Gulf Shores, AL Real Estate, Homes For Sale, School & Area Information

Nestled at the end of West Beach, Laguna Key is an exclusive, gated community that offers residents a unique blend of tranquility and luxury. Known for its pristine beaches, stunning homes, and family-friendly atmosphere, Laguna Key is a dream destination for those looking to invest in real estate on the Gulf Coast. It stands out among Gulf Shores neighborhoods due to its serene environment, private beach access, and top-notch amenities. The community is meticulously maintained, with lush landscaping, well-paved roads, and elegant homes that reflect Southern charm and modern sophistication.

One of the most crucial aspects to consider when looking into real estate is the average home sale price. Over the past year, the average sale price for homes in Laguna Key has been approximately $1.2 million. This figure reflects the high desirability of the area, the quality of the homes, and the exclusive nature of the community. The real estate market in here has been robust, with a steady demand for properties. The combination of beautiful beachfront views, a secure environment, and proximity to local attractions makes Laguna Key a highly sought-after location. Homes in this area tend to appreciate in value, making it not only a wonderful place to live, but also a wise investment.

Residents of Laguna Key enjoy access to a variety of amenities that enhance their lifestyle:
Private Beach Access: Uncrowded, white sandy beaches are just a short walk away from any home in the community. A beautifully maintained pool area provides a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing. For those who enjoy staying active, the tennis courts are a popular feature. Anglers can take advantage of the private fishing pier, offering direct access to some of the best fishing spots in the area. Surrounding the community are numerous trails perfect for walking, jogging, or bird-watching. While Laguna Key provides a peaceful retreat, it is also conveniently located near Gulf Shores' vibrant dining and entertainment scene. Residents can enjoy a variety of local seafood restaurants, charming cafes, and entertainment options ranging from live music venues like The Hangout in Gulf Shores to family-friendly attractions like the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The location offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether it's kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, or simply enjoying a sunset stroll along the beach, there's something for everyone. The nearby Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and a beautiful setting for hiking and bird-watching.

Laguna Key in Gulf Shores is more than just a place to live - it's a lifestyle. With its luxurious homes, stunning natural surroundings, and a strong sense of community, it's no wonder that properties in this area are in high demand. If you're considering investing in real estate in Gulf Shores, Laguna Key should be at the top of your list.

As the 4th of July approaches, the coastal towns of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are gearing up for a spectacular celebration. With stunning beaches, vibrant communities, and a host of exciting events, these destinations are perfect for your Independence Day getaway. Whether you're a local resident or visiting for the holiday, here's a guide to the best upcoming 4th of July events around Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

Fireworks Extravaganza at The Wharf
The Wharf in Orange Beach is renowned for its lively atmosphere and this year’s 4th of July celebration is no exception. The Wharf's Fireworks Extravaganza is set to light up the sky with a breathtaking display starting at 9 PM. Arrive early to enjoy the family-friendly activities, live music, and dining options. Kids can enjoy face painting, a bounce house, and a SPECTRA Laser Light Experience, making it a memorable evening for all ages.
Location: The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL
Date: July 4th, 2024
Time: 5 PM - 9 PM (Fireworks at 9 PM)

Gulf Shores Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration
Gulf Shores will host its own fireworks celebration on the pristine beaches, offering a picturesque setting to watch the fireworks reflect off the Gulf of Mexico. Stake out your spot on the beach near the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier for the best views. Bring your beach chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to enjoy a relaxing evening with friends and family.
Location: Gulf State Park Pier, 20800 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL
Date: July 4th, 2024
Time: Fireworks at 9 PM

4th of July Boat Parade
For a unique 4th of July experience, join the annual boat parade in Orange Beach. This event features a fleet of patriotically decorated boats cruising through the back bays, starting at the Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar. It’s a festive sight to see, and participants often throw candy and trinkets to onlookers. Whether you’re participating with your own boat or watching from the shore, the boat parade is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday.
Location: Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar, 17401 Perdido Key Dr, Perdido Key, FL
Date: July 4th, 2024
Time: Parade starts at 5 PM

Independence Day Street Party at OWA
OWA Parks & Resort in nearby Foley, AL, is hosting a grand Independence Day Street Party. The event includes live entertainment, street performers, and a magnificent fireworks display. Spend the day exploring the amusement park, indulging in delicious food from local vendors, and enjoying the festive atmosphere. The fireworks will cap off an exciting day at this popular attraction.
Location: OWA Parks & Resort, 1501 S OWA Blvd, Foley, AL
Date: July 4th, 2024
Time: All-day event with fireworks at 8:45 PM

Concerts and Live Music
Both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores offer a variety of live music events throughout the 4th of July weekend. Check out local venues such as The Hangout, Big Beach Brewing Company, and LuLu's Gulf Shores for performances by local bands and musicians. Enjoy the tunes with a cold drink and soak in the festive ambiance.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable 4th of July:
Arrive Early: Popular events can get crowded, so plan to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Stay Hydrated July can be hot and humid, so bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.
Parking: Be mindful of parking regulations and consider carpooling or using ride-sharing services to avoid traffic congestion.
Respect the environment: Dispose of trash properly and be mindful of the beautiful coastal environment. #leaveonlyfootprints
We hope you all have a safe and happy 4th of July! Orange Beach and Gulf Shores offer a plethora of exciting events and activities to make your 4th of July unforgettable. From dazzling fireworks displays to festive boat parades and lively street parties, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit now and get ready to celebrate America's birthday in style on the beautiful Gulf Coast!

