Cyber Monday Gulf Shores Vacation Savings

So many sales are happening online today for a wide variety of products and services and we are excited to add to the list of bargains with a sale on a week's vacation at your favorite beach. Today only during our Cyber Monday sale you can get two free nights for each week you reserve for any season (including summer).

Whether you like a cozy one-bedroom condo with an awesome balcony view to share a breathtaking sunset or you plan to bring the whole family for fun in the sun and need a 2-, 3- or even 4-bedroom coastal condo, we have properties in over 180 buildings. Just pick your favorite beach - Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Perdido Key - pick your amenities and pick your week.

Maybe your family of 4 or 5 or 6 or more likes the privacy of a beach house or a house on the lagoon, bay or river. Perhaps a larger group of friends or extended family wants to gather together and share one big space where you can share meals, games and lots of laughter. If so our larger rental houses and duplexes are just the perfect fit ranging from a 4-bedroom house all the way up to a brand new 10-bedroom beauty - The Veranda - that will sleep up to 31.

So what are you waiting for. Get online now and reserve your preferred spot for your preferred week and get two free nights, but remember the Cyber Monday sale ends at midnight tonight.

Dreaming of a White (Sandy Beach) Christmas?

Treat yourself and your loved ones to snow-white sand this holiday. Spend a festive Coastal Christmas where Christmas parades expand beyond the streets to the water, with a lighted boat parade and Santa parachuting onto the beach at Flora-Bama. (Details)

The island will light up for a Coastal Christmas! A number of festivities are planned for the entire family, so take your pick and start a new holiday beach tradition:

• Nov. 23 to Jan. 1 from 10 a.m. -- Holiday Ice Skating at The Wharf in Orange Beach – Ice rink located on the ground floor of west parking lot near Ginny Lane’s. Skate rentals and refreshments available.
• Nov. 24 from 10 a.m. to noon -- Tea with Santa at Villagio Grille at The Wharf
• Nov. 25 from 4 to 6 p.m. -- Santa by the Fire – Gulf State Park Pavilion.
• Nov. 27 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. -- Orange Beach Tree Lighting & Visit with Santa at The Wharf – Holiday stories, free cookies and hot chocolate.
• Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. -- City of Gulf Shores Christmas Open House
• Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. -- City of Gulf Shores Christmas Parade and Beach Celebration – Begins at Clubhouse Drive and proceeds along Hwy. 59 to The Hangout at the Public Beach.
• Dec. 1 from 2 to 6 p.m. -- Pictures with Santa – Orange Beach Cotton Bayou Beach Access. 
• Dec. 2 from 2:30 to 3:30 -- “Messiah” with the Pensacola Symphony – Gulf Shores United Methodist Sanctuary.
• Dec. 7 -- "Light Up the Arts" on the Coast - Coastal Art Center of Orange Beach
• Dec. 8 at 9 a.m. -- 5 K Jingle Bell Run - Flora-Bama
• Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. -- Santa Drop at Flora-Bama – Music, fun and games.
• Dec. 8 at noon -- Billy Claus & the LuLuBelles – LuLu’s at Homeport Marina
• Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. -- Merry Market at The Wharf Event Center – Orange Beach. Free admission.

• Dec. 8 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. -- Christmas Lighted Boat Parade – Begins at LuLu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores, proceeds along the Intracoastal Waterway past The Wharf, and ends at Zeke’s Landing in Orange Beach.
• Dec. 9 from 7 to 8 p.m. -- Christmas Concert – Gulf Shores United Methodist Church. Free admission.
• Dec. 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. -- Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce Holiday Open House – Refreshments served.
• Dec. 15 from 8 a.m. -- Breakfast with Santa - Erie Meyer Civic Center in Gulf Shores
• Dec. 15 & 22 - Santa at Life's a Canvas - SanRoc Cay in Orange Beach
• Dec. 25 from 1 - 3 p.m.- Christmas Potluck at Flora-Bama
• Dec. 29 8 a.m. - Make it to the Line Run/Walk at Flora-Bama
• Dec. 31 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Noon Year's Eve Celebration at LuLu's at Homeport Marina
• Dec. 31 - New Years Eve Bash at Flora-Bama
• Jan. 1 at noon -- Slip and Slide Polar Bear Dip – Gulf Shores Public Beach at The Hangout.
• Jan. 1 at noon -- Polar Bear Dip at Flora-Bama

