Have you ever seen a cigarette butt on the side of the road and wondered where it eventually ends up? Well, that trash gets washed down a storm drain with innumerable other bits of trash. Those drains flow into ditches that flow into streams. The streams flow into rivers and bays and finally make their way to the Gulf of Mexico. That cigarette butt has traveled from the street to our shores filled with vulnerable marine life. Sadly, countless pieces [...]
Birds aren’t the only ones flocking to Coastal Alabama this fall. Bird enthusiasts are right there because Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are a birdwatcher’s dream. Fall migration brings a vast number and variety of winged beauties, so we have mapped out a few spots for you to visit this season. Alabama Coastal Birding Trail Explore 200 miles of birding loops along the coast. Each trail features different species of birds for you to enjoy. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge [...]
So many things come to mind when someone mentions October; you may have instantly conjured visions and memories of fall, pumpkins, apple cider, and Halloween. But here’s a new word for you to think of when it comes to this autumn month: seafood. Now, why would someone think of seafood in October? October is National Seafood Month, so it seems the right time to discuss seafood. The United States is one of the global leaders in sustainable seafood. We could [...]
Being ecologically friendly is more than just recycling and not littering when at the beach. These are essential steps for keeping our coast clean, but going green starts at home. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming or difficult. Get started hassle-free with these ten simple tips for going green at home. Turn off lights when you are not using them and use natural light when possible. Pay bills online if it’s an option, and opt-out of unsolicited mail. Unplug electronics [...]
The Gulf Coast of Alabama is known for crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views that enhance your relaxation on the soft, white-sand beaches. But there is more to see around the shore: native wildlife. From marine animals swimming in the Gulf of Mexico to birds wandering around the sand, there is no end to the enjoyment of this sub-tropical area. Keep an eye out for a few of these native friends. Birds bald eagle brown pelicans mourning dove hawk laughing gull [...]
Kick-off your sandals and walk across the smooth, white sands of Coastal Alabama. It’s not just a saying describing the bright, soft sand of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. The sugar-white beaches consist of micro quartz crystals. These crystals were washed down from the Appalachian Mountains and are the main reason the sand is finer and softer here. Not only do the beaches feel great between your toes, but they are also picture perfect. Many work hard to preserve and [...]
No Holes Millions of travelers head to the Alabama Gulf Coast every summer. The clean, bright beaches are a must on bucket lists. The endless activities and fun go hand in hand with following the guidelines for safety and preservation. One of the main steps many can take to help protect our island is avoiding digging holes. Holes are a hazard for wildlife and people. Below are a few reasons why it’s essential to refill holes. They create a tripping [...]
Recycling has many benefits, including protecting wildlife and preserving the natural environment. This is why it's so important to recycle when visiting our beaches. Below are some simple tips to make recycling at the beach more accessible. Use sustainable, insulated drinkware. Not only do these keep your drink cold longer, but they are a very green option. Separate trash from recycling, then place items in the proper bins at the end of the boardwalks in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. [...]
Happy June, also known as Great Outdoors Month! What better way to celebrate this month than spending the day along Alabama's Gulf of Mexico beaches? We've gathered a list of free things to do at the beach to celebrate Great Outdoors Month with the kids in your life! Sandcastles Enjoy the soft, white sand as you build castles and other structures. Swimming Take a dip in one of our most amazing wonders: the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. [...]
Happy World Sea Turtle Day! Sea turtle season has officially begun! Although June 16 is recognized as World Sea Turtle Day, endangered sea turtles head to the beautiful white, sandy beaches of Alabama from May to October every year. Here, they nest and lay their eggs. Summer is a peak season for travel, so it's essential to know about and respect these cute little creatures as they make their way to and from the water. How can you do your [...]
