Dinner and a Movie in Gulf Shores Christmas Day

Your choice to spend the holidays on the island will no doubt be rewarding and memorable. Once the turkey or ham or whatever feast is consumed and the presents are opened, what do you do with the rest of Christmas Day? Well, the traditional dinner and movie is always a sure bet for a great time with family and friends.

Finding a movie you will enjoy should not be hard since several are opening on Christmas Day and there are two excellent theater venues with stadium seating near the beach. One is on Hwy. 59 in Gulf Shores at Pelican Place shopping center at Cobb Pinnacle 14. The other venue is in Orange Beach at Rave Motion Pictures at The Wharf (right beside the Ferris wheel - you can't miss it).

Most restaurants are closed for Christmas Day, however we discovered that six are open for limited hours and you'll see them listed for you below:

ORANGE BEACH
Bubba's Seafood House - open 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Guy Harvey's Island Grill at The Wharf - open 5 to 9 p.m.
Live Bait (Hwy 182) - open 5 to 9 p.m.
Rafters Restaurant and Sportsbar at The Wharf - open 4 to 9 p.m.

GULF SHORES
Doc's Seafood - open 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Mud Bugs Pub - open 5 to 9 p.m.

We all wish you a very happy time during your holiday visit to our shore.

Walk to the Hangout Beach Music Festival in Gulf Shores

If you've been watching the press releases and reading our email and other social media communications today you know that the next Hangout Beach Music Festival will be May 20-22, 2011. Even though the entertainment lineup has not yet been announced NOW is the time to secure your accommodations for the prime spots on the beach near the festival.

My recommendations are to rent a Lighthouse, San Carlos or Seawind condo on East Beach Boulevard just a few blocks from the Festival. And really when you are on the beach I guarantee you that walking to the where the music is happening seems closer than normal. At one of the many nearby properties (see our map for other property suggestions) you will not need a shuttle but there will be shuttles available again for your convenience if you choose a property, maybe a large house, not within walking distance to the magical, musical happenings.

Another hint - if you have fallen in love with a particular property that seems like a home away from home during your visits to the beach, I highly recommend that you reserve it for the Hangout Beach Music Festival dates now.

You can even count on a free night (4th night in a condo or 5th night in a house), so there is no reason to delay.

Call your friends and family, decide what size house or condo to rent and get ready for a big beach party.

Bon Jovi & Brad Paisley Concert Shuttles in Gulf Shores

Don't drive! My best advice for your best experience at the Bon Jovi (Oct. 15) and Brad Paisley (Oct. 17) concerts in Gulf Shores this weekend is to utilize the FREE Shuttles from various island locations. I'm not certain how often the shuttle runs but they start at 12:30 p.m. the day of the show and end at 12 a.m. The yellow line shuttles from Brunos and Winn Dixie in Gulf Shores can accommodate handicapped passengers. The streets near the venue will be closed beginning today and reopened on Tuesday.

Here's the schedule for both events:

Friday – 10/15
10 a.m. – Hangout opens

1 p.m. – Plaza opens

4:00 p.m. – Doors open

6:30 p.m. – Green River Ordinance

7:45 p.m. – Bon Jovi

Sunday – 10/17

10:00 a.m. – Hangout opens

1:00 p.m. – Plaza Opens

4:00 p.m. – Doors Open

6:30 p.m. – Little Big Town

8:00 p.m. – Brad Paisley

The Jimmy Buffett concert on the beach in July was a huge success with little traffic congestion, even though the crowds exceeded 45,000, because the shuttle system worked so well. So if your accommodations are in an outlying area simply drive to one of the shuttle locations or walk to a shuttle stop if one is nearby but do not even attempt to drive to the concert itself. Take it from a local the shuttles are the way to roll.

Enjoy - I'll see you at the concerts on the beach at The Hangout in Gulf Shores.

Traveling to Gulf Shores? Use this tip to arrive faster.

Traveling to our coast for fun in the sun can present some traffic challenges during peak times such as summer season, Shrimp Festival, and concert weekends.

