Have a Happy Coastal Thanksgiving at Gulf Shores

Break from the typical tradition this Thanksgiving and spend your holiday with family and friends on the Alabama or Florida Gulf Coast and create a new tradition.

In addition to the total and complete relaxation of a quiet stroll on the beach collecting shells or collecting your thoughts, there are other ways to entertain yourself. Check out The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, the Ferris wheel at The Wharf , the roller coaster at Waterville USA, The Rave and Cobb Pinnacle movie theaters, Gulf Bowl Family Entertainment Center, go-carts at The Track Family Recreation Center, Adventure Island Amusement Park and Pirate's Island Adventure Golf, all offering great family fun.

No worries about food since several restaurants will be open on Thanksgiving day either serving their usual seafood delicacies or a more traditional Thanksgiving dinner. I'm sure your mouth will water when you review the list.

And then there is shopping to be done and bargains to explore. Begin your shopping adventure at midnight on Thanksgiving at over 120 stores at
Midnight Madness at Tanger Outlet in Foley (15 minutes north of the beach).

For an extra special treat your holiday accommodations at Meyer Real Estate are discounted 50% on condos and 25% on houses (4-night minimum). We will enjoy welcoming you to the coast for a new Thanksgiving tradition.

Affordable Gourmet Dining Near Gulf Shores Island

Gourmet cuisine in a beautiful setting without the usual gourmet prices is a rare discovery.

Famous local Chef Greg Buschmohle is once again delighting the palates of diners at Magnolia Court Cafe, a newly opened fine dining restaurant in downtown Foley. Magnolia Court Cafe is truly a unique experience combining the culinary talents of Chef Buschmohle with the beauty of this new restaurant that has the look and feel of a southern mansion. You’ll love the menu and you’ll love the affordable prices even more.

The Lunch Menu includes entree salads that are light but filling, a great variety of sandwiches and small plates such as Grilled Oysters, Shrimp and Grits and Crab Fritters The Dinner Menu at Magnolia Court Cafe changes seasonally and includes Fresh Fish Catch; Shrimp au Gratin; Crab Encrusted Fresh Grouper; a variety of chicken, pork and steak dinners plus your choice of a sandwich or burger.

This lovely venue, located on Hwy. 59 near the intersection of Hwy. 98 in Foley, is well worth the 15-minute trip from the beach. For a romantic weekend select a wonderful one-bedroom condo on the spectacular gulf or picturesque backwaters from Meyer Real Estate's diverse list of possibilities and choose Magnolia Court Cafe for dinner sure to delight both of you.

Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show Near Gulf Shores

Once when I was on vacation in Nashville the Blue Angels were performing there and actually staying at the same hotel where my family stayed. I was thrilled to see these talented airmen in the elevator. I am very spoiled to have the privilege of seeing them practice over the Gulf waters in Gulf Shores often, or watching their free practice sessions at their Pensacola home base which happens weekly during the show season.

By far the biggest and best show of the Blue Angels season is the annual homecoming event at the Pensacola Naval Air Station which will occur this year on November 13th & 14th. Admission is free, gates open at 8 a.m., the show starts at 9:30 a.m. and the Blue Angels are scheduled to fly at approximately 2 p.m.












My recommendation for a resort destination during the Blue Angels Air Show weekend is Meyer Real Estate's luxurious condos on beautiful Perdido Key, Florida located near the Naval Air Station. You're in luck since there is still a 50% discount on condo rentals during the Blue Angels Homecoming weekend (4-night minimum). Even if you can't spend four nights on the coast you can always use one of the free nights to either arrive early or stay later. See you at the show.

Gulf Shores' Golf Course Named in Top 75 Resorts

Our area is so blessed to have 300 holes of championship golf within a short drive from the beach. We are excited to report that one of those excellent courses, Kiva Dunes Golf Club in Gulf Shores, has once again achieved a very special designation. Kiva Dunes is listed on the 2009 Golf Digest's "75 Best Golf Resorts in North America."

The Golf Digest list begins with famous Pebble Beach Resort and includes world-class resorts in Hawaii, the Carolinas, Florida and even Canada and the Bahamas. Ranked number 60 Kiva Dunes is the only Alabama resort to make the list. Golf Digest Editor-in-Chief Jerry Tarde states "Regardless of where on the list a resort ranks, each one offers a combination of fine golf, lodging, food and service."

Experience the excellence of Kiva Dunes Golf Course when you choose one of Meyer Real Estate's beautiful Kiva Dunes Subdivision houses adjacent to BOTH the golf course and the gulf beaches.

