Oyster Fest

The Beach Club Resort & Spa, Gulf Shores AL
Saturday, February 25, 2023 | 10am to 4pm

Shell-ebrate your love of fresh Gulf Coast oysters as you sample a pearl-fect selection of locally-farmed oysters prepared in a variety of delicious ways. We’re hosting this years’ event right here at The Beach Club, where you can dine on oysters from Navy Cove Oysters and other Fort Morgan farms that are just minutes from our resort (it doesn’t get fresher than that!). Attendees can also enjoy live music, browse arts and crafts vendors, play in the kids’ area, and enjoy tons of family fun. Tickets are $25 and include 10 food and drink tickets. Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased on EventBrite. The event is sponsored by Spectrum Resorts, Sassy Bass, and Navy Cove Oysters.

Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show

The Wharf, Orange Beach, AL
Saturday, February 25, 2023 | 10am to 4pm

The 31st anniversary of this local tradition brings you delicious food, live music, classic cars, and more than 100 local vendors showing off their unique Gulf Coast arts and crafts. Stroll through the boutique shops and craft tents at The Wharf as you sample local delicacies and tap your toes to jams by some of the best area bands. The kids will love playing in the full-scale Kid Zone as you make your way among the unique classic cars lined up for your viewing pleasure. All proceeds benefit local schools and sports teams, so bring the whole family (even your furry friends are welcome!)

Mardi Gras

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach
February 2023

Mardi Gras is a famed local tradition that began in Mobile in 1704. This rowdy yet fun holiday features street parades full of intricately designed floats from which members toss beads, candy, pies, and other festive trinkets to those watching below. It’s a favorite time of year for locals and visitors alike, so don’t miss your chance to join in the fun and catch a Moon Pie! Gulf Shores and Orange Beach both boast a family-friendly Carnival season.

In Gulf Shores, you can attend the city’s annual parade at 10am on Tuesday, February 21 at 10am. At 3pm, head over to LuLu’s for the annual Mardi Gras Celebration and Boat Parade, where you’ll enjoy live music, delicious local seafood, and signature cocktails as you catch beads from the waves of the bay. It’s one of the most-anticipated Mardi Gras events in Gulf Shores!

The City of Orange Beach will hold its annual parade on Tuesday, February 21 at 2pm along the same Perdido Beach Blvd. route. For a family-friendly Mardi Gras event, head over to The Wharf on Monday, February 20 for “Moon Pies On Main”, an evening festival that begins at 4pm with a kid and pet parade and is followed by a full-fledged Mardi Gras street party at 6pm.

Festival of Art

Orange Beach Waterfront Park, Orange Beach AL
March 11-12, 2023

Welcome in the spring season at the 49th annual Festival of Arts in Orange Beach. This free festival tantalizes the senses by offering a large variety of local arts and crafts in mixed mediums that are sure to give festival-goers plenty of things to see, touch, hear, and experience. From live music by local songwriters to a culinary arts section and a full kids’ art area, there will be plenty of fun activities here for the whole family.

The Wharf Boat and Yacht Show

The Wharf Marina, Orange Beach AL
March 17-19, 2023

This three-day boating bonanza features over $100 million in boats and marine products from more than 120 exhibiting companies. Located at The Wharf Marina, the show features a stunning array of wet slip boats and yachts, sport boats, and consoles for those with an eye for vibrant vessels. Visitors can also enjoy live music, boating seminars, kids art classes, and more.

Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party

Flora-Bama, Orange Beach, AL
April 28-30, 2023

This legendary beach party sees thousands of beach-lovers come together to enjoy listening to live music, relaxing on the gulf coast beaches, and throwing mullets (the fish, not the hairstyle) across the Alabama-Florida state line. Attendees enjoy signature cocktails, delicious local seafood, and plenty of fun beach activities. All proceeds benefit local youth organizations, and it’s only $15 to toss a mullet (and you get a sweet t-shirt)

NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship

Gulf Shores Public Beach, Gulf Shores, AL
May 5-7, 2023

Serve up some fun at the 2023 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship in Gulf Shores. Named the “Best New Event” for collegiate beach volleyball by SportsTravel in 2016, this beachfront competition features 16 sponsoring schools as they serve, spike, and score their way to the championship volleyball spot. Come out to enjoy competitive fun and stunning Gulf views as you support our youth sports teams on some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. Don’t miss one of the most exciting events in Gulf Shores for beach volleyball-loving fans.

