The correct name is actually INTRAcoastal Waterway.  The Intracoastal Waterway is a network of canals, inlets, bays, and rivers that run from Norfolk, VA to the Florida Keys, and along the Gulf of Mexico to Brownsville, TX.  It’s a highway connecting the Atlantic coastline and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.  The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway in 1937, and the opening of the Gulf State Park in 1939, were both crucial factors in attracting people to the Gulf Coast of Alabama.

History of Orange Beach?  Orange Beach was originally settled in the late 1860’s; with the western portion of the present town being known as Orange Beach, the central portion being known as Caswell, and the eastern end being known as Bear Point.  In addition to an active fishing community, the area was also known for farming, which leads to how Orange Beach got its name, as orange groves were once common on the Alabama coast.  There is lots to do in Orange Beach; water sports, hanging out on the beach, a plethora of shopping and dining, Waterfront Park has a fishing pier and picnic area, Backcountry Trail winds from Orange Beach through the Gulf State Park and the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museums explores Native American and fishing history. Located on Wolf Bay, Waterfront Park has a fishing pier and picnic areas. The Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum explores Native American and fishing history.

History of Gulf Shores?  The first Gulf Shores post office opened in 1947. Previous to that time, the area was sparsely populated with the exception of a small fishing community which dates back to the early 1800s.  Incorporation activities began in 1956 with the Town of Gulf Shores finally receiving validation for the incorporation by the judicial system in 1958.  A cantilever bridge was built shortly after the incorporation and development began shortly thereafter.  Gulf State Park is located in Gulf Shores and its trail systems winds through to Orange Beach joining the Backcountry Trail.  There is a multitude of activities available at the Gulf State Park; hiking. biking, fishing, exploring, geocaching, paddling just to name of few.  The Gulf State Park extends to the beach and the State Park pier.  Like it’s sister beach town, Orange Beach, there is a plethora of shopping and dining options in Gulf Shores.

Each of these Coastal Beach towns offers family fun, relaxing beach time and opportunity for exploration and adventure.  Contact Back Bay Charters to reserve your VIP cruise through Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

History & Inter or Intra Coastal