Sandy’s guidebook

There is more to this destination than its long stretch of white beaches, so much so that a single weekend won't be enough time to take it all in. But here are a few good starting places: Take a ride on a dolphin cruise to see dolphins playing in the waves or alligators and wildlife in the backwaters. For a more intimate encounter with alligators and wildlife from around the world spend some time at Alligator Alley or the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. For the kids (and the kid in all of us), check out the thrills at Waterville USA, which is both a waterpark and amusement park boasting tons of waters

If you're staying in Gulf Shores proper, then bring along a bike or rent one at one of the many rental shops. If you’re peddling through the Gulf State Park, you can use the free bike share program. A unique concept, the free bike share program allows visitors age 16 and older to borrow a bike for up to three hours. You’ll find everything you need close by and traveling via two wheels is a fun way to get around. Another tip while cycling Gulf State Park is to plan a stop at Woodside Restaurant. Enjoy a great meal in the main dining room, on the screened porch, or the outside deck under a shad

There's no doubt that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is growing rapidly in popularity. There are two main roads into the towns— Alabama Highway 59 and the Baldwin/Foley Beach Expressway. The expressway has a toll bridge as you cross the Intracoastal Waterway, and it is usually a bit faster. Plus, it extends all the way to I-10. Access it at Exit 49.

No need to panic if you left something behind. Most anything recreational, from bikes to paddleboards, can be purchased or rented at lots of different spots. Grocery stores and big-box retailers give you easy access to extra sunscreen, groceries, over-the-counter medications. Want to get ahead? Place a grocery order in advance to stock your condo (especially helpful if you have kiddos in the party). You can order online with Walmart, Publix or Rouses or let The Beach Moms concierge service get your condo or beach house ready for you by doing your shopping. The Beach Moms will stock your pantry

Some of our fondest memories come from spending time on the beach with our friends and family, but there are some basic rules you should know before heading out to the beach. Leave Only Footprints is an initiative that keeps the beach pristine and encourages visitors (along with locals) to act responsibly when beaching it. Also, for our wheelchair travelers, the City of Gulf Shores has installed beach access mats at the west end of the Gulf Place Public Beach parking area at West 2nd Street and at the east end of Gulf Place Public Beach near the Pink Pony.