A Brit and A Southerner

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May 7, 2023

Turquoise Place, Orange Beach – Enjoy the Gulf Coast in Luxury

Relaxing in ultimate luxury is certainly an appealing thought for many, and idyllic destinations such as Bora Bora, the Maldives, Fiji, or even the Caribbean will likely be at the forefront of your mind. However, we would argue that Alabama’s Gulf Coast is equally relaxing, especially if you are consider staying at the ultimate luxury accommodation option along this stretch of coastline.

Turquoise Place by Spectrum Resorts is located in Orange Beach, Alabama and offers everything you could wish for in terms of a relaxing getaway. Having stayed at Turquoise Place on several occasions, we are eager to share our experiences and perhaps inspire others to consider adding this as their preferred condo of choice when planning a trip to the Gulf Coast.

The Pinnacle of Luxury

Can you imagine any better way to start your Gulf Coast vacation than by waking up early in the morning in your luxurious condo and heading out to your spacious balcony overlooking the Gulf?

Maybe have someone in your group take the short drive down the coast to The Southern Grind Coffee House (or one of the many other awesome local coffee shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach), grab everyone’s favorite espresso, before spending some time on the balcony and admiring the breathtaking sunrise that this stretch of Alabama coastline is infamous for (at least in our opinion).

One glance at our glittering turquoise towers and you’ll know you’ve reached the peak of beachfront luxury.
Turquoise Place by Spectrum Resorts

Of course, the beauty of staying at Turquoise Place and the incredible amenities inside the condos, is that you rarely need to venture off property, though our soft spot for these awesome local coffee shops is something that we encourage you all to experience also. We will share more on the amenities later, but just contemplating the thought of listening to the waves from the Gulf of Mexico, and admiring the sight of the 32 miles of pristine beaches, is certainly enough to make us to want to return sooner rather than later.

Turquoise Place Rental Options

As mentioned, guests can choose from 3, 4, or 5-bedroom condos, all of which are equipped with amenities, and relaxing decor that will likely make you reconsider your design options at home. The condos feature a fully stocked kitchen complete with top of the line appliances by Sub-Zero, Wolf and Kitchen Aid.

Enjoy spectacular, unparalleled views of dolphins playing in the Gulf of Mexico from the spacious balcony which also features a gas grill, and hot tub (as of April 2023, Turquoise Place is taking the luxury experience to the next level by installing brand new hot tubs in all properties).

During our recent visit to Orange Beach, we stayed in a spacious, 3-bedroom condo that epitomized everything there is to love about Turquoise Place. From the relaxing living room space to the jacuzzi tub in the master bedroom, we fell in love with what we consider to be pure luxury.

Every morning we would wake up and head outside to enjoy the sunrise, before heading inside to enjoy a light breakfast thanks to the awesome amenities available. The Kitchen-Aid ice machine in the bar area was perhaps my favorite appliance, especially given that it was frequently used throughout our stay.

With a laundry room featuring a full-size washer and dryer available, everything you could wish for was inside this condominium.

On-Site Amenities

While staying at Turquoise Place is primarily about the incredible condos on offer, you cannot help but also enjoy the selection of other amenities that truly creates this epic experience. Although Turquoise Place is not really considered an “all-inclusive” resort, I would argue that it perhaps could be given that you rarely need to leave with everything on offer.

The lazy river is the perfect place to float around while catching up on your tan, or the indoor and outdoor pool areas are ideal for relaxing or enjoying some family fun before heading down to the beach. Be sure to rent beach chairs to ensure you have the perfect spot to relax, before venturing back upstairs to enjoy more luxurious facilities.

From a pool-side bar, to a dining experience for every appetite and occasion, Turquoise Place will ensure you never go hungry or thirsty. The seasonal complimentary breakfast at the Spectrum Club Lounge is certainly a great way to start the day, while if you prefer to grab a bite to eat later in the day, all guests enjoy a 10% discount on all dining and retail outlets at Turquoise Place.

For those of you looking to enjoy a little activity during your stay, head to the two full-size tennis courts just outside the indoor pool area, while for those that prefer pickleball, these courts are also striped for the shorter version. Complete with state of the art fitness equipment and located on the fourth floor level of each tower, the on-site gym is the perfect place to burn a few calories (though a stroll/run along the beach is equally appealing).

Cost vs Benefits

Many people reading this post will understandably think that there is one factor that deters them from staying at Turquoise Place – the cost! Is Turquoise Place worth the price? 100% yes!!

