A Brit and A Southerner

Pepo Is the Best Social Media Platform for Travelers – App Review

Travel Apps

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Oct 23, 2017

Pepo Is the Best Social Media Platform for Travelers – App Review

Social Media is everywhere these days. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram…the list is never ending! All of them are bustling with people posting new information, news, and the next big event. However, sometimes all this information is a bit much. Sometimes you just want a community to tell you about a specific thing. So, what if there was a social media platform dedicated solely to travelers? Don’t worry, we have found the perfect solution that we now consider to have the potential to become the best social media platform for travelers!

That’s right, imagine a social platform that tells you about unique travel destinations other people don’t know about. Or how about a site which lets you know all the secret destinations near the town or city you’re currently staying in? That would be one of the best social media platforms ever, right? A travel-based social media platform.

It may sound crazy but all of the aforementioned “mainstream” platforms are great for sharing travel advice and ideas but the reality is, travel is just a very small percentage of the topics that are covered!

Enter Pepo, because Pepo is exactly that. We can well and truly attest that this is a platform that has the potential to be the future of social media for travelers and “hopefully” we can inspire you to consider checking this out for your next global adventure.

We are delighted to collaborate with our friends, Cez and Agness, from eTramping who have been using Pepo for quite some time and conjunction with our own thoughts, we hope you will find our review beneficial.

What is Pepo?

So what exactly is Pepo all about? First of all, you may be curious about the name itself. Well, Pepo is all about “people” and “passion” and connecting both of these together. The brand wanted a short, fun and constant reminder of people connecting with other like-minded individuals that share a passion for travel.

People + Passions = pepo

Pepo is an online social media platform which is all about sharing insider travel tips and helping others to have the same awesome experiences you have had. It helps to bring people together so that they don’t just experience things by themselves. Instead, it means that they can share and compare them.

The site allows for people to post almost anything, from pictures to writing, to live videos, links and more. There are even a bunch of pretty awesome filters which you can use. Are they as good as old-fashioned Instagram? We’ll talk about that later…

What Can You Do on Pepo?

We already covered a few of the features above (and we know you’re dying to hear about those photo filters), but first, we’re going to talk about contributing as a member yourself. Pepo is based on the contributions of its community (like pretty much all social media platforms), which means that what you write is important. Without a community, Pepo is nowhere near as good.

So, what can you do?

Users can ask questions and reply to others’ posts. It is also possible for users to send private messages to others. These features are completely free. That’s right, you won’t have to spend a penny (or a cent, or whatever currency it is where you are). Oh, and the photo filters? There are hundreds of them available, and yeah, they’re not too bad.

The moment someone responds to a question or reacts to one of your tips, you will receive a notification! It couldn’t be easier to keep up with all of your community and followers that are “hopefully” inspired by your content.

What can you Create on Pepo?

Another thing you can do on Pepo is creating your own channels. If you see something which hasn’t been covered previously or want to share your own content, it’s really simple to start your own channel. If you do decide to create your own channel, you can customize its look and style almost entirely. You can also create multiple channels if you wish, perhaps one dedicated to sharing your experiences around the world and others focused specifically on a destination.

We love being able to take full control of posts and how we interact with our audience and it definitely makes this one of the best social media platforms for us. It’s certainly much easier than some other social networks out there. What’s also great is that as channel creators, we’re able to host live Q&As and give advice to users who ask us questions directly. It’s a really good way to learn more from them and share our experiences.

The Community

We’re not going to give you a social media channels list for Pepo, but needless to say, we’re not the only people on there. The site is buzzing with loads of different groups and individuals for almost anywhere under the sun. People are able to join as many channels as they want, so there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore. You’re also able to lock in a couple of tags. So, if you’re interested in budget travel and getting the most out of your money, simply select the tag and filter your results accordingly.

Not just that, but all the content you find on Pepo is almost guaranteed to be exclusive and unique. A lot of Pepo’s big community groups are full of members who are committed to sharing content, exploring what others post, and being a part of something. Even the smallest and strangest places in the world seem to have something going on!

If you’re the type of person who likes to share what’s going on in real time (live), then Spotlight is awesome. It’s basically the live video feature, but you can use it in several different ways. This includes sending it as a question to another channel host.