Retirees are finding more affordable locations. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, have become the choice of many retirees moving south. Instead of Florida, retirees are moving to South Alabama because the cost of purchasing a home or condo is less.

NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship week is almost here! This year there are 17 teams wanting a shot at the title match on Sunday, May 7. You can watch in person or online beginning May 3.

Gulf Shores was chosen as the location for the NCAA beach volleyball championship because of its beautiful beaches and ideal weather conditions for outdoor sports. The city has hosted the championship since 2016 and has become a popular destination for beach volleyball enthusiasts. Additionally, Gulf Shores has a state-of-the-art beach volleyball facility at the Gulf Place public beach that features multiple courts and provides an excellent venue for the tournament. You'll find a strong community of local sponsors and volunteers giving their time to make the NCAA beach volleyball championship a great event year after year.

As a new resident of the area, I am exploring Gulf Shores and Orange Beach every day. I went to our beautiful award-winning state park today to take a walk. I was so impressed! There are 28 miles of paved trails. You can get a bike at the state park through the app. at no charge and they are easy to find. I will be exploring and posting some pictures.

The Hangout 10th Annual Polar Bear Dip was a blast! What an awesome way to bring in the new year! On January 1st of each year, The Hangout hosts a free Polar Bear Dip presented by the Kiwanis Club out in front of their restaurant on the beach. There were t-shirts to buy, a DJ, beach bonfires, games, and people dressing up crazy! The event was a few hours long and at noon everyone who wanted to participate could run into the gulf and takethe plunge. Following the dip, my family and I sat around one of the bonfires and ate/drank the free hot chocolate and chili. So much fun for all ages!

What a great thing to have within minutes of almost everything! Located on County Road 6 in Gulf Shores, this new zoo is 25 acres full of great things to see! It's totally worth getting a season pass so that you can swing by any time you would like. My family has a family season pass, and we stop in whenever we have a chance. If you plan to go just twice in a year, then the season pass pays for itself. It seems like each time we catch something else going on or different animals. My son's favorite are the sloths! You can pay a little extra to have different animal encounters and literally get in the habitat with the sloths or kangaroos to name a couple. They even have beehives and sell fresh honey! Definitely worth checking out! They are always looking for donations, so if you have a heart for animals, maybe this would be a cause you would like to support.

My family and I frequent the Gulf Shores Beaches. If you hit up the public beach areas, they have great, clean bathrooms. They have nice wide concrete sidewalks with shady areas and benches. These are great for walking, biking, sitting, and taking it all in. Miles of snow-white beaches where you can walk, run, look for shells, or just be...just be there and relax with the splashing of the waves and watch the beautiful sunsets.

If you go to the main public beach, where 59 basically dead-ends at the beach, you will also find a playground for the kiddos and volleyball nets for some sand volleyball. The famous Hangout and Pink Pony restaurants are beachside in case you want to grab something to eat or drink without driving somewhere. There is also free resident parking just to the east of the Hangout. There are several other great restaurants within walking distance at different points along the beach as well. You really can't go wrong! It's the beach...welcome!

Sims Park Kids Park is located at the end of the parking lot of the Bodenhamer Recreation Center and is huge! It's surrounded by very safe neighborhoods and has video cameras to discourage any behavior besides kids playing safely. My kids literally ask me if they can go to "the huge park" and I know they are talking about Sims Park. Johnnies Sims Park also has four baseball/softball fields, a pavilion, tennis courts, a soccer field, and a skate park. There is also a dog park close by. We are happy to have it in our community!

Commonly called "The Rec Center" or "Bodenhamer," this is where a lot of activity happens. Most of the children's sporting events happen through Bodenhamer. They have baseball, tackle football, flag football, soccer, cheer, t-ball, tennis, softball, basketball, and my personal favorite, a swim team! I'm a little biased as I have three kids on the swim team. We have done other programs though and they are all great. I'm sure I forgot to mention some as they offer so much and all I mentioned was for the kids!

Bodenhamer offers adult programs and classes as well. They have baseball, softball, tennis, pickleball, and various aquatic programs for the adults along with several scheduled classes all day, every day. I won't even get into that! If you were to stop in, they can give you a current schedule of the daily classes.

Bodenhamer has an inside pool, tennis courts, walking trails, parks, racquetball courts, and a gym. You name it... this is your one-stop fitness spot. You don't have to live in Gulf Shores to be allowed to participate, they even allow vacationers. You don't have to have a membership, but you can just participate in all the programs at a lower rate if you do. Stop by and check it out!

