๐Ÿ“„ 2026 Alabama Gulf Coast 55+ & Retiree Relocation Guide
๐Ÿ“ฅ Download Cover PDF ๐Ÿš— Open Self-Guided Tour (Google Maps) ๐Ÿ“ž Call/Text: (251) 289-1553
Alabama Gulf Coast Beachfront
Comprehensive 2026 Coastal Relocation Guide

The Alabama Gulf Coast Retiree & 55+ Guide

The definitive insider handbook to active-adult communities, low-maintenance patio enclaves, golf courses, pickleball & tennis, healthcare networks, and Alabama tax shields.

Active Senior Couple on the Beach in Gulf Shores Alabama
Where to Live Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach & Fort Morgan breakdowns.
Active Lifestyle Championship golf, pickleball, tennis & heated Olympic pools.
Retiree Tax Shield 100% state pension exemption & #2 lowest US property taxes.
Kelly & Dave Davis
Big Beach AL Team • Dalton Wade Real Estate Group
Direct: (251) 289-1553
bigbeachal.cominfo@bigbeachal.com
Complete Guide Directory

๐Ÿ“‘ Table of Contents

Your comprehensive insider roadmap to active-adult living, recreation, healthcare, and tax advantages across the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Part I: Coastal Advantages & Neighborhood Breakdowns

Chapter 1: The Alabama Coast Advantage • Climate & Cost of Living Page 3
Chapter 2: Foley Deep Dive • Live Oak Village, Sea Pines & Leisure Lake Page 4
Chapter 3: Gulf Shores Deep Dive • Craft Farms, Oyster Bay & Sailboat Bay Page 5
Chapter 4: Orange Beach Deep Dive • Bayshore Towers, Bella Luna & Boating Page 6
Chapter 5: Fort Morgan Deep Dive • The Dunes, The Indies & Kiva Dunes Page 7

Part II: Active Lifestyle, Golf, Racquet & Trails

Chapter 6: Championship Golf Courses • Craft Farms, Peninsula, Kiva & GlenLakes Page 8
Chapter 7: Pickleball & Tennis Master Guide • Municipal Venues & Drop-In Play Page 9
Chapter 8: Municipal Recreation & Aquatics • Bodenhamer & Senior Centers Page 10
Chapter 9: Arts, Trails & Lifelong Learning • Backcountry Trail & Coastal Arts Page 11

Part III: Healthcare, Financial Protections & Move-In Roadmap

Chapter 10 (Part 1): Hospitals, 24/7 ERs & Emergency Drive-Time Proximity Page 12
Chapter 10 (Part 2): Foley VA Clinic, Urgent Care & Regional Cancer Centers Page 13
Chapter 11: The 4 Pillars of Alabama's Retiree Tax Shield • 100% Pension Exemption Page 14
Chapter 12: Fortified Roofs & Insurance Due Diligence • 35–55% Discounts Page 15
Chapter 13: Master Relocation Timeline & Anti-Sign Buyer Advisory Page 16

Part IV: Comparison Matrix & Private Tours

Chapter 14: Side-by-Side Community Comparison Matrix & 80/20 HOPA Rules Page 17
Chapter 15: Meet Kelly & Dave Davis • Self-Guided vs. Private VIP Tours Page 18
Why Retire in Coastal Alabama?

Why Smart Retirees Are Choosing the Alabama Coast

Over the past decade, Baldwin County, Alabama has become one of the fastest-growing retirement destinations in the United States. Retirees from across the country are discovering a rare coastal combination: crystal-clear sugar-white quartz beaches, warm Southern hospitality, championship golf, vibrant racquet sports, and some of the most powerful tax protections in the nation.

โ˜€๏ธ Year-Round Subtropical Climate

Say goodbye to snow blowers and sub-zero winter chills. Coastal Alabama enjoys over 220 sunny days per year. Winters are remarkably mild, with average January highs in the low 60s°F. You can play golf and tennis outdoors in December and walk the beach in February in a light sweater.

