A once, well-kept secret, more and more visitors are flocking to the Alabama Gulf Coast for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. But, did you know there are three sides to this beach destination? Alabama’s beaches are comprised of the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, as well as the Fort Morgan community. All share the same, beautiful white-sand beaches, but each area is distinctly different. Which one is right for your vacation style? Read on to learn more about a Fort Morgan vacation. Then, stay tuned for a three-part series on Gulf Shores and Orange Beach vacation styles.
The sleepy community of Fort Morgan is located on a peninsula. The areas of Fort Morgan are bordered by different waterways, including Little Lagoon, the Gulf of Mexico and the back bays. The area is known for its quiet, secluded beaches and laidback lifestyle. On a Fort Morgan vacation, you’re just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of downtown Gulf Shores where you’ll find a wide array of restaurants and attractions.
While you won’t find a huge selection of restaurants on the Fort Morgan peninsula, you do have options! Tacky Jacks, located at Fort Morgan Marina, serves up a great bushwacker and is perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Stop in and order a plate of Garbage Nachos. Fair warning! This appetizer could be a full meal for several people! Just down the road is Sassy Bass Amazin’ Grill, a must-stop for breakfast. Sassy Bass offers a breakfast buffet, as well as menu service for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sassy Bass is a fun stop filled with friendly people and good food.
A not-to-be-missed spot for a fun, family dinner is the Village Lawn at The Beach Club. During the summer months, you’ll find four Airstream food trucks, live music, games and more. If the family can’t decide what to eat, let them take their pick between the three food trucks and an ice cream truck! There are pressed sandwiches, barbecue and Mexico cuisine…something to please everyone! What’s more is there’s plenty of lawn games, including Knockerball, laser tag, cornhole and more. The festive string lights add a touch of ambiance to your fun and funky dining experience during your Fort Morgan vacation.
While you’re vacationing on the peninsula, plan to spend a morning or afternoon at Fort Morgan State Historic Site. This 19th century military fort was built between 1819 and 1833 and stands guard where Mobile Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico. The Fort played a significant role in the Battle of Mobile Bay and was also used during the Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II. During a June or July Fort Morgan vacation, evening tours are offered every Tuesday. Guided daily tours are also given by guides dressed in period clothing.
While you’re enjoying your quiet Fort Morgan vacation, add some adrenaline-pumping fun to the mix and book a charter fishing trip with one of the experienced captains at the Fort Morgan Marina. Depending on the season, battle the line for red snapper, Spanish mackerel, redfish and grouper. Four- and eight-hour charter fishing trips are available. If this is your first time out or you’re taking young children, try out your sea legs with a four-hour charter.
The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge will get your inner explorer going. Hike the trail and bring your binoculars to spot migratory birds and wildlife. Rent a kayak and launch at the Jeff Friend Trail to explore the waterways or even go kayak fishing.
Of course, we can’t forget the beach! It’s the main attraction on a Fort Morgan vacation. If you’re a dog-loving family, Fido can join you on a pet-friendly vacation, too.
You won’t find malls or big box stores on the Fort Morgan peninsula, however there are spots where you can pick up grocery items and beach necessities. The Fort Morgan Dollar General carries a large selection of canned and dry goods, as well as frozen foods, lunch meats, milk and more. For fun beachwear and resort-casual boutique clothes, stop by the Village Mercantile at The Beach Club. You’ll even find Costa sunglasses, Very Volatile Shoes, Hobo and Sbecca brands.
If you forgot the wine or bourbon, there’s no need to drive to Gulf Shores. The Pines offers a selection of groceries, fresh seafood and even a liquor store.
Your accommodations style is unique to every vacation you plan. If you’re traveling with kids, you may want a resort experience with plenty activities. If you’re vacationing with only your significant other, a quaint Fort Morgan cottage may fit the bill.
For those who enjoy a mix of fun, family activities and resort living, Fort Morgan vacation rentals at The Beach Club, Gulf Shores Plantation and Martinique are ideal. At The Beach Club, enjoy onsite restaurants, a full-service spa, kids arcade and daily kids club activities during the summer. At Gulf Shores Plantation, there are six outdoor pools to cool off in, as well as a coffee shop, eight tennis courts, basketball court and even a putting green. Martinique boasts beautifully landscaped grounds, two clubhouses, tennis courts and bike paths.
Beach houses offer a great way to enjoy the privacy and seclusion of a Fort Morgan vacation. Whether you need to search rentals by bedrooms, find one with an elevator, or a pet-friendly bayside cottage, there are plenty of choices for your Fort Morgan vacation in our selection of Fort Morgan Gulf Front rentals.
Tell us, does a Fort Morgan vacation fit your travel style? Stay tuned to find out how it compares to a Gulf Shores or Orange Beach vacation. No matter if you’re in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan, you’re just a short drive from great attractions and restaurants. Read 16 Things to Do in Gulf Shores this Summer to learn more.
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