Hangout Music Fest

The Hangout, Gulf Shores, AL
May 19-21, 2023

Interested in seeing your favorite Grammy-winning artists and bands as you soak up some sun and surf on some of the most beautiful beaches in the country? Then Hangout Music Fest is for you! It’s one of the hottest music events in Gulf Shores! This renowned three-day festival features some of the most popular music groups in the country, playing live on stages that sit front-row on the sandy shores of Gulf Shores. Accommodation and ticket packages are available!

Orange Beach Billfish Classic

The Wharf Marina, Orange Beach, AL
May 16-21, 2023

The 27th annual Billfish Classic offers more than $1 million in prize money and national bragging rights to those who haul in the largest catch. Join anglers from all over the country and set your sights on your own personal Moby Dick (or at least the biggest billfish in the Gulf) as you compete in one (or all) of five high-profile fishing tournaments with your team. Even if you’re not on board, there’s plenty of food and fun to be had onshore as watchers wait to see a record-breaking catch!

Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf

The Wharf Marina, Orange Beach, AL
July 12-16, 2023

Recognized as one of the top 20 events in the Southeast, the annual Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf is “The Greatest Show In Sportfishing!” More than 60 of the best big game fishing teams in the world are invited to Orange Beach to test their reels against the biggest Marlin in the Gulf for over $1.5 million in prize money. Thousands of fans gather at The Wharf’s entertainment district each year to watch the broadcasted weigh-ins, enjoy good food and custom cocktails, and celebrate the victors. Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast or just looking for a good time, you’ll find plenty of both at this one-of-a-kind event.

Shrimp Fest

Gulf Shores Public Beach, Gulf Shores, AL
October 12-15, 2023

Join more than 300,000 of your closest friends at this delish four-day festival dedicated to one of our favorite crustaceans. Over 10,000 pounds of shrimp will be fried, grilled, sauteed and stuffed each day, making it a guarantee that you’ll find a new favorite dish. Enjoy more than 100 hours of live music, hundreds of arts and crafts vendors, a full-scale kids play village – and of course, all of the seafood you can stomach. It’s one of the biggest events in Gulf Shores, so don’t miss it!

Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach
November 9-19, 2023

Wind your way through some of the best music venues on Alabama’s beaches as you celebrate the talent and ingenuity of some of the best songwriters in the business. This exciting 10-day event features music from more than 200 talented songwriters in over two dozen venues all along the Alabama Gulf Coast. You’ll enjoy original songs from aspiring musicians and songwriters, as well as a unique opportunity to hear about their creation straight from the source.

Plan your 2023 vacation around some of the biggest and best events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!

8 Ways to Shell-ebrate the Holidays on Alabama’s Beaches

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Travelers and turtles agree – there’s no better place to shell-ebrate the holidays than Alabama’s beautiful beaches. Our stretch of paradise is a perfect setting for celebrating the season in coastal style, from a beachfront Thanksgiving to a true white-sand Christmas. Mild temps and sunny skies are sure to keep you feeling merry and bright, and there are plenty of local events and festive activities to put you in a holly, jolly spirit. 

From Turkey Day to Christmas Eve and all the way to the New Year, here are the best ways to celebrate the holiday season on the Alabama Gulf Coast. 

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Lunch at Coast Restaurant

November 24, 2022
Seating Times: 11am, 11:30am, 12pm, 12:30pm, 1pm

Enjoy a cook-free Thanksgiving feast at Coast Restaurant, a first-class waterfront venue at the beautiful Beach Club Resort. Chef John Hamme will prepare three delicious entree options, including a traditional roasted turkey with cornbread stuffing and all the trimmings. The cost is $45 per adult and $15 per child (kids under 3 eat free!). Reservations are required. 

Turkey Day Delivery by The Beach Moms 

Prefer to dine-in? The Beach Moms will deliver a traditional Thanksgiving dinner (including pumpkin pie!) right to your rental for an easy and intimate holiday meal. Pre-ordered meals will be delivered on Wednesday, November 23rd, and include chef-provided directions. Orders must be received by Wednesday, November 16th. 

