Old school, old cool… what Gulf Shores used to be like 30 or 40 years ago. We love Regatta Condominiums, and return every year. The building itself is wooden. Not a concrete monstrosity like every other high-rise condo on the beach — it’s wooden and only 4 stories tall, and that includes the parking on the ground level. And probably 30 or 40 years old. This means several things — first, it’s withstood several hurricanes. Second, it’s old cool. Just a quick walk to the Hangout, and a short drive to Gulf Shores park, pier and Zip The Gulf ziplines. 20 minutes to FloraBama, which is the best. Condos are 1,2, 3 and 4 bedrooms, and rentals are available. It isn’t the Ritz, but there is a nice pool in the middle of the U-shaped building. Some of the condos are a little 1980’s dated decorating, but that adds to the old school cool. They building is very well maintained. 100′ deep, phenomenal white sand beach right in front, with sand dunes and sea grass for family photos. If you can afford it, rent a beach front unit, which have great balconies facing the sand. Full kitchens. Owners differ, so the interior, beds, cooking utensils, etc. will vary. Personally, I hate the huge concrete high-rises. We’ve stayed in several, and I don’t enjoy them. We come to Gulf Shores because it’s relaxed and casual and like much of the Gulf used to be 20 or 30 years ago. So is Regatta, and that’s why we stay here. Really great place… TIP — if you’re coming in high tourist season, book early. The good units rent months and months in advance.