Perfect for Short Gaps

Pepo is perfect for those short gaps of time where you have nothing else to do. For example, if you’re waiting at the airport, or sitting on a train heading from point A to point B, or waiting for a friend to shop up. The posts and content are short and snappy, and pretty easy to navigate.

In fact, just by looking down the main page we’re able to find something we like. You see, when you sign up to Pepo, you do have to tell them a few things. That includes up to 6 things you’re interested in and one location.

We found location-based content to be the best when we’re traveling. We hook into the local Wi-Fi, startup the Pepo app on our phone, and have a look for things to do around us. We almost always find something which is worth it.

Why not head into your favorite coffee shop around the world and start browsing Pepo…we are convinced you will find something to experience that you didn’t know about before!

Keep Things Brief (But Not Too Brief)

What’s really great about Pepo is that it’s basically just a big, giant travel guide. It’s packed with hints and tips for how to make your way around the world and experience seriously awesome things. It’s not just insider tips which you can find, but there are also new experiences, and you can even ‘ask the experts’.

Travel guides are usually long and cumbersome though. We remember when we headed to China with a certain big, blue book in our backpack. It took up so much space (and weight). Yet now, with the power of the internet (and the amazing community behind Pepo), there is a social media platform for sharing local tips and creating awesome experiences.

Summary

All in all, Pepo is definitely one of the best social media platforms we use and we highly recommend it for travelers. Pepo is not going to replace your mainstream social media networks but we are convinced this has a unique market that can continue to grow in the future. We are relatively new users to Pepo but we are excited about the potential of this app and hope you will consider using it too!

Be sure to follow us, A Brit and A Southerner, on Pepo along with our friends at eTramping and hopefully we will soon see you all interacting with us on this great new social media network.

7 Day Utah Road Trip – How to Experience the Best Attractions?

Utah

Chris Boothman

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Oct 19, 2017

10

7 Day Utah Road Trip – How to Experience the Best Attractions?

From an array of historic sites to standing nose-to-nose with ancient fossils of dinosaurs, Utah today is that thrill-a-minute destination which adventure seekers, as well as families, have long since been seeking for. The diverse, stunning landscapes combined with the plethora of unique recreational activities inspire travelers from all over the world to visit Utah at least once in a lifetime. It’s one of those places that once you have visited, you will certainly be inspired to return again in the future! A 7 day Utah road trip is the best way to explore this gorgeous part of the United States.

The two things Utah is most known for are the colorful national parks and the legendary ski resorts. Whether you are looking to enjoy a relaxing, luxurious retreat in one of the many gorgeous Utah cabin rentals or perhaps experience an adventure seekers paradise, Utah is undoubtedly the place to go in the States.

The Mighty 5 National Parks are a popular attraction but as are some of the lesser-known spots. We want to focus on how you can enjoy a little bit of everything during an action-packed week-long adventure.

It is difficult to imagine how you could cover a state so large and so full of incredible spots and spectacular beauty in a matter of days or even a week. The reality is, you will barely touch the surface in a week-long road trip but it’s an experience you will cherish forever.

7 Day Utah Road Trip

Let’s take a look at the potentially exhausting but amazing road trip itinerary, assuming that most visitors to Utah will start their adventure in Salt Lake City. We have been fortunate to experience Utah on a couple of different occasions and each time, we literally fell in love with the state even more.

Day 1 – Explore Salt Lake City
Day 2 – Salt Lake City to Arches National Park
Day 3 – Arches National Park to Canyonlands National Park
Day 4 – Canyonlands National Park to Monument Valley
Day 5 – Monument Valley to Natural Bridges National Monument and Capitol Reef National Park
Day 6 – Capitol Reef National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park
Day 7 – Bryce Canyon National Park to Zion National Park

This seven days in heaven itinerary, for those who have an appetite for a whirlwind trip, combines to offer a heady mix of family fun, solace of nature and of course, a continuous adrenaline rush. Taking you past rainbow colored deserts to gazing upwards towards stunning rock formations and eventually sliding down powder-laden slopes, all this will culminate in a Utah experience that you are never likely to forget.

Let’s take a look at some of the spots you cannot afford to miss when you next venture to what is one of our favorite states because of the incredible natural beauty.

Salt Lake City

Many people tend to overlook this city of Mormon Heritage, and instead, make a beeline for the more sought after national parks. With a number of museums, restaurants serving tempting local food and the mighty Wasatch Mountain range beckoning you in the background, a visit to Salt Lake City is worth more than just a curious glance.