So how do you avoid long delays when your assigned check-in location for your Meyer Real Estate vacation rental is the Meyer office at 1585 Gulf Shores Parkway? Here's our insider tip: Take the FOLEY BEACH EXPRESS! Now you may be saying to yourself that the Foley Beach Express, which you enter just south of Summerdale, is fast access to to Orange Beach and Perdido Key - and it is. However, this route can also speed your access to Gulf Shores. The TRICK is to exit the express highway at the last exit before the toll bridge and take County Road 4 back to Highway 59. When you see the toll bridge ahead, just follow the signs to County Road 4 and you'll be back on Hwy. 59 adjacent to Publix in no time. Then you'll turn left, cross the Intracoastal Waterway bridge and arrive in Gulf Shores much quicker than the normal Highway 59 route. Of course you can reverse this route if you encounter heavy traffic as you depart the island.

Drive safely. We look forward to seeing you at the beach soon.

Come for the Shrimp - Stay for the Rock at Gulf Shores

Unprecedented back to back entertainment weekends are happening soon and you can optimise your fun. Arts and crafts, food and musical entertainment at The National Shrimp Festival begins October 7th at the public beach at The Hangout and ends October 10. Just a few days later on October 15th Bon Jovi, yes the real rock band, will perform at the same Hangout beach. For added fun Thunder on the Gulf powerboat races will back in Orange Beach October 15-17.

My advice - rent a house for the week starting October 9 to party at the Shrimp Fest and still be on the island when Bon Jovi hits the beach October 15. Use promo code CBJ-T and get 50% off your house rental plus tickets to the concert (while supplies last, two tickets per bedroom plus two additional tickets). You may not realize it but every time you rent a house or condo the 7th night is free, so using the 50% off promo code means you are actually only paying for 3 nights and getting 4 nights free.

As a long-time Shrimp Festival attendee here are two of my tips:

1. Try the Rockin' Rogers cajun pistols, a popular seafood delight only $10 for 3 pistols. I have it on good authority that this popular delicacy, a roll stuffed with shrimp, crawfish and cheese in a cream sauce, will be back again this year on the east boardwalk across from The Hangout. The line will be long but it will be worth the wait.

2. On Sunday check out one of our local bands - Roman Street - at the East Stage beginning at 11:15. You will love their sound which we have featured on many of our videos. Review the Shrimp Festival entertainment schedule to plan which great music you want to hear.

We still have houses and a few condos available for the two weekends of "Rocktober" fun but you need to hurry because remaining properties are renting fast.

I'll see you at the beach.

Wine Down at Sunset Cork Room in Gulf Shores

I may be overstepping my bounds as a native of the Alabama Gulf Coast by telling all of you where the locals gather for wine and good times, but here goes. Most Tuesdays you'll find coastal locals at Sunset Cork Room enjoying $2 wine night, the delicious special of the week by talented Chef Rudy, the amazing sounds of Lisa Christian and each others company.

Located just a couple of blocks east of Hwy. 59, at 225 East 16th Avenue, this beautiful restaurant and wine store is just the cure for anyone's stressful day, week or month. And yes we do welcome visitors to our special place.

Come join us on your next visit to Alabama's beautiful beaches.

Dumplin Day at DeSotos in Gulf Shores

Living on the coast I have the awesome privilege of seafood 7 days a week if I want it and by the way I do love seafood. However, some days I just yearn for comfort food, that dish so reminiscent of my youth. And I can find that on the island as well.

Wednesdays in particular I can always go to DeSotos Seafood Kitchen restaurant in Gulf Shores for their delicious daily special of chicken and dumplins. Even better is the wallet-friendly price for their daily specials that include two sides, bread and tea for only $5.75. I even have a loyalty card that entitles me to $10 off after my 10th meal (ask for your own card next time you visit DeSotos).

On any other day of the week (other than Wednesday) my absolute favorite lunch is blackened catfish with a side of remoulade sauce, steamed veggies and sweet potato casserole - yum, yum. As the name implies DeSoto's Seafood Kitchen is famous for seafood but they also have great steaks, pasta, chicken and more.

Most days at lunchtime DeSotos is filled with other Meyer Real Estate employees and local business people and yes there are visitors from other areas as well. This secret spot for locals to eat and congregate is just too special not to share with our vacationing guests.

