I’m partnering with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to bring you some great reasons to #keeponsummering this fall along Alabama’s beautiful shoreline.

Is it just me or did we fly through summer at a breakneck pace? Did you get through your summer bucketlist? Were you able to get away like you had hoped?

Suntans and water frisbees

Bug spray and sunscreen. Our summer weeks were reserved for swimming holes, BBQ, and late-night movies. We spent evenings at the lake and mornings sleeping in till 9 am. I tried my best to give my kids the summertime of childhood dreams, but the clock was always ticking. I felt the window of fun closing in on me as I flipped the calendar from July to August.

Summer slips away

As we drive hard through August, back-to-school lists are long and end-of-year budgets are taking over at the office. Summer is slipping away and if you didn’t fully achieve your summertime travel goals, I don’t want you to feel that you’ve missed your window for an escape.

All is not lost this fall

Traveling during the fall is still a possibility! If your kids are in school, plan some time off during fall break. Or take a long weekend and step out of your busy world and into a 3-day getaway. Whatever you can manage, I have the perfect fall getaway idea for you.

Second Summer in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

I’m partnering with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to bring you some great reasons to #keeponsummering this fall along Alabama’s beautiful shoreline. They want you to consider taking part in Alabama’s “second summer,” the days between Labor Day and Thanksgiving.

Here’s 7 reasons why

"Not too hot, not too cold -- just right."

Reason #1: Optimal weather

September, October, and November are amazing months to visit Alabama's beaches. The water is still warm and the weather is sun-bathing worthy. While the rest of the country is in layers and boot socks, you can still wear your shorts and your favorite "I love Gulf Shores" tank tops.

"Same beach fun -- for less money."

Reason #2: Off-season deals

Same room, same beachfront view for LESS money. How heavenly is this sentence?

"Because your tastebuds deserve a vacation, too."

Reason #3: Glorious Gulf Coast food festivals

Enjoy the National Shrimp Festival, Oyster Cook-Off and Craft Beer Weekend, The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event, and World Food Championships this fall.  Mark your calendars and come hungry.

"You can open your mouth during bike rides!"

Reason #4: Less bugs, low humidity

Let's face it, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are still in the South; and summer in the South means bugs! But if bugs give you the creepy crawlies, fear not! Fall means you can ride your bike through the beautiful Gulf Coast trails without the worry of swallowing a bug along the way. And low humidity means your hair will look fantastic while doing it!

"Who could pass up a free pedicure?"

Reason #5: Your feet need therapy.

They’ve been in shoes too long, and pretty soon they’ll be shut away in fall boots. They need to be sloughed through the sand for nature’s easiest pedicure...at least one more time this year!

"Less wait time means more relaxation."

Reason #6: Fewer people, means shorter lines

This is one of my favorite reasons to head to the beach in the fall. Restaurant wait times are shorter. Lines for mini-golf and go-karts go quicker. Quieter roads means less traffic. Listen, I love people, but I don't like spending my precious vacation hours waiting in line. 

"Adulting doesn't have to mean mundane."

Reason #7: You need to shake it up.

Drinking a pumpkin spice latte in your bathing suit on the beach does wonders to break the monotony of life. 

Read more: Must-sees for your next trip to Gulf Shores