๐Ÿ’ฐ Unbeatable Cost of Living

Compared to Florida, coastal Alabama offers substantially lower homeowners insurance premiums, far lower property tax assessments, and more attainable single-level homes. Your retirement dollars stretch significantly further here without sacrificing coastal luxury.

๐ŸŒด The Rhythm of Coastal Living: Year-Round vs. Seasonal Cycles

Understanding the seasonal rhythm is key for incoming retirees:

  • Fall & Winter (October โ€“ March): The favorite season for full-time retirees. The summer vacation crowds depart, humidity drops to perfection, local restaurants have zero wait times, golf courses are immaculate, and the winter "Snowbird" community brings lively social clubs, tennis round-robins, and state club meetings.
  • Spring & Summer (April โ€“ September): Warm waters, endless boating, coastal farmers markets, live concerts at The Wharf amphitheater, and memorable family visits from children and grandchildren. Full-time residents take advantage of quiet inland enclaves and air-conditioned recreation centers during mid-summer.
๐Ÿš— Want to Drive These Communities on Your Own Schedule? Launch our curated turn-by-turn Google Maps driving route directly on your phone: bigbeachal.com/snowbird-tour
The Active-Adult Capital

๐ŸŒณ Foley: Convenience, Care & Value

Foley is South Baldwin County's undisputed hub for dedicated 55+ age-restricted communities and low-maintenance gated patio neighborhoods. Located just 12 to 15 minutes north of Gulf Shores beaches, Foley lets you bypass coastal vacation traffic while enjoying immediate access to medical networks, big-box shopping, and quiet tree-lined streets.

Foley Cottages and Neighborhood Architecture

Why Thousands of Retirees Choose Foley First:

Lowest Carrying Costs: Homeowners insurance in Foley is significantly lower than on the barrier island because Foley sits north of high-velocity coastal wind zones. Taxes and HOA dues are also the region's most economical.

Medical Hub: Home to Baldwin Health's $200M+ hospital expansion, specialized cardiology clinics, and orthopedic surgical centers.

Premier Foley Active-Adult Neighborhoods: All Foley Subdivisions →

๐Ÿก Live Oak Village (55+ Gated Community • $299k – $380k) →

Foley's premier 55+ gated community featuring 24/7 guarded security, an indoor heated lap pool, outdoor pool, clubhouse ballroom, and tennis/pickleball. HOA includes: complete lawn mowing, edging, irrigation, and annual exterior power washing.

๐Ÿก Sea Pines at Bon Secour (Gated Patio Homes • $320k – $410k) →

Charming Mediterranean-inspired gated courtyard patio homes with zero exterior lawn maintenance, clubhouse, heated pool, putting green, and fitness room.

๐Ÿก Leisure Lake (55+ Lakefront • $280k – $370k) →

Scenic cottages centered around an 8-acre stocked fishing lake with paved walking perimeter, clubhouse, pool, shuffleboard, and private on-site RV/boat storage.

Coastal Resort Living

โ›ณ Gulf Shores: Golf, Waterways & Beaches

Gulf Shores delivers the classic coastal beach town lifestyle. Flat, highly walkable and bikeable, Gulf Shores connects residents to pristine beaches, tranquil coastal lagoons, Arnold Palmer golf courses, and the flagship 36,000 sq ft Bodenhamer Recreation Center.

Gulf Shores Aerial Coastline and Waterways

Key 55+ & Coveted Retirement Enclaves: All Gulf Shores Subdivisions →

๐ŸŒ๏ธ The Village at Craft Farms (Brand New 55+ • $418k – $460k) →

Gulf Shores' newest age-restricted 55+ neighborhood, built by Truland Homes inside the renowned Craft Farms golf community. Craftsman single-level cottages featuring low-maintenance finishes, full lawn care included in the HOA, an open-air community pavilion with gas fire pit, and direct golf cart connectivity to Publix, Target, and local restaurants.

๐ŸŒŠ Oyster Bay Village (55+ Waterfront Attached Villas • $225k – $285k) →

Nestled directly on Oyster Bay, this established 55+ enclave features single-level brick villas, a 300-ft private lighted fishing and sunset pier, a heated indoor swimming pool, active woodworking hobby shop, community library, and weekly social events.

