Gulf Shores / Orange Beach

[Straegen]

What is the low down on this place? It is a pretty easy drive from where I am at and a fairly cheap stay at a nice BnB, but wondering if it is worth it for a new diver. Thought it would make for a nice long weekend trip.

[ReefHound]

It's a nice place for a diver, not sure about a new diver though. I've been out with Capt Gary of Gulf Divers and he runs great trips to the Oriskany. But that's over your qualifications right now. He also does other sites more appropriate for a beginner but as far as I know they are closer to Pensacola. He's a great captain and has a great boat so I'm sure if he has a suitable trip going that you would love it. I'm just not sure about the demand for that type of trip from that location.

There are some beach dives in the area but one should have a bit more experience for those. The Alabama Point jetties can be nice, about 25' or less along the rocks or the concrete wall. You have to watch the times for the tides and tow a flag on all beach dives. The Whiskey wreck is in 15' or less just offshore from Bahama Bob's but the sandbars have mostly covered it up. The sands shift over time, some years it's a great dive, some years it's not.

I would probably suggest heading to Pensacola and doing some of the near shore charters.

[Straegen]

Exactly what I was looking for, thank you. I figured after reading a few reports that it might be something best saved for when I have more practical experience. Will check out Pensacola.