gofishtlp

I am thinking of taking my kids down to Gulf Shores for the week before Easter (spring break). They are 8 and 10 and love the beach. How is the water this time of year - too cold? I am looking at renting a place at Grand Beach on Gulf Shores or possibly Regatta Condos. We are not fancy and would like to be near the beach without a huge expense.

Also, any recommendations on family friendly dining or other family activities? Thanks!

gracie

If your children are used to cold water swimming, it may not be a big deal. April, especially, the week before Easter, is certainly too cold for swimming. It may be too cool for sunbathing or walking in early April, or it may be perfect. The weather along the northern Gulf Coast is unpredictable in the spring. It is not warm enough for comfortable swimming until mid to late May.

ccgegg

Our kids always enjoy Calypso's. They have crab races at least once an hour. We like the food too (mostly Caribbean fare).

olesouthernbelle

gracie is absolutely right!

August04

Nephews are 6 and 8, restaurants we've visited w/ them that seem family friendly:

-Bahama Bob's Beachside Cafe(it's on the water so they can play in the sand while we wait for a table).
-Original Oyster House
-Doc's Seafood
-Lulu's

Have a great trip!

olesouthernbelle

Here's a list that may help you to decide:
http://tinyurl.com/2gsh5x

Hazel's is a kid friendly place for lunch.

Lulu's is alot of fun for kids as well as adults, but make sure you go early ( long lines ).

Original Oyster house is good...esp. recommend the Sunday Brunch (Long lines ).

Really, most places at the Gulf are kid friendly....but Lulu's has sand piles/toys and such that some others may not.

Louisiana Lagniappe is good. No sand, but they give the normal coloring books/crayons.

Tacky Jack's for breakfast.

Zeke's for expensive, on the water. Kids can go, but you may rather choose elsewhere for them.

Live Bait has the best boiled shrimp and new potatoes, in my opinion, but service was poor our last visit.