Once you have got over the jet-lag, start the day with a variety of coffee from around the world, at the quiet Salt Lake Roasting Company. From here, take a leisurely stroll to the spiritual heart of the city, Temple Square, to get an insight on the Mormon religion. Head to the National History Museum, a playground for the paleontologists, to view the dinosaurs and fossils. Take a stroll around Memory Grove Park before grabbing lunch at one of the eclectic restaurants and cafes scattered across the city.

In the afternoon, do the 28-mile drive to Snowbird, in the Wasatch mountains, either to ski during winter or mountain biking in summer. Take the cable car to the 11000 feet Hidden Peak for some breathtaking views.

As we mentioned, Salt Lake City is a haven for luxury retreats and cabin rentals. We have been fortunate to stay in a gorgeous property just outside of Salt Lake City or nearby Park City and whether you are looking to enjoy the ski season in the heart of winter or perhaps the summer season, this is definitely a place we would recommend if you need to recharge your batteries.

Arches National Park

Ready to hit the road and start the adventure? The dramatic backcountry destination of Arches National Park lies less than 4 hours away from Salt Lake City in Moab. Try and reach the Visitor Center as early as possible to avoid the rush.

If you love hiking, Arches National Park hiking trails will leave you speechless with the breathtaking scenery waiting to be discovered.

Visitors have the option to drive around the 36-mile periphery, which covers most of the important sites. We opted to take the scenic drive through the park and venture to some of the iconic natural phenomena including Park Avenue, Balanced Rock, the Windows section and of course, Delicate Arch!

Canyonlands National Park

This is the biggest of all the parks in Utah, offering spectacular panoramic views looking down thousands of feet into the Colorado River, and gazing upwards towards the cliffs and pinnacles even higher.

Early morning or late afternoon trips are recommended to take advantage of the light conditions for photographic opportunities. The must-see places include Dead Horse Point State Park and the unmissable Island in the Sky.

Monument Valley

Monument Valley forms a part of the Navajo Nation and is an iconic symbol of the American West. The rugged landscape here passing through the three historic towns of Monticello, Blanding, and Bluff, makes for the best part of the entire Utah itinerary.

The landforms here were made famous by the many Hollywood westerns shot here, and are unlike anything found elsewhere.

Natural Bridges and Capitol Reef National Park

Home to three of the five largest bridges made of sandstone, the Natural Bridges National Monument is just the perfect place to stop and unwind before the hectic program ahead.

The splashing and contrasting colors of the red and white sandstones in the Capitol Reef Park have earned it the nickname of Land of the Sleeping Rainbow. The 90-minute scenic drive around the park goes past places of pristine beauty and natural wonders.

Bryce Canyon National Park

The true beauty of Mother Nature is aptly reflected in the number of natural amphitheaters she has created on the pink cliffs side of Bryce Canyon National Park. The resultant color hues which arise with the rising and setting of the sun make for an unforgettable spectacle.

The scenic drive through Bryce Canyon literally takes you to 9,000 feet! And the views don’t disappoint! Inspiration Point was perhaps our favorite with the maelstrom of colors epitomizing the beauty throughout Bryce Canyon National Park. The amazing sight of the vistas and the iconic ‘hoodoos’ are a real sight to behold.

Hoodoos are totem-pole like structures that provide a distinctive representation of Bryce Canyon and are even more spectacular in person than pictures can ever show.

The amazing sight of the vistas and the iconic ‘hoodoos’ are a real sight to behold. Hoodoos are totem-pole like structures that provide a distinctive representation of Bryce Canyon and are even more spectacular in person than pictures can ever show.

A self-guided Bryce Canyon tour will leave you speechless with the number of amazing viewpoints offering majestic panoramic landscapes. Bryce Point, Natural Bridge, and Ponderosa Canyon are just a couple more examples of natural features you won’t want to miss on your adventure through this national park.

Zion National Park

Stunningly crafted by water over decades and decades of time, the Zion National Park, offers some of the most unimaginable and good hiking trails with beautiful landscapes to match. One of the first, and most popular parks of Utah, the activities here include camping, hiking, and canyoneering.

The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive goes through the important sections of the park, which ultimately end up at the Virgin River, and the adjacent waterfalls and clear pools of water. If you are fit enough, climb the path to the Observation Point for the quench of the ultimate outdoor wonder.

