Alabama's coastal communities are preparing for an influx of visitors during March and April.
The Gulf Shores Police Department is again partnering with the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office to keep visitors and residents safe. The sheriff's office will assist patrols in the city.
Police have responded to shootings in Gulf Shores for the past two years on March 27.
Interim police chief Dan Netemeyer said the department has assigned additional resources to the beach area during Spring Break.
A beachside alcohol ban is also in place through April 28. A zero-tolerance policy will apply to all state laws and local ordinances.
Crystal Hines, vice president of Marketing for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism, said hotels and condos are filling up for March and April. She said March numbers are trending lower than March 2024, and April numbers are ahead of April 2024 numbers. Hines said Alabama's Gulf Coast is perfect for those who want to bring their families to enjoy a variety of recreational options.
"It's a family-friendly destination," said Hines. "We've had lots of things for them to do if they just want to chill out on the beach; it's the perfect place to do that."
"If they're interested in nature, we have the backcountry trails, Bon Secour, there's tons of attractions, things to do with the family at night, like The Wharf and The Track, and of course, there is great food," she added.
Baldwin County has the Beach Safe program, which helps visitors stay aware of beach conditions with texts and a flag system. Anyone can sign by texting ALBEACHES to 888777.
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