โ›ต Sailboat Bay on Plash Island (Gated Boating Condos • $380k – $550k) →

A peaceful, gated deepwater boating community on Bon Secour Bay with assigned boat slips, 2 swimming pools (indoor heated & outdoor bayfront), tennis courts, and zero vacation rental turnover.

Luxury Boating & Quiet Towers

๐Ÿ–๏ธ Orange Beach: Coastal Luxury Living

Orange Beach is renowned for its world-class waterways, deepwater boating channels, and high-end condominium towers with strict rental restrictions that foster quiet, residential communities for retirees.

Orange Beach Deepwater Boating Lifestyle

Coveted Residential & Low-Density Enclaves: All Orange Beach Condos →

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Bayshore Towers (Gated Bayfront • Zero Short-Term Rentals) →

A premier residential-only bayfront high-rise where vacation rentals are strictly prohibited. Features a private marina with assigned deepwater boat slips, 2 swimming pools, tennis/pickleball, and manicured gardens overlooking Terry Cove.

๐ŸŒŠ Bella Luna (Luxury Riverfront Architecture • $1.1M – $1.8M) →

Award-winning modern architecture on Ole River featuring 4 swimming pools (including an indoor heated lap pool), state-of-the-art fitness center overlooking the water, sauna, and first-come deepwater boat slips.

๐ŸŽฃ Four Seasons of Romar (Private 700-Ft Gulf Fishing Pier) →

A classic low-density beachfront complex boasting the only private 700-foot fishing pier on the Alabama coast, indoor heated pool, and private boardwalk.

Peace, Wildlife & Pure Tranquility

๐ŸŒ… Fort Morgan: Natural Peninsula Haven

If your vision of coastal retirement is serenity, uncrowded natural beaches, zero commercial high-rises, and watching dolphin pods glide past your balcony, Fort Morgan is a secluded paradise.

The Fort Morgan Lifestyle Profile:

Extending 20 miles west between the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay, Fort Morgan is home to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, historic Fort Morgan, and the Mobile Bay Ferry. It feels like stepping back into Old Florida while remaining only 15 to 20 minutes from Gulf Shores conveniences.

Top Retirement Communities on the Peninsula: All Fort Morgan →

๐Ÿ–๏ธ The Dunes & The Indies (Gated Coastal Enclave • $350k – $550k) →

Quiet gated condominium enclave near the tip of the peninsula featuring indoor heated pool, outdoor pool, rooftop observation terrace with panoramic Gulf and Bay views, and private beach boardwalk.

โ›ณ Kiva Dunes Resort (#1 Public Golf Course in Alabama) →

World-class master-planned coastal golf community with Jerry Pate championship course, private beach pavilion, 4 swimming pools, tennis, and on-site dining.

Year-Round Championship Golf

โ›ณ Coastal Alabama Golf Courses Guide

Coastal Alabama is a premier golf destination featuring over 200 holes designed by legends like Arnold Palmer, Jerry Pate, Earl Stone, and Robert Von Hagge. With lush year-round turf and active senior leagues, retirees enjoy world-class golf at unbeatable resident rates.

Craft Farms Championship Golf Fairway

๐ŸŒ๏ธ Top Coastal Golf Courses & Resorts:

1. Craft Farms Golf Resort (Gulf Shores • 36 Holes): The only Arnold Palmer–designed courses in Alabama. Features Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend. Rolling fairways, pristine lakes, expansive greens, and active leagues. View Craft Farms Homes →

2. Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club (Gulf Shores • 27 Holes): Designed by Earl Stone across 800 bayside acres. Certified Audubon Sanctuary with Marsh, Lakes, and Cypress nines. View Peninsula Homes →

3. Kiva Dunes Golf Club (Fort Morgan • 18 Holes): Ranked the #1 Public Golf Course in Alabama by Golfweek. Coastal links between Gulf and Bay. View Kiva Dunes Homes →

4. GlenLakes Golf Club (Foley • 27 Holes): 18-hole championship links + 9-hole executive course with affordable senior passes. View GlenLakes Homes →

5. Orange Beach Golf Center: Lighted 9-hole par-3 course and 30-station driving range for daily practice.

The Racquet Sports Capital

๐ŸŽพ Pickleball & Tennis Master Guide

Pickleball and tennis are at the center of coastal Alabama's active social scene. Whether you are a tournament player or picking up a paddle for the first time, our municipal and private racquet facilities offer daily organized play and welcoming senior communities.