While at face value, Turquoise Place may be at the higher end of the budget spectrum, the larger condominiums (3, 4, or even 5 bedroom options) are perfect for friends and family to come together and book a vacation together. When you split the cost among multiple families, and with the knowledge that you are staying in perhaps the finest accommodation option on the Gulf Coast, this is definitely worth the price to pay for staying in such a luxurious experience.

Bask in the sun, sink in the sand, and experience luxury at Turquoise Place, Orange Beach’s premier resort.
Turquoise Place by Spectrum Resorts

Summary

Anyone planning a trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach should consider choosing Turquoise Place as their accommodation option. A once in a lifetime experience that will likely turn into you wanting to return time and time again. The difficult part will be on your day of departure, as you will likely not want to leave but be sure to enjoy every minute of your stay, as this is the perfect relaxing getaway for families, couples, and friends.

Everything about Turquoise Place epitomizes pure luxury, and we hope that you will enjoy the experience as much as we do every time we visit our favorite beachfront destination!

Highway to the Sky – Enjoy a Scenic Drive in the Rocky Mountains

Colorado

Chris Boothman

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Feb 5, 2023

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Highway to the Sky – Enjoy a Scenic Drive in the Rocky Mountains

Scenic drives through national parks create memorable experiences, with breathtaking panoramic landscapes frequently the highlight of these journeys. The drive through the heart of the Rocky Mountain National Park is no different, and given the elevation that you reach during this epic experience, it’s no surprise to hear that this route is recognized as the “Highway to the Sky”. Whether you are traveling from Estes Park westbound, or returning from a visit to nearby Utah exploring the Mighty 5 national parks in the Beehive State, this drive is worth adding to your itinerary, especially given that there are only limited times of the year when this is actually accessible.

Visitors to the Rocky Mountains may associate this area with mountain towns such as Vail, Aspen, and Telluride, but its the Highway to the Sky drive that certainly offers landscapes unlike anywhere else in the US. At its highest point, the Trail Ridge Road, as it is also known, peaks at a staggering 12,183 feet in elevation which is the highest continuous paved highway in the U.S. Visitors venturing out from either Estes Park or Grand Lake climb around 4,000 feet in elevation in a few minutes, starting in a montane ecosystem comprising of aspen and pine before entering sub-alpine forests.

Let’s take a look at what makes the Highway to the Sky road such an epic experience, and why we encourage you to pay a visit here sooner rather than later to enjoy these incredible landscapes as much as we did.

Highway to the Sky – Grand Lake to Estes Park

If you are heading to the Rocky Mountains from the west, the quaint, historic town of Grand Lake is surrounded on three sides by the national park. Located just a mile from the park’s west entrance, Grand Lake, offers incredible family friendly activities from paddle boating and nature walks to awesome theater productions.

The gorgeous lake is perhaps the highlight of the town and is also the largest and deepest natural alpine lake in Colorado, but many also associate Grand Lake with the start of the Highway to the Sky drive!

During the winter months and when the Highway to the Sky road is closed, the drive between Grand Lake and Estes Park, Colorado can take over 3 hours via I-70. However, during the summer months, visitors can enjoy the spectacular 48 mile drive through the heart of the Rocky Mountains and experience breathtaking scenery unlike anywhere else in the US.

The scenic drive requires at least 2 hours of driving but visitors can extend this dependent on how much time you want to experience the myriad of attractions and viewpoints along this route. Crossing the Continental Divide at Milner Pass at 10,759 feet, this drive encompasses a series of hairpin curves, steep inclines, and various spots where you can pull to the side of the road to enjoy the epic panoramic views.

continental divide rocky mountain national park

The road is usually open from around Memorial Day through mid-October but always check ahead of your visit to ensure you are not left disappointed and a fairly substantial detour to connect between two of Colorado’s iconic alpine towns.

Alpine Visitors Center

Regardless of which direction you are traveling, this drive is certainly worth packing a picnic so that you can enjoy an epic relaxing lunch (or dinner) with spectacular panoramic views. One of the perfect spots to either enjoy your picnic or to learn more information about the Rocky Mountains is the Alpine Visitors Center near the highest point on the road. This is the highest elevation visitor center in the National Park system at 11,796 feet above sea level.

Visitors can use the restroom, head inside the visitor center to learn more information, and then head out to hike some of the trails where you may well feel like you are on top of the world. The scenery around this part of the drive is beyond breathtaking, and while pictures will never do this experience enough justice, we hope you are inspired to add this drive to your next Colorado itinerary.

