Beautiful Views and Relaxing Sounds

“Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” -Terry Pratchett

The beaches along the Gulf Coast are some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. There is no denying that the beautiful white sand and emerald water are not only gorgeous, they are completely relaxing. Another of my favorite beaches along the gulf is Orange Beach, Alabama.

While first settled in the mid-1860’s, the area now known as Orange Beach was rather slow to become what it is today. The first tourist hotel in the area was built in the early 20’s, with locals beginning to rent out their boats for one-day fishing trips around the same time. The Intracoastal Waterway was completed in the area in 1932, the first paved road in 1947, electrical service in 1948, phone service in 1956, first volunteer fire department in 1961 and the first public water system in 1974. After being significantly damaged in 1979 by Hurricane Frederic, the development pace picked up dramatically, initiating the town to incorporate in 1984.

Many things have changed since the 1860’s. Even since 1984. Orange Beach has many hotels and condos along the coast and is full of restaurants and things to do. This is another family fun beach to go to that is relaxing and enjoyable for EVERYONE. My mom, mini-she, her guy and I went to New Orleans for a few days, where it was pretty muggy and just eh (I must have been sick! I NEVER feel this way in New Orleans!!) so we decided to leave a little early and head to Orange Beach. While here, we stayed at the Hampton Inn and Suites, Orange Beach. The room was nice, very comfortable, and right on the beach with a beautiful view of the ocean. The staff was friendly and we were even able to extend our stay one night with no difficulty. Being a few days before July 4th we weren’t sure how that would go, but everything was great. This was a wonderful stay. While here mom headed back home (sad face), hubby headed down (happy face), we met friends who also came down (more happy face), hung out on the beach, had dinner, had drinks (we won’t talk about these faces!), wandered around town, and had lunch before we left the next day. I was definitely NOT ready to head home. I just love it when friends and family are all in the same area at the same time and it’s at the BEACH! When I win the lottery I am going to buy a big beach house, directly on the beach, so everyone can come stay whenever they want. 😀

One of my favorite places to eat is new to Orange Beach but is a regular for us in New Orleans. Acme Oyster House is one of the best places for fresh seafood if that is what you are looking for. Their fried crawfish tails are what dreams are made of! My mouth is watering just thinking of them. My throat is closing up too since I am newly allergic (discovered this trip, actually), but hey…doesn’t change that they are delicious!!! So worth an Epi-Pen to the leg!  Definitely a place you should visit! Also, while in town, you should visit The Wharf! With food, shopping, and entertainment, you can’t go wrong!

Whether you choose a family trip, friends, or family and friends, have a great time and remember to be respectful of everyone else out there. This is a beautiful, relaxing beach and we all want to keep it that way!