๐Ÿ† Premier Tennis Complexes

George C. Meyer Tennis Center (Gulf Shores): Flagship 18-court municipal complex featuring 12 hard courts and 6 fast-dry Rubico clay courts. Includes full pro shop, ball machine rentals, USPTA instruction, and senior round-robins.

Orange Beach Tennis Center: 8 lighted championship regulation tennis courts with active adult clinics, mixed-doubles ladders, and leagues.

๐Ÿ“ Dedicated Pickleball Venues & Drop-In Hubs:

Gulf Shores Sportsplex & Pickleball Courts: 12 dedicated, lighted tournament pickleball courts with shade pavilions and spectator seating. Open daily from sunrise to 10:00 PM.

Foley Mel Roberts Park & Event Center: 6 dedicated outdoor courts at Mel Roberts Park + 12 climate-controlled indoor courts inside the Foley Event Center during seasonal open play.

Orange Beach Pickleball Center: 8 dedicated lighted courts adjacent to the Aquatics Center with daily drop-in hours from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

Gulf Shores Church of Christ Gym: Popular climate-controlled indoor morning drop-in play (MWF 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM) with four indoor courts and warm fellowship.

Fitness, Swimming & Community Centers

๐ŸŠ Heated Aquatics & Senior Centers

Staying healthy and socially engaged is easy with world-class municipal fitness centers offering SilverSneakers®, heated indoor Olympic lap pools, arthritis water therapy, and dedicated senior centers.

๐ŸŠ David L. Bodenhamer Center (Gulf Shores) →

A 36,000 sq ft state-of-the-art community complex located at 310 W 19th Ave. Features an 8-lane 25-meter heated indoor swimming pool, warm-water whirlpool spa, indoor walking track, comprehensive fitness gym, and full SilverSneakers® classes.

๐ŸŽด Foley Senior Activity Center (304 E Rose Ave, Foley) →

Dedicated exclusively to adults age 50+. A vibrant daily schedule including duplicate bridge, canasta, mahjong, euchre, line dancing, ballroom dancing, woodcarving, gentle chair yoga, tai chi, and catered monthly social luncheons.

๐ŸŒŠ Orange Beach Aquatics Center →

Features a 25-meter heated outdoor competition pool with dedicated adult lap swim hours, water aerobics, and a children's splash park for when grandchildren visit.

Culture, Nature & Education

๐ŸŽจ Arts, Trails & Lifelong Learning

Retirement on the Alabama coast is rich with creative opportunities, cultural arts, coastal wildlife exploration, and lifelong educational pursuits.

Coastal Alabama Nature Preserves and Waterways

๐Ÿšด Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail (28+ Miles) →

Winding through Gulf State Park across Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, this network of flat, paved, ADA-accessible trails is a retiree favorite. Designated trails are golf-cart friendly and connect to pristine lakes, maritime forests, and coastal dunes.

๐Ÿบ Coastal Arts Center →

Situated on scenic Wolf Bay in Orange Beach, offering "The Hot Shop" glassblowing, pottery throwing, watercolor painting, and fine art galleries.

๐Ÿ“š Lifelong Learning (CALL) →

Coastal Alabama Community College provides non-credit courses for adults 50+ in history, coastal ecology, photography, and creative writing.

World-Class Medical Care

๐Ÿฅ Hospitals, 24/7 ERs & Emergency Proximity

Healthcare access is a primary consideration for active adults and retirees relocating to the coast. Baldwin County has invested over $200 million modernizing regional hospital campuses, emergency trauma facilities, and critical care infrastructure.

