Gulf Shores Beach

An August 2003 trip to Gulf Shores by cmurrah

We love Gulf Shores! We own 2 weeks at Paradise Isle. We would move to Gulf Shores if we could, that's how much we love it. Beach, sunshine, shopping, eating, antiquing, bike riding, exploring - these are just a few of the things we enjoy. I plan on parasailing in 2004.

  • 5 reviews
  • 1 story/tip
Best Things Nearby:
Beach, Shopping, Dining, Biking, walking.

Best Things About the Resort:
Small and Quaint. Two Pools and a Hot Tub. Family Friendly. Across the street from the beach. Walking distance of most anything.

Resort Experience:
We love Paradise Isle. But, for those of you who long for a luxury condo sitting right on the beach, this is not the place. This is a small, family friendly resort with two pools and a hot tub, across the street from the beach. A friendly staff and modest decor. We own two weeks here and one unit overlooks the pool and the other unit has a view of the beach across the street. Although they are building high-rise condos everywhere in Gulf Shores, I think Paradise Isle has a charm and quaintness not found in the luxury high-rise condos. It feels like home, so comfortable!! It is in walking distance to anything you could need or want and walking or biking is the best way to see the immediate area. Don't miss this jewel in the rough, but don't expect a luxury condo either.

The units are small and clean. All have full kitchen/dining room, living room, bedroom(s) and a full bath. There are one-bedroom units, one-bedroom large units and two-bedroom units. We own a one-bedroom unit that sleeps four; it has a sleeper sofa in the living room. We also own a one-bedroom large that sleeps six; it has two queen beds in the bedroom and a sleeper sofa in the living room. Everything you could need! Who stays in their condo all day when at Gulf Shores! There is way too much to do to sit around. So the units are just right for on the go people and families like us.

  • Unit Type: 1 Bedroom
  • Activities: Not Available
  • Amenities: Very Good
  • Unit Satisfaction: Very Good
  • Family Friendliness: Excellent
  • Service: Very Good
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by cmurrah on July 24, 2004

Paradise Isle Resort
628 WEST BEACH BLVD Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542
205-948-6811

King Neptune's Seafood RestaurantBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant | "King Neptunes"

The locals all highly recommend King Neptune’s. I had my very first taste of Steamed Shrimp here. It is my favorite by far. You can choose from any type of local seafood available. The food is wonderful, although there is not a lot of atmosphere. It's kind of a dive. But they sure know what they are doing when it comes to seafood. If you go for lunch they have great lunch specials very reasonably priced ($5-6). If you go for supper, get there early evening or plan on standing in line for a table. This place is crowded at night, but I think very worth it. We always seem to return to King Neptunes when looking for that great seafood meal.
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by cmurrah on July 24, 2004

King Neptune's Seafood Restaurant
1137 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542
(251) 968-5464

StudebakersBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant | "Studebaker's"

This place is awesome! Right across the steet from public beach access! The decor is auto/racing inspired and they even have a vintage gas pump in the corner, so cool! The owners are great - they moved to Gulf Shores from Kansas City (I think), and they are huge sports fans and about the nicest people you will meet up and down West Beach. We got to know them very well since we couldn't go through a day without the sweet treats they offer. This place is an old-fashioned frozen custard shoppe. Like from your childhood! When you go, you have to order a Concrete. It is so thick you can turn it upside down and it stays in the cup! So many flavors and combinations! My favorites are Dark Chocolate Raspberry and Cappuccino! My husband's favorite is Banana Split. If you can walk or ride your bike there, do so - you will need the exercise after this delightful indulgence! Five Stars!!!
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by cmurrah on July 24, 2004

Studebakers
1301 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542
(251) 968-8229

BikingBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

We love to ride bikes in Gulf shores. They have a route marked off on most of the streets. We have our own bikes so we don't have to rent. Early morning is the best time to ride for us. It is so peaceful. West Blvd is right up and down the beach and when you get away from the shops and condos you can see some amazing beach houses. We always choose a house we dream of buying someday while on our ride. This is what makes Gulf Shores our favorite place!
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by cmurrah on July 24, 2004

Biking
Gulf Shores Gulf Shores, Alabama

Tanger Outlet Centers (Formerly Riviera Center)Best of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Shopping at Riviera Center"

They have name-brand stores, specialty shops, clothes, shoes, books, golf, camping, jewelry, purses, music, tools, kitchenware, dishes, unmentionables, and even a food court in the middle. What more could a shopaholic ask for!? I'm hooked!! My favorite place is the Bible Bookstore Outlet.
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by cmurrah on July 24, 2004

Tanger Outlet Centers (Formerly Riviera Center)
2601 South McKenzie Street Gulf Shores, Alabama 36535
(251) 943-9303

Church ServicesBest of IgoUgo

Story/Tip

Don't forget to attend Worship Services while you are in Gulf Shores. We went to the Lagoon Baptist Church at 17867 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores, Al. We felt so welcome and comfortable worshiping here. They have a great praise band and the preaching is always a blessing. It is a small Southern Baptist Church where the attire is comfortable and the people are so friendly. They make you feel as though you have always been there. So, don't forget to Worship God when on vacation and this would be my recommendation.

About the Writer

cmurrah
cmurrah
Iuka, Mississippi
  • "I am happily married to a travel lover like myself. I am also a cat lover. Teejay the Tabby runs th..."
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