With sweeping views of the valleys below, this is also a great opportunity to see some of the infamous Rocky Mountain wildlife such as bighorn sheep, bobcats, mountain lions, deer, coyotes, among other species.

Scenic Overlooks

The Highway to the Sky drive offers ample scenic overlooks, but two of our favorites are the ideal spot to capture magical sunset shots if you are visiting the area during the Golden Hour. Both Many Parks Curve and Forest Canyon Overlook offer near 360 degree panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains with little to interfere with the inherent beauty of this incredible national park.

The first true hairpin curve along Trail Ridge Road, Many Parks Curve is undoubtedly one of the most popular spots for visitors to pullover to enjoy the incredible scenery. Some of the highlights of this view include Bighorn Mountain (standing at 11,465 ft.), and Horseshoe Park below to the east. Admire this scenery before venturing on towards Forest Park Canyon, which we have to say was our favorite spot.

Peering down into Forest Canyon nearly 2,000-feet below the viewpoint, visitors can take a short walk from the parking lot to the overlook and pick out some of the Rocky Mountains’ most iconic landmarks. On a clear day, visitors will enjoy epic views of Longs Peak, towering into the Colorado sky at 14,259 feet. Other peaks include Stones Peak (12,922 ft.) and Terra Tomah Mountain (12,718 ft.).

Regardless of your desire to be able to pick out certain peaks, you should allow yourself to indulge in the beauty that surrounds you. The scenery is unlike anything else we have experienced, and these overlooks (along with several others) allow you to be transcended into the heart of the Rocky Mountains without having to hike miles into the national park to experience the sight of alpine vistas, and towering peaks.

Capitol Reef to Arches National Park – Enjoy an Epic Weekend Trip

Utah

Chris Boothman

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Jan 2, 2023

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Capitol Reef to Arches National Park – Enjoy an Epic Weekend Trip

The iconic Mighty 5 national parks in Utah offer an exhilarating experience with eye-catching landscapes and panoramic views that inspire visitors to return year after year. Our visits to Utah have seen us explore all of these epic parks, and perhaps the least known is also the trickiest to visit – Capitol Reef National Park. If you are heading south from Salt Lake City towards Moab to explore Canyonlands and Arches, this is a great time to take a quick detour and pay a quick visit to the heart of Utah to explore Capitol Reef. Whether you are road-tripping in your own vehicle, or perhaps prefer to grab a RV rental to explore the Mighty 5 national parks in Utah, this is definitely an experience not to be missed.

Ready for an epic weekend getaway? Let’s take a look at how you can travel from Capitol Reef to Arches National Parks during the same weekend and perhaps catch a glimpse of inherent beauty of both.

A trip to any of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks deserves much more than 24-48 hours to explore, but if you are pressed for time or perhaps looking to stay in the gorgeous accommodation options available in Moab, it’s feasible to explore Capitol Reef before heading across to the eastern corner of the state.

Our visit to Capitol Reef was actually in reverse, after we headed west from Denver to spend the night in Moab and then enjoy an early morning drive through Arches before venturing across to Capitol Reef. I should add the caveat that we have visited Arches several times previously, so our focus on this trip was to spend as much time as possible in Capitol Reef given that this was the final national park in Utah that we had to visit.

Capitol Reef to Arches – How to Get There

The drive between Capitol Reef and Arches is straightforward however, to be transparent, there is very little in eastern Utah outside of these areas designated as national parks, and so driving along the interstate and then lesser known roads can lead to several hours of very little scenery. However, the ultimate focus should be on the end goal which is arriving at the entrance to Capitol Reef, so whether you are heading there from Salt Lake City, Moab, or other area of the Beehive State, the drive is well worth it.

A drive that is a little over 2 hours between Capitol Reef and Moab ensures that visitors should always have this lesser known park on their radar. You could even consider using Moab as a base to explore Arches, Canyonlands, and take a day trip to Capitol Reef but ultimately it depends on your personal itinerary and how much time you want to dedicate to each park.

Click Here for Directions from Capitol Reef to Arches National Park via Google Maps

To add a little context, Capitol Reef is accessible from the following Utah cities and landmarks:

Salt Lake City – 218 Miles (3 Hours 26 Minutes)
St. George – 209 Miles (3 Hours 22 Minutes)
Bryce Canyon National Park – 112 Miles (2 Hours 6 Minutes)
Zion National Park – 186 Miles (3 Hours 33 Minutes)

The Landscape of Capitol Reef National Park

While Capitol Reef is frequently considered the least well-known of all the national parks in Utah, you may be surprised to hear that this is actually the second largest after Canyonlands National Park. Much of Capitol Reef surrounds the Waterpocket Fold geological formation, and the park itself runs predominantly north to south, at 60 miles long and only 6 miles wide.