๐Ÿฅ Baldwin Health / S. Baldwin Regional Medical Center (Foley) →

A comprehensive $200M+ expansion adding a brand new 200,000 sq ft, 5-story surgical and patient tower. Features full 24/7 cardiovascular catheterization labs, robotic orthopedic joint replacement, advanced intensive care (ICU), dedicated women's care, and an accredited stroke center.

โšก Gulf Shores Freestanding Emergency Department →

Located right on Highway 59, providing rapid 24/7 emergency medicine, low-dose CT scanning, digital X-ray, ultrasound, cardiac lab diagnostics, and acute trauma care with virtually zero wait time compared to traditional urban hospitals.

โฑ๏ธ Emergency Proximity: Drive Times to Critical Care

Peace of mind begins with knowing you are never far from immediate emergency response:

  • Live Oak Village & Sea Pines (Foley): 5 to 7 minutes to South Baldwin Regional Medical Center.
  • The Village at Craft Farms (Gulf Shores): 4 to 6 minutes to Gulf Shores Freestanding ER.
  • Oyster Bay Village (Gulf Shores): 7 to 9 minutes to Gulf Shores Freestanding ER.
  • Orange Beach Residential Enclaves: 12 to 15 minutes to Freestanding ER or South Baldwin.
  • Leisure Lake (Foley): 6 to 8 minutes to South Baldwin Regional Medical Center.

๐Ÿš Medstar EMS & Air Care Helicopter Evacuation

Baldwin County operates 24/7 advanced life-support paramedic ambulances, reinforced by dedicated Air Care helicopter bases for rapid flight transport directly to university tertiary trauma centers when critical seconds count.

Continuity of Care

๐Ÿฉบ Specialist Care, Veterans Clinic & Urgent Care

From routine wellness visits and walk-in urgent care to specialized oncology, cardiology, and orthopedic surgery, South Baldwin County and the surrounding regional medical corridor provide complete continuity of care.

๐ŸŽ–๏ธ Foley VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic →

Located right on Pine Street in Foley, this dedicated Veterans Affairs clinic serves our large military retiree community. It offers primary care, preventative medicine, laboratory blood draws, mental health services, telehealth, and direct prescription drug coordinationโ€”eliminating the need to drive across state lines to Biloxi or Pensacola for routine appointments.

๐Ÿฉน 7-Day Walk-In Urgent Care Centers (No Appointment Required)

For acute non-emergency illnesses, sinus infections, seasonal allergies, sprains, or minor stitches without an emergency room wait or hospital bill:

  • Baldwin Health Primary & Urgent Care โ€” Foley & Gulf Shores: 7-day walk-in care with extended hours, on-site digital X-rays, lab diagnostics, and online check-in queues.
  • Emergency Walk-In Access: Gulf Shores Freestanding 24/7 ER on Hwy 59 and South Baldwin Regional Medical Center ER in Foley.

๐ŸŽ—๏ธ Advanced Oncology & Regional Tertiary Medical Hubs

  • USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (Fairhope): The Gulf Coast's only academic cancer research and clinical treatment center, offering cutting-edge clinical trials, radiation oncology, infusion suites, and genetic screening just 20 minutes north.
  • Thomas Hospital Heart Center (Fairhope / Infirmary Health): Nationally recognized open-heart surgery, robotic cardiology suites, and cardiovascular rehabilitation (~22 mins via Hwy 181).
  • Pensacola Regional Medical Hub (Ascension Sacred Heart & Baptist): Level II Adult Trauma Center, comprehensive stroke institute, and complex neurosurgery only 40–45 minutes east.

๐Ÿ‘๏ธ South Baldwin Outpatient Specialist Practices

Cardiology: Cardiology Associates in Foley with on-site stress testing and cardiac rehab. • Orthopedics: The Orthopaedic Group and Baldwin Bone & Joint providing robotic joint replacement. • Vision: Southern Eye Group performing cataract surgeries and specialized eye care.