Enter Your Photo for a Chance to Win a Beach Vacation

Only a couple of weeks remain for you to enter your photos of the Alabama and Florida Gulf Coast in Meyer Real Estate's "Focus on the Coast" Photo Contest. Enter up to five favorite photos until noon on November 16th.

As you review your visit to the coast for possible photo contest entries think not only about the sugar-white sands and beautiful gulf waters but also think beyond the beach. Did you visit the Zoo or Fort Morgan? Maybe you played a round of golf or went deep-sea or pier fishing. Perhaps the family spent time playing mini-golf, riding the Ferris wheel or roller coaster or racing one another on go-carts. Or did you capture images of the plants and animals of the coast? Although your posed family portraits are very special as a snapshot in time of your beach trip some of the most precious images can be the candid, unposed shots. Just be sure to list the time of year and location when you submit your treasured photos.

So look back through your vacation photos and submit your top choices soon for a chance to win a 3-night return trip to the beach in the spring.

Songwriter's Perform on Alabama & Florida's Gulf Coast

Hundreds of talented songwriters will converge on the Gulf Coast for a 10-day celebration of their musical prowess next month. Their songs are made famous by the musical artists who record them but you've probably never stopped to consider the ability of successful songwriters to perform their own creations.

The 25th annual Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival runs from November 12 through November 22 at a wide variety of venues that are spread across the Florida and Alabama's coast from Pensacola and Perdido Key to Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan. The festival showcases successful songwriters of country music, southern rock, folk, bluegrass, gospel, Americana, pop, top 40 and alternative music genres.

Make your plans to attend the Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival for one of the two weekends or all 10 days and celebrate savings with a Meyer Real Estate super sale (25-50% discounts).

Halloween Fun on Alabama's Gulf Coast

Haunted houses, costume contests, spooky trails, ghosts, ghouls and more make the Alabama/Florida Gulf Coast a great destination for Halloween fun for the whole family.

The Wharf (4550 Main St.; Orange Beach) - Scream for the Arts Haunted House and Halloween celebrations are open to the public from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday for all ages and a special hair-raising experience from 8 to 10 p.m. is not recommended for younger children. Cost: $4 (proceeds benefit Gulf Shores High School Fine Arts program). Details: (251) 224-1015



LuLu's at Homeport Marina (200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores) - 3rd annual BooLu's Haunted House from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Older children and adults wander through a spooky maze and younger children can play Halloween games. Cost: $5 donation to benefit arts programs in local schools. Details: (251) 967-5858.

City of Gulf Shores (David L. Bodenhamer Center, 310 W. 19th Ave., Gulf Shores) - Halloween Family Fun Day from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday. Carnival games for less than $1, costume contest, a cake walk and "Panic in the Park Haunted Trail" at Kid's Park. Details: (251) 968-1424 or (251) 968-4420.

City of Foley (Downtown Foley, Hwy. 59 & Hwy. 98) - Uptown Foley Halloween Party from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday. Costume contest for all ages, a cake walk, bounce houses, a ticket drawing for free prizes from Stacey's Ole Tyme Soda Fountain, games, free treats, face painting and much more. Concessions on site will benefit the Boy Scouts. Details: (251) 943-1200.

Vacation prices are not frightening since Meyer offers a 50% discount on your Halloween condo rentals and a 25% discount on house rentals (4-night minimum).

Glass Classes & Live Glass Blowing in Orange Beach, AL

Make your next trip to the coast a learning experience. The newly opened Hot Shop at the Orange Beach Art Center offers the opportunity to make your own glass ornament ($20) or paperweight ($35) every Saturday from 10 am - 1 pm. Or if you wish to learn more there are beginner and intermediate glass classes available to begin your career as a glass artist or jump start your hobby.

For an added treat when you see the "live glass-blowing" signs stop in to see noted Seattle Glass Artist Robert Jones in action blowing glass.

The Hot Shop is located in Orange Beach, AL at 26389 Canal Road, 3/10 mile east of the Hwy. 161 and Canal Road (Hwy. 180) intersection. Great bargains are available at Meyer Real Estate's HOT Deals for your trip to the Hot Shop.

Gulf Shores Area Declared a National Scenic Byway

Stop and smell the magnolias!

Take the time to enhance your appreciation of the Alabama coast when you take the Alabama Coastal Connection, recently named a National Scenic Byway, which is essentially on big loop off Interstate 10. Whether traveling east or west on I-10 when you choose this scenic detour your life will no doubt be enriched.

