925 Beach Club Trail, Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States | (888) 905-8267
A full-service condo property consisting of cottages along a man-made lake, or in four high-rise towers
Five swimming pools, including an outdoor kiddy pool, and an indoor pool
Playground for kids
Three restaurants, with kid-friendly menus
Tennis courts and tennis pro shop; basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard also available
Clubhouse with spa, salon, and fitness center
Several organized family and kid activities
Free Wi-Fi in most units
Units are independently owned and maintained, and the interiors can differ wildly
Somewhat secluded
HIgher fee for Clubhouse services when not booked through management company
Extra fee for cleaning services
Tucked away from rowdy college kids, this family-friendly gated condo community sits on 86 acres near a large, private, white sandy beach. The property feels safe and secure, and has four high-rise towers on the beach as well as cottages along a man-made lake. Units have one to five bedrooms with fully equipped kitchens and living rooms. Since the condos are individually owned, the decor can range from worn-out and dated to beachy chic. Access to some of the amenities (the Clubhouse, bicycles) are limited, and can cost more if rented from a private owner instead of the management company. Beach chair rental can be arranged ahead of time, eliminating the 5 a.m. run to stake out seats.
Scene
Family fun in the sun
The Beach Club is very clearly family-oriented, and its extensive property features and activities make it feel more like a resort than a condo complex. In fact, many families may spend the entirety of their vacations on the premises. The main draws are the beach and pool (there are five, including one indoor), but other activities include scavenger hunts, tie-dying, ping-pong, tennis, and jewelry-making. A small playground, and free use of sand toys at the beach, keep the little ones busy. Housed in the Clubhouse are a spa, salon, fitness center, game room, and large pool with poolside dining and bar. There are three dining options, each with a kid-friendly menu. The front desk is located in The Village, a marketplace with a clothing and sundries shop, ice cream parlor, arcade games, and sports bar.
Location
Secluded, with private beach
While there are several restaurants in the complex, the town is about a 15-minute drive, and offers more eating options (the drive can take a little longer on weekends and near dinner time). Jack Edwards National Airport is about a 25-minute drive.
Rooms
Ocean balconies and varied decor
As the condos are individually owned, it's important to ask specific questions, such as the type (and number) of TVs and whether the fridge is full- size or mini. Units can have one to five bedrooms, and most have sofa beds that allow guests to make the most of the room capacity. Many of the fully equipped kitchens are updated, with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.Towels and linens are included, but housekeeping costs extra. Several plans from Towels and Tidy to a thorough mid-week cleaning are available for a fee. Many units have free Wi-Fi. Some cottages have private swimming pools, hot tubs, and grills. Oceanfront rooms in the four towers have private balconies with great views.
Features
Great recreational facilities
This self-contained resort keeps active families busy. At the Clubhouse, there's a spa, salon, fitness center, game room, and large pool with poolside dining and bar. In addition, each tower has its own pool, and white sandy beaches are easy to reach. The Village is a popular hang-out spot with a sports bar and grill, ice cream parlor, arcade games, and occasional bouncy house. There are eight, lighted Rubico clay tennis courts, and basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard are also available. There are hiking trails to explore, and bicycles can be rented. Most units come with free Wi-Fi.