Plan your fun coastal times around these events and find more details at our Gulf Shores/Orange Beach Calendar of Events and Gulf Shores Music Calendar. Meyer is your beach vacation and concert connection.

Warm up to our winter savings and enjoy a free night when you spend your Coastal Christmas on the island.

Expect Full Flavor on the Half Shell at this weekend's Oyster Cook-off in Gulf Shores

Are you game to taste all the team entries of Rockefeller, Gulf Coast Cajun or chef’s choice raw oysters on the half shell? This Saturday (November 3rd) is your golden opportunity to try these delicious creations at the 5^th Annual Oyster Cook-off at The Hangout presented by Alabama Gulf Seafood. Add to the mix live music, big-screen TV viewing of SEC college football (Alabama vs. LSU), a beer garden, games and prizes, PLUS free nights, and you have the ingredients for full-on fun at the beach. We will even kick in a free $20 gift card to The Hangout. 

HangoutOyster Cook-off Special

Condos: Rent 2 nights, get the 3^rd night free
Houses: Rent 3 nights, get the 4^th night free

PLUS a free $20 gift card to The Hangout!

Promo code 12OY-T

Take a mouth watering look at last year's fantastic food and fun!

More Oyster Cook-off details:

• The Oyster Cook-off fun and food begins at 10 a.m. with live music throughout the event by The Banditos, LF Knighton, and The Soul Rebels Brass Band.

• The celebrity judges for the cook-off are David Holloway from the Press-Register, Birmingham News & Huntsville Times; Erin Street from Southern Living; and Devon Walsh from WKRG TV.

• Celebrities are even competing against regional chefs. Martie Duncan, a finalist in the Food Network Star competition, and her four team mates will square off in all oyster categories.

• Regional chefs include Chef Jim Smith, the governor’s executive chef; Chef Wesley True from True in Montgomery, Chef James Boyce from Cotton Row Restaurant, Pane e Vino and Commerce Kitchen in Huntsville; Chef Bill Stellwagen from Westin Huntsville; Chef Stafford Decambra from Windcreek Casino in Atmore; Chef Rob McDaniel from Springhouse Restaurant at Lake Martin; Chef Leonardo Maurelli from Railyard Brewing Co in Montgomery; Chef Landon Thompson from Iberian Pig in Atlanta; Chef Alec Naman from Naman’s Catering in Mobile and Chef Chris Sherrill from Eat & Staycations in Orange Beach.

• Teams will also represent the following Gulf Coast restaurants: After Ours, Big Fish Restaurant, Bubba’s Seafood House, City Grill, Gulf Island Grill, Happy Harbor, Jellyfish Restaurant, Live Bait, Little House Bistro, LL’s Seafood, Louisiana Lagniappe, Nolan’s Restaurant & Lounge, Old 27 Grill, Original Oyster House, Paradise Island Daiquiri, Rotolo’s Pizza, Seaside Package, Shaggy’s Bar & Grill, Shrimp Basket/Steamer, Steve’s Place, Tacky Jack’s, The Gulf, The Hangout, Voyagers @ Perdido Beach Resort, West Beach Grille, Wintzell’s Oyster House and Wolf Bay Lodge.

Make your plans (and your reservations) without delay for this seafood celebration on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico in Gulf Shores where you can expect full flavor and a free night.

Food, Music or Art Fest? What is the National Shrimp Festival?