The Financial Perks of Alabama Living

๐Ÿ’ฐ The 4 Pillars of Alabama's Retiree Tax Shield

Alabama is consistently ranked among the top 3 retirement tax havens in America, offering extraordinary pension exemptions and the 2nd lowest property taxes in the United States.

Tax Protection How It Works in Alabama Retiree Benefit
1. 100% State Pension Exemption Under Alabama Code ยง 40-18-19, all defined-benefit retirement pensions are 100% exempt from Alabama state income tax. Includes military pensions, federal civil service, state/local government, teachers, police/fire, and qualified private corporate defined-benefit pensions. Saves $3,000 to $8,000+ every year compared to states that tax pension distributions.
2. #2 Lowest US Property Taxes Alabama's effective primary residence property tax rate is only ~0.35% to 0.40% in Baldwin County. A $350,000 home pays approximately $1,200 to $1,400 annually. Saves $4,000 to $10,000+ annually compared to IL, NJ, NY, or TX.
3. Age 65+ Homestead Relief At age 65, Alabama waives the state portion of property taxes on your primary residence, regardless of income. Keeps fixed living costs remarkably low and predictable forever.
4. Zero Local Income Taxes Neither Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, nor Baldwin County levy any local personal income taxes. Keep 100% of your monthly retirement cash flow.
Smart Coastal Due Diligence

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Fortified Roofs & Insurance Savings

Understanding coastal construction standards and insurance discounts will save you thousands of dollars annually on your coastal home or condominium.

What is an IBHS Fortified Homeโ„ข?

Baldwin County is the national leader in Fortified construction. Homes built or re-roofed to IBHS Fortified standards feature ring-shank nails, taped roof seams, and sealed soffits designed to withstand 130+ mph hurricane winds.

The Financial Payoff: Under Alabama state law, insurance companies are mandated to provide up to a 35% to 55% discount on windstorm insurance premiums for certified Fortified Roofs.

HOA Reserve Studies & Condominium Due Diligence:

When purchasing an attached villa or condominium, Kelly & Dave review:

  • Master Insurance Policy: What deductibles and wind/flood coverages are included in the monthly dues.
  • Reserve Fund Health: Ensuring adequate funding for future roof replacements and elevator overhauls.
  • Rental Posture: Confirming whether the building restricts short-term vacation rentals to preserve quiet living.
Your Move-In Roadmap

๐Ÿ“‹ Master Relocation Checklist

A step-by-step roadmap to ensure a seamless transition from your current state to your new Alabama coastal lifestyle.

๐Ÿ“… 3 to 6 Months Before Moving:

  • Schedule a 15-minute 55+ Clarity Call with Kelly & Dave to target specific communities.
  • Take a private VIP driving tour of Gulf Shores, Foley, and Orange Beach neighborhoods.
  • Consult your tax advisor regarding Alabama's 100% pension exemption.

๐Ÿ“… Month 1 in Your New Home:

  • File Homestead Exemption: File at Baldwin County Revenue office in Foley between October 1 and December 31 with your deed and ID.
  • Driver's License & Vehicle Registration: Transfer license at ALEA Foley Driver License Office within 30 days.
  • Register for Recreation Centers: Get your membership at David L. Bodenhamer Center (Gulf Shores) or Foley Senior Center.

โš ๏ธ A Word of Caution About Yard Signs While Touring

As you drive through these neighborhoods, you will see "For Sale" yard signs with agent phone numbers. Do not call the number on the yard sign. Under Alabama law, that agent has a legal fiduciary contract representing the SELLER to get the highest price.

As a buyer, you are entitled to your own independent representation by Dave & Kelly Davis at zero out-of-pocket cost (the seller pays brokerage fees). If you see a home you love, simply text the address or a quick photo to Dave at (251) 289-1553 for unfiltered MLS history, HOA reserve notes, and private walkthroughs.

At-A-Glance Reference

Side-by-Side Community Comparison

Compare the premier 55+ active-adult neighborhoods and coveted coastal retirement condominiums across Baldwin County.