The Coastal Half Marathon, 5K, and 1-mile Run

November 26, 2022
8am

On Saturday, shed those lingering Thanksgiving calories with a friendly turkey trot! This fun family race is held on the scenic paths of Gulf State Park and is a local holiday tradition. 

Christmas

The Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Saturday, December 10th
From 5pm (Dusk)

Parades are a traditional holiday event, and ours are filled with unique coastal flair. Attend a local favorite at LuLu’s with the Annual Lighted Boat Parade, where brightly decorated boats will travel to The Wharf on the Intracoastal Waterway Canal. 

Flora-Bama’s Annual Santa Drop

December 10, 2022
11am to 2pm

Santa doesn’t arrive in our area on a sleigh – he skydives onto the white sandy beaches at the iconic Flora-Bama! This fun family event includes kids crafts, games, live music, holiday treats, and pics with Santa after the show. 

Ice Skating at The Wharf

November 11-16, 2022
Monday-Friday 4pm-10pm
Saturday-Sunday 10am-10pm

Glide, spin, or fall across a winter wonderland at The Wharf’s annual Ice Skating Rink. Tickets are $15 per person and include your skate rental and unlimited time on the ice. 

New Years Eve

Noon Years Eve at LuLu’s

December 31, 2022
10am to 3pm

Tiny revelers can get in on the NYE fun at LuLu’s annual event. Beginning at 10am, families can enjoy crafts, kids-safe fireworks (bubble wrap), a sandcastle building contest, face painting, and more. When the clock strikes noon, hundreds of colorful beach balls will flood LuLu’s Beach for an early celebration of 2023! 

Reelin’ in the New Year at The Wharf

December 31, 2022
5pm to 12am

The Wharf’s NYE event is a fun family street party that features a full evening of live bands, games, activities, and a midnight marlin drop with a fireworks finale. Kids activities include inflatables, face painting, camel rides, and more. Admission is free, though some kids activities cost $5-10. 


However you choose to celebrate the holiday season, Spectrum Resorts is your perfect homebase for festivities and fun. Let our award-winning team deliver the ultimate holiday experience on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

How to Black Friday Shop Like a Pro in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

For some shoppers, snagging the best Black Friday sales is like a competitive sport. For others, the idea of browsing those Black Friday deals fills them with dread. Then there are those in the middle – those shoppers who want to get in on the first big sales of the season, but they don’t know how to brave the Black Friday crowds.

We’ll let you in on a secret: there is no secret to Black Friday shopping. The key to shopping success on the biggest day of the year is to start – and end – with a plan. Even in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, a popular area that’s home to dozens of excellent shopping opportunities, a little preparation – and the following helpful tips – can help you Black Friday shop like a pro.

Make a List.

Then check it twice. Starting with a shopping list will help you stay focused in the Black Friday frenzy (and also avoid some sketchy impulse buys.) What are the top items you’re hoping to buy? Once you’ve made a list, you can start researching the best sites and sales to make a game plan for your day.

Get a Game Plan.

There are so many options for Black Friday shopping in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, from full retail malls to boutique shops and specialty stores. Decide in advance where you need to go and plan your day accordingly. Some of the most popular spots for Black Friday shopping include:

  • The Village Mercantile, an upscale shop at The Beach Club Resort that offers fashionable beach attire, casual resort wear, jewelry, gifts, and more. You’ll even find some home accessories at The Mercantile! While you’re there, refuel at The Village Hideaway.
  • The Tanger Outlets, a one-stop-shop for big-name brands and retail stores. 
  • The Wharf in Orange Beach, a premiere entertainment district that has more than 30 boutique stores filled with clothing, gifts, home decor, and spa supplies.
  • Pelican Place, a charming shopping center with big box stores, chic boutiques and artisanal gift shops.

Scan the Sales Online.

The days of pouring over pounds of holiday sales catalogs are over. In today’s digital world, social media is one of the best places to stay up-to-date on your favorite brands for Black Friday. Many pages even offer exclusive deals and promotions to customers who follow their feeds! In this area, you can follow accounts like The Wharf on Facebook for the latest info on Black Friday sales at their (many) retail stores.