Is the National Shrimp Festival, held in Gulf Shores Oct. 11-14, a food, music or arts event? YES. It’s actually a combination of all three with a beach backdrop and a free night (condos 3rd night/houses 4th night). Family festival fun just doesn’t get any better.

This 41st annual fun, family-friendly festival focuses on our favorite crustacean and features music, fine arts, arts and crafts, and a children's village on the beachfront directly in front of The Hangout at the end of Hwy. 59 in Gulf Shores.

Our top ten tips for attending Shrimp Fest:

1. Transportation – Ride the BRATS “Park-N-Ride” shuttle for $2, since parking is extremely limited. Click here for the schedule and locations.

2. Children – The little ones in your group will love the Children’s Activity Village, open 10-5 each day and featuring free arts and crafts, inflatables and entertainment throughout the day.

3. Sand Sculpture Contest – Dive in individually or as a family to make your artistic mark on the beach at the Sand Sculpture Contest on Saturday, Oct. 13. Registration begins at 11 a.m. and the contest runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Age categories are 5-10, 11-15, & 16+, and you can assist your child with his or her creation in the “Family” category, which has a cash prize of $100 for the winner.

4. Music – Bring your portable lawn chair and set up early for your favorite entertainers at either the East or West Stage. Here’s the schedule for four days of music featuring country star Phil Vassar on Friday evening and Eddie Money on Saturday night, along with a wide array of music acts.

5. Run – Register online for the 10K/5K Shrimp Festival Run/Walk benefiting Coastal Baldwin Education Enrichment. You’ll find it at the Orange Beach Sportsplex on Saturday, Oct. 13 beginning at 8 a.m.

6. Arts & Crafts – The area for Arts and Crafts has expanded to allow for even more variety. Give yourself two days, not just one, to browse and shop the 250+ vendors at the Shrimp Festival. Keep in mind that most vendors close shop around 6 p.m. even though the festival continues into the night.

7. Fine Art – Don’t miss this juried section of art that is located at the end of Hwy. 59 (between The Hangout and the Public Beach restrooms) and you’ll find photography, oil & watercolor paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and more from some of the best artists originating from throughout the U.S.

8. Food – There are two sections of food vendors along the beach boardwalk to the east and west of the center of the public beach, so plan to view your selections in both areas. Local restaurants participate in the festival alongside food vendors from other areas serving shrimp, of course, plus other fresh seafood delicacies. There are even a handful of places where you can fill up on the typical festival foods like corn dogs, roasted corn, funnel cakes and even fried Oreos. Be sure to find Rockin’ Roger’s Cajun Cuisine and try their famous Cajun pistols.

9. Dress – We are always casual at the beach. The weather should be warm during the day, with a historical average of 80 degrees, and a little cooler at night with temps averaging 59 degrees.

10. Beach – One of the best reasons to attend the National Shrimp Festival is the beautiful beach venue. So relax, take off your shoes and feel that soft white sand between your toes, or just sit on the boardwalk benches and take in the sights and sounds of the surf.

In addition to this feast for your eyes, ears, and certainly your palate at the National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores, you can feast on a FREE night at select properties during the festival.

Shrimp Festival Deals - 3rd night FREE in condos & 4th night FREE in houses Promo code 12SF
NOTE: Offer includes Fort Morgan, Orange Beach and Perdido Key properties only; Gulf Shores properties excluded. 

Bulls on the Beach This Weekend in Orange Beach

Cowboy boots and bikinis will come together in Orange Beach this weekend. Surprising? A little until you hear the whole story.

We have a local celebrity named Cody Harris, from Robertsdale, AL, who was a participant in the Country Music Television Sweet Home Alabama show and then later on the Southern Nights TV shows. Cody is producing a never-before-attempted professional bull riding event at Live Bait in Orange Beach beginning today through Saturday.

The venue will be an 1,800-seat arena set up for bull-riding on Saturday followed by an outdoor concert by country music artist Pat Green. The cost is $40 for adults and $20 for children 10 years or younger. More info is available on the Live Bait Restaurant website.

