Phoenix Condominiums by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is an easygoing beachfront resort conveniently located near the best shopping, dining, and family entertainment in Alabama’s Gulf Shores. Work on your backstroke in the outdoor pool, or lounge poolside with the book you picked up at the airport gift shop and keep an eye on the little ones splashing around in the children’s pool. Don’t let the less-than-perfect weather get in the way of fun pool time; the resort has an indoor pool for exactly this reason. When it’s time for lunch, fire up the bbq grills for a fun family cookout. The on-site fitness center has everything you need to get your cardio on. Get in touch with your inner athlete at the lighted tennis courts or indoor racquetball courts before hitting the sauna or the hot tubs.

Air-conditioned two bedroom condos sleep six guests. Visit the nearby Winn Dixie or Publix to stock up on groceries for your full kitchen. Start each morning with big pancake breakfasts that you never have time for at home. Let the kids pitch in and assist with mixing the batter (and throwing in a few chocolate chips for good measure). Don’t worry if things get messy; there’s an in-suite washer/dryer. When you return to your condo after a long day of fun, take advantage of the flat screen TV with cable and DVD player for family movie night. Have the kids pack favorite movies from home, gather everyone on the couch with blankets and pillows, pop some popcorn and get ready for a low-key night in.

Take a family field trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Known as Animal Planet’s “Little Zoo That Could,” visit the Reptile Garden to check out alligators, lizards, and turtles. Animal encounters include sloths, tamanduas, red ruffed lemurs, and red kangaroos. The Ferris Wheel at the Wharf is one of the tallest Ferris wheels on the Gulf Coast and offers incredible views. Up for a day of family fun? Adventure Island Amusement Park has you covered. Ride the go-karts or the bumper boats. Play a game of laser tag. Check out the arcade or challenge the kids to a round of mini golf. Tanger Outlets offers shopping and dining and discount prices. First things first: grab an espresso beverage at Starbucks and a coffee-free frappuccino for the little ones. American Eagle, Dressbarn, Express, Gap, and Tommy Bahama feature apparel for adults. Children’s apparel can be found at Carter’s, Gymboree, Oshkosh B’gosh and The Children’s Place. Tweens will love Claire’s and Justice. Treat yourself to a new handbag from Coach, Michael Kors, or Kate Spade or a new pair of sunglasses from Sunglass Hut. Hungry? Dine at Bella’s Pizza or Rock n Roll Sushi, make sure to stop by The Fudgery for dessert.