Among the historic landmarks along the route you'll find both Fort Gaines and Fort Morgan just a ferry across Mobile Bay apart. The Dauphin Island Audubon Sanctuary, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and Gulf State Park are also possible stops for you which total 12,000 acres of protected lands. At the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve you can view native plants, migratory birds and indigenous wildlife.

This 130 mile route lends itself to a couple of nights on the beach in a coastal condo or beach house as you explore the wonders of the coast. Check Meyer's HOT DEALS for a great rate.

"Focus on the Coast" Photo Contest Begins

Your special memories of a 2009 visit to the Alabama/Florida coast captured in photographs can potentially be your ticket to win a return trip next spring. Simply enter Meyer Real Estate's "Focus on the Coast" photo contest and you'll be in the running for a 3-night spring vacation in a 2-bedroom gulf-front condo (valid dates 3/1/10-5/10/10; subject to availability, excluding holidays).

Show the world the focal point of your vacation by choosing your best photos and enter the contest before the deadline of November 16th. Click here for all the contest details.

Discover Art at National Shrimp Fest on Gulf Shores Island

Come for the art and stay for the food and fun when you attend the 38th Annual National Shrimp Festival Oct. 8 - 11 at the Public Beach in Gulf Shores. Each year hundreds of artists from around the world compete for a coveted space in the juried art section of this popular event. You are really the winner since you can view their creations in the relaxed atmosphere of the beach setting. In addition to the fine arts there are rows and rows of arts and crafts to explore just steps from the sand and surf of the Gulf.

My best advice, as a local resident who has attended the Shrimp Fest for 37 years, is to arrive at least by Wednesday night so you can begin your adventure on the Festival's opening day (Thursday, Oct. 8) and plan to attend all four days if you can. Be sure to make room in your vehicle to carry back your treasures.

I would also advise you to take advantage of Meyer Real Estate's Shrimp Fest Special which is an unbelievable 50% discount on the rental of remaining condos and houses.
Rather than paying more for this special occasion you can actually save on your accommodations and have more money to buy art.

See you at the Shrimp Fest.

Gulf Shores Island Labor Day Sale

Did you wake up in a panic this morning realizing that Monday is your Labor Day holiday and you haven't made reservations for a beach escape yet? If this is the case fortunately it is not too late to find a great coastal condo or beach house on the Gulf Coast at a great price. In fact Meyer Real Estate is offering a 50% discount for Labor Day weekend with a four-night minimum rental. Even if you can't stay all four nights you can use an extra FREE night to arrive early or leave late. This amazing sale applies to remaining available condos and houses at Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, Orange Beach (Alabama) and Perdido Key (Florida).

There are lots of fun activities planned on the coast including Sidewalk Sales at Tanger Outlet, other special sales at The Wharf and Pelican Place shops, a lawn party featuring the Tip Tops at The Wharf and a wide variety of musical entertainment around the island including Lea Anne Creswell, Brent Burns, Elaine Petty, Marc Allen Barnette, Greg Brown and many more. Enjoy a comprehensive entertainment list so you can plan where you want to be for your favorite music.

Call Meyer Real Estate (866-269-6946) or reserve online (MeyerRE.com) using promo code 9LAB, save 50% and wake up to this view tomorrow.

Alabama Gulf Coast BayFest Music Lineup Grows

BayFest 2009 kicks off a weekend of great music and great fun on nine music stages in downtown Mobile, Alabama on October 2-4 with a cost of only $35 for a weekend pass.

Love rock? BayFest 2009 has just what you want with musical groups Halestorm, 3 Doors Down, Chevelle, Cavo, Pop Evil and Top of the Orange.

Pop artist Jessie James has just been added to the impressive lineup that includes Ne-Yo, Anita Baker, Train, Wet Willie, Alan Jackson, Akon, The Steve Miller Band and more.

Stay at the beach in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, Orange Beach or Perdido Key and attend BayFest 2009 for the best of both worlds.

Meyer Real Estate makes your BayFest weekend affordable with unbelievable beach house and condo discounts from 25-50%. Choose from 1800 resort properties featuring spectacular gulf-front views and picturesque backwaters on the lagoon, bays and river.

Rhythm & Blues Artist Lisa Marshall to Perform Near Gulf Shores Island

It is so much fun to live on the Alabama Gulf Coast and experience some of the great musical talent that has now discovered our shores. Since I love rhythm & blues I'm thrilled to learn that Lisa Marshall will perform here on Saturday (August 22, 2009). The venue is Mosaic Tapas Restaurant which is new to The Wharf in Orange Beach. I discovered tapas in Chicago and loved the concept of "small plates" that everyone in the dinner party shares and although I have not yet tried Mosaic Tapas I'm looking forward to the adventure.

