Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Seek Top USA Today Honors
OBA Staff • March 11, 2025
Online voting open for Gulf Coast travel award categories
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Alabama’s Gulf Coast is once again in the national spotlight as Gulf Shores and Orange Beach receive nominations in multiple categories for the USA Today 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards. The competition, curated by a panel of editors and travel experts, highlights top destinations across the country, and public voting will determine the winners.
Categories and Deadlines
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to cast their votes online for the following categories:
- Best National Wildlife Refuge – Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Voting closes Monday, March 10, at 10:59 a.m.
Vote here - Best Golf Destination – Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Voting open from Feb. 24 to March 24
Vote here - Best Coastal Small Town – Gulf Shores
Voting open from March 3 to March 31.
Vote here - Best Small Town Food Scene – Orange Beach
Voting open from March 3 to March 31.
Vote here - Best Small Town in the South – Orange Beach
Voting open from March 3 to March 31.
Vote here
How to Vote
Supporters can vote once per day, per device, meaning multiple votes can be cast daily using a phone, tablet, and computer. Each vote helps showcase Alabama’s beaches as premier destinations for travelers nationwide.
Winning these awards would reinforce the area’s appeal as a top-tier vacation spot, boosting tourism and local businesses. Community members, visitors, and travel enthusiasts are encouraged to participate and help put Alabama’s beaches on top.
Vote today and help Gulf Shores and Orange Beach claim victory in the USA Today 10Best Awards!
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Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Gulf State Park Campground in Gulf Shores has been recognized as one of the nation’s premier RV destinations, earning a coveted spot in USA Today’s 10Best 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best RV Campgrounds. The honor underscores the campground’s outstanding amenities, scenic beauty, and commitment to delivering a top-tier camping experience.
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – Families, children, book lovers, and turtle enthusiasts are invited to a special celebration for World Sea Turtle Day and the end of the school year. The event will take place at Baumhower’s Victory Grill in the Tanger Outlet Mall in Foley. International children’s author Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud will host the gathering. Guests can enjoy activities, food specials, and book signings during the event.
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Foley has made downtown beautification a top priority in recent years. City leaders are working to create a more inviting and visually appealing environment for both residents and visitors. Through public art, improved landscaping, and community projects, Foley is investing in the charm and character of its downtown area. These efforts aim to boost civic pride and support local businesses.
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – You may have noticed the increased crowds exploring the beaches, restaurants and outlets around Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. You may have also noticed how well the crowd has respected the environment and their pleasant demeanor towards locals. The Sand In My Boots audience has arrived and is already receiving a warm welcome from local businesses.
Oxford, Ala. – (OBA) – The Orange Beach Varsity Makos faced the Curry Varsity Yellow Jackets on Thursday evening in Oxford, Alabama, and triumphed, securing an epic fifth consecutive state softball championship. This latest victory ties an Alabama state record for most consecutive titles, further solidifying Orange Beach’s legacy as a powerhouse in high school softball.
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Tacky Jacks is bringing back its long-running Summer of Fun event series for the 13th year at its Gulf Shores and Orange Beach locations. Designed to engage residents and visitors of all ages, the weekly programs combine hands-on learning with outdoor activities during lunch hours. Over the years, these events have provided families with opportunities to explore local nature, express creativity through art, and take part in light-hearted competition. The series continues to offer educational and recreational value while supporting community connection and local partnerships.
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – Each weekday, trucks from the Foley Public Works Department travel across the city. These trucks stop at more than 6,000 locations to collect recycling. Homes and businesses all over Foley are part of the program. The service helps keep the community clean and environmentally friendly.
Oxford, Ala. – (OBA) – The Orange Beach Varsity Makos powerfully announced their presence at the State Softball Tournament on Wednesday, securing three decisive victories and setting the stage for a fifth consecutive championship title. Their dominant performance saw them defeat West Blocton Varsity Tigers 15-0, Alexandria Varsity Valley Cubs 3-0, and Satsuma Varsity Gators 13-0, showcasing a potent combination of hitting and pitching prowess. The Makos will now compete for the championship crown at 5:00 PM today, Thursday.
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Orange Beach will host a one-day Pop-Up Farmers Market this summer, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy fresh, local products. The event will be held at Waterfront Park, offering a scenic backdrop for the community gathering. Organizers are working to bring in various vendors, including farmers, seafood providers, and home producers. Shoppers can expect local meats, dairy, and eggs as well.
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – Speed limits are changing in parts of Foley to help make driving speeds more consistent across city streets. The new rules focus on neighborhoods in the southwest part of town. The goal is to create a smoother and safer flow of traffic. Officials say it will also help drivers better understand what speed to follow.