So now you know where the cowboy boots fit in - the bull riders and audience - but what about the bikinis? Well tonight at Live Bait Too nightclub there will be an adults-only, over 21 "Babes on the Bull" mechanical bull-riding contest for bikini-clad participants.

During the three days of activities there will also be a "meet and greet" opportunity with some of the other cast members of Sweet Home Alabama and Southern Nights, plus children's activities and fireworks.

My tip to you is take the shuttles that will run from the Gulf State Park Pavilion because on-site parking will be very limited.

Hurry to the beach, you don't want to miss the fun.

Need a place to stay? Check out our Hot Deals in Orange Beach and surrounding beach communities.

Gulf Shores BOGO - Buy One Get One FREE December week Sale Ends July 31

I love a bargain and I love sharing the news when I find one. One of the best deals you will find on our beautiful Gulf Coast is the Meyer Vacation Rentals Christmas in July 7-day sale that is happening right now but ending in just a few days (7/31/12). During this sale you can buy one December week and get one FREE, valid for vacations December 1st through the 29th.

The island is gearing up to make this December a special one for visitors and residents with holiday activities throughout the area. The lighted boat parade is a favorite and this year it will be held on December 8 along the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach (Alabama). During the day on December 8th bring the family to witness the Santa Drop at Flora-Bama where the jolly guy jumps from a plane and parachutes to the beach or shop for last-minute gifts at the Merry Market at The Wharf. The evening before (Dec. 7) bring the gang to Orange Beach for a sleigh ride through the Backcountry Trail.

I will keep you informed as more events get added to the list of special activities for December. In the meantime don't miss this opportunity to capture a great deal. For example during this limited-time Christmas in July sale you can rent a three-bedroom condo for two weeks in December (12/1/12-12/29/12) directly on the gulf that sleeps eight for a total price of $1,237 including rent, taxes and fees. That's a savings of $1,059 and only around $88 per day for accommodations up to eight people. See what I mean about being a bargain?

There are so many things to do in December that you might not do in summer such as hiking, biking, golf, exploring historic sites, nature trails, birding sites and museums. You will love December at the beach. So hurry and call or click to get your two-week vacation set before the BOGO deal expires and I'll see you at the beach.

Going for the Gold at the London 2012 Olympics

Have you been following the U.S. Women's Soccer team? It's so exciting to watch their bid for Olympic Gold as they head into the London 2012 Olympics ranked #1 in the world.

Since CENTURY 21 is the official real estate company of U.S. Soccer, our team of sales professionals at CENTURY 21 Meyer Real Estate are on the edge of our seats as the U.S. Women's soccer team travels to Glasgow on Wednesday, July 25, two days prior to the Opening Ceremony at the Olympics, to face the team from France. The broadcast should air at 12 p.m. EST on either MSNBC or NBC Sports Network. Following that match they will face Columbia on Saturday (July 28) and North Korea the following Tuesday (July 31). We certainly hope to see them advance to the gold medal game on Thursday, August 9.

Our CENTURY 21 Smarter.Bolder.Faster television commercials will air during a variety of Olympic events on both MSNBC and NBC Sports Network. Join us in cheering on both the U.S. Women's Soccer team as they go for the gold and the U.S. Men's Soccer team in the Olympic matches that begin soon.

Relax at Six Lazy Rivers in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Last May my extended family from Birmingham joined me at the beach for a long weekend of fun together. I can tell you that we made amazing memories that I will always treasure. We rented a great condo at Phoenix West and loved all of the amenities, especially the lazy river. It was just what I needed to slow down my pace, take a long deep breath and feel the stress leave my life as I peacefully floated along the lazy river with my family.

There was even a really cool slide at one end of the lazy river. And after the kids asked a few times I tried it out - to their delight and mine. Of course all three kids and their mom and dad had a blast at the slide too.