Summary

Utah is a haven of adventure and breathtaking natural beauty. Everyone that visits Utah will have their own stories to share and every experience will be different…that’s the inherent beauty of Utah and the spectacular landscape it possesses. With excellent air connectivity into Salt Lake International Airport, getting to Utah is now easier than ever. So what are you waiting for?

As we mentioned, a Utah road trip in only one week is not only action-packed but also exhausting. Why not consider exploring all of the amazing natural attractions before heading back to Salt Lake City and spending a couple of nights in one of the picture-perfect luxury retreats?

We are eager to head back to Utah sooner rather than later and hopefully, we have inspired you to consider booking a trip in the near future! Did I also mention that Utah was the perfect state to also venture into another amazing national park – Yellowstone? Be sure to check out our recommendations on the best route to take to drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park.

Please feel free to share your experiences in Utah in the comments below and also add some of the lesser known spots that we cannot afford to miss when we next visit the Beehive State!

Where to Stay in Gulf Shores and Enjoy the Best Vacation?

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Oct 16, 2017

0

Where to Stay in Gulf Shores and Enjoy the Best Vacation?

If you have experienced the stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico in Alabama, you will know that this is an incredible place to enjoy a relaxing vacation. 32 miles of pristine, white sandy beaches should be enough motivation to inspire a visit but don’t worry, if that’s not enough there are plenty more reasons! Once you figure out that the Gulf Coast is the place to be, you will likely want to establish where to stay in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach. During our recent visit, we stayed at the incredible San Carlos Condominiums and we think we have found the perfect place for your next visit.

Whether you are planning a family vacation or perhaps a weekend getaway with the girls, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach should definitely be at the top of your bucket list of possible destinations. If you have read our blog over the last few months, you will realize that we are incredibly fond of this part of Alabama and it’s fair to say we have pretty good reasons for it!

The fall season is undoubtedly the best time to visit and regardless of whether you choose to follow our recommendation in this post of staying at San Carlos Condos, you will realize that the latter part of the year offers cheaper accommodation options, fewer crowds and overall better experience in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

We want to focus solely on what we now consider to be one of the best places to stay in Gulf Shores – San Carlos Condominiums by Young’s Realty and Vacation Rentals! Let’s take a look at what you can expect should you book a vacation at this resort.

Where to Stay in Gulf Shores – San Carlos Condos

Finding the ideal place to stay in Gulf Shores may sound easy given the myriad of amazing condominiums and hotels that are available along this stretch of coastline. However, if you are looking for the perfect location combined with awesome amenities and affordable prices, it may be a little more challenging than you first imagine.

We have been fortunate to stay at the amazing Turquoise Place and Beach Club by Spectrum Resorts but for those of you looking for something closer to the heart of Gulf Shores, we think San Carlos Condos is the perfect option.

San Carlos Condos Location

Just a short walk from the Hangout and Gulf Shores Parkway, the San Carlos Condos complex offers the ideal spot for anyone visiting Gulf Shores that wants to be in the real heartbeat of this destination.

However, despite the perfect location that may sway your judgment and make you think San Carlos will be a little too lively, let us remind you that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment so you don’t have to worry that you will be losing sleep because of noise!

Address

365 E Beach Blvd
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Tel: (251) 948-1900
Website: San Carlos Condominiums by Young’s Realty and Vacation Rentals

Condo Options

If you are considering San Carlos as a viable option for your next trip to Gulf Shores, you can choose from 2, 3 or 4 bedroom condominiums.

These vacation rentals, as you will see below, are fully furnished and offer luxurious comforts that you would associate with your own home. It’s certainly the epitome of a “home away from home” destination that we immediately fell in love with.

Regardless of which size and the specific unit you choose, it’s inevitable that you will fall in love with San Carlos just as much as we did. If you are still not convinced, keep reading!

Ready to take a look around San Carlos Condominiums by Young’s Realty and Vacation Rentals with us?

San Carlos 701

Basic Information

3 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
1568 Square Feet
East Corner Condo with Unobstructed Views of the Gulf of Mexico
Jacuzzi Tub in Master Bathroom

Rates

As always, these rates are accurate as of the time of publication and be sure to check the website for any updated prices.

