Category: Gulf Coast Accomodations

Your Fly-In Options for a Gulf Shores 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 Gulf Shores, it’s easier than ever to experience Alabama’s white-sand beaches!

Airports Near Gulf Shores

There are great options for airports near Gulf Shores, but depending on where you are coming from and what airline you choose, pricing can be different. Below are a few choices for consideration.

Jack Edwards Airport

Gulf Shores International Airport (JKA)

The closest airport to Gulf Shores is Gulf Shores International Airport – Jack Edwards Field (JKA), only 2.5 miles from Gulf Shores. 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 an hour away from Gulf Shores (37 miles) via FL-292 W and AL-182 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 Gulf Shores for a flat rate of $85.

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 23 minutes from Gulf Shores (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 9 minutes from Gulf Shores (57 miles) via I-10 W. With a convenient location near downtown Mobile, BFM makes it easy to access Gulf Shores 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 almost 200 miles away (3 hours and 6 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 Gulf Shores.

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 Gulf Shores

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 Gulf Shores for their attention to detail. Services they offer include grocery shopping and putting away prior to arrival, and restaurant and excursion reservations. The Beach Moms will act as your personal concierge throughout your trip including making reservations for popular resort activities like reservations at Coast (onsite restaurant), beach chair rentals, Aqua Fun Tails mermaid/pirate photoshoots and spa reservations.

Getting Around Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores 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.

Beach Club Amenities

The Beach Club Resort and Spa in Gulf Shores (on the Fort Morgan peninsula) offers visitors access to a beautiful 86-acre village with upscale 1- to 5-bedroom beachfront condos and lakeside cottages. Each includes fully appointed kitchens, spacious room designs, washer/dryer units, and lots of on-property perks like restaurants (casual and upscale), tennis courts, pools, hot tubs and a full-service spa. The beach itself is such a gem with five football fields of white-sand beaches juxtaposing amazing turquoise waters. You’ll never want to leave!

Book direct with Spectrum and eliminate the risk factors with the only 100% Satisfaction Guarantee in the area. Visitors can enjoy a no-worry experience creating peace of mind that’s simply irreplaceable.

Search our available Gulf Shores rentals today and see why The Beach Club Resort and Spa continues to be a favorite among travelers.

5 Ultra-Fun Things for Teens to do at The Beach Club

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Summer is FINALLY here! This school year has been rough for me, so I can’t tell you how excited I am to be back on the beach! Hanging out at The Beach Club in Gulf Shores is one of the coolest ways to spend summer break. If you’re like me, your attention span is nowhere to be found, and that’s fine. It was a long school year! I’ve created this list with activities for the go-getter and all of you that just want to sit back and relax. Whether you’re a gamer, shopper, social butterfly, or music enthusiast, there are so many fun things for teens to do at The Beach Club.

1. The Village Creamery 

The Village Creamery is the perfect place to cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth. Last time I was at The Beach Club, I got the most amazing tan. (I still can’t forget it, ha!) I got a little hot in the process so I gave The Village Creamery a try. OH. MY. GOODNESS. What more can I say? It was super hard to choose between the 16 different, hand-dipped flavors. I finally decided on the cookies and cream sundae, and I was not disappointed! In addition to the amazing flavors, I was shocked at all the candy. I mean, I was in heaven! They literally have every candy you can think of. What a treat! If you’re a Spectrum Resorts’ guest, enjoy a free cone on Spectrum or charge your ice cream to your room number. (With your parent’s permission, of course!)

2. The Village Arcade & Billiards

If you’re a gamer, you won’t be able to get enough of The Village Arcade & Billiards. Enjoy playing Xbox One  games or race your friends in Super Bikes 2. If you don’t want to play digital games, try your luck at the claw machine or a game of pool. It’s just one of so many fun things for teens to do at The Beach Club. (Especially when it’s super hot or rainy!) The arcade is a hidden gem at the resort, and you’ll no doubt love it as much as I do!

