Episode 187: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Alabama’s Gulf Coast: Family Fun, Fresh Seafood, and Festival Vibes
Episode Description:
In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob takes us back to two of Alabama’s most beloved beach towns—Gulf Shores and Orange Beach—for a fresh look at all they offer families. With 32 miles of white-sand beaches, exciting waterfront attractions, real fishing adventures, and a food scene worth the trip alone, this stretch of the Alabama coast proves you don’t need to go far for a perfect family vacation.
Whether you're planning your next summer escape or looking for a fall festival getaway, this episode has the insider tips, hotel recommendations, and safety advice to make your trip unforgettable.
What You’ll Learn:
- Family-friendly attractions at The Wharf (ferris wheel, VR arcade, zipline, laser light shows, and more)
- Where to stay: Beach Club Resort & Spa, Turquoise Place, Perdido Beach Resort, and other family faves
- Fishing in Gulf Shores: What you can catch inshore, nearshore, and deep sea
- Dining with kids: Lulu’s, The Gulf, Cobalt, Doc’s Seafood, and more
- Can’t-miss festivals like the National Shrimp Festival, Frank Brown Songwriters Festival, and Hangout Fest
- Beach safety tips, sea turtle awareness, and local delivery options
Resources:
The Family Vacationer
The Family Vacationer is a weekly podcast helping families travel smarter, spend better, and create lasting memories together. Hosted by Rob and Traci, the show features expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tips for planning meaningful, family-first adventures. From hidden gems to budget hacks, it's a must-listen for parents who want stress-free, joy-filled travel.
Meet the Hosts
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
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