The park can be explored via a self-guided driving tour that meanders through the inherent beauty on either side, but as with most national parks, Capitol Reef is best explored on foot by visiting many of the breathtaking trails. Capitol Reef is essentially divided into three key areas, namely the Fruita Historic District, Cathedral Valley District, and the Waterpocket Fold.

The Fruita Historic District is the most frequently visited and most accessible part of the park. Many of Capitol Reef’s infamous attractions are located in this park area, just off Highway 24. The Cathedral Valley District is much more remote and the rugged landscape of this region is highlighted by towering rock formations, impressive scenic drives, and the iconic Temple of the Sun and Moon.

The heart of Capitol Reef is frequently considered the Waterpocket Fold, and along with parts of the Cathedral Valley District, you will need an AWD vehicle in order to explore the great outdoors in this part of the park.

Visitor Information

As with many national parks, Capitol Reef relies heavily on the entrance fees in order to help fund the preservation of this area of natural beauty. Visitors to Capitol Reef will pay $20 per vehicle, but unlike many national parks, there is no official entrance station and guests will follow the honor system and self-pay at either the visitor center or the north end of the Capitol Gorge Scenic Drive.

The visitor center is a great place to visit prior to heading along the Capitol Gorge Scenic Drive, not only to pay a quick visit to the restrooms before heading out into the park, but also to pickup a map of the park, along with other information and history surrounding this part of Utah.

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Get your national park pass for only $80.

Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

While hiking is undoubtedly the best way to explore Capitol Reef National Park, if you are short of time, the iconic self-guided driving tours will likely be your best option to experience the inherent beauty of this natural landscape. We will cover two of our favorites but dependent on which direction you enter this park will likely determine if some of the other options are feasible.

Capitol Gorge Scenic Drive

Let’s start with the most iconic drive in Capitol Reef National Park – the Capitol Gorge Scenic Drive. Just a couple of miles from the visitor center, this drive is perhaps the most spectacular experiences at Capitol Reef. Visitors should allocate anywhere from 1 hour to a half-day to explore everything there is to see along this route.

The drive itself can be challenging dependent on weather conditions, as there are numerous low-spots where water passes across the road and it may be beneficial to have an AWD vehicle to ensure you are able to navigate this route without any issues.

This 8-mile scenic drive offers breathtaking panoramic landscapes of the Fruita District and beyond. There are numerous spots where you will likely want to pull over to capture a few pictures, while the end of the drive offers the short Capitol Gorge road which is another 2 miles and well worth heading off the beaten path to experience this route.

The dirt road is a little less forgiving than the main route, and there are several blind spots where you are passing through the gorge with very little space to maneuver, especially if you meet any oncoming traffic that is heading out of the gorge. However, this is an unforgettable experience with breathtaking scenery and definitely something that creates a magical memory from your visit to Capitol Reef.

Highway 24 Scenic Drive

Visitors arriving at Capitol Reef National Park from Salt Lake City, Moab, or other northern locations will first experience the beauty of this natural landscape via Highway 24. This scenic drive offers epic views of the rugged Waterpocket Fold and follows a 25-mile journey into the heart of this national park, starting out at Chimney Rock and passing through the orchards and historic buildings at the ghost town of Fruita.

A trail behind the rather unique schoolhouse leads to a petroglyph panel, then continues on to Hickman Natural Bridge and the Fremont Indian ruins. Throughout this journey, you cannot help but admire the scenery that you are passing through, again reiterating the beauty of Utah’s natural landscape unlike anywhere else in the world.

Along Highway 24, visitors can enjoy several iconic attractions and viewpoints, including but not limited to, Panorama Point, Goosenecks Overlook, and Sunset Point. The journey along Highway 24 also offers a glimpse of Capitol Reef National Park without any sign of an entrance station, even when you are passing through the iconic park sign.

For those who may want to just drive this stretch and tour the park for free (though to reiterate you cannot afford to miss the Capitol Gorge Scenic Drive!), you won’t want to miss this drive.

Capitol Reef Hiking Trails

While the aforementioned scenic drives offer visitors an opportunity to see many of the highlights throughout this national park, it’s when you get out on foot that you are able to see the real beauty here. Some of the best trails include the following, each of which offers epic viewpoints and a more in-depth experience at Capitol Reef.