If you are planning a visit in September-October, you can expect to pay between $260-$320 per night (plus additional taxes) which for a 3 bedroom condo is a BARGAIN! In the winter months (another great time to visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach), you can rent this condo for as little as $230 per night (plus additional taxes)!

Even if the middle of peak season (June-August), at $439 per night (plus additional taxes) this is still a very reasonable rate, especially if you are visiting with multiple families and can split the cost.

Enjoy Ultimate Relaxation

The moment we walked inside our San Carlos condo, we realized this was going to be an awesome experience. First impressions will always go a long way to determining your judgment on an accommodation option and it’s fair to say, the “wow” factor was well and truly present throughout San Carlos 701!

The amount of light pouring through the floor to ceiling windows was impressive but none of this prepared us for the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you pull back the windows and head out to the spacious balcony/deck area or simply relax in the living room area, the unobstructed views are something that you could never tire of.

Did I also mention that the same views could be found in the master bedroom? If you have never stayed at a beachfront property, there is nothing quite like waking up in the morning to the sound of the Gulf and being able to walk outside and watch the sunrise.

Even with such a plethora of amazing activities to enjoy throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, it was pretty tough getting up in the morning because of how comfortable the bed was.

For those of you that are ready to enjoy a long weekend of relaxation, why not hop in the jacuzzi tub in the master bathroom. If you love the thought of a pampering experience, this is definitely a great place to enjoy that.

A spacious kitchen with appliances ensures that visitors to Gulf Shores can cook meals in-house, though if you read our recent post on the best places to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you will know there are a lot of inviting restaurants waiting for you!

Why not just stock the refrigerator and wet bar with your favorite drinks, so that you can wind down your day enjoying the sunset on the amazing Adirondack style patio furniture.

San Carlos Amenities

Although it’s understandable that you would likely want to stay inside the condominium, San Carlos is also home to a number of amenities that may convince you otherwise.

The gorgeous zero-entry outdoor pool is an attractive place for all the family to relax while easy access to the breathtaking beaches ensures that guests will always have a desire to stay at the property.

Guests at San Carlos have the option of purchasing daily (or weekly) beach loungers and an umbrella which just enhances the experience and overall comfort.

where to stay in gulf shores and orange beach

For those of you that prefer to bring your own, you won’t be short of space on the immaculate beaches that are maintained on a daily basis.

Prefer to stay indoors or catch up on some work? Enjoy the FREE public wi-fi access that you can connect to throughout the San Carlos complex. A sauna and fitness room are further amenities that only add to the overall experience for guests.

Summary

Visitors planning a visit to the Gulf Coast will always have the tough decision of figuring out where to stay in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach. Having recently spent an amazing three days at San Carlos Condos in the heart of Gulf Shores, we are convinced that this is an accommodation option that you should strongly consider.

Regardless of your personal needs for a condo or hotel, San Carlos has the perfect blend of luxury and “home away from home” amenities that will surely entice you to consider this as a viable option. Both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are spoiled for choice in terms of high-rise condominiums and hotel options but we would argue that San Carlos offers everything you need to enjoy the perfect long weekend getaway.

Whether you choose to stay at San Carlos or elsewhere along the Gulf Coast, you can be sure that an amazing vacation awaits when you visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!

Disclaimer – We would like to thank Visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and San Carlos Condominiums by Young’s Realty and Vacation Rentals for hosting us for three nights, in exchange for consideration of a blog post review. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

10 of the Best Places to Eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Oct 12, 2017

5

10 of the Best Places to Eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Anyone planning a visit to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama will certainly not have a shortage of restaurants to choose from. In fact, we have found that it’s actually quite a challenging decision trying to figure out where to eat when you have so many amazing restaurants along this stretch of the Gulf Coast. Having visited on several occasions and sampled a myriad of delicious spots, we are ready to share our top recommendations on the best places to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Hopefully, after reading this post, you will have a few ideas of dining spots you cannot afford to miss.

We are going to put together this post by highlighting some of our favorite spots for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even dessert…we all know that when you visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, dessert at ANY time of the day is a great idea.

Best Places to Eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Although our list of 10 best places to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offers a unique blend of cuisine, there is one thing in common with all of these spots – they are all local to the area and are not a chain restaurant!