3. The Village Mercantile

Ladies, you’re going to LOVE this place! So, funny story, one time when I was visiting The Beach Club, I forgot my swimsuit. Yep. that’s me. It’s not the first time it’s happened either, yikes! Anyway, my mom took me to The Village Mercantile and their fashion game was on point! Hats, flip flops, sunglasses, and lucky for me, swimsuits! The Village Mercantile saved my beach trip that week. Plan to stop in while you’re at The Beach Club. You won’t regret it!

4. Sand Island

If you’re a “social butterfly” Sand Island is perfect for you! Whether you want to play a little beach volleyball, hang out with some friends, or meet fellow vacationers, I would 100% recommend Sand Island. Located directly north of The Clubhouse, Sand Island is the perfect hangout spot for teens!

5. The Village Lawn

Looking for more fun things to do at The Beach Club? The Village Lawn combines two of my favorite things, music, and food. I honestly can’t think of anything better than grabbing a bite from one of the food trucks and jamming out to some live music. Guests  who book directly through Spectrum Resorts can charge food to their room number so they don’t have to carry any cash, one of my favorite perks. When staying at the resort, live music at The Village Lawn is on the top of my list. Seriously, you have to experience it!

I hope this list of things teens can do at The Beach Club in Gulf Shores was helpful in planning your beach trip! You’re going to have so much fun at my favorite resort!

See you at the beach,
Emily

About Emily

Born and raised on the Alabama Gulf Coast, Emily Hobbs is passionate about helping her community grow and thrive. She volunteers at her local Chamber of Commerce and is enjoying learning about the ins and outs of business and the history of the area. Emily enjoys spending time outside in nature exploring new places as well as cooking, baking, reading and freelance writing. She lives with her parents and sisters in their country home, where they enjoy hosting family and friends on their back porch. She especially loves to spend time with her miniature black and tan dapple dachshund Rudy, who always lends a listening ear when she proofreads her articles.

3 Reasons to Book your Gulf Shores Vacation Early

Posted on by Ashee Lowry

Perhaps you’re thinking it’s still a little early to book a summer beach vacation, but really the time is now! Booking early has great perks, so skip the procrastination and start planning. The sense of relief will be amazing, and it gives you something to look forward to when your reservation is secured.

Our 3 Favorite Reasons to Book Your Vacation Early

Book with $0 Deposit

One of our favorite reasons to book a vacation early at The Beach Club by Spectrum Resorts is paying $0 deposit on reservations booked more than 30 days in advance! We want our guests to enjoy a worry-free booking experience. We eliminate risks by offering the only 100% Satisfaction Guarantee in Gulf Shores so you can have a no-hassle, no-worry experience that offers peace of mind. As a Spectrum Resorts guest at The Beach Club, you’ll have the security of knowing that if your Gulf Shores condo is not as represented, we will relocate you to a rental with similar accommodations. Nothing is left to chance!

The Beach Club Condo

Reserve the Best Condo at the Best Rate

Got your eye on a particular cottage or Gulf Shores condo? Maybe you like to reserve the same unit every year so you know what to expect. Don’t let it slip away and be singing those vacation blues—book it early so you’ll be worry-free on packing day. Booking early also means you have the best opportunity to get the best rates.

The Beach Club chair rental

Priority Reservations

Another reason to book early when planning your Gulf Shores vacation is to gain advance access to perks and specials. As the onsite rental management company, Spectrum Resorts offers added benefits like priority beach chair reservations, spa appointments (now there’s a PERK!), dinner reservations and priority cabana rentals! You can plan for these perks before you even leave home and free up valuable vacation time when you arrive.

Let’s face it, our lives are hectic enough. Let’s do all we can to make vacation time special and enjoyable. Booking early at The Beach Club Resort & Spa with Spectrum Resorts makes all the difference in your travel. Book your stay early so you and your family can concentrate on one thing—creating happy memories.

Plan the Perfect Family Reunion in Gulf Shores

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Family reunions are exciting times to reminisce, catch up and enjoy the company of extended family. Finding a place everyone can agree on is the taxing part, but luckily, Gulf Shores is a crowd-pleaser. Miles of white-sand beaches, palate-pleasing restaurants and activities galore make it the ideal destination for family events. Planning your family reunion in Gulf Shores will earn you extra points in the favorite family member category!