The incredible view from Panorama Point is a short walk from the road along Highway 24. Located 2.5 miles west of the visitor center on the south side of Highway 24, Panorama Point offers views across Capitol Reef, the distant Henry Mountains to the east, and towering Boulder Mountain to the west.

South of Panorama Point are the Goosenecks of Sulphur Creek, offering equally spectacular views across this iconic landscape. The canyon walls display a myriad of colors and the short walk from the gravel road leads to the Goosenecks Overlook which towers above the rim 6,400 feet into the creek below.

Another easy hike for visitors is Sunset Point. Panoramic views of the Fremont River gorge, the Capitol Reef cliffs, and the distant Henry Mountains can all be experienced here, and just as the name of the overlook sounds, this is the perfect place to experience breathtaking sunsets. From the Goosenecks Overlook parking area, it’s a short 0.3-mile hike across the slick rock to Sunset Point.

Enjoy an Evening in Moab

After exploring Capitol Reef National Park, head back along Highway 24 in the direction of I-70 to venture east towards Moab. Dependent on how you plan your trip to Capitol Reef, you may have time to visit Arches National Park before spending the evening in Moab. There are several iconic attractions in Arches National Park that are close to the entrance, and certainly worthwhile visiting even if you only have a couple of hours daylight.

The Park Avenue viewpoint is one of the most incredible sights as the sun is setting, and definitely one of our favorite landscapes in any national park across the US. The Windows are another attraction which are a great spot to visit late in the day, with a short hike from the road offering epic views of these geological formations.

Perhaps you prefer to arrive in Moab and simply enjoy a relaxing evening in the heart of the downtown area, grabbing dinner at one of the many local restaurants here (Fiesta Mexicana is one of our favorite spots, especially if you enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine) before planning your visit the following day to either Arches or Canyonlands National Parks, both of which are easily accessible from downtown Moab.

Stay at Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton to enjoy views of Moab’s red rocks and a short 10-minute drive from the entrance to Arches. Whether you choose to stay here, or other accommodation option in the area, you will have plenty to experience in Moab.

Summary

Capitol Reef’s location in Utah makes this the perfect national park to visit in conjunction with a visit to nearby Moab to explore Arches and Canyonlands. While it may seem like a stretch to explore more than one national park in a day (or even a weekend), the location of Capitol Reef means that you can explore the scenic drives, a couple of the shorter hiking trails, and still have time to capture an epic sunset at Arches National Park.

Regardless of whether you choose to spend a full day at Capitol Reef and then drive to Moab to spend the night, or try to explore some of the iconic landmarks in Capitol Reef and Arches during the same day, we hope that this post will inspire you to at least add both national parks to your itinerary. There is a reason why Utah’s collection of national parks are recognized as the “Mighty 5”, and you will not leave any of them disappointed that you visited!

What are your experiences in Capitol Reef and Arches National Parks? Share your comments below!

12 Restaurants to Visit During an Alabama Beach Getaway

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Dec 25, 2022

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12 Restaurants to Visit During an Alabama Beach Getaway

The Gulf Coast is home to 32 miles of gorgeous beaches, a plethora of awesome fun-filled attractions for all the family to enjoy, and luxury resorts that offer ultimate relaxation. However, a trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach wouldn’t be the same without sampling the myriad of fine-dining options that are scattered along this stretch of Alabama coastline.

Whether you are a seafood aficionado, or perhaps you simply enjoy sampling authentic local cuisine, the Gulf Coast is home to a collection of restaurants that offer everything from quick-eats to fine-dining dishes showcasing the very best of Alabama’s food scene. We have been fortunate to experience a variety of these restaurants, and while the following list barely scratches the surface of the available options, we would argue that these offer a reflection of the quality of cuisine available in this part of Alabama.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach may not be the first destinations you think about visiting to sample an eclectic food scene, but we hope after reading this post you will be inspired to book a trip to the Gulf Coast to sample these for yourselves. Let’s take a look at 12 of the finest restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, and as always, we welcome your comments at the bottom on your favorite spots that we haven’t mentioned.

Best Restaurants During an Alabama Beach Getaway

From breakfast spots to decadent dinner restaurants with epic views, the Gulf Coast is home to a collection of eateries that will surely inspire you to visit. While this is far from an exhaustive list, we have decided to feature 12 of our favorite spots, offering a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner locations.

