Monday, August 6

Flora-Bama - Perdido Key

Taking in the "Red Neck Rivera"

Beach sign outside Flora-Bama

Peridido Key Beach

We have decided that the Sportsman's Marina in Orange Beach, AL. is as safe a place to leave the White Label during hurricane season as any. The marina has a large indoor storage building and is located on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway about a half mile inland from the Gulf Coast. We will put her into storage on Wednesday and continue our tour of the "Red Neck Riviera" by land. Not having a clue about this area, we had the good sense to contact Joan Gasaway, a friend from Iowa, who along with her husband Mike, has a second home here. Even though they are not in residence she did a great job of advising us via e-mail. Today we started exploring some of her suggestions. A very popular -and somewhat touristy- spot is called Flora-Bama. Located on Perdido Key at the Alabama/Florida line, it is known affectionately as the "Ultimate Dive." According to Joan it literally blew over during Ivan and was basically a structure of tin and tarps. It has been rebuilt to be a little more sturdy ........ still it looks like it will go again if the "Big One" comes ashore. Located on the absolutely gorgeous Perdido Key Beach- which runs the entire length of the island - it felt really good to dig our toes into the sugary sand! We have been surprised at the level of activity - this is a prime summer vacation spot, especially with the Southerners. With amazing beaches, an onshore breeze and warm Gulf waters, we can see why this place is so popular.