Located only one block north of the beach in Gulf Shores this popular family restaurant will soon become your favorite too. Check it out next time you check in to one of Meyer Real Estate's condos or beach houses on the Gulf Coast. And if you arrive for chicken and dumplins be sure to say Hi.

FREE concert at LuLu's in Gulf Shores on May 30

The 6th annual LuLupalooza celebration kicks off a grand summer season on Memorial Day weekend. Bring your lawn chair and sit back to enjoy the FREE concert beginning at 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 30, at LuLu's at Homeport Marina. This amazing location on the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores under the Highway 59 bridge provides a family-oriented good time for all.

Grayson Capps is the first entertainer to take the stage at 4 p.m. He brings a strong New Orleans influence with what he calls rott 'n 'roll or roadhouse-worthy blues-rock.

At 5:45 p.m. Ilo Ferreira will entertain the crowds with a pop rock and country style of music. Jimmy Buffett first discovered Ferreira in a bar in Cape Verde off the coast of West Africa and now includes this singer/songwriter as a special guest on his tours.

The Radiators, who are known for their soulful, inspired improvisations, start their performance at 7:30 p.m. This group is a true rock n' roll band who are loyal to the concept of ensemble playing and rely solely on the spirit of the music and lyrics to create the show. Take your place in the sand and see where the music and energy of the fans leads them.

If you have not yet made your Memorial Day vacation plans take a look at Meyer Real Estate's 30% holiday discount.

Mullet Toss Weekend on the Alabama & Florida Coast Begins Friday

Plan for unprecedented adventure at the 26th annual Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast's Greatest Beach Party this weekend (April 23-25) at Florabama.

Unless you've been one of the thousands who annually flock to the coast for the Mullet Toss you may be wondering why we fling fish across the Alabama/Florida state line? It's actually a fundraiser to benefit various local charities but I'll bet the participants would answer that's it's a great excuse for the best beach party in the world.

The venue itself is a real adventure - Florabama is a famous bar that straddles the two states and is one of the last roadhouses in the USA. In addition to the celebrity toss there are a variety of age categories for you to toss mullet. Just imagine the bragging rights when you return to your real world after you've flung a fish for an impressive distance.

Vacation condos and houses are still available if you want to make last-minute plans for the unique Mullet Toss experience. Enjoy a 3rd night FREE in a condo or 4th night FREE in a beach house with our Mullet Toss special.

Jazzin' Under the Oaks Relay for Life Fundraiser in Gulf Shores Announced

Meyer Real Estate's signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society - Jazzin' Under the Oaks - is a fun evening of music, food, adult beverages and shopping, all for a worthy cause. On Wednesday, April 21, from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m for $20 per person you can join us in the courtyard at the Gulf Shores office (1585 Gulf Shores Parkway) and enjoy a fun, relaxing evening.

The jazz entertainer, Rebecca Barry from the band BUST, made a name for herself in her native New Orleans, even performing at the New Orleans Jazz Festival for many years. We are so excited to have her return to entertain us.

Wine and specialty beer tastings will be provided by Sunset Cork Room, which is one of the most frequented locals hangouts in Gulf Shores. We will be serving light hors d'oeuvres throughout the evening event.

And the shopping - let's not forget one of my favorite pastimes. Our silent auction will feature a wide variety of items generous donated by local businesses so that 100% of the Jazzin' Under the Oaks proceeds will be donated to Relay for Life.

We cordially invite you to join us on April 21st.

Lady Antebellum Joins Tim McGraw in Concert in Orange Beach

Next Sunday (April 11) Tim McGraw along with Lady Antebellum will hit the stage in Orange Beach at The Amphitheater at The Wharf. I must admit that I was more focused on Tim McGraw's performance as a great concert for the area until recently when I began to notice Lady Antebellum on all the talk shows. This popular group has been on top of the Billboard Top 200 charts week after week lately. They recently were awarded a Grammy for Best Country Performance by Duo or Group and also were awarded Single of the Year(“I Run to You”) and Vocal Group of the Year by the Country Music Association in November.