According to Lisa Marshall's website she was "influenced by Motown, Soul and Rock n' Roll and inspired by Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Mavis Staples and Janis Joplin. Her song writing is primarily influenced by R&B, rock and gospel such as Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin to Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones and The Beatles." Sounds like an amazing combination. She hails from Virginia Beach, VA, lived and performed in Seattle and now lives in Austin, TX. Her performance on Saturday night will be part of her Mississippi River Tour.

Now that the school bells have rung the crowds are gone, so it's a really great time to visit the coast. Take a break before Labor Day and save during Meyer Real Estate's Awesome August Special with discounts from 25-35% this month.

Labor Day Shopping Spree Near Gulf Shores Island

The BEACH plus BARGAINS are the perfect combination. If hunting for bargains gets your adrenalin pumping like it does me you'll want to plan a trip to Tanger Outlet Center in Foley (near Gulf Shores) for Labor Day weekend.

The Tanger Outlet Labor Day Sidewalk Sale (Sept. 4-7) is the ideal jump start to your holiday shopping. With over 120 outlet stores you are sure to find gifts for everyone on your list from the latest brand name fashions and accessories to home décor, books, music CDs, toys, outdoor gear, and much, much more.

Bring the whole family for your shopping spree and the little ones will enjoy a great entertainment area in the newly renovated Tanger Outlet complete with a recreation area, merry-go-round and interactive fountain.

Bargains are abundant at the beach too with Meyer Real Estate's Labor Day 50% Discount.

Elvis Remembered Show Tomorrow in Gulf Shores

Shane Tucker will take the stage tomorrow night, August 8, to honor the King in a popular "Elvis Remembered" tribute show. The venue is the Erie Meyer Civic Center in Gulf Shores and showtime is 7:30 p.m. The event will be general seating only and doors open at 7 p.m. Carmyn Tucker is also scheduled to perform at the show and she has an amazingly good voice. The entire evening is very family-oriented and lots of fun.


Tickets are only $10 for this popular show and can be purchased at the door or in advance at Meyer Real Estate (1585 Gulf Shores Parkway; Gulf Shores).

Tax Free Shopping Begins TOMORROW at Gulf Shores & Foley

Shop til you drop takes on a whole new meaning when you come to the coast this weekend for a little beach time and a lot of shopping. WHY? Because this is the NO SALES TAX weekend that families look forward to as they prepare their children for the return to school. That's right SALES TAX will NOT be charged on purchases of school supplies, computers and clothing all weekend in the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan area beginning tomorrow August 7th through Sunday August 9th.

To add to the rewarding shopping adventure Tanger Outlet Stores in Foley are having one of their famous "Tax-Free Sidewalk Sales" events. The already discounted items are marked down even more and of course no sales tax applies as well for bigger savings. This time of year summer fashions are usually greatly reduced too.

Make your plans to coast awhile and save BIG. Check out the vacation savings during Meyer Real Estate's Awesome August Sale offering 35% discounts on condos and 25% discounts on houses.

Rave Reviews for Restaurant on the River Near Gulf Shores

I'm so fortunate to live near a restaurant icon, the Captain's Galley in Bon Secour. Locals frequent this unique dining spot and I'm happy to share the secret with you too. Located on the picturesque Bon Secour River this restaurant has an excellent reputation among locals and visitors alike for great pizza, burgers and seafood. Now the Captain's Galley has even more potential for greatness and is receiving rave reviews because of the new owners, Al and Diane Sawyer. If their names seem familiar it's because for many years they have received numerous awards for their excellent cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere at King Neptune's Seafood Restaurant in Gulf Shores. Without losing the flavor (pun intended) of Captain's Galley they are now adding their fresh seafood specialties.

This unique venue just north of Gulf Shores provides a comfortable, relaxed setting for casual dining. Next time you visit Gulf Shores for vacation take a few minutes to travel a little north of the island for this special treat. From the beach simply drive north of the island on Hwy. 59 towards Foley and turn left on County Road 10. Captain's Galley will be on your left approximately 1.5 miles west of Hwy. 59 immediately after crossing the Bon Secour River bridge. You can even access this charming, rustic restaurant by boat. Hours of operation are 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and you can call 251-949-5777 for more information.

Try out this jewel on your next trip to the coast. By the way Meyer Real Estate's Sizzling Summer Sale has been extended and you can still receive a 35% discount on condo rentals and 25% discount on vacations in houses.

