GULF SHORES AND ORANGE BEACH, ALA. – Soft sands, wondrous waters and relaxing retreats are part of what makes coastal Alabama a family-friendly hotspot. FamilyFun magazine, known as a great resource for family activities, conducted a survey of 2,000 parents with children 3 to 12, where they rated 360 popular destinations in the U.S.

Gulf Shores was named to the top 10 tourist towns category among an elite group of cities