In the name of research, I took a tour of the big beaches of the Emerald Coast (aka the Redneck Riviera, or the stretch of land between Mobile and Apalachicola) this summer. After countless hours of investigation, I have compiled a list of my favorite things about the southern beachfront, in case you have a spare weekend to take advantage of discounted fall prices this year!
Destin
Destin is always a family destination for me, but if you are there with friends, make sure you check out the nightlife at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, which has a variety of restaurants and bars that can please everyone. I always stop by Rum Runners, a favorite party spot with a lot of southern flair. Be prepared to hear college fight songs.
Also, head over to Seaside for the day to peruse the site of “The Truman Show” and get a shaved ice. The town is as picturesque as the film portrays, and the locals are used to tourists—but treat you as family. On your way back to Destin, stop at the Red Bar and Piccolo Grill. This spot in Grayton Beach is rather inexpensive for the beach ($15 a plate), but the best quality you will get anywhere. Menus are posted on chalkboards; you will only have five options. But the five options will all be amazing—we sometimes stop here twice in a week-long vacation.
Panama City
When one thinks of Panama City, you immediately think of screaming teenagers on Spring Break. Not entirely true anymore (although I would probably steer clear of the city from March through April, just in case). The town has been ‘cleaned up’ significantly in the last year or so, but young professionals can still take advantage of the great deals in PCB.
My favorite spot, however cliché, was Margaritaville. Jimmy Buffet’s signature restaurant is camp for sure, but still a great time. Make sure you get a classic margarita and a “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Watch out for when the song ‘Margaritaville’ comes on—there is a complete show involved!
Gulf Shores
Upon arriving in Gulf Shores on a late Friday evening, I was immediately whisked away to the Flora Bama, the Gulf Coast’s most well known night spot. While many assume it was wiped out due to Hurricane Ivan, the bar is still thriving (bigger and better than ever, according to some reports). There is no roof—just a tent covering; I would equate it to a shack on steroids. However, the group is diverse: from college age kids, to local adults, and a variety of Naval officers and enlisted men and women at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola. The music is always live, and on a fall night, I would liken this place to heaven.
Also—Stop by Jimmy Buffet’s sister Lucy’s restaurant, Lulu’s, and get the redneck caviar and a Loopty-Lu (a hard lemonade with a fun straw). This place is bright, breezy, and laid back—I would expect nothing else from a Buffet.
Comment on your favorite Gulf Coast destinations!