Bob Dylan, John Mellencamp & Willie Nelson appearing near Gulf Shores July 31

Once again the sounds of world-class musicians will fill the air along the coast at Gulf Shores/Orange Beach when Bob Dylan, John Mellencamp and Willie Nelson appear at The Amphitheater at The Wharf on Friday, July 31. The gates will open at 5 p.m. and this exciting show begins at 6 p.m.

Just one of these musical icons alone would be worth the trip to the coast to see and the combination of all three is thrilling. I saw Willie Nelson at The Wharf last summer and his show was amazing. He introduced his daughter and allowed her to perform to the delight of the audience. I expect he will do the same at the upcoming show.

To learn more about upcoming concerts in the Gulf Coast area click here.

When planning your trip for the concert be sure to take advantage of the Sizzling Summer Sale since condos are discounted 35% and houses are discounted 25%.

Two couples could combine funds for a 3-night vacation in a 2-bedroom condo right on the beachfront with a balcony overlooking the gulf waters for less than $62 per person per night. For example Unit 403 at Sunswept condominiums ,in Orange Beach just a few miles from the concert, would be a total of $737 for all three nights including all taxes and fees. That is only $245.67 per night for two bedrooms AND a living/dining area, fully-equipped kitchen and balcony.

Even if you miss this particular condo bargain there are plenty of other choices during this unprecedented sale.

See you at the concert.

Gulf Shores Steamer named a "Best Dive" Restaurant by Coastal Living Magazine

I love steamed seafood, especially shrimp and royal reds (which taste like lobster without the price). By the way if you’ve never had royal reds you haven’t lived – put that on your bucket list. And some of the best steamed seafood in Gulf Shores is served at Gulf Shores Steamer and Grill, open since 1989. Just ask any local for a recommendation and you’ll consistently hear “The Steamer” as it’s known to us. Now Coastal Living magazine confirms our taste and in their May 2009 issue recognized Gulf Shores Steamer as one of the “Southeast’s Best Seafood Dives.”

The Coastal Living article told prospective customers to expect “gigantic servings of steamed seafood.” And further stated “The vast combination platters (steamed only; nothing’s fried here) can easily feed a family.”

The motto of Gulf Shores Steamer and Grill has always been “No Fried” and they specialize in fresh steamed and grilled seafood, including royal red shrimp, snow crab legs, mussels and oysters. Other magazines and newspapers which have featured Gulf Shores Steamer and Grill include USA Today, Southern Living, Houston Chronicle and the New Orleans Time Picayune.

My advice is head to our coast as soon as you can get away from the daily grind, grab a stack of napkins and indulge in delightful fresh steamed seafood at Gulf Shores Steamer and Grill. By the way, reservations for summer accommodations in condos and houses are still possible and discounted 25-35% at Meyer Real Estate.

25 Years of Minature Golf on Gulf Shores Island

Approaching the island of Gulf Shores on Gulf Shores Parkway (Hwy. 59) the large pirate ship with a sailor dangling precariously from the crow’s nest is hard to miss. As you get closer you realize the sailor is a dummy and the ship sits squarely in the middle of a very cool mini-golf course appropriately named Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf.

I’ve played at this attraction many times over the years and actually played again on Sunday afternoon and recently learned that this enjoyable 36-hole miniature golf course has been open for 25 years. I know I’m getting older but this was a shock, especially since it is so well maintained that one would never guess the age of this popular attraction.

Just think how many families and friends have challenged one another to this favorite pastime over the years. Nighttime after a day at the beach and a great seafood dinner is the ideal time to head for Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf for a budget-friendly evening of entertainment.

Planning a family getaway to the beach for sun by day and mini-golf by night? Check out Meyer Real Estate’s HOT DEALS.

Gulf Shores' Lucy Buffett Appearing on Today Show July 17th

Friday, July 17th (rescheduled from a previous date) on NBC's Today Show Lucy Buffett will make her second appearance. If you've ever been to Gulf Shores you will know the name and know that she owns the very popular restaurant LuLu's at Homeport Marina. And you probably know she is the sister of the singer Jimmy Buffett who is rumored to drop by LuLu's unannounced on occasion. What you may not know is she is also a cookbook author and that is the reason for her TV appearance tomorrow.

She will appear in the cooking segment in the 10:00 a.m. block and will prepare southern-style recipes from her cookbook which is entitled "Crazy Sista Cooking: Cuisine and Conversation with Lucy Anne Buffett." Her dishes sound absolutely mouth-watering including Screaming Easy Wild Shrimp Wasabi, Sweet Tomato Pie, Silver Queen Succotash and Peach Cobbler with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream and a Bama Breeze cocktail for a refreshing drink.