There is so much to see and do at Gulf State Park! I love to come here to ride my bike as it has eight miles of paved trails and boardwalks to pick from. If you go, the parking area along E Beach Blvd. across from The Lodge at Gulf State Park is free parking! It also has Segway, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. You can get a Segway tour. You can even just walk and talk in the nature around the area. Frequently there is a food truck there with frozen lemonade, slushies, and snow cones available. There are also several places to fish as several trails and the parking spot I mention are all around Shelby Lake. All this and the beach is across the street. There are other beachside parking locations, however, you will need to pay for parking here even if you have a resident free parking pass. They are no good at the state park! Go there now, it's great!

Did you know that Gulf Shores is home to a fabulous zoo? The new Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo was built on 25 acres from the ground up and opened in 2020. Many of the animals were relocated from the Gulf Shores Zoo known as the "Little Zoo that Could" when featured on Animal Planet.

The environment for the 300 animals living at the AGCZ is very spacious and protected. The zoo houses 118 different species and 22 of the species are critically endangered, vulnerable, or near threatened. When you visit our beautiful beaches, please make take some time to support our zoo.

One of my favorite beaches here is the Gulf Shores Public Beach area. With plenty of parking, nice bathhouses, restaurants, and the beautiful white sandy beach, it is one of the nicest! The area is also the home of the National Shrimp Festival held every October, as well as other events throughout the year.

Do you ever want some delicious fresh seafood but are just too tired to cook? Look no further! Gulf Shores Seafood has a low country boil that is to die for and the best cocktail sauce in town! Their boiled shrimp, corn, and sausage will melt in your mouth. If you prefer to cook your own dinner, they have a great selection of fresh seafood and are locally owned. Did I mention that any purchase of crab or shrimp can be boiled for free? The next time you are in Gulf Shores, be sure to place an order with Gulf Shores Seafood!

The Lodge at Gulf State Park offers great dining options with unbeatable views of the beautiful Gulf Coast! Foodcraft is located downstairs and is a more laid back and casual dining experience. You can eat outside on their beautiful deck overlooking the water or cool off in the A/C indoors and enjoy your meal! We ate inside because it was raining, but then by the end of dinner there was a beautiful double rainbow right outside the window!! The menu was different and that's what I liked about it. Wonderful staff and atmosphere. I have yet to try their other restaurant, Perch, located upstairs - but I've heard it's really good as well!

Looking for great food and exceptional value? I love the specials and lunch combos starting at $4.99 with free tea! My favorite is the Baked White Fish and the Fried Shrimp. It is so fun to listen to all the stories and then take a stroll on the beach!

This must be the place! If you are looking for a delicious and quick bite to eat in Gulf Shores, look no further. I have lost count of how many times I have eaten lunch at Amelia's Deli. My two favorite items to order are the veggie sandwich and tuna salad. If I save enough room for desert, they always have a homemade cake available! The staff is always very welcoming and friendly. So stop by and have yourself a nice lunch at Amelia's Deli!

Gulf Shores has always been a family destination from the new and improved public beaching to the shops and restaurants. Gulf Shores has it all! If you haven't been in the past year, you are missing out on all the new things to the area!

The Gulf Shores Zoo is unlike any other zoo you will go to. It is smaller, but it is very kid friendly and you never feel crowded. Take some time to feed the animals and watch a presentation given by the staff! You can now pan for gems and treasure now too!

The newly opened Sunliner Diner in Gulf Shores is a great place for friends and family! You can tell the moment you drive up that this place was made to impress and it does. The food is just as good as the atmosphere. You have to try the Candied Bacon and the Corned Beef Hash, one of my favorites.

This is a great little park and boat launch on Fort Morgan Road. If you enjoy Little Lagoon, this is a great place to take the kids to play outdoors, eat a snack or picnic lunch. You can even launch your boat into Little Lagoon. There are public restrooms on sight as well.

I absolutely loved eating here. The atmosphere is laid back and families will enjoy eating here.
The staff was very friendly and helpful. It is a pleasant change from the traditional family restaurant. The whole experience is worth a return visit.

Casper is showing tonight at 6:00 p.m. Bring your blankets, chairs, drinks and snacks for this free movie under the stars! There is plenty of parking, space for the kids to move about and clean restrooms!

The City of Gulf Shores and The Dolphin Athletic Club team up with Dr, Zarr! This Friday, October 19,2018! The party starts at 4:00 p.m and there will be a Haunted Hustle 5K and Witches on Wheels Bike Parade!

Featuring food from James Beard Award Winning Chefs and over 60 Craft Beers to sample, all situated on the beautiful, white-sandy beaches of Gulf Shores. What's not to love?!! More info can be found on their website, as well as ticket purchasing. So what are you waiting for? Buy your tickets and plan that trip to the Amazing Gulf Coast of Alabama!!