Tim McGraw of course is extremely popular so concert attendees will certainly enjoy a double treat on April 11th at The Wharf. If you are planning to attend and have not yet secured lodging check out Meyer Real Estate's HOT Deals for a last minute bargain.

FREE Nights for Hangout Music Fest Weekend in Gulf Shores

Can you believe it...we are just a few weeks away from a history-making major music festival in Gulf Shores - the Hangout Beach, Music and Art Festival (May 14-16). I bought my weekend pass weeks ago and I can't wait.

The accommodations deals are getting sweeter at Meyer Real Estate. Rent now and get a FREE night. Rent 3 nights and pay for 2 in a condo or rent 4 nights and pay for 3 in a beach house.
Sharing costs in a condo or house really makes a festival trip affordable. Plus you have a living area and balcony for relaxation and a kitchen for convenience. I looked up a few samples to give you an idea of how economical your trip can be when everyone pitches in for the cost.

GULF-FRONT DIRECTLY OVERLOOKING THE BEACH
3 nights in a 2-bedroom gulf-front condo near the festival totals $533 (divided by 4 people the cost is only $44.45 per person per night).

4 nights in a 4-bedroom gulf-front house in Gulf Shores totals $1504 (divided by 8 people the cost is only $46.98 per person per night).

WATERFRONT ON THE LAGOON ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE GULF
3 nights in a 2-bedroom waterfront condo on Little Lagoon in Gulf Shores totals $447 (divided by 4 people the cost is only $37.23 per person per night).

4 nights in a 4-bedroom waterfront house in Gulf Shores totals $1314 (divided by 8 people the cost is only $41.05 per person per night).

Use our MAP to find a condo near the action or stay at a nearby beach area and plan on using the shuttle service.

Festival organizers just released the 3-day music fest schedule (see below) and released a limited number of single-day passes for $79:

•FRIDAY, MAY 14: Zac Brown Band, Alison Krauss and Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas, The Black Crowes, North Mississippi Allstars Duo, Girl Talk, Pnuma Trio, Orianthi, Brett Dennen, Jeff Austin & Friends featuring Larry Keel, Davy Knowles and Back Door Slam, Rachel Goodrich, Kirsten Price, El Cantador, Ben Arthur and Hightide Blues.

•SATURDAY, MAY 15: John Legend, The Flaming Lips, Jakob Dylan and Three Legs featuring Neko Case and Kelly Hogan, Gov't Mule, Funky Meters, Rodrigo y Gabriela, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Jerry Jeff Walker, Ozomatli, The Whigs, Toubab Krewe, Moon Taxi, A.A. Bondy, Wild Sweet Orange, Jon Black and Rustlanders.

•SUNDAY, MAY 16: Trey Anastasio, Ben Harper and Relentless7, Ray LaMontagne, Michael Franti and Spearhead, Guster, NEEDTOBREATHE, Matisyahu, Keller Williams, OK GO, Blind Boys of Alabama, Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears, ALO, Matt Hires, Kristy Lee, Roman Street, Rollin' in the Hay and The Cary Laine Band.

I'll keep you updated as each announcement is released and you can read more at Discover Alabama Beaches.

Roman Street to Perform at Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Last September a coworker who is also a pianist in her spare time told me about an amazing band from Fairhope named Roman Street. Their story was interesting and I took her word that these classically trained guitarists had a great sound. Then when she let me know that they are scheduled as one of the 60 bands playing at the Hangout Beach, Music and Art Festival the weekend of May 14-16, I made a mental note to put them on my must see list for the festival.

However, it was not until yesterday that I became one of the newest fans of Roman Street. I had the privilege of hearing them play an open air informal concert at the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival. Of course I immediately bought their latest CD entitled "Amore" and as soon as I returned home searched their website to find out where else they are playing locally.

Wow, I'm very impressed with their music and now more than ever look forward to hearing them again in May at the Hangout Music Festival.

Make sure you put them on your must see list along with dozens of other bands you've already chosen to see. If you haven't already reserved your accommodations for the Hangout Beach, Music and Art Festival don't wait any longer.

