Orange Beach vs Destin: Coastal Living, Real Estate, and Boating Culture Compared

Orange Beach vs Destin: A Gulf Coast Boater’s Paradise Comparison

Introduction: My Gulf Coast Love Affair

By Meredith Amon | Gulf Coast Real Estate Advisor | Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Hello. I’m Meredith Amon, a Gulf Coast real estate advisor and boating enthusiast. If there’s one question I hear all the time from friends, clients, and fellow beach-lovers, it’s this: Orange Beach, Alabama or Destin, Florida – which is better? As someone who lives on Ono Island in Orange Beach and has spent countless days soaking up the sun in both places, I know firsthand that each coastal gem has its own magic. In this post, I’ll take you on a personal journey comparing vacation appeal, real estate investment potential, lifestyle quality, and…

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New to Boating on the Gulf Coast? Here’s What You Need to Operate Legally in Alabama

New to Boating on the Gulf Coast? Here’s What You Need to Operate Legally in Alabama

Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon.

If you're planning to operate a boat in Alabama, whether you're a resident or just enjoying a day on the water in places like Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, or Perdido Bay, it’s important to understand the legal requirements. Here's a clear breakdown:

Alabama Boating Requirements

Boater’s License (Mandatory for All Operators)

In Alabama, all motorized vessel operators—including personal watercraft (PWC) like Jet Skis—must possess a boating license if they are 12 years of age or older.

How to Get a Boating License in Alabama:

1. Take a…

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What to Look for in a Marina or Boat-Friendly Community. Gulf Coast and Orange Beach

What to Look for in a Marina or Boat-Friendly Community

Tips for finding homes with boat lifts, deep water access, and protected docking
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Living on the water isn't just about the view—it’s about access, convenience, and lifestyle. As someone who lives and works in one of the most boating-centric areas of the country, I’ve had countless conversations with homeowners and neighbors who’ve shared their firsthand experiences navigating the Gulf, the back bays, and canal systems. If you’re looking for a home with direct water access, here’s what I suggest you keep top of mind when searching for a marina or boat-friendly community.

1. Water Depth and Tidal Impact

Not all waterfront…

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Deep Sea Fishing & Boating in Orange Beach, Alabama: A Way of Life on the Gulf Coast

Deep Sea Fishing & Boating in Orange Beach, Alabama: A Way of Life on the Gulf Coast

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

There’s something about watching the sun rise over the Gulf of Mexico while the bow of your boat cuts a glassy trail toward open water. As a real estate advisor and full-time resident of Ono Island, I don’t just help people find homes—I help them live the boating and fishing lifestyle that defines Orange Beach and the surrounding Gulf Coast.

At www.searchthegulf.com, I work with homeowners and buyers who crave this lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for a deep water dock, a boat lift-ready canal front lot, or a luxury home minutes from Zeke’s Landing Marina or Orange Beach Marina, boating isn’t just a bonus…

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Boating on Ono Island: A Homeowner’s Guide to Bridge Clearances, Canal Depths, and Boat Choices

Boating on Ono Island: A Homeowner’s Guide to Bridge Clearances, Canal Depths, and Boat Choices

By Meredith Amon, Licensed In Alabama and Florida

Owning a waterfront home on Ono Island is one of the great joys of living on the Gulf Coast. As a real estate advisor and homeowner on Ono myself, I’ve learned how important it is to understand the unique boating considerations here on the island. From bridge clearance and water depths to finding the right boat that fits both your lifestyle and your canal, this guide is based on my personal experience and the many conversations I’ve had with neighbors and fellow boaters.

Whether you’re a seasoned mariner or just starting your coastal journey, here’s everything you need to know about boating and…

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The Ultimate Guide to Fishing and Boating on Ono Island

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FISHING AND BOATING ON ONO ISLAND

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Ono Island is a premier destination for boaters and anglers, offering unparalleled access to the Gulf of Mexico, inshore fishing spots, and deep-sea adventures. Whether you’re searching for the best fishing charters, expert marine services, or cutting-edge electronics, this guide covers everything you need to know about boating and fishing in this exclusive waterfront community.

Thinking of making Ono Island your boating and fishing paradise? Browse waterfront properties with private docks.

Best Fishing Spots Around Ono Island

One of the things I love most about living on Ono Island is the strong boating and fishing community.…

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Something New Is Docking Soon: Shipps Restaurant at Orange Beach Marina

Something New Is Docking Soon: Shipps Restaurant at Orange Beach Marina

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Big things are happening at the Orange Beach Marina, and if you’ve been wondering what’s next for the former Fisher’s restaurant space, I’m excited to share that Shipps is the name to remember. This brand-new restaurant is set to bring fresh flavor and renewed energy to one of the most prestigious marinas along the Gulf Coast.

I recently toured the marina and took a look at the site where Shipps will be opening its doors. It’s a space many of us remember fondly from waterfront dinners and celebrations at Fisher’s. Now, with new vision and careful renovation underway, Shipps will continue that legacy while offering…

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Boating in Orange Beach, Alabama: Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Boat

Boating in Orange Beach, Alabama: Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Boat

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

www.searchthegulf.com

Boating is at the heart of the Orange Beach lifestyle, and as a real estate advisor and homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve seen firsthand how owning the right boat can completely transform your time on the water. Whether you’re fishing in the back bays, heading out into the Gulf, or cruising to waterfront restaurants, having the right vessel makes all the difference.

I often get questions from homeowners and prospective buyers about what kind of boat is best for living in Orange Beach or on Ono Island. So, I’ve put together the top 10 questions I’m most often asked—along with my answers based…

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Margaritaville Waterfront District Moves Forward in Orange Beach: A Game-Changer for The Wharf and Gulf Coast Real Estate

Margaritaville Waterfront District Moves Forward in Orange Beach: A Game-Changer for The Wharf and Gulf Coast Real Estate

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

The Margaritaville Waterfront District is officially moving forward in Orange Beach, with the Orange Beach Planning Commission approving the subdivision of 108 acres for what will be a resort-style coastal community. Located just across the Intracoastal Waterway from The Wharf at Orange Beach, this development is set to bring an influx of tourism, boating activity, and economic growth to the area.

With plans for:

✔ 100 condo-hotel units
✔ 49 condominiums
✔ 76,000 square feet of commercial space
✔ 43 transient boat slips

The proximity to The Wharf makes this an …

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Exclusive Boat Launch on Ono Island: A Boater’s Gateway to the Gulf

Exclusive Boat Launch on Ono Island: A Boater’s Gateway to the Gulf

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

As a homeowner on Ono Island and an expert real estate advisor, I know firsthand how boater-friendly this private island community is. One of its most valuable amenities is the exclusive Ono Island boat launch, providing residents-only access to Ole River. This convenient boat ramp allows property owners to be on the Gulf of Mexico or the Intracoastal Waterway within minutes—an unmatched benefit for those who love fishing, cruising, or island hopping along the Gulf Coast.

Private & Exclusive: The Ono Island Boat Ramp

Located directly on Ole River, the Ono Island boat launch is restricted to homeowners and offers a …

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