The Alabama Coastal Connection Scenic Byway is filled with many sights to admire. Challenge yourself to stop at several new places this year. Consider the five places below, and don’t forget your camera!

1. Eastern Shore Overlook, Spanish Fort: On U.S. Hwy. 98, just north of the I-10 overpass, there’s the overlook that is often, well, overlooked. There, you can take in the beauty of the bayway and the glistening water rolling beneath it. From there, take the Eastern Shore Trail under I-10 for more great scenes. 

 

2. May Day Park in Daphne: Overlooking the bay, May Day Park is quiet and serene. Take in the last few minutes of the day as the golden sun sinks behind the horizon, casting a watercolor sky. You can stay and relax, as the park has picnic tables, moss-covered trees and a playground. 

3. Fairhope Pier: Located at 4 North Beach Road, the pier provides a nice spot to stroll, fish or eat. There’s plenty of room along the pier to cast a line, or instead, take a seat on a bench and watch the waves. The restaurant, Shux on the Pier, offers a variety of seafood for lunch or dinner Tuesday through Sunday. 

4. Gulf Shores Public Beach: Bring a blanket or a couple of towels and spread out on the sugar-white sand as waves gently crash into the shoreline. Get lost in a good book or enjoy a beach picnic. The beach is the perfect place to catch up on a little R&R. You’ll find nine public beach access areas along the beach highway in Gulf Shores, and more as you head eastward through Orange Beach.

5. Fort Morgan: Most famous for its role in the Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay, this fort features a living history program that brings you back in time. Tour the grounds to take in the masonry and exhibits of weapons, letters, photographs and other personal items. Simply walking the grounds of the fort will capture your interest and provide fresh, salty, beach air as well as exercise.