I know that many travel bloggers focus solely on local spots and I have to agree with them that they offer something far more unique to the standard chain restaurants. Heather and I do generally eat at both local and chain when we travel but we can well and truly attest that if you are visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you need to eat 100% locally!

Let’s take a look at which spots made our list and please feel free to give your top recommendations in the comments below. This is by no means an exhaustive list and we likely could add another zero and make a list of our top 100 spots but these are all restaurants that we have experienced and certainly fallen in love with!

Brick and Spoon

Best Time of Day to Visit – Breakfast

How does Bananas in Pajamas sound? Take a moment to contemplate crispy banana eggrolls served with fosters sauce and yes, it tastes equally as good as it sounds! This is just one of the highlights that you can experience at Brick and Spoon in Orange Beach when you visit for breakfast.

Our mission is to create unique meals with a spoonful of southern flair that comfort the heart and soul of every guest. (Brick and spoon)

This was actually our first breakfast spot that we encountered in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and it was certainly a great introduction to cuisine on the Gulf Coast.

By the way, the Bananas in Pajamas is simply a breakfast appetizer because you will likely want to save room to enjoy either the Killer Creole Omelet or Caribbean Scrambler. Both are dishes that Heather and I opted for and neither of us left disappointed or hungry!

Brick and Spoon is renowned for having an amazing Bloody Mary bar where you can “build your own” concoction and enjoy a signature drink accompanying your favorite dish. If you read our post a couple of years ago on the best places to eat breakfast in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you will know why we LOVE this place so much!

Address

24705 Canal Rd
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Tel: (251) 981-7772
Website: Brick and Spoon
Menu: Brick and Spoon Menu
Opening Times: 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Ruby Slipper

Best Time of Day to Visit – Breakfast

On our recent trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we headed to The Ruby Slipper after hearing reports that this was the best breakfast spot in the area!

Having experienced and thoroughly enjoyed Brick and Spoon on our last visit, we knew that it had to be something pretty special to be better than that.

The history of The Ruby Slipper is one that makes you immediately attached to this restaurant. Following the tragic events of Hurricane Katrina, the owners opened The Ruby Slipper with a powerful sense of homecoming after they returned to New Orleans.

If you don’t feel a little sentimental when you visit The Ruby Slipper after hearing this story, well perhaps this is not a place for you!

Our biggest lesson of Hurricane Katrina? There truly is no place like home! (the ruby slipper)

The reality is, The Ruby Slipper is not actually “local” to Orange Beach, given that the original location is in New Orleans. However, I am sure you will agree that regardless of whether you want to define this as a “chain” restaurant, it’s a spot that you cannot help but love.

Did I also mention that this place is home to some pretty spectacular cuisine? Signature omelets, BBQ Shrimp and Grits and of course, the pièce de résistance on the menu – the Eggs Benedict variations!

We strongly recommend opting for The Peacemaker where you can enjoy two of the Signature Benedicts for the price of one. The Shrimp Boogaloo Benedict is one of the popular choices along with Eggs Cochon and Chicken St. Charles but it’s fair to say you cannot go wrong with anything on this menu.

Address

24151 Perdido Beach Blvd
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Tel: (251) 800-7470
Website: The Ruby Slipper
Menu: The Ruby Slipper Menu
Opening Times: 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Monday to Friday); 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday and Sunday)

Tacky Jacks

Best Time of Day to Visit – Breakfast (others would argue all day!)

One of the most popular restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is Tacky Jack’s. It’s fair to say that this “beachside dive” is not the most aesthetically appealing restaurant in the area but you could argue that it’s the most unique. If you are in search of a place to have a fun time while enjoying delicious cuisine, look no further than Tacky Jack’s.

It’s Always a Good Time Here at Tacky Jacks!

The perfect place for locals and tourists alike to enjoy all meals, we recommend visiting this spot for breakfast (others would argue the Mexican garbage nachos are so delicious that a lunch or dinner visit is preferable) and enjoying this cool restaurant overlooking the cool waterfront.

Whether you attend the location in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, you can be sure to have a great time. Heather opted for a breakfast burrito and I experienced the wheelhouse pancakes but based on feedback from others visiting Tacky Jack’s, I don’t think you could go wrong with anything on this menu!