There are actually six resorts featuring lazy rivers, so I compiled a list for you to consider on your next trip to Alabama's Gulf Coast:

Caribe Resort
Anticipate a resort experience designed to deliver fun for all and you’ll find what you seek at Caribe resort. Located on the upper-deck, in addition to other pools and waterpark-type slides, is an 18-inch deep lazy river that is 980-feet long and situated perfectly for great views of the Gulf of Mexico. Grab an inner tube and relax as you float along amid lush landscaping or gather with friends and family on the large sundeck surrounding this popular water feature.

Crystal Tower
Stroll across the area’s only air conditioned pedestrian bridge to discover the largest gulf side pool and lazy river anywhere on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Fabulous views of the sugar-white beach and inspiring Gulf waters will be yours from your relaxing vantage point at Crystal Tower while you drift freely on the lazy river.

Phoenix on the Bay I and Phoenix on the Bay II
Find both excitement and relaxation at Phoenix on the Bay I and Phoenix on the Bay II, where you can slide into a water-filled adventure. Treat the kids or feel like a kid again yourself when everyone takes a turn or two on the exciting waterslide. Then just relax and let the lazy river take you round and round the picturesque route overlooking the peaceful bay at Terry Cove.

Phoenix West
Escape to a beachside paradise at Phoenix West where the abundant amenities include a soothing lazy river equipped with a waterslide to add a little action to your world of water treats. You will feel the tension melt away as you gracefully glide along with the sights and sounds of the surf in the background.

Turquoise Place
Discover luxury when you arrive at your upscale Turquoise Place destination, a true resort complete with activities for the enjoyment of the entire family. Pause to savor these delightful experiences as you indulge yourself in the luxurious 450-foot lazy river overlooking the brilliant white sands and emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Wharf
Stimulate your senses at The Oasis at The Wharf, a water facility in a lush tropical setting that features three pools including a zero-entry pool, lagoon pool and lazy river complete with the excitement of a waterslide. Surround yourself with the soothing sounds of waterfalls, relax on the sandy beaches, and take relaxation to a new level on Hammock Island.

So now that you have the list, take your pick and I'll see you on a lazy river at the beach.

BeachFest 2012 - Kick-off Fall Football in (Beach) Style in Gulf Shores

I LOVE football, especially SEC football, which is a curiosity to some of my co-workers, but hey I was raised in the south where football reigns supreme in the fall. Events (even weddings) are planned around dates and times that our favorite SEC teams are playing. So I couldn't be happier about the first annual SEC BeachFest 2012 in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach August 23-26.

So here's the deal...not only will some of the most famous current coaches attend the event but some of the legends will be here too. Just look at the list:

Current SEC coaches featured at BeachFest 2012:
Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban
Auburn Head Coach Gene Chizik
LSU Head Coach Les Miles

The SEC coach legends:
Pat Dye of Auburn
Gene Stallings of Alabama
Vince Dooley of Georgia
Phillip Fulmer of Tennessee

You can be sure that alumni will be present at all the headquarter restaurants to celebrate a football-focused Fanfare weekend at the shore.

There will be music at the beach (another favorite activity for me) featuring the B-52s and Dr. John, plus an additional concert at the Wharf. FanZone fueled by BP will include family and kids’ activities like a sand castle building competition, sports clinics with Legendary SEC Coaches, beach games, beach volleyball, touch football with SEC legends, a 5k run and one-mile fun run, alumni golf scramble and waffle breakfast.

How can you "get in the game" for this championship celebration? Event tickets, valued at $25, are complimentary for Meyer Vacation Rental guests. In addition to rental prices being lower than summer rates there is also a FREE NIGHT SPECIAL valid for stays 8/21/12-8/29/12. Get a 3rd night free in condos or 4th night free in houses allowing promotional rates(with promo code 12SECC).

My best advice is even though it's summer and you might not be in football mode yet, book now to position yourself strategically at your favorite condo or house for a winning BeachFest weekend.