 

The Beach Club Resort & Spa offers the best in amenities for groups planning a family reunion in Gulf Shores. Our group sales team helps customize a trip to remember for the whole family. From upscale Gulf Shores condos to cottages around the lake, there are accommodations for every taste and budget. Enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, private beaches, clubhouse, fitness center, full-service spa and salon, onsite restaurants and much more.

 

Why Book a Family Reunion in Gulf Shores at The Beach Club?

 

  • Receive special rates when booking five or more Gulf Shores condos or cottages during the off season. Contact group sales for this rate and get expert help in booking your event.
  • An onsite planning (GEM) specialist can help arrange activities and special requests for your event.
  • The talented culinary team at Coast Restaurant & Sushi Bar can prepare a special dinner or breakfast for the group to commemorate the occasion. It’s easy to plan by utilizing our experienced group sales team.
  • Beach campfires are new at The Beach Club Resort & Spa. Keep that in mind when the sun goes down and your family needs a fun venue for socializing. Campfire packages include wooden chairs, tables, s’mores kits, roasting sticks, bottled water, tiki torches and a beach attendant for set up and clean up. Tip! Reserve your campfire package in advance. Spectrum Resorts guests receive a 10% discount.
  • When booking a family reunion in Gulf Shores through the group sales team, reunion groups receive a $200 resort credit. The credit can be used at restaurants and spa or retail outlets on property. Use the credit for a group lunch at The Village Hideaway, a family campfire or treat the ladies to pedicures at The Spa & Salon!

 

VIP Perks

Free Bike Rentals for Spectrum Resorts GuestsRemember, booking direct with Spectrum Resorts always comes with extra VIP perks, including access to all resort amenities, complimentary bike rentals, 10% discount at resort restaurants, shopping and spa treatments, the Clean Bed Guarantee, onsite staff and much more!

 

From the patriarch of the family to the youngest in the group, everyone will find things they love at The Beach Club Resort & Spa during a family reunion in Gulf Shores. Helpful assistance is always available from onsite staff, and loads of excitement awaits with each new day. Splash around the pool, take a book to the water’s edge for nature’s perfect reading nook, challenge the family to a match on the tennis courts, visit the game room and don’t forget about free DVD rentals available as a Spectrum guest. There’s no end to the entertainment options.

 

Why not get started today planning a memorable family reunion in Gulf Shores? Contact the group sales team at (866) 229-7350 for special pricing and more details on creating the perfect getaway for every member of the family.

 

 

Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals – Which is best for your family?

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

You did it! You have completed all the research and found the perfect destination for your family’s next vacation. Imagine yourself taking tons of photos to share with your friends! Now the next step begins – booking a place to stay. Should you book a hotel or a vacation rental? How do you decide? Don’t bother yourself with contacting a travel agent. We are delivering all the facts to help you choose the best option for your family’s next vacation.

How many are in your group?

When deciding on your place to stay, the first thing to consider is how many people will be joining you on vacation. Is it just your family? Are you bringing along nieces and nephews or are two families vacationing together? Even as a family of four, if you are looking for more privacy, the cost of additional hotel rooms can add up quickly. Vacation rentals are an excellent choice for party size groups because of their room options. With joint living spaces such as the living room and dining room but also the privacy of individual bedrooms, you really do get the best of both worlds. Also the price for a 3 bedroom home could equal or be less than only one hotel room. Vacation rentals are individually decorated for a more “feeling of home” experience. Plus, you won’t hear the maids coming and going.

What are your food options?

Hotels provide various on-site dining options such as restaurants, a buffet, or breakfast bar. Would you want to be restricted to specific menus or a dinner schedule for your entire trip? Also, is there anyone in your family with dietary restrictions? If that is the case, as it is for many families, vacation rentals are the best option because they provide a fully equipped kitchen. Guests can spend more time together preparing meals of their preference and also save money! Many vacation rental management companies even offer grocery delivery, so be sure to ask.

How important is daily housekeeping?