I'm seriously thinking about heading over the LuLu's after work to sit alongside the Intracoastal Waterway and enjoy slowly sipping a Bama Breeze while indulging in the tasty L.A. (Lower Alabama) Caviar which is made with black-eyed peas and maybe some crab claws. In fact, I think I've just talked myself into that possibility. I love living on the Alabama Gulf Coast where these delights are possible any day of the week. Of course they are possible for you too during your visits to Gulf Shores. Check out Meyer Real Estate's HOT DEALS and come on down.

Fabulous 6-BR Family & Friends Retreat Available in Gulf Shores

WOW, it is really rare that one of our most popular beach houses becomes available for rent during a prime season. Windswept beach house at 2033 West Beach Blvd. in Gulf Shores recently became available because guests unfortunately had to cancel their trip and you can take advantage of the opportunity.

Windswept is a fabulous six-bedroom, six and one-half bath house with a unique design making it extremely desirable for family and friends to gather for the beach trip of a lifetime. Usually in a gulf-front property one master suite will face the beach and occasionally two master suites will be gulf-front. Windswept is a two-story home designed so that all six bedrooms face the gulf and all six bedrooms have a private bathroom. Another half-bath is adjacent to the spacious living room. Four master suites feature a king bed and the remaining two bedrooms each feature two queen beds. There are Jacuzzi tubs in two of the master suites. This wonderfully furnished house with 8 beds and a sofa sleeper accommodates 18 people.

A large, open gourmet kitchen adjoining a large dining and great room is group-friendly with two refrigerators, two dishwashers and an ice machine plus a ton of granite countertops for preparing and serving meals. A second living area upstairs serves as a quiet getaway for reading, relaxing, playing games, watching TV or movies and even sleeping since it contains a sofa sleeper. There is also a coffee bar and desk area upstairs and of course wireless Internet if you need to keep in touch via the web. A total of 8 flat-screen TV's, 3 DVD players and a CD player provide entertainment throughout the house. A handy elevator is a big plus when transporting luggage, groceries and other supplies to both floors.

A medium-size private pool faces the gulf with a great sun deck surrounding this refreshing spot to cool off after sunbathing in the warm sunshine. Lots of cushioned deck and lounge chairs, a picnic table and a barbecue area complete the sun deck experience. When you are ready for a little shade there are plenty of covered porches with swings and comfortable chairs for relaxation. For another peaceful getaway especially to watch the sunset there is a screened porch overlooking the lagoon.

A picturesque boardwalk conveniently transports you over the sand dunes, beyond the sea oats to the sugar-white sands and azure blue gulf waters and a swing located downstairs adds to the enjoyable ambiance. The covered parking is ample for several cars.

This handsomely decorated home provides an upscale, luxurious retreat while conveying an atmosphere of southern comfort.

The good news is you and your group can rent this amazing home the weeks of August 15-22, August 22-29, August 29-Sept.5 or Sept. 12-19 for a little as $45 per person per day. See price examples below of the total price including taxes and fees and the per person per night price:

HOT DEAL - August 15-22 = $5347.46 only $48 per person per day (7 days,16 people)
HOT DEAL - August 29-Sept 5 = $5028.89 only $45 per person per day (7 days,16 people)
Sept. 12-19 = $5587.22 only $50 per person per day (7 days,16 people)

Gather your friends or round up your family and make marvelous memories at Windswept, a spectacular beach house retreat.

Sea Turtle Nests Located At Gulf Shores Island

For generations sea turtles have been nesting on the same beaches where they were born. The beaches of Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach all potentially have nests where turtle eggs are present for two months until they hatch. The most common sea turtle on these beaches are loggerheads, which are a threatened species, and occasionally there are also Kemp’s Ridley turtles, which are an endangered species.

Once the hatchlings emerge they instinctively follow the light of the moon back into the Gulf waters to begin their life’s journey. Because artificial light from beachfront condos and houses can sometimes confuse the baby turtles Meyer Real Estate provides information to our guests about the process of turning off these exterior lights during a hatching.

But how do you know when this wondrous event is taking place? That’s where the Share the Beach sea turtle volunteers come into play during turtle nesting season from May through October. This year these dedicated individuals have identified 24 nests on the coast. Each nest is marked with four stakes and orange tape. When the hatching time approaches the volunteers become full-time babysitters.

Next time you rent a house of condo on the beach watch for the turtle nest signs and you just might be fortunate enough to see this miracle of life during your vacation. Visit MeyerRE.com for vacation information and sizzling summer discounts.

Montgomery Gentry + Fireworks for July 4th at Gulf Shores Island

I love fireworks and music so I'm happy to announce that the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area will be going boom boom boom with both during the upcoming Independence Day holiday. (Can you believe July 4th is so soon?) Here's a brief overview of the holiday fun on the island.

