11. There's a shipwreck nearby.
The beaches of Fort Morgan boast the remains of a ship called The Rachel. It's near mile marker 6, and it was buried under the sand and revealed after a hurricane came through the area decades ago. To this day, it remains periodically covered and then exposed by shifting sands.
10. Public beaches mean parking and bathrooms.
There's several public beach access points locals love to frequent, like 6th street, 13th street, Gulf State Park Pavilion, and Alabama Point. But they are more than happy to scoot over and make room for you and your crew! These beach access points have plenty of parking and great public bathrooms to use before or after your trip to the beach.
9. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is fabulous outdoor fun.
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail has glamping, a boulder park, butterfly garden, and trails for miles (15+ miles, actually). Plus they have bathrooms and water fountains throughout the trails (we’re really into bathroom accessibility, ok?).
8. The beach is fun at night, too.
At night, you'll see people taking flashlights to the beach. They're out there because you can spot crabs making their way across the sand. However, the light from your flashlight may confuse sea turtles who think it's moonlight, causing them to head in the wrong direction. Instead, put a red filter (which you can pick up for free at the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Welcome Centers) over your flashlight if you're headed out in the evenings to avoid confusing mamas laying their eggs or babies hatching!
7. The best shrimp are Royal Reds.
Royal Red shrimp are a delicacy, and our restaurants serve them fresh-off-the-boat. Head to one of the local seafood markets and grab a few pounds – get plenty because it’ll be hard to share. For an extra local flair, get your bounty from Aquila Seafood Market where you can see the shrimping boat mere steps from the counter! We’re serious about fresh.
6. Red flags mean don't get in the water!
Swimming in the Gulf of Mexico is much different than swimming in a pool. It means sometimes there are rip currents which can be dangerous. Locals are familiar with the flag system. We understand those who don't live here full time may not know what it means when a yellow flag is flying over the beach access point. Before your vacation, learn about the flag warning system to keep you and your crew safe!
5. There’s no need to speed.
We’re on island time down here, so mind your speed limits when driving. There’s almost always someone crossing the street (the beach beckons, didn’t you know?), so go slow and watch for pedestrians and cyclists.
4. We like to drop anchor and kick back.
If you want to take your boat and drop anchor to swim, there will most certainly be locals doing the same thing. Try Ingram’s Bayou, Palmetto Creek, or Soldier’s Creek (did we mention all of those spots are situated near Pirate’s Cove? Burgers and bushwackers, anyone?).
3. The Mullet Toss has nothing to do with a bad haircut.
We’re talking about literally tossing mullet… as in the fish. This legendary event held every April holds the self-proclaimed title as the Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party and locals don’t disagree. Plus part of the proceeds go to Local Youth Charities – a good reason to toss a mullet.
2. There are restaurants that will cook your catch.
One of the things Coastal Alabama is known for is the fishing. Did you know there are several restaurants that will cook up the fish you catch for dinner while you're here? It's a very convenient service. Enjoy the freshest fish you can eat, and you don't have to worry about packaging it for the trip home!
1. We don’t feed the seagulls.
Seriously. We know they want your potato chips. We want them, too. But you’re not going to share them with us because then we’d never leave...and it’s the same with the seagulls. We won’t get into the indelicate matter of what happens to fall from recently fed birds.
Our area is full of quirky habits, historic artifacts, and delicious treats. Let us know what you'd add to this list using #Coast360!