Housekeeping and provided linens can vary in vacation rentals and hotels. Each vacation rental is supplied with a washer and dryer for the guest to use at their disposal. Linens can be provided or you may even have to bring your own. Also, some vacation rentals offer daily housekeeping, but at an additional charge or “al a carte.” Be sure to get all the information on their housekeeping packages before booking. Many hotels offer complimentary daily housekeeping and provide the linens and amenities daily. Vacation Rentals may or may not provide you with an amenities package at the time of check-in. Is this something you really need for your vacation? Does your family ever use the soaps or shampoos provided?

Do you like to operate on your own time?

Hotels tend to have more of a “tight schedule” for meals, housekeeping, fitness facilities, etc. When you book a vacation home you are on your own time. You don’t need to rush your daytime beach trip to make a dinner reservation. Vacation Rentals offer the luxury of in-room features such as a personal washer and dryer and a private kitchen so you can do laundry or cook meals at your own pace. Your vacation should be relaxing and not in a rush. Also, be sure to educate yourself on services provided by your hotel or property management company such as concierge, front desk, room service, and valet. Most hotels provide this service, but a vacation rental can depend on which property management company you are booking.

The place you plan to stay during your vacation can really make a huge difference in your experience. If you consider the topics we have mentioned above you can definitely find the most ideal spot for your family. Keep in mind everyone is different and has different needs when it comes to their vacation. We hope you enjoy your next trip!

Five Reasons to Book Your Vacation Early

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Seriously, stop reading this blog immediately and go ahead and book your vacation.  Ok, maybe not right this second, but definitely soon.  Why would you wait?  There are several advantages for the planners that book their vacation months in advance rather than waiting until the last minute.

  • You’ll Have More Available Rentals to Choose from

You don’t want to end up in a condo that hasn’t been updated since shag carpet and fake plants were all the rage.  The best condos fill up fast.  You’ll have much better luck finding a room that’s been updated with modern décor and technology (I’m talking flat screen TVs and Blu-ray players instead of box TVs and VCRs) if you’re doing your research in January instead of June.

  • You’ll Save Money

It’s simple supply and demand.  As more and more reservations come in, vacation rental companies increase the price on their remaining inventory.  That means the longer you wait to book your vacation, the more money you’ll end up paying.  Make your reservation earlier in the year to lock in the lower prices before they start to go up.

  • You Won’t Have to Put Down a Huge Deposit

So this varies by rental company, but generally speaking if you book your reservation more than a month in advance you’ll pay a smaller deposit that you would if you book at the last minute.  Most rental companies require a 50% deposit for reservations booked more than a month in advance and full payment for reservations made within a month of the arrival date.  Some companies even let you book with $0 down if you’re booking far enough in advance. For example, Spectrum guests are not required to pay anything until 30 days from their booking date. So you can lock in a great rental at a low rate and not even have to spend a penny to do it!

  • You’ll Have More Time to Plan Your Trip

Booking early allows you to better plan your vacation.  Once you know where you’re going to stay, you can search the amenities in the area for you and your family to enjoy while on vacation.  It also gives you more time to coordinate with friends and family members that may want to come along on the trip too.  You could even look at bunking up and staying in a larger condo (there are four and even five bedroom options available) to split the cost and save some money.

  • You’ll Have a Vacation to Look Forward to

Wouldn’t you rather take your time and plan out your vacation or be stressed and scrambling to book something last minute?  Think about it, you could have everything planned and reserved before winter is even over and you’ll have a vacation to look forward too.  It’s much less stressful than waiting until June to try and pull a summer vacation together.

Coastal Alabama Fall Festivals

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Fall is a favorite season on the Alabama Gulf Coast for many reasons including cooler days, lower rates and explosive sunsets over the water. Visitors and locals enjoy this time of year because the weather is absolutely amazing!

Fall also means festival season and we hope you are looking forward to getting outside and enjoying Mother Nature at her finest. Enjoy all of Coastal Alabama’s attractions including kayaking, biking, horseback riding and upcoming events. With so much to see and do, we have composed a list of the top four festivals and events on the coast.

Wharf Uncorked
September 24-26
The 2nd Annual Premier Wine and Culinary Event, Wharf Uncorked is September 24th through 26th at The Wharf in Orange Beach. This three day event features over 150 labels for sampling and purchase, demonstrations from renowned chefs, sampling and purchasing of fine wines and live and silent auctions benefiting Make-A-Wish Foundation. Tickets to the Saturday night Grand Tasting are $95.20.