On July 3 on the beaches in Orange Beach fireworks will be visible from your beachfront condo balcony. A beachside barbeque with live music by Mr. Big will be held at the Perdido Beach Resort.

On July 4 fireworks on the beaches in Gulf Shores fireworks will be visible along the coast from condos, houses and public beach areas. This production, sponsored by the City of Gulf Shores, is shot from a barge in the gulf waters just south of the public beach area at the end of Hwy. 59 and it is spectacular.

On July 4 at The Wharf during the day there will be games and fun activities for the whole family. At 8 p.m. Montgomery Gentry and Little Big Town will perform a concert at The Amphitheater at The Wharf. Guests of Meyer Real Estate can buy one-half price concert tickets for this show. These discounted tickets will cost $8.25 for seats in the upper section of the venue and will be available for purchase at the Gulf Shores office while supplies last.

On July 3 - 5 there will be Sidewalk Sales at Tanger Outlet in Foley. The usual discounts will be even greater during this sale.

For details about all the many music options in the area during the holiday weekend visit our Discover Alabama Beaches blog.

Meyer Real Estate is discounting vacation condos 30% and houses 20% for the July 4th holiday weekend. Enjoy a great escape to a family-oriented coastal paradise.

Foley Beach Express Travel Tip for Gulf Shores Island

During the summer traffic increases on Saturday afternoon as you reach your beach resort destination, in particular on Gulf Shores Parkway (Hwy. 59) from Foley south. I'm excited to see our visitors arrive to check-in at Meyer Real Estate but I also see their frustration with Saturday traffic. To ease your anxiety and speed up the process I'd like to offer a travel tip from a local perspective. Consider an alternate route, the Foley Beach Express, which exists east of and runs parallel to Gulf Shores Parkway (Hwy.59). The Foley Beach Express can be accessed from Hwy. 59 by making one left turn south of Summerdale (north of Foley). Basically this route speeds your entry to our coastal area because it eliminates most of the traffic lights.

You may know about the Foley Beach Express and the toll bridge ($3 toll) over the Intracoastal Waterway adjacent to The Wharf and think of it as quicker access to Orange Beach, and that is true. My travel tip to you today is to ALSO consider the Foley Beach Express when you are traveling to GULF SHORES. What you will do is simply exit the express highway just north of the toll bridge and take Co. Rd. 4 back to Hwy. 59 (Gulf Shores Parkway) and then turn left to travel south on Hwy. 59 (Gulf Shores Parkway) and over the Intracoastal Waterway bridge to Gulf Shores. This alternate route on Co. Rd. 4 returns you to Hwy. 59 (Gulf Shores Parkway) at a traffic light adjacent to the new Pelican Place shopping center.

My suggestion is to use the faster route to the beach on Saturday afternoon and then take some time during your visit to go back to Foley for shopping at Tanger Outlet or dining at one of the many enjoyable restaurants. And my best advice is to relax and enjoy your time on the coast. I also invite you to visit our website to choose accommodations if you have not yet made your summer vacation plans.

Father's Day weekend in Gulf Shores includes Concerts + Hot Air Balloon Festival

There so many exciting events happening on our coast this upcoming Father's Day weekend. It's impossible to go to everything but thrilling to have so much variety.

One of my favorite activities is the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival in Foley (June 19-21) not only because of the amazing balloons but the music as well. I usually plan to arrive around 4 p.m. to shop for arts and crafts. My favorite is the pottery but last year I also bought an awesome cowboy hat. This year I'm hoping the craftman who displayed custom-designed porch swings will return because I really want to add that to my patio. I love the festival food so I begin with the Cajun food and roasted corn. Before the weekend is over I'll also enjoy the best corn dog ever and wonderful homemade ice cream.

Both Friday and Saturday evenings half of the hot air balloons will fire up for the glow and tether rides. If you've never seen this beautiful sight you are truly missing a real treat. The other half of the balloons begin to arrive on the horizon and gently float to a landing at the festival. And then the bands begin their musical entertainment (Tip Tops on Friday night and Cheyenne on Saturday night) and I'm happy.

As a kick-off to the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival on Thursday evening (June 18,beginning at 6 p.m.) there will be a hot air balloon glowing at Tanger Outlet along with games and prizes. The entire 3-day weekend shoppers at Tanger Outlet will enjoy special Sidewalk Sales for extra savings to celebrate the Hot Air Balloon Festival. I love to shop so I'll find a way to take advantage of these bargains.

