But I've been to Gulf Shores, Alabama, twice now ... Florida. Upscale vacation rentals and a range of hotels and restaurants line 38 miles of a wide and lovely beach with soft white sand.

With its white sand, seafood, and wildlife sanctuaries, the Alabama coast was once the South's best secret. Here's what to do ...

The best times to visit Gulf Shores are March through May and September ... You'll also want to book your hotel or vacation rental well in advance if you're visiting in the summer to secure ...

Gulf Shores, AL 36542 The zoo is open daily from 9 ... Turquoise Place in Orange Beach - Our favorite luxury vacation rental ...