Brick and Spoon
Ruby Slipper
Woodside Restaurant at Gulf State Park
The Southern Grind Coffee House
Soul Bowlz
Picnic Beach
The Gulf
Cactus Cantina
GT’s on the Bay
Cobalt, The Restaurant
Playa at Sportsman Marina
Coast Restaurant

While many of you may consider heading to Alabama’s coastline and finding a luxury condo at The Beach Club or Turquoise Place (we wouldn’t blame you!), and then heading to Publix to self-cater your own meals, you would certainly be missing out on this collection of epic restaurants.

We understand that eating out every meal may not be realistic, but we encourage you to at least consider trying at least one of these spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner one day and you will likely be ready to return again in the future.

Eating out in Gulf Shores is as affordable as you want it to be – some of the above restaurants offer late afternoon discounts on meals, and of course, for those looking to start the day with a fine breakfast, you can always sample a quick coffee and pastry at one of the many local coffee shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Don’t forget to also sample one of the many amazing sweet treat options, including the iconic Yard Milkshake Bar!

Brick and Spoon

Start the day with one of the best breakfast spots along the Gulf Coast. Brick and Spoon offers unexpected twists on classic dishes, eye-opening cocktails and a signature, designed-to-order Bloody Mary. Recognized locally as being a casual breakfast spot with a hint of sophistication, locals and visitors alike can enjoy everything from the infamous “Bananas in Pajamas” sweet treat to a decadent Eggs Benedict which is full of breakfast flavor and a great way to start the day.

Relax indoors or on the outdoor patio area by indulging in a collection of dishes that are unequivocally unique and offer something different to other breakfast spots along the Gulf Coast. You may think that a breakfast cocktail is a little much to start the day, but after sampling the delicious cocktail concoctions, you will soon be convinced that this is in fact the BEST way to start your day!

Address
24705 Canal Rd.
Orange Beach, AL 36561

Phone
(251) 981-7772

Website
Brick and Spoon Orange Beach

Ruby Slipper

An equally delectable breakfast option along the Gulf Coast is Ruby Slipper which is a an award-winning cafe famous for our breakfast, brunch and lunch offerings. Renowned as bringing New Orleans flair to stereotypical Southern cuisine, visitors to the Orange Beach location along Perdido Beach Boulevard can enjoy a variety of delicious options ranging from Eggs Benedict options to fan favorite Fried Green Tomatoes.

A visit to Ruby Slipper wouldn’t be the same without sampling one or more of the Eggs Benedict variations. The infamous “Peacemaker” offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy two of the varieties on offer. The Chicken St. Charles and Eggs Cochon are two of our favorites, while the Bayou Shrimp is certainly reflective of the Louisiana inspired cuisine available here.

French toast, omelettes, pancakes, and other options are available, so you can be sure that there is something to satisfy everyone’s tastebuds.

Address
24151 Perdido Beach Blvd.
Orange Beach, AL 36561

Phone
(251) 800-7470

Website
Ruby Slipper

Woodside Restaurant at Gulf State Park

Visitors to the Gulf State Park can enjoy miles of walking and biking trails, but during your time exploring this haven of natural beauty, head over to Woodside Restaurant to grab a quick bite to eat. Whether you prefer to eat inside, on the patio, or outdoors, you can enjoy a selection of creative Southern cuisine and cocktails using the finest locally-sourced ingredients.

Our visit to Woodside Restaurant saw us enjoy breakfast which offered a refreshing start to the day and a unique alternative to the more frequently visited Brick and Spoon or Ruby Slipper. While both of the aforementioned options offer creative Southern style dishes, Woodside Restaurant focuses their efforts on ensuring the local ingredients are incorporated directly into their options.

Freshly prepared dishes are certainly the highlight, with the Muscle Shoals Omelet or Armadillo Trail Biscuit ‘N’ Gravy two of the best options to choose from. If you don’t have time to visit at breakfast, lunch and dinner menu offerings are also available, with a wide variety of drinks to choose from to enjoy a romantic evening meal on the outdoor deck.

Address
20249 State Park Rd.
Orange Beach, AL 36542

Phone
(251) 923-3100

Website
Woodside Restaurant at Gulf State Park

The Southern Grind Coffee House

If you love coffee shops, our favorite spot along the Gulf Coast is The Southern Grind Coffee Shops. With two locations at The Wharf and INDIGO House, The Southern Grind is a great place to visit if you are looking to enjoy your favorite latte.