Start Early.

They’re called doorbuster deals for a reason! If you wait too long to start shopping, you risk browsing shelves that are highly picked over, and you may even miss out on your must-haves entirely. Be aware of what time your priority stores open – especially if you’re after big-name items like tech or trending toys – and get there as soon as possible. Some stores even start offering great deals in the days before Black Friday, allowing you to skip the crowds entirely!

Go as a Group.

Shopping is always more fun with a friend. And in a group, you can split up and shop the best deals in half the time! Grab your best pals and make a fun, friendly day of it. After you shop, you can return to your condo to relax and recharge in beachfront bliss.

Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores: All You Need to Know

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Who says the holidays have to be filled with stress and hassle? In Gulf Shores, you can put your feet up and relax. Enjoy your family time with a Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores. From mouthwatering Gulf Shores Thanksgiving dinner options to things to do this holiday, we’ve got the details on a hassle-free holiday in Gulf Shores.

Thanksgiving falls on November 24 this year, so make sure your holiday reservations are set!

How to Spend Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores

Spectrum Beach Chairs

When you plan a Thanksgiving getaway, you can enjoy a holiday without the hassle with conveniences like grocery delivery at The Beach Club Resort.

Forget waiting in long lines at the grocery store to purchase your prized turkey. As a Spectrum Resorts guest at The Beach Club Resort & Spa, you can pre-order your groceries with the Beach Moms Concierge Package. The Beach Moms have created a special package, exclusive for Spectrum Resorts guests.

After you’ve arrived at your fully stocked Gulf Shores condo, put your feet up. Your Thanksgiving vacation is just beginning. Enjoy the best seat on the beach when you reserve beach chairs prior to your arrival. The weather is typically great in November along the Alabama coast. The kids will enjoy building sandcastles and playing sand football or spikeball while you catch up on your favorite book.

Gulf Shores Thanksgiving Dinner Options

Whole Roasted Turkey Dinner For Thanksgiving with All the Sides

If you’re a DIYer and love a great home-cooked meal, turn up the heat and make your favorite Thanksgiving dish in your fully equipped condo kitchen. Each Gulf-front condo at The Beach Club Resort comes with its very own fully equipped gourmet kitchen that includes an oven, stovetop, and microwave.

Thanksgiving To-Go Options

If cooking the Thanksgiving feast from scratch isn’t your cup of tea, you’re in luck.

The Beach Moms are offering a special Thanksgiving delivery service that includes turkey and all the fixin’s – all delivered directly to your condo on Wednesday, Nov. 23. Reheating instructions will also come with your order. Orders must be placed by Nov. 17. Call 251-979-3347 for details.

Coast Restaurant Thanksgiving Dinner

If your idea of the perfect Gulf Shores Thanksgiving dinner includes having someone else do the dishes, then Coast Restaurant is your sweet (and savory) spot. Make reservations for the Thanksgiving feast at Coast here at The Beach Club Resort. Coast offers a special holiday meal that will please even the pickiest of holiday eaters. Award-winning Chef John Hamme and his talented culinary team will prepare a feast fit for a king and his court!


Delectable servings include roast turkey served with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, braised green beans, red-skin mashed potatoes and gravy and cornbread dressing. Or select house-smoked Scottish salmon served with broccoli, orzo, and bell peppers. And, finally, you can also choose a marinated loin of smoked pork with all the fixings. Starters and dessert will also be served. Prices are $45 for adults. Reservations for this taste bud-tempting feast are required. See the full Thanksgiving Day menu.

Flora-Bama Thanksgiving Potluck

17401 Perdido Key Drive, Perdido Key, FL

(251) 980-5118

Open: 1 pm

Price: Complimentary, just bring a side dish; cocktails are separate

Reservations: None

Cobalt the Restaurant

28099, Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach

(251) 923-5300

Open: 10 am to 4 pm

Reservations: Recommended

GTs on the Beach

26189 Canal Road, Orange Beach

(251) 980-8400

Open: 10 am to 4 pm

Reservations: Recommended

Thanksgiving at The Hangout

101 E Beach Avenue, Gulf Shores

(251) 948-3030

Open: 11 am to 4 pm

Reservations: Recommended

woman shopping at the village mercantile at the beach club resort

Gulf Shores Thanksgiving 2022: Things to Do

After the dishes are cleared and the naps have been taken, there’s plenty to do during Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores. Make the short trip to Foley and do some Black Friday shopping at Tanger Outlets. With over 120 name-brand retailers, you’re sure to find the perfect gifts for your family.