Meyer Real Estate's Relay for Life Family Fun Day at Waterville USA in Gulf Shores Alabama

It's Relay for Life season and one of my favorite events is happening soon at Family Fun Day on Sunday, March 28 from noon to 5 p.m. at Waterville USA on Hwy. 59 South in Gulf Shores. This is the one afternoon that Waterville USA partners with Meyer Real Estate to host an American Cancer Society Relay for Life fundraiser and donate 100% of the proceeds.

You are not going to believe this but the ticket price for an entire afternoon of Waterville USA amusements is only $10 for this special day benefiting Relay for Life.

You can play mini-golf, ride the roller coaster, race each other on the go-carts as many times as you want all afternoon. There is also a trampoline and lots of kiddie rides for the little ones. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the family bonding moments. The only amusements not included in the $10 ticket are the arcade games, Flowrider and waterpark rides (waterpark is not open yet).


Advance tickets are being sold at the Meyer Real Estate Gulf Shores office (1585 Gulf Shores Parkway) and buying your tickets before March 28th entitles you to a FREE lunch voucher valued at $5. So stop by Meyer's Gulf Shores office and purchase your tickets in advance if you wish or buy tickets at the door. Either way you are sure to have a blast and feel good about supporting a worthy cause at the same time.

Sunny Skies & Warm Weather for Orange Beach Festival of Art

The weather predictions are excellent - warm and sunny - for this weekend and I think it will be a perfect time to get out and enjoy the Orange Beach Festival of Art. One of the reasons I enjoy this cool festival is the location directly on the Intracoastal Waterway at the Waterfront Park in Orange Beach (26389 Canal Rd. - Hwy. 180). I like the atmosphere of the park and always enjoy walking out on the pier for a great view of the backwaters.

Sixty-five amazing artists will exhibit their creations of acrylics, folk art, glass, jewelry, mosiacs, oils, pen & ink, photography, ceramics, textiles, sculpture, wood and watercolors. I love glass so one of the highlights for me will be glass-blowing demonstrations onsite at the Hot Shop featuring Cal Breed.

The Festival will also include a Literary Authors’ Tent, a Children’s Art Alley, a wine tasting tent, a live musical stage, and a performing arts stage. Bruce Odell of Lafayette, Louisiana will be demonstrating the art of the Raku firing which should be fascinating.

I'm shedding my winter clothes in exchange for shorts and heading for the Festival of Art, won't you join me? If you need a condo or house for a last minute trip to the coast this weekend check our HOT Deals.

The Best Banana Pudding on Gulf Shores Island

In my humble opinion the best banana pudding on the Alabama Gulf Coast is served at Wintzell's Oyster House , which is famous not for their banana pudding but for their seafood, more specifically for their "oysters - fried, stewed or nude." Wintzell's Oyster House was established in Mobile (AL) in 1938 by Oliver Wintzell and only recently opened their Orange Beach location, which is restaurant number eleven for them. They are conveniently located in the former Ruby Tuesdays building in Orange Beach on the northside of the beach road (Hwy 182) across the street from the gulf beaches.

I believe I'm qualified to judge this dish because growing up each Sunday my mother made the family a banana pudding. I'm assuming it was my father's favorite dessert. I loved it on the first day but by the second day the bananas were dark and mushy, which I did not like. Well, problem solved by Wintzell's because their dessert is served almost like a banana split. A big bowl arrives at your table with the delicious pudding in the center along with vanilla wafers arranged in the pudding and a firm, delicious banana cut in half and placed on each side of the pudding. Yum, yum.

Winzell's also passes my test for all seafood restaurants - great gumbo and fantastic oysters. They also have many seafood delights served fried, grilled, broiled and blackened.

On your next trip to the coast I strongly suggest a visit to Wintzell's Oyster House for oysters and banana pudding or whatever makes you smile.

Bands at the Beach Coming Soon at Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores

Check out the latest lineup of bands for the Hangout Beach, Music & Art Festival to see how many of your favorites are playing at the beach in Gulf Shores May 14-16. Some of the headliners include Zac Brown Band, John Legend, Gov't Mule, Alison Krauss and Union Station, The Black Crowes, OK GO, Blind Boys of Alabama, Matisyahu, Ben Harper & Relentless 7, The Flaming Lips, Trey Anastasio and Classic TAB, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Rodrigo y Gabriela, and the Funky Meters.