Top 10 Beach and Beyond Vacation Tips for Gulf Shores

You plan for months to enjoy the sand and surf at your favorite beach in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, Orange Beach and Perdido Key. What do you do if red (warning) flags are flying one or more days and actual swimming in the gulf is prohibited? Here are my top 10 tips for the beach and beyond.

1. Go to the beach.
Even when swimming in the gulf waters is off limits, the relaxed feeling of being at the shore continues. Take a stroll or gather interesting shells. Feel like a kid again by building a sandcastle. Read the book(s) you can’t get to at home. Simply smell the salt air and feel the soft sands under your feet.

2. Go swimming.
A few alternatives to gulf swimming include Lake Shelby at the Gulf State Park, a day-pass at Bodenhamer Center in Gulf Shores, or Waterville USA waterpark.

3. Go to the zoo.
Experience our quaint Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo—“The Little Zoo That Could” as featured on the Animal Planet series—where you can see 290+ animals including lions, tigers, monkeys and exotic birds. For an extra fee, book an up-close encounter with lion cubs, lemurs, kangaroos and various baby animals.

4. Go antiquing.
Step back in time when you visit the Foley antique stores that include Old Armory Antique Mall, Gift Horse Center and Antique Stalls and Hollis Ole Crush Antique Mall. There is even an antique rose trail that follows the old railroad line and is lined with antique heritage roses and an old-fashioned soda fountain at Stacey’s Drug Store.

5. Go play golf.
Nine signature courses are located a short drive (pun intended) from the beach, where resort golf means vistas and terrain challenges not experienced on your home turf. Play a round or two of mini-golf with friends or family at Waterville USA, Adventure Island, The Track, Shrimpy’s, Zooland (yes, next to the zoo) or Pirate’s Island.

6. Go kayaking.
The back bays, lagoons and rivers are excellent for watersports such as kayaking, and a wide variety of rental companies provide all the equipment you need for a fun water adventure just beyond the beach.

7. Go fishing.
Orange Beach is home to the largest charter fishing fleet on the Gulf of Mexico, plus you’ll enjoy inshore charters, surf fishing, and pier fishing at the Gulf State Park on the 1,540-foot pier.

8. Go for the thrill.
Choose your level of thrill at local attractions: Mountain of Youth (ropes course) at LuLu’s at Homeport Marina, the roller coaster at Waterville USA, Skycoaster at The Track, Ferris wheel at The Wharf, or go-carts at Waterville USA, The Track and Adventure Island.

9. Go birding.
Birding by land and by water is very popular on our coast, and signage will guide you to the best birding opportunities. Follow the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail to 22 local spots—and be sure to bring your camera.

10. Go dolphin watching.
A coastal retreat is not complete without a boating adventure to watch dolphins frolic in their natural habitat. You’ll find dolphin cruise opportunities at most marinas.

HRH (Her Royal Highness) - a New Accessory in Gulf Shores

Want to find an unusual gift item, unique décor accessory, bathing suit or jewelry to complement your resort attire? Take a look at HRH (Her Royal Highness) in Gulf Shores for a different approach to accessorizing yourself and your home.

Is the new HRH store, located across from Cobb Theater in Gulf Shores, a furniture store, a gift shop or a clothing boutique? You decide for yourself next time you visit. One thing for sure is you will like this new accessory to our area, especially if you are an Alabama or LSU fan.

Stop by on your next visit to the coast for a real treat for the eyes and a relaxed atmosphere complete with complimentary strawberry- and lemon-infused water and Southern hospitality from the friendly and knowledgeable staff. This new addition to our resort community is located at 3769 Gulf Shores Parkway (Hwy. 59) in the beautifully remodeled building formerly occupied by Island Interiors.

Are We There Yet? Travel Tips for Visiting Gulf Shores Beaches

Are we there yet is a familiar phrase coming from the backseat (or maybe even the front seat) of your vehicle as you head to your beach destination in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan and Perdido Key. It can be especially frustrating after a long trip from home to get close to the beach only to be slowed down by the traffic in the Foley area on heavy check-in days such as Saturdays and of course during the upcoming July 4th holiday.