44th Annual National Shrimp Festival
October 8th – 11th
The Annual National Shrimp Festival is a FREE event held the second full weekend in October at Gulf Shores public beach. This outdoor festival attracts 250,000 people and over 300 vendors. Shrimp Fest is one of the nations’ premier outdoor festivals featuring fine arts, arts and crafts, an outdoor village and a retail marketplace. Get great rates at Turquoise Place and The Beach Club during Shrimp Fest when booking Spectrum Resorts Tailgate Getaway special. Save big on already low fall rates and receive all the benefits of the Spectrum Advantage.

Oyster Cook-Off
November 6th & 7th
See over 70 chefs including Food Network Stars and James Beard award winners demonstrate their oyster cooking skills during the Oyster Cook-Off. Be a part of a weekend full of activities including a Craft Beer Festival, Oyster Cook-Off, Tailgating, demonstrations, workshops and the North American Oyster Showcase. The cost to attend the Friday Craft Beer Festival is $40 and tickets to the Cook-Off are $10 at the door. Oyster Cook-Off Ticket booklets are $25 in advance.

Wine Dinners at Coast Restaurant at The Beach Club
First Friday of every month October – April
Take advantage of the opportunity to sample and learn about notable wines from around the world and how they should be paired with your food. The Beach Club is bringing wines from around the world for interactive wine dinners the first Friday evening of each month. Award-winning Chef Brody Olive will prepare a four-course meal designed to complement the evening’s featured wines. Wine reps will be available to answer questions and guests will have an opportunity to purchase select wines. Wine dinners are $40 per person and weekend rates are available with advanced reservations.

There is something for everyone to do this fall season. Book a weekend visit during the fall and take advantage of Spectrum Resorts great rates with the Tailgate Getaway special. Save big on already low fall rates and treat your family to a fall break.

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Coastal Alabama Tailgate Getaways

Posted on by Eva Faircloth

Attention football fanatics! When your team hits the road, hit the beach. Bring your friends and family to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to tailgate this football season. Cheer on your favorite team from the comforts of a Gulf-front condo or from one of the many TV’s hanging throughout all of the local restaurants and sports bars.

It’s time to get back to the beach and the fall is the perfect time. The vacation rental rates drop, there is less traffic and the weather is ideal. There are also endless activities including shopping, spa treatments and 32 miles of sugar-white sand to relax on for the ones who prefer the social aspects of tailgating.

We want to help you make your next Tailgate Getaway unforgettable so here are few tips on getting the most out of your Tailgate Getaway.

1. Know your audience. Is this a guy’s trip, a girlfriends getaway or a family vacation? Either way, you still need a place to stay. Since rates drop drastically after Labor Day, it is the perfect time to reserve your accommodations. Gulf-front resorts like Turquoise Place and The Beach Club offer great Tailgate Getaway specials and they even include visits from legendary coaches and resort activities. Turquoise Place has private Jacuzzi’s and gas grills on every balcony and The Beach Club is home to Fort Morgan’s football headquarters, The Village Hideaway.

2. The advantages of staying in a condominium for your Tailgate Getaway are the ability to prepare food in a well equipped kitchen. There are certain foods that are a staple for most tailgate parties. Chicken wings, hamburgers, hot dogs and pretty much anything you can eat with your fingers are must haves for game day cuisine. Spectrum Resorts offers a grocery delivery service so all of your tailgating treats can be delivered before your arrival so you don’t even have to stop at the store.

3. Go ahead and pick your date. Find a game weekend when your team is on the road. If you can coordinate a travel weekend that coincides with a festival weekend, you can get the best of both worlds. Wharf Uncorked, The National Annual Shrimp Festival and Oyster Cook-Off are a few upcoming fall events on the Alabama Gulf Coast that we recommend attending.

Bring your MVPs to the beach for an unforgettable Tailgate Getaway and cheer on your favorite team in style. Tell us your favorite team and some of your game day must haves.

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