However, we are including this in the list of top restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach because the menu options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner offer visitors the chance to sample a delicious meal while perusing the locally inspired crafts that can be found scattered around the restaurant. Recognized as much more than just a coffee house, The Southern Grind offers everything from comfort food to fresh food including, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Don’t forget to pick up your favorite coffee beans including the infamous Gulf Coast inspired Bushwacker blend. Throughout the year, you can enjoy a variety of seasonal beverages, but the dining menu stays relatively consistent with a number of awesome dishes on offer.

For breakfast, we would definitely recommend the Sunrise Bowl (2 biscuits topped with pepper gravy and 2 sunny side up eggs), or if you prefer to dine at lunch time, the Cheeseburger is always freshly prepared and definitely one of the best burgers available on the Gulf Coast.

Address
4751 Main St #116
Orange Beach, AL 36561
or
22843 Perdido Beach Blvd.
Orange Beach, AL 36561

Phone
The Wharf: (251) 923-3265
INDIGO: (251) 975-2883

Website
The Southern Grind Coffee House

Soul Bowlz

Ready to start the day with a refreshing acai bowl? The best spot on the Gulf Coast to sample a nutrient-packed bowl of wholesome goodness with blend choices of acai, pitaya, graviola and acerola is the wonderfully named Soul Bowlz. The challenge will be picking your preferred bowl from a collection of delicious looking options. The Sunrise is a great choice, but you cannot go wrong with any of the flavorful bowls available.

Each bowl has a layer of the aforementioned blended mixture, and topped with granola, fresh fruits and honey. It’s also interesting to note that these blends are harvested from South America. With two bowl sizes available, you can enjoy a refreshing start to the day, or perhaps you need an alternative to caffeine as a quick pick me up later in the day.

For those that prefer a smoothie, there are a number of flavors available and these superfruit smoothie mixtures are a great way to ensure your energy levels are through the roof in preparation for exploring everything there is to see on the Gulf Coast.

Address
1551 Gulf Shores Pkwy.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Phone
(251) 948-7685

Picnic Beach

If you are looking to visit a restaurant with a twist, Picnic Beach in the heart of Gulf Shores is definitely a place worth considering. Menu items feature “fresh eats at the beach” and visitors can enjoy everything from a Surf & Turf Burger to a Caribbean Bowl. The vibe throughout the interior of this restaurant offers a relaxing feel, and the proximity to the nearby beach makes this a convenient option to grab a quick lunch before heading back down to enjoy the 32 miles of gorgeous sands.

Gather around a picnic table at the casual indoor/outdoor picnic-themed restaurant, while indulging on a dish that focuses on fresh, clean ingredients, from healthy green drinks to organic cocktails. A trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach frequently will lead you to a restaurant that offers endless amazing seafood options, but for those looking for something just a little bit different, Picnic Beach is a spot that should be on everyone’s radar.

Address
128 E 1st Ave.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Phone
(251) 540-0117

Website
Picnic Beach

The Gulf

One of the most unique restaurants along the Gulf Coast can be found in Orange Beach at The Gulf. This uniquely designed restaurant destination is renowned as “a seaside hideaway that exemplifies the casual chic atmosphere that draws people from around the globe each year.”

This restaurant has been constructed from shipping containers, along with other recycled, reclaimed and salvaged building materials. Epitomizing the importance of sustainability on the Gulf Coast, this restaurant does plenty to reduce the carbon footprint along this stretch of coastline. The Gulf is the perfect location to enjoy lunch or dinner, perhaps the highlight being late afternoon prior to the epic sunsets that this stretch of coastline is famous for.

Enjoy Jerk Mahi-Mahi Tacos or a Tuna Poke Bowl, while hanging out at the bar or the communal area that offers breathtaking views across the Gulf of Mexico.

Address
27500 Perdido Beach Blvd.
Orange Beach, AL 36561

Phone
(251) 424-1800

Website
The Gulf

Cactus Cantina

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is not only home to a number of awesome seafood restaurants but also a variety of other options to satisfy everyone’s favorite cuisine. We love sampling Mexican cuisine whenever we travel, and one of our favorite spots in Gulf Shores is Cactus Cantina. With several restaurants in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and nearby Foley, Cactus Cantina is a great option if you are looking to sample laid back, delicious Mexican food in a casual, fun atmosphere.

We have visited several of the restaurants, though our favorite is on Gulf Shores Parkway given it’s proximity to both Gulf Shores and Foley. Enjoy a Cerveza or two, along with stereotypical Mexican dishes that are flavorful and also include a hint of Gulf Coast cuisine with a number of seafood options available. The Shrimp Diablo is one of Heather’s favorites, while the Boom-Boom Shrimp Tacos add plenty of flavor and heat to the menu.