Tickets are now on sale at a very reasonable weekend pass price - only $159 for three days and 60 bands. A limited number of tickets are being sold, so my best advice is to secure your spot now at this inaugural event that is sure to grow in popularity.

We have condos for rent within walking distance of the Festival (see properties and Festival map) but I'm sure you know these will be the first to go, so I also advise you to secure your accommodations as soon as possible. You can also choose to stay at a house or condo at nearby beach locations (Orange Beach, Fort Morgan and Perdido Key) and receive a 25% discount (4th night FREE). Book online or call (866-727-6089) and provide promo code XMUS. Limited shuttle service will be available.

The Hangout restaurant is on the Festival grounds and there are more restaurants and shopping opportunities also within walking distance.

The weather is amazing in May, so you are in for a real treat when you head to the Hangout Beach, Music and Art Festival for great music, food and fun.

Meyer Will NOT Increase Lodging Prices for Gulf Shores' Hangout Music Fest

The countdown is on for good times at The Hangout Beach, Music & Arts Festival May 14-16 in Gulf Shores. Last Friday the long-awaited headliners announcement was made and the roster of musical artists includes Zac Brown Band, John Legend, Alison Krauss and Union station, The Black Crowes, Blind Boys of Alabama and many more. Additional music lineup announcements are expected soon with additional headliners named.

Discounted ticket sales for local residents began this week and end on Monday (Feb. 15th) when general ticket sales begin. More info is provided at Discover Alabama Beaches.

Now's the time to secure your lodging for the three-day festival and we have GREAT NEWS about the prices. It is customary for accommodation providers to raise rates for a major event, however Meyer Real Estate will NOT raise rates for this event. In fact a 25% discount for a four-night rental is offered for adjacent areas of Orange Beach, Fort Morgan and Perdido Key. That's a 4th night FREE or can be used for a late check-out on the last day (promo code XMUS).

Stay tuned for more festival news.

Meyer Real Estate Winter Guest Fun Begins

Each year Meyer Real Estate begins the vacation rental season by creating and hosting fun events for winter guests in January and February. The kickoff event this year is a trip to Wind Creek Casino tomorrow (Jan. 8). Early in the morning two Meyer Real Estate passenger busses will head to Atmore loaded with our winter guests for a day of fun.

Our guests were quick to register for all four Wind Creek Casino trips and we know they will enjoy experiencing the gaming and the free lunch buffet. They may just decide to return on their own for entertainment, a day at the Spa at Wind Creek or cooking classes in the Cooking Studio. They also may choose to return for a world-class meal of steak or seafood at the Fire Steakhouse, another buffet at Taste Buffet or a meal at the 24-hour Grill Cafe at Wind Creek Casino.

A wide variety of Winter Guest activities are scheduled and limited availability remains. Take advantage of the numerous HOT DEALS on last-minute winter monthly rentals in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key and Fort Morgan.

Headliner Announcements for Gulf Shores May Music Festival Delayed

I have been excited for weeks to share the news with you today of the headliners for The Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores but the announcements were not made today as scheduled and are being delayed at least a week due to holiday closings of most music booking agencies. The festival is definitely happening at the beach in Gulf Shores where Hwy. 59 ends at The Hangout. The four music stages will come alive with sights and sounds for three full days (1 p.m. until 11 p.m.) May 14-16. However, we are all going to have to wait just a few more days to find out who the stars of the show will be.

We do know that the City of Gulf Shores issued the permits for this impressive beach-front music festival. We also know that the team putting together the event is well-experienced and well-connected to top quality musical acts. The anticipation is building for this first-ever event that promises to deliver a great time for all.

The timing of the festival could not be better - after spring break and just before the summer rush. It will be easy to find accommodations (at least if you hurry) and easy to enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants during mid-May. The weather should also be incredible then too since it will be warm but not too hot.

So just a few more days and we will let you know who to expect for entertainment and where to order your 3-day weekend pass for The Hangout Music Festival. Of course, we will have the biggest and best selection of condominiums and beach houses for your festival vacation. Stay tuned for more news soon.