By Marilyn Jones
Are you looking for a quieter, family-friendly beach destination for spring break? Not interested in finding yourself in the middle of thousands of partying college students? There are plenty of options if you do your homework by checking with local tourism boards.
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Ala.
“Gulf Shores and Orange Beach has always prided itself on being a family-oriented destination,” says Kay Maghan, public relations manager. “Traditionally our spring break business has been families along with college students looking for a much quieter spring break.”
Along with enjoying 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches, families can create special memories by visiting area attractions such as the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and historic Fort Morgan or taking a dolphin-watching cruise, going deep-sea fishing, and hiking the trails in Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.
For more information, call (800) 745-7263 or visit www.gulfshores.com.
Panama City Beach, Fla.
Panama City Beach has changed quite a bit since MTV last was here in 1997, according to public relations representative Arden Hare. “Panama City Beach is a year-round family destination; all-ages are encouraged to visit anytime of the year, including spring break.”
Like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, alcohol is banned on the beach during spring break. In addition to its 27 miles of beautiful beaches, the city offers a myriad of attractions, including amusement parks along the waterfront, scenic eco-tour cruises, and hiking in one of the area’s state parks. Several special events also are planned for March.
For more information, call (800) 553-1330 or visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com.
Galveston, Texas
“We don't get a huge influx of college students during spring break,” says Mary Beth Bassett, public relations coordinator. “It's more of a family destination. And alcohol is not permitted at Stewart Beach or the Seawall beaches.”
Start your visit with a Galveston Historic Tour in a 12-passenger electric cart, and then check out Moody Gardens, where you can explore a rainforest, enjoy an aquarium, or play a round of golf. Tour late-19th-century mansions, or spend the afternoon at Pleasure Pier with its shops, midway games and rides.
For more information, call (888) 425-4753 or visit www.galveston.com.
Wilmington, N.C.
It might be a little chilly (daytime highs in the 60s), but the attractions more than make up for it. One must is a Hollywood Location Walk, a fun and informative tour of filming locations for television series such as Sleepy Hollow, Dawson’s Creek,and One Tree Hill and motion picturesThe Choice, Ironman 3, and We’re the Millers, to name a few.
“Alcohol is not allowed on our beaches,” says Connie Nelson, public relations and communications director. “And our off-peak hotel and vacation rentals help make spring break more affordable.”
For more information, call (877) 406-2356 or visit www.wilmingtonandbeaches.com.