Once thought of as a quiet coastal community, the Alabama Gulf Coast has transformed into a booming destination that offers many rooms, restaurant and attraction options. Yet, this region has retained is charming Southern feel that successfully competes with other close destinations. In 2007, Baldwin County claimed the largest portion of the market portion (24.7%) when compared to the five neighboring Panhandle counties of Escambia (11.5%), Santa Rosa (2.2%), Okaloosa (18.9%), Walton (23.6%) and Bay (19.1%). Also in 2007, the AL Gulf Coast achieved another record breaking figure as the region exceeded its before taxablerooms revenue record by $39 million. However, these yearly records are part of a bigger expansion trend. Since 2000, taxablerooms (Hotel, Motel and Condo) revenue has steadily grown from $157 million to $244 million in 2008. Similar to the $87 million rooms improvement, retail revenue also grew a total of $376 million in the same eight year time span. With the addition of 3,805 lodging units in the last eight years, the region has also added more retail, restaurant and attraction space that has contributed to this trend. Nine signature golf courses and the nation’s largest artificial reef plan lead to man-cations crammed with exciting golf games and great fish tales. Meanwhile, the ladies on their girlfriend getaways find great deals with numerous shopping adventures and go to the area’s selection of spas for some much-needed pampering. Couples and seasonal winter guests converge on Pleasure Island for the abundant activities, events and festivities scheduled throughout the year. Several new properties have just opened in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and more are projected soon, adding a total new dimension to our accommodations landscape. From one end of the island to the other, elder properties and bargain hotels are giving way to sophisticated luxury facilities. Design and comfort are the order of the day at these hotel and condominium resorts. In addition to posh designer interiors, most present fitness centers, beach service, numerous pools and fun water features for the kids. Some are like their own little towns, offering shopping, restaurants and entertainment on premises, so you don’t have to get in your car the whole time you’re on vacation. And while it used to be that the â€on the beach†was the only place to find a room, these days there are terrific options nestled calmly on the back bays and along the Intracoastal channel. Formerly referred to by locals as â€the ditchâ€, The canal is suddenly becoming a ribbon of luxury residential and rental developments, marinas, and shore dining to rival the beachfront. Similar to the upscaling of the area’s rooms, the dining options have also expanded to embrace a broad range of palettes. In addition to the traditional beachside dive, visitors to the Alabama Gulf Coast can test a smorgasbord of options, such as Mediterranean, Italian, Cajun or French. A showcase of the area’s cooking experts reveals backgrounds and training ranging from humble beginnings to formally educated chefs. Regardless, hungry customers have many options. Some restaurants will even boil your catch. Also, the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach region is fortunate to serve Royal Red shrimp. Found about 1,000 feet below the gulf waters, this cold-water shrimp is delicacy. With a deep red color and sweet, delicate texture, royal reds can be found in a variety of dishes at the coastal restaurants. Established as a family-orientated vacation destination, the Gulf Shores and Orange Beachregion has become a popular destination year round. Outside of the peak summer period, value-packed accommodation rates couple with comfortable temperatures and abundant events that make this area a must-see.
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