So my TRAVEL TIP for you today is the FOLEY BEACH EXPRESS. This alternative route, which eliminates the traffic lights in Foley, is usually thought of as a faster route to Orange Beach utilizing the toll bridge ($3.50 toll). But it can also be a quicker route to Gulf Shores without crossing the toll bridge.

As you travel south on Gulf Shores Parkway a.k.a. Hwy. 59 south of Summerdale you will see large signs directing you to take a left turn at the traffic light to access the Foley Beach Express. Now there is actually a northern extension of the Foley Beach Express called the Baldwin Beach Express that will eventually connect to Interstate 10 and ultimately connect to Interstate 65. To access this extension turn left in Summerdale at County Road 32 and travel two miles then turn right on the Baldwin Beach Express which connects to the Foley Beach Express.

So at this point you may be wondering how to get to Gulf Shores from the Foley Beach Express without crossing the toll bridge. There are a couple of options.

Traveling south (toward the beaches) you can exit the Foley Beach Express by turning right at the traffic light at County Road 12 and traveling two miles, then turning left at the traffic light at Highway 59. Then you are back on course to continue south to your destination.

Or you can travel even further south on the Foley Beach Express and exit to your right just prior to the toll bridge when you see a sign pointing to Gulf Shores. From this road one left turn and then another right turn places you on County Road 4 and you will soon find yourself back at Highway 59 with Publix on the corner where you will turn left near the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge and soon be at your destination.

EXPRESS CHECK-IN TIP - If you want to avoid check-in at our office search for your next coastal condo or beach house by selecting an "Express Check-In" property. Using an electronic, keyless entry system for our express check-in properties we provide you an entry code valid for 3 p.m. check-in. And if the property becomes available sooner than 3 p.m. we will actually email or text an early entry code to you.

So I believe taking the Foley Beach Express can lessen your driving frustration and using our Express Check-in for your next Meyer Vacation Rental coastal condo or beach house can start your vacation sooner by eliminating the stop at our office. See you at the beach.

Get Glowing at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloons Fest Father's Day Weekend (June 15-17)

Rise early for a breathtaking sight as 50 hot air balloons silently glide through the air above the City of Foley with an occasional whoosh sound as the burners fire during the 8th annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival on Father's Day weekend (June 15-17). Later in the day enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the most unique festivals on our coast. You can almost feel the glow while watching this Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival video.

This is absolutely one of my favorite festivals because it is so relaxed and family-friendly. Since I'm a native of the area I love seeing the antique tractors and all of the arts and crafts. In fact a couple of years ago I bought a beautiful headboard made of reclaimed wood and ceiling tin from one of the event vendors.

My yearly agenda always includes a visit to the homemade ice cream booth, which is easy to find because you hear the sound of the John Deere motor churning this sweet treat.
In the evening I'm looking forward to finding a seat in front of the stage for the musical entertainment and this year one of my favorite bands, Dr. Zarr's Amazing Funk Monster will play at 8:30 on Friday evening. First I make my rounds to see the hot air balloons glow. I like the challenge of trying to photograph this beautiful sight by catching the fire glowing at just the right time.

As soon as I arrive I pick up the event schedule so I won't miss a performance of the incredible Disc Connected K-9 Frisbee Dog Show. These rescued dogs are not only amazing but they seem to be having so much fun too.

The event takes about 350 community volunteers to handle all the various duties and I already have my assignment for the weekend. My volunteer efforts will be rewarded with a souvenir t-shirt. But you don't have to volunteer to get a t-shirt since these and other souvenirs can be purchased to commemorate your trip to the festival.