Address

27206 Safe Harbor Drive
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Tel: (251) 981-4144
Website: Tacky Jack’s
Menu: Tacky Jack’s Orange Beach Menu
Opening Times: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM

The Southern Grind

Best Time of Day to Visit – Breakfast

For those of you that prefer the social setting of a coffee shop, consider paying a visit to The Southern Grind in Orange Beach. Two distinctive locations, one in The Wharf and the other at The Hotel Indigo, ensures that visitors to Orange Beach will have easy access to this local coffee shop.

The decor throughout The Southern Grind is perfectly manicured and typical of the Gulf Coast. You cannot help but fall in love with the relaxing atmosphere and it is the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite espresso while catching up on some work or simply enjoying an intimate drink with your friends.

A variety of breakfast items are available and whether you choose the Jalapeno Potato Scrambler or Belgian Waffle with Strawberries and Cream, you won’t leave The Southern Grind hungry.

We visited the location inside The Hotel Indigo twice and certainly considered this to be one of our favorite spots along the Gulf Coast. We love the vibe and coffeehouse environment and The Southern Grind offered everything you could wish for.

Address

22843 Perdido Beach Blvd
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Tel: (251) 975-2883
Website: The Southern Grind
Menu: The Southern Grind Menu
Opening Times: 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday); 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM (Friday and Saturday)

Sassy Bass Crazy Donuts

Best Time of Day to Visit – Lunch

If you are looking for a traditional place to eat lunch, you should probably look away now! However, if you are willing to go outside of your comfort zone and sample a “burger donut,” head over to Sassy Bass Crazy Donuts in Gulf Shores for the ultimate experience of a lifetime.

The thought of a hamburger combined with a glazed donut may not sound particularly appealing but you will be pleasantly surprised by how the sweet and savory combination works so effectively. Don’t visit this spot if you are counting calories and be sure to follow the philosophy that you are on vacation!

The “Some Mores” dessert donut is a favorite but perhaps the most iconic is the “Flat Line” burger donut which by the name itself tells the story about what you can expect. Heather and I shared this and it is more than enough for two people.

As I indicated, if you are ready for something a little bit different, Sassy Bass Crazy Donuts will certainly provide this!

Address

132 West 1st Avenue
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Tel: (251) 948-3838
Website: Sassy Bass Crazy Donuts
Menu: Sassy Bass Crazy Donuts Menu
Opening Times: 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM (Winter Hours – Longer hours in the Summer)

Luna’s Eat and Drink

Best Time of Day to Visit – Dinner

When you think about the state of Alabama, the concept of “traditional Southern cooking” should spring to mind and it’s fair to say Luna’s Eat and Drink have added a unique spin to this.

Combining this with the local seafood scene, Luna’s have created a dynamic menu that offers visitors something very different unlike anywhere else in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Whether you prefer to dine indoors or on the outside patio, Luna’s Eat and Drink is the perfect spot to grab dinner while enjoying a flight of craft beers local to the Gulf Coast. The Southern favorite of Deviled Eggs are understandably a popular choice and we can vouch that they taste delicious.

However, the real treat is the entree selection and whether you opt for the Stuffed Gulf Grouper which is an amazing choice or the Blackened Redfish topped with Red-Eye Hollandaise, you cannot go wrong with this menu!

Address

25689 Canal Road
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Tel: (251) 980-5862
Website: Luna’s Eat and Drink
Menu: Luna’s Eat and Drink Menu
Opening Times: 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM (Sunday to Thursday); 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Friday and Saturday)

Bayes Southern Bar and Grill

Best Time of Day to Visit – Dinner

Inspired by local ingredients and the very best seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, Bayes Southern Bar and Grill offers an eclectic blend of dishes for every palate to enjoy.

Located by The Wharf, we highly recommend paying this restaurant a visit and there are not too many better places to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach if you are looking to enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the gorgeous marina.

If you have a flexible schedule, be sure to hop over to Bayes Southern Bar and Grill between 2PM-6PM Monday to Friday to enjoy House Wines, Martinis, and Draft Beers for only $4! However, if you prefer to wait for dinner, the distinctive blend of seafood, steak, and other cuisine options will surely spark your interest.

Whether you’re in the mood for a four-course meal or a delectable snack to go, you’ll find plenty of fresh and exciting dining options. (Bayes Southern bar & Grill)

The appetizers at Bayes Southern Bar and Grill are delicious. We sampled both the Duck and Andouille Eggrolls along with the Crawfish Beignets and they were both huge hits at our table. I’m not going to lie, I could easily have eaten a few more of those!

