Expert: Leslie Johnston - 3/24/2002

Question
Hi!  I am thinking of spending a few days around the Gulf Shores area late spring/early summer 2002.  I have two young children (ages 5 & 7).  Any recommendations on a good beach/town for them?  Also, are the beaches there good for kids to search for shells?  Thanks!

Answer
Dear Mark:

I would recommend anywhere in Gulf Shores. There are lots of hotels, condos and rental houses to choose from. I would not recommend Orange Beach, which is farther down towards Florida (it is very upscale and is more for older people).

Gulf Shores is ideal for kids. There is a mini-amusement park with rides, a mini-golf course, a water park with waterslides, and lots of souvenir shops.

There should be plenty of shells on the shore. Sand crabs also come out at night.

For a day trip, I would recommend Fort Morgan, which dates back to the Civil War. You can take the ferry to Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island and then take the ferry back to Fort Morgan.

If it's a rainy day, there is always shopping at the outlet center in Foley.

Gulf Shores also has all the conveniences: grocery stores, McDonalds, and even Wal-Mart (and of course, seafood restaurants).

Please let me know if you need more information. I enjoyed your question.

Leslie