Admission to the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is free with parking (all day) only $5 or a convenient shuttle ride from downtown Foley for $2 per person each way. The times for the event this year are:

Friday (June 15) from 2 - 10 p.m.
Saturday (June 16) from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday (June 17) from 6:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Select your perfect beach retreat while attending the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival and you will return home with a happy glow.

Coast Awhile in Gulf Shores for Father's Day

Do you know where your father will be on his special day? Why not at the coast. Father's Day is the perfect time to coast awhile at the beautiful beaches of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan or Perdido Key.

Is golf Dad's delight? Then he'll love our nine signature courses. A round of mini-golf is a relaxing way to unwind and establish bragging rights.

Whether your dad prefers a charter deep-sea fishing excursion, an inshore experience in the back waters, surf fishing or from the Gulf State Park pier, we have it all.

Father's Day weekend events include the 8th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival in Foley (just north of Gulf Shores) that kicks off on Thursday (June 14) with a hot air balloon glow at Tanger Outlets.

Lots of choice properties are still available for Father's Day for a long weekend or week at the beach. Our 2-day and 3-day getaway deals offer savings from 22% to a FREE night on condos located on Alabama and Florida's beautiful shore.

What's Cool to Do Memorial Day weekend in Gulf Shores?

Whether to simply relax during your Memorial Day weekend or take advantage of some area activities is truly a tough decision because it's so much fun to do nothing at the beach. Above and beyond the usual golf, waterpark, mini-golf, fishing, dolphin cruises, parasailing and more, below is a list of a few extra added happenings for the holiday weekend in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan or Perdido Key:

Tanger Outlets just north of the beaches on Hwy. 59 in Foley has a Memorial Day Weekend Sale from May 25 through May 28.

Lulupalooza 2012 on May 26 & 27 is the 8th annual fun-filled Memorial Day weekend of music including the Geoff Achison, Honey Island Swamp Band, Eric Lindell, Lee Boys, Dread Clampitt, Bonerama and Roddie Romero & the Hub City All Stars.

Alabama Gulf Coast Farmers Market opens Saturday May 26 from 8 a.m. until noon at the Lake Shelby area of Gulf State Park offering locally grown fresh produce for purchase. The Farmers Market will be open each Saturday through July 14th.

Bands, Barks & Brews is a dog-friendly event hosted by Ginny Lane Bar & Grill at The Wharf in Orange Beach. You are encouraged to bring your friendly dog on a leash to enjoy free live music and good local beers. There will even be an artwork sale benefiting the Humane Society.

Even if you can't make it to the beach this weekend utilize our interior photos and virtual tours of all condos and houses to start shopping now for your next trip to your favorite shore.

Rise High Above the Beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for a New Perspective

Rising above it all is exhilarating when you fly high above the coast for a totally new perspective. Here's our bird's-eye view from a recent parasailing excursion. Without hesitation, we can tell you it's a blast!

You have never really seen our coast until you parasail 800 feet above the sugar-white sands and brilliant blue waters. That’s what we did this spring for market research. Now we can absolutely recommend that you try this form of high-flying freedom. Our parasail team at Chute ’Em Up Parasailing in Orange Beach (251-981-7673) was fabulous!

Although admittedly there was some anxiety as we pulled into Happy Harbor Marina to board the boat, quickly we were put at ease by Allen and Jack who greeted us at the dock. Captain Seth and Nolan made sure we knew all the safety info and were secured in our harness. The lift-off was a pure adrenaline rush that quickly turned into a state of bliss. The view was breathtaking, as you can see in the video. We definitely believe you should add this to your beach vacation to-do list.

There are lots of great observation points for watching parasailing if that's more your speed. Condos located near the Perdido Pass are excellent viewing stations since several parasail excursion providers operate in that area.

At Grand Pointe you can choose a gulf-front view or even a less expensive option overlooking Perdido Pass itself. Or if you can spend a week in paradise The Pass condos are upscale, spacious and have awesome views of the backwaters leading into Perdido Pass. I personally love the views from both Grand Pointe and The Pass and I believe you will too.