Living on Marlin Drive: A Coveted Waterfront Lifestyle on Ono Island

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

Marlin Drive on Ono Island offers one of the most desirable locations for waterfront living along the Gulf Coast. As a homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve had the privilege of seeing this street up close, and it continues to stand out for its boating access, water views, and well-positioned lots that make the most of our coastal lifestyle.

Prime Boating Amenities

One of the biggest draws to Marlin Drive is its excellent boating setup. Many properties here offer deep-water access, accommodating larger vessels and sportfishing boats. The canal and waterway configurations make it easy to head out for a day in Perdido Bay, enjoy a quick trip to the Gulf through Perdido Pass, or explore the back bays for inshore fishing. Neighbors often remark how much they appreciate being able to “leave the dock and be in open water in just minutes.”

Boat facilities on this street can include covered docks, boat lifts, power and water at the slip, and space for personal watercraft or kayaks. Whether you’re an offshore angler or simply love evening cruises, Marlin Drive provides a launch point for both adventure and relaxation.

Flood Zones and Construction Considerations

Most of Marlin Drive is located in coastal flood zones—some in VE designation—meaning elevation and construction requirements are an important part of homeownership here. Elevated home designs with breakaway walls and impact-rated windows are common, and many newer builds meet or exceed Gold Fortified standards. These features not only add peace of mind but can also provide insurance benefits.

Working with a local builder who understands the island’s Architectural Control Committee (ACC) guidelines is essential. As one local builder told me, “Ono Island has some of the strictest coastal construction oversight in the region—and that’s a good thing for protecting property values.”

Desirability and Lifestyle

Marlin Drive has earned a reputation as one of the most desirable streets on Ono Island. The combination of boating access, water views, and quiet surroundings creates a sense of privacy while still being close to the heart of Orange Beach.

Evenings here are particularly special—neighbors gather on docks to watch sunsets over the water, and you’ll often see boats returning from a day offshore with the day’s catch. The gentle sound of water lapping at the pilings and the sight of herons and pelicans make every day feel like a getaway.

Location Advantage

Centrally located on Ono Island, Marlin Drive allows quick access to the Ono North bridge for trips into Orange Beach for shopping, dining, and marinas. The street’s layout offers a mix of direct waterfront homes and properties with protected canal frontage, giving boaters options depending on their preferences for exposure and wake protection.

One neighbor summed it up perfectly: “It’s just far enough from the main thoroughfares to feel tucked away, but close enough to get anywhere on the island in minutes.”

If you’re considering a home on Marlin Drive, I can help you explore available listings, understand flood zone requirements, and find the perfect match for your boating and lifestyle needs. Visit www.searchthegulf.com to see current Ono Island listings and learn more about this incredible community.

Meredith Amon is an expert real estate advisor on Ono Island in Orange Beach, Alabama. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.