| sting the top vacation spots in the United States, the | | | | Learn more about the Civil War at the Battle of Mobile |
| Gulf Coast of Florida and Alabama is a vacation spot | | | | Civil War Trail and Blakely State Park. Visit the Gulf |
| isn’t always top of mind. Those familiar with the | | | | Shores Museum to see how fish and shrimp are |
| area — however -- know that resort towns like | | | | caught and visit the National Museum of Naval Aviation |
| Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Destin and Fort Walton | | | | in Pensacola. |
| offer beautiful white sand beaches, stunning emerald | | | | Recreation — There are many opportunities |
| water and a variety of recreation, attractions, dining | | | | to get outdoors. Kiva Dunes and other golf resorts are |
| and accommodations. That’s why the area has | | | | within easy access. The beach offers opportunities to |
| gained the nicknames like Paradise Island and the | | | | jetski, snorkel, kayak or fish. The Alabama Coastal |
| Emerald Coast. | | | | Birding Trail offers hikers the chance to see pelicans, |
| Here’s a sampling of some of the things to do | | | | blue herons and owls over a stretch of 50 different |
| on a Gulf Coast Vacation. | | | | birding sites. |
| The Beaches — The sand on Florida and | | | | Other attractions — Families can enjoy |
| Alabama’s Gulf Coast is often described as | | | | amusement parks in Panama City, visits to the |
| sugar white. The crystals that blanket the shore are so | | | | Gulfarium in Destin and the Alabama Coast Zoo as |
| fine that the sand is soft to the touch and squeak | | | | well as a variety of water parks, miniature golf |
| when you step on it. There are a variety of public | | | | courses and museums. |
| beaches along the Gulf Coast, so find your favorite. | | | | As a tourist haven, the Gulf Coast boasts a variety of |
| History — This area is rich with history. | | | | restaurants and shopping. Housing is also abundant. |