Gulf Shores Makes Trip.com's Top Ten Rising Star Destinations in the US

Well, the gig’s up. Word’s out. We’ve been discovered.
Gulf Shores was just named on Trip.com’s list of the top ten 2017 Rising Star Destinations for the USA. Gulf Shores, Alabama is second only to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Once a hidden gem in the area known as the “Emerald Coast”, Gulf Shores is quickly becoming the hottest beach getaway in the country. Is it really such a surprise, though? Those of us familiar with Gulf Shores know that this place has so much more than meets the eye. I mean, yes, the beaches are spectacular, the water is warm, and the Gulf-front condos here offer first-rate service and amenities, but that’s just barely scratching the surface of all that Gulf Shores has to offer.
First off, the culture. Ever heard the phrase “southern hospitality”? Well, it didn’t just materialize out of thin air. The people down here are open, warm, and friendly. You never have to be afraid to ask someone for directions to the best fishing spots, which restaurant offers the best po’ boys, or to help you take a picture of your latest catch off the Gulf State Park Pier. The city might be growing, but Gulf Shores hangs onto those small-town values that give the area its distinctive charm and laidback atmosphere. On the other hand, nobody parties like Gulf Shores parties. The annual Gulf Shores Hangout Music Festival hosts some of the biggest names in the music industry during a weekend-long festival right on the beach.
Second, the history. Historic Fort Morgan is just minutes away. This strategic defensive point was the only thing standing between the entirety of Mobile Bay from attack starting in the early 19th century. It continued to play important roles during both World War I and World War II before being closed and turned into a museum. You can read more about the historic importance of Fort Morgan on our blog.
Third, the nature. Did you know that Gulf Shores is one of the most important stopping off point for a number of species of migratory birds? How about that sea turtles nest along the shore? What about the endangered Alabama beach mouse that can’t be found anywhere else? The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and the staff here are dedicated to protecting the delicate ecosystem in this area and help maintain much of the natural beauty of the area. In fact, the area and wildlife here are so important that Auburn University is opening a satellite campus specializing in veterinary medicine so students will have the chance to study medicine on wildlife that they may never have had the chance to study otherwise.
Fourth, it’s only going to get better! Yes, Gulf Shores is already great and we love it, but the City Council has plans to make this place even better (and, more importantly, more eco-friendly!). The Small Town, Big Beach Vision 2025 for Sustainability has big plans for Gulf Shores, many of which are already underway. There’s going to be a huge boardwalk spanning the public beach area known as Gulf Place, new green spaces, those vital dune systems will be improved and protected, better parking opportunities, and updated safety and restroom facilities. These are just a small sliver of what is going to go on in Gulf Shores over the next few years.
Being recognized by Trip.com is proof of just how far Gulf Shores has come in the past few years. We look forward to seeing what the future holds as this town becomes more and more popular among vacationers from all over the world.  All of this publicity will further drive the market for Gulf Shores condos for sale and create even more value to an already booming industry.  We've included helpful information through the implementation of aerial imagery, revenues, recent sales numbers and various useful information about, not only Gulf Shores, but Orange Beach and Perdido Key too.