Tourism brochures call this stretch of glistening white Alabama sand the Azalea Coast. They bill it as the Redneck Riviera, and the big social event of the year is the annual Mullet Toss next weekend. Contestants vie to see who can toss a slimy little fish the farthest across the state line. If you're planning to party with these folks, you'd best line your stomach. A good place to start is Tacky Jack's Bar and Grill, a two-story weathered establishment hanging over the marina on Cotton Bayou in Orange Beach.
Lunch is a challenge.
Another option is Mudbugs on a Railcar, crawfish tails on a po' boy bun. Once you're fueled, it's on to the party. But during Spring Break and on summer weekends, the scene can get downright wild, with hundreds of college students and other twentysomethings chugging draft beer from giant plastic pitchers, the crowd spilling out onto the beach. Gulf State Park Enough of that, and you're ready to clear your head with some sunshine and fresh air. There are more than 13 championship golf courses within an hour's drive of the two cities.