Waterway Village & Meyer Park: A Smart Move for Investors, Rental Properties & Vacation Homes
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon
Tucked just north of LuLu’s and the Intracoastal Waterway lies one of the most promising pockets of Gulf Shores real estate: Waterway Village and Meyer Park. As a local real estate advisor and full-time resident of the Gulf Coast, I’m seeing firsthand how this neighborhood is evolving—and why it’s the perfect location for investment properties, vacation homes, long-term rentals, and short-term rental income.
With walkability, upcoming infrastructure like the Waterway Village Pedestrian Bridge, and a growing demand for lifestyle-centric living, this area is primed for both personal enjoyment and long-term financial appreciation.
Location That Connects It All
Waterway Village and Meyer Park are located:
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North of the Intracoastal Waterway
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East of Highway 59 and Canal Road
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South of East 20th Avenue and the Medical District
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Surrounding E 21st to E 25th Avenues, including Meyer Park
This area offers golf-cart-friendly streets, a charming coastal design overlay, and close proximity to marinas, restaurants, boutiques, and parks—making it highly desirable for both full-time residents and visiting guests.
Why It’s the Ultimate Investment Zone
1. Diverse Rental Potential
Waterway Village and Meyer Park offer an ideal blend of short-term rental appeal and long-term lease stability. That flexibility gives investors the freedom to tailor properties to their strategy or adjust seasonally.
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Short-Term Rentals: Proximity to LuLu’s, public docks, events, and walkable attractions makes this a top choice for Airbnb/VRBO bookings.
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Long-Term Rentals: School proximity, year-round employment, and medical access appeal to Gulf Shores locals and remote workers.
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Vacation Homes: A second home here comes with built-in fun—live music, dockside dining, festivals, and no need to drive.
I always remind buyers: location is everything—and this district delivers lifestyle without being on the busy beachfront.
2. New Construction That Rents & Resells Well
Many of the new builds in this area are designed for investors, with popular features like
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Durable, low-maintenance finishes
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Open layouts, front porches, and golf cart garages
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Rear-loading parking and charming streetscapes
3. The Pedestrian Bridge Will Change Everything
The soon-to-be-built Waterway Village Pedestrian Bridge will connect this neighborhood directly to LuLu’s, Homeport Marina, and the south side of Gulf Shores—all without needing a car. That means:
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Walkability boosts short-term rental rates
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Long-term tenants gain lifestyle value
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Tourism expands north of the waterway
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Property values are likely to rise sharply after completion
This kind of city-led infrastructure project is a major signal of long-term investment growth.
4. Tourism + Everyday Convenience
Waterway Village is walkable to:
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Local restaurants like Tacky Jacks, LuLu’s, and beach bars
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Art festivals, farmers markets, and boutique shops
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Meyer Park and green space for outdoor concerts and events
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Marinas, public boat launches, and the upcoming bridge
It’s rare to find a district that feels authentic and laid back while also supporting strong rental income. This is that place.
5. Appreciation Is Inevitable
The city of Gulf Shores has prioritized this area for long-term growth with:
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Mixed-use overlay zoning
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Pedestrian-friendly redevelopment
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Support for boutique businesses and restaurants
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Investment in new construction infrastructure
Whether you're holding for retirement, generating income, or preparing for a 1031 exchange down the road—the real estate in Waterway Village and Meyer Park is set to appreciate because of where it is, what it offers, and what’s coming.
Bonus for Boaters
You don’t have to live on the beach to enjoy the water. This neighborhood is just a short stroll or golf cart ride to:
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Homeport Marina
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Gulf Shores public boat launch
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Docks with dining and shopping nearby
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The upcoming pedestrian bridge for easy access across the ICW
Waterfront access without beachfront prices? That’s smart investing.
Ready to Add to Your Portfolio?
I help buyers identify the right Gulf Coast properties to meet their goals—whether that’s a long-term lease, a vacation home with income potential, or a property that positions you for long-term appreciation.
Let’s explore available homes and lots in Waterway Village and Meyer Park together. With the right strategy and location, this can be one of the most rewarding additions to your portfolio.
— Meredith Amon
SearchTheGulf.com
Licensed in Alabama and Florida
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