Also on Thursday evening at 7 p.m. a local band that I enjoy very much named "Cool Change" will perform a FREE concert at the Erie Meyer Civic Center courtesy of the City of Gulf Shores.

On Friday at The Amphitheater at The Wharf in Orange Beach music will fill the air when three bands take the stage - "REO Speedwagon", "Styx" and "38 Special." Then on Saturday at the same venue "Steely Dan" will perform to the delight of fans.

More details can be found at Discover Alabama Beaches.

Enjoy special Father's Day savings at Meyer Real Estate when you choose Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan (Alabama) or Perdido Key (Florida) for your coastal retreat. I hope you can join us for an entertaining vacation.

Hot Air Balloon Festival Near Gulf Shores Island Begins Soon

We are excited to tell you that this year's Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will once again feature quality family entertainment - it just gets better every year. You will love this FREE festival so near Gulf Shores, located in Foley on Hwy. 98 West, starting June 19 and running through Father's Day weekend.

Here are my insider tips as a festival committee member:

1. Ride the FREE shuttle provided from downtown Foley that runs every 15 minutes on Friday beginning at 4:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until after 10 p.m. Parking on the grounds is also FREE but the shuttle is easier.

2. Shop for fine art and arts & crafts items during the day to leave evenings open for music and balloon viewing.

3. Dress cool since June is a hot month on the coast. There will be a tent provided to rest and cool off during the day and of course ice cream and other cool refreshments to purchase.

4. Attend the Disc-Connected K9's - World Famous Frisbee Dogs show - it is amazing.

5. Let the little ones unwind at the Children's Village activities.

6. Kick back with a glass of wine or beer and listen to the Tip Tops on Friday evening - I love this band.

7. Enjoy the sounds of Cheyenne on Saturday evening topped off by Fireworks at 10 p.m.

8. Be near the front of the line on Friday or Saturday evening around 7 p.m. for a tethered hot air balloon ride. This is a special FREE treat for the kids but only 50 ride tickets are issued due to fuel constraints

9. Bring a lawn chair to sit back and enjoy the beautiful glow by 20 balloons as you watch the other 25 drift slowly into the festival grounds for a landing on both Friday and Saturday evenings from 7 - 9 p.m.

10. Rent a condo or house with Meyer Real Estate and receive a 20% discount on near-beach accommodations during the Hot Air Balloon Festival

New Orleans Jazz Vipers to Perform in Orange Beach

Jazz at the beach - it doesn't get any better than this. I recently found out that a seven-piece jazz swing band from New Orleans will perform at Tipsea's Steam Shack, which is a fairly new venue in Orange Beach. Since a large crowd is expected to hear the New Orleans Jazz Vipers on Sunday, June 7th beginning at 3:00 p.m., the performance will be held in a large tent onsite. Johnny Barbato & the Lucky Doggs will start off the afternoon of music at 12 p.m.

According to the website for New Orleans Jazz Vipers, their repertoire includes songs from legends such as Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong; therefore, I know I will enjoy their music and hopefully you will too.

Alabama's coast is excited to add the flavor of New Orleans to its growing list of entertainment activities. There is still time to make your plans for this weekend and you'll find that Meyer Real Estate provides the largest selection of accommodation choices for you. In my opinion a gulf-front condo at one of the Phoenix complexes would be an excellent choice for a weekend getaway located near Tipsea's. Right now is the best time to book your beach vacation during Meyer's 25% discount sale (3-night minimum). For example, during this sale you can book three nights in a one-bedroom Phoenix condo for a total of only $672 (promo code 9SOS-C).

New Orleans-style jazz is certainly not the only reason to head to our coastal paradise but it definitely is a great one. See you at Tipsea's!

Chicago + Earth, Wind & Fire Begins Summer Tour in Orange Beach FRIDAY

Just a few more days until two major musical legends grace the stage at The Amphitheater at The Wharf in Orange Beach (near Gulf Shores, Alabama). Friday, June 5th, is the day I finally get to use my ticket to hear these amazing artists in my own backyard so to speak.

I just read online at Billboard.com that the two groups have teamed up to create a special set of songs for download with proceeds benefiting World Hunger Year. Also the bands ask all attendees at their shows to bring three cans of non-perishable food or $3 to be donated to local food banks and in exchange for the donation receive a download card for these special songs that include "I Can't Let You Go", "Wishing You Were Here" and a new song entitled "You."

So the countdown begins to an evening of fun. If you are attending this special musical treat and still need accommodations at The Wharf or at a nearby condo or beach house Meyer Real Estate has the largest selection of vacation rentals and HOT DEALS for the best bargains.