Lori McKenna

Fall typically sees the kids returning to school and maybe a shift in your workload after that deliciously long summer. But it's not a bad time to consider a long weekend trip before things get too hectic. After all, you'll find ideal conditions, fewer crowds, and reduced rates, all the more reason to consider a refreshing fall getaway. With miles of shoreline, activities for the whole family, and plenty of nature to discover, it's easy to see why Northwest Florida is the perfect destination for your fall getaway.

With four national forests, miles of stunning beaches, and dozens of hiking and biking trails, it’s safe to say you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities in Alabama. It’s also home to OWA, a 520-acre entertainment complex in Foley, an epic adventure your family won’t want to miss! 

No need to choose between water slides and amusement rides; you’ll find both at OWA, alongside restaurants, shopping, and an array of midway games. Equal parts family-friendly attractions and non-stop entertainment, OWA spells F-U-N in every direction. We can’t think of a better place for families to share exciting experiences and create new memories. Don’t know where to begin? Our OWA itinerary is an excellent way to start with a few tips to help you plan accordingly and get the most out of your visit.

Coming to the Emerald Coast and not hitting the beaches would be like a baseball game without the hot dog, a movie with no popcorn, the surf without the turf.  You get the idea. A visit to Florida's Gulf Coast wouldn't be complete without a trip to our sandy shores. But don't overlook the fun to be had shopping in Destin and on 30A. We've got everything from quirky beach shops and expansive antique malls to funky boutiques and novelty shops. Here's the lowdown on some of our favorites!

It's hard to imagine you'd ever get tired of exploring the Alabama Coast. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are a mecca for vacationers, whether traveling to the area for the first time or returning annually (as many do) to enjoy the scenic wonders. If you've been here, you already know it's a water playground loaded with activities for the whole family. Maybe you've spent time paddleboarding or kayaking in Lake Shelby, explored Bayou St. John on a pontoon boat, or seen the sights from above parasailing over the Gulf of Mexico. If you love what's above the water, wait until you see what's below.

If you’ve never considered celebrating Easter at the beach, maybe now’s the time to give it a try. You’ll find plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy and every reason to bring your annual traditions with you. Better yet, lose the sweaters and boots, grab your swimsuit and flip flops, and create some new Easter traditions in Northwest Florida this year!

Thousands of tourists flock annually to Destin every summer to enjoy the powder white sand and emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico.  “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” has become a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and a world-class vacation destination brimming with activity. From water sports, fishing, and golf, to the many festivals, events, and attractions in Destin, this little piece of paradise offers something for everyone. So why wait for summer when you can take advantage of all the area has to offer before the crowds arrive?

With 60 miles of diverse shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, a tidal shore bordering bays, rivers, and bayous extending another 600 miles, and an endless array of artificial reefs, the Alabama Coast is, simply put, an anglers paradise. Abundant inland waterways, sandy reefs and shallows, and back bays and lagoons dot the landscape with picturesque beauty and a bounty of marine life waiting to be discovered. Whether you prefer inshore, nearshore, or offshore fishing, you’ll find it all year-round in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Locals get out as much as possible, and tourists flock from all over to cast a line in these popular fishing destinations. 

We love a quick getaway, but it can be challenging when trying to pack everything you want to see in a short trip, particularly to Destin or 30A. With tons of family-friendly attractions, excellent shopping and dining, and miles of beach to explore, a weekend trip can sometimes leave you begging for more. Why not stay longer and really sink your feet into the sand and culture of Destin and 30A?