Community Location & Type Price Range HOA Covers Key Amenities
Live Oak Village Foley • Gated 55+ $299k – $380k $240/mo (Full lawn, pressure wash) Indoor heated lap pool, outdoor pool, pickleball/tennis, gate
Village at Craft Farms Gulf Shores • 55+ Cottages $418k – $460k $600/yr (Lawn maintenance) Arnold Palmer golf access, open pavilion, gas fire pit
Oyster Bay Village Gulf Shores • 55+ Waterfront $225k – $285k $325/mo (Roof, grounds, pier) Private bay fishing pier, indoor heated pool, woodshop
Sea Pines at Bon Secour Foley • Gated Patio $320k – $410k $280/mo (Lawn, pool, gate) Heated pool, putting green, clubhouse, gated entrance
Bella Luna Orange Beach • Luxury Boating $1.1M – $1.8M 4 pools, marina, security 4 swimming pools (indoor lap pool), private marina, sauna
Bayshore Towers Orange Beach • Zero STR $1.4M – $1.75M Marina, grounds, pools Strictly NO vacation rentals, deepwater boat slips
The Dunes & Indies Fort Morgan • Gated Enclave $350k – $550k Pools, roof deck, insurance Indoor heated pool, rooftop Gulf/Bay observation deck

๐Ÿ‘ถ The 80/20 HOPA Rule & Family Visits

Under federal HOPA guidelines, at least 80% of occupied homes must have one resident 55+. Spouses or partners under 55 are welcome. Grandchildren and younger relatives can visit comfortablyโ€”standard community bylaws typically allow stays of up to 30โ€“60 days per calendar year.

๐ŸŒฟ What "Lawn Care" Inclusions Really Mean

HOA coverage varies: Live Oak Village covers mowing, edging, irrigation maintenance, AND annual house pressure washing. The Village at Craft Farms covers turf mowing & pavilion grounds. Oyster Bay Village operates condo-style covering roofs, exterior siding, and pier.

Your Local Coastal Guides

Meet Kelly & Dave Davis

Moving across town is stressfulโ€”relocating across state lines into a retirement community or coastal neighborhood requires trusted local advocates who personally know what it means to make that exact out-of-state transition.

Kelly & Dave Davis

Kelly & Dave Davis

Founders • Big Beach AL Team • Dalton Wade Real Estate Group

We moved to Gulf Shores in 2022 and have two boys attending Gulf Shores city schools. With over 15 years of real estate experience and Dave's 6+ years of lending background, we understand firsthand what it means to move into the area from out of state.

We bought our own home totally sight unseenโ€”so we know exactly what out-of-town buyers want to see, what details matter, and what red flags to look out for when navigating coastal homes, HOA covenants, and wind insurance.

๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Two Ways to Tour Coastal 55+ Communities

Option 1: Self-Guided Driving Tour (In Your Own Car)

Explore at your own pace today with our curated 5-stop Google Maps driving loop: bigbeachal.com/snowbird-tour

Option 2: Private VIP Tour with Dave & Kelly Davis

Schedule a zero-pressure consultation to walk inside active floor plans, review clubhouse amenities, and verify HOA financials. Book online at realestatecrmpro.com/schedule/clarity-call or call/text (251) 289-1553.

Meet the Experts

We didn't just move here - we built our lives here. And now we help other families do the same.

Kelly Davis
Team Lead

Kelly Davis

Associate Broker & Team Lead

Kelly is the heart and engine of Big Beach AL Team. She pairs coastal market knowledge with creative marketing and helps buyers and sellers make confident moves on the Gulf Coast.

Dave Davis
The Numbers Guy

Dave Davis

Lending Specialist & Realtor

Dave brings the financing brain to the table, helping buyers understand payments, carrying costs, rental projections, and the real numbers behind a beach property before they write an offer.

Kerri Nicketta
Buyer's Agent

Kerri Nicketta

Expert Buyer Specialist & Lead Buyer's Agent

Kerri is the team's go-getter for showings, tours, and buyer follow-through. She keeps the process moving and helps clients compare properties with clear, on-the-ground context.