The difficult choice comes when you have to pick your entree because there is a huge selection. The Shrimp and Grits are popular and while Heather opted for the Chicken Vieux Carre, I couldn’t resist the sound of Catfish Orleans. Needless to say, we both thoroughly enjoyed our choices!

Did I also mention dessert? That’s right, you should probably try and find some room to indulge in the White Chocolate Bread Pudding. I am not usually a huge fan of bread pudding but this was something else and the warm white chocolate ganache was definitely a perfect accompaniment to this dessert.

Address

4673 Wharf Parkway West
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Tel: (251) 240-0411
Website: Bayes Southern Bar and Grill
Menu: Bayes Southern Bar and Grill Menu
Opening Times: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM

The Yard Milkshake Bar

Best Time of Day to Visit – Dessert

Are you ready to experience the ultimate delicacy? Head over to The Yard Milkshake Bar to experience milkshakes, unlike anything you have ever seen before. They take the word ‘creativity’ to the extreme when they concoct these amazing milkshakes.

All souvenir milkshakes are served in a keepsake mason jar to remember your experience but I think it’s fair to say the milkshake itself will create the memories! If you don’t have a sweet tooth, perhaps this place isn’t for you but I would argue that anyone visiting The Yard Milkshake Bar will fall in love with this spot.

Whether you want to build your very own personalized milkshake or opt for one of the signature designs, there are a plethora of choices to satisfy everyone’s appetite. The Unicorn is definitely one that appeals to Heather given that it is made from Birthday batter ice cream and topped with a Birthday cupcake, whipped cream, and sprinkles.

However, the Salted Caramel Cheesecake milkshake comprising of salted caramel ice cream and topped with a slice of New York cheesecake sounds pretty spectacular to me.

Address

3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy #330
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Tel: (251) 948-0121
Website: The Yard Milkshake Bar
Menu: The Yard Milkshake Bar Menu
Opening Times: 12:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday – Closed on Monday)

Scoops Ice Cream

Best Time of Day to Visit – Dessert

If you are looking for a family owned ice cream shop where you can enjoy a variety of flavors, check out Scoops Ice Cream in Gulf Shores. Located in the heart of Gulf Coast Parkway just a short walk from the beach, this is the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite ice cream flavor before taking a stroll along the 32 miles of pristine white-sandy beaches.

A single or double scoop in a cone or cup may be sufficient but for the adventurous folks out there, why not experience a banana split or customized sundae.

Visitors will have to endure the tough decision over which flavors to pick but with the low prices, I think it’s feasible that you will want to return to sample more after your first visit!

Address

601 Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Tel: (251) 948-4800
Website: Scoops Ice Cream
Menu: Scoops Ice Cream Menu
Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Matt’s Ice Cream

Best Time of Day to Visit – Dessert

A visit to Gulf Shores wouldn’t be the same without experiencing Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream. With over 40 flavors available, you can enjoy anything from a traditional sundae to a more extravagant milkshake.

Two different locations on Gulf Shores Parkway make this an easily accessible location and one that should certainly be on your radar if you have a sweet tooth.

Focused on delivering an incredible taste only available through homemade ice cream, Matt’s Ice Cream has an eclectic lineup of flavors to satisfy every visitor. The modern, vibrant feel inside the store makes this a spot you will want to relax while enjoying your favorite ice cream.

Local or tourist, you will line up for these deliciously eclectic flavors. One scoop is never enough!

I can strongly recommend the Butterfinger flavor along with the Red Velvet but honestly, it’s a case of you cannot go wrong with anything on Matt’s Ice Cream menu!

Address

1308 (and 701) Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Tel: (251) 948-7098
Website and Menu: Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream
Opening Times: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Summary

Anyone hungry after contemplating all of this amazing food? If you are looking for the best places to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach hopefully, this guide will give a few ideas to sample all meals of the day. It’s pretty obvious that we have breakfast, dinner, and dessert covered primarily because when you enjoy an awesome breakfast in either Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, you likely won’t be thinking about anything until dinner time.

Many of these restaurants are awesome for lunch but if you follow our strategy, you will enjoy a great breakfast, sample a late dinner and perhaps indulge in a dessert throughout the day! The most important thing to remember when you visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach…YOU ARE ON VACATION!

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