Don’t forget to stop by The Village Mercantile at The Beach Club for fun finds, including jewelry, shoes and casual wear.

The weather during November is typically mild, making for comfortable days on the beach and for outdoor activities. Relax and soak in the sun while you enjoy your hassle-free Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores.

Reserve your Gulf Shores condo at The Beach Club Resort & Spa and enjoy a holiday to write home about with family and friends. 

Book Your Beachfront Holiday Party with Spectrum Resorts

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Every visit to Alabama’s beaches is a cause for celebration. And if you already have a reason to party, our sugar-white sands and turquoise waves can add a touch of magic to your special event. Even holidays feel a little more festive when they have our beachfront background!

And with the holiday season fast approaching, it’s time to book the perfect venue for your party. If you don’t want to add to your holiday stress, that probably means a venue with a great location, enough space for all your guests, and a party package that covers every detail. We have good news for your planning committee – you’ll find all of that and more with Spectrum Resorts at The Beach Club in Gulf Shores and Turquoise Place in Orange Beach.

The Beach Club and Turquoise Place are two of the most desirable resorts in the area, and our party packages are designed to elevate your holiday event. When the fun is done, our group lodging rates can give everyone to spend a few days enjoying the beach!

Whether you’re celebrating the season with your company, your colleagues, your clients or your friends, the upscale properties of Spectrum Resorts can provide the perfect setting from start to finish.

Turquoise Place

Experience true holiday magic within the iconic walls of our sparkling resort. You can choose between two private event spaces depending on your size: the Emerald Room (503C), which seats up to 50, and the Sapphire Room (503D), which can accommodate up to 100 guests. Both rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony for breathtaking views of the Gulf.

Features:

  • An on-site event planner to ensure a smooth party experience
  • Multiple catering options, including hors d’oeuvres, buffet, or plated meals
  • Customized menu planning
  • Bar Service available
  • Tables, chairs, and linens included
  • Festive satin table runners in red, green, and champagne
  • Indoor/Outdoor spaces available
  • Group room rates available
LEARN MORE ABOUT EVENTS AT TURQUOISE PLACE

The Beach Club Resort & Spa

Enjoy a VIP party experience at The Beach Club Resort & Spa. This luxurious resort offers three captivating spaces for a private and personalized event: Gulfview, Island Room, or Coast. Each room seats 50-100 guests comfortably and treats your group to stunning Gulf views.

Features:

  • An on-site event planner to ensure a smooth party experience
  • Indoor/Outdoor spaces available
  • Multiple catering options, including hors d’oeuvres, buffet, or plated meals
  • Customized menu planning
  • Bar Service available
  • Tables, chairs, and linens included
  • Festive satin table runners in red, green, and champagne
  • Christmas sounds provided through speakers
  • Discounted group rates
LEARN MORE ABOUT EVENTS AT THE BEACH CLUB

To inquire about hosting your next event please call us at (866) 229-7350, send us an email at groupsales@spectrumresorts.com. 

5 Reasons to Stay at The Beach Club Resort and Spa

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

By Heather Montgomery, Through Heather’s Looking Glass

There are a LOT of reasons to stay at the Beach Club Resort and Spa in Fort Morgan, (just outside Gulf Shores) Alabama. I truly could gush on and on about how much my family loves it there. I decided to pick five of my favorite things to tell you about, and then answer any additional questions that come from the post. Let’s buckle up and get moving!

Why I love the Beach Club Resort and Spa:

The first reason is right there in the name…a spa. Not just any spa, but an Aveda spa, right on property, mere steps away from the condo we stayed in. I was greeted by the lovely smell of Aveda products, and brought back to change in the locker room and brought to a beautiful relaxation space and offered a mimosa. Yes please! There is also coffee and other items available. IF you want to jump in the hot tub, bring your swimsuit and arrive early for your treatments to unwind a bit before hand.

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