Address
3849 Gulf Shores Pkwy.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Phone
(251) 943-8115

Website
Cactus Cantina

GT’s on the Bay

The argument for the best seafood restaurant in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is always going to be down to personal opinion, but in our opinion GT’s on the Bay is perhaps the best option for a well-rounded menu offering everything from the fresh catch of the day to other alternatives that will satisfy those that prefer something other than seafood.

Located along Wolf Bay on Canal Road in the heart of Orange Beach, GT’s on the Bay offers stunning views and bay front dining options, while the indoor restaurant is equally inviting with a large fish tank the center piece of the space.

The Cajun Empanadas and the Firecracker Shrimp are the perfect appetizer, while the self-serve salad bar has plenty of options and definitely a great choice if you visit for lunch. The Catch of the Day is always a favorite, served with either parmesan grits or one of the alternative side options.

For those ready to start their visit to the Gulf Coast in style, order the Tropic Thunder drink which is the speciality of GT’s on the Bay and is a core pineapple filled with tropical rums and fresh strawberry puree.

Address
26189 Canal Rd.
Orange Beach, AL 36561

Phone
(251) 980-8400

Website
GT's on the Bay

Cobalt, The Restaurant

If you are looking to sample authentic and contemporary coastal cuisine while visiting the Gulf Coast, look no further than Cobalt, The Restaurant located under the Perdido Bay Bridge in Orange Beach. Visitors frequent this restaurant both for the eclectic menu on offer, along with the breathtaking views that you will experience overlooking the bay. The outdoor patio seating is a great experience, though you can still indulge in the delectable menu offerings inside the comfort of the indoor space.

This restaurant is also rather unique as it offers visitors the opportunity to arrive by boat, and dock at the numerous boat slips before enjoying the wide selection of local fare on offer. The casual and relaxing atmosphere combined with waterfront dining, live music, and of course, delicious food, offers the perfect setting to enjoy one of the finest restaurants along this stretch of Alabama coastline.

Why not start with the BBQ Gulf Shrimp or Crab and Shrimp Dip, before devouring one of the many entrees available featuring local seafood dishes such as Bronze Gulf Grouper or Gulf Shrimp and Grits. Be sure to save space for dessert as the fresh Bread Pudding and Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee are two of the fan favorites and cap the perfect way to end your visit to Cobalt.

Address
28099 Perdido Beach Blvd.
Orange Beach, AL 36561

Phone
(251) 923-5300

Website
Cobalt, The Restaurant

Playa at Sportsman Marina

One of the chic restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach that offers the perfect blend of sophistication and casual dining is Playa at Sportsman Marina. Recognized as part Gulf Coast classic and part Caribbean getaway, Playa offers visitors delicious coastal cuisine with a few twists to create a unique menu that will surely inspire you to return in the future.

This beautifully designed restaurant in the heart of Sportsman Marina offers a relaxing and romantic atmosphere for guests, and with a diverse menu to choose from, visitors can enjoy a late evening meal with plenty of inspiration from the tropics.

The Smoked Tuna Dip is a great way to start your visit, before indulging in the Redfish on the Half Shell or Island Gulf Shrimp. Regardless of which dish you choose, you can be sure that you will receive impeccable service and enjoy the perfect evening on the Gulf Coast.

Address
27842 Canal Rd.
Orange Beach, AL 36561

Phone
(251) 981-9891

Website
Playa at Sportsman Marina

Coast Restaurant

Whether you choose to stay at the awesome Beach Club by Spectrum Resorts, or perhaps you plan an afternoon trip to Historic Fort Morgan to explore the rich history around this part of Alabama, be sure to plan a visit to Coast Restaurant located inside the grounds of the Beach Club Resort. This family-friendly restaurant offers a unique, fun-filled dining experience for visitors while enjoying the breathtaking views across the Gulf of Mexico.

Guests can enjoy seating on the large outdoor patio area, taking in the Gulf breezes and adding to the flavor of the delicious dishes on offer. The casual waterfront dining experience offers stereotypical seafood dishes, along with alternative options to satisfy everyone’s palate.

The Bronzed option for the daily Market Catch is always a great choice with a Tasso Cream Sauce accompanying the catch of the day. For those looking for something a little different, the Chicken Piccata or the Gulf Seafood Pasta are two appetizing alternatives.

Address
453 Beach Club Trail
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Phone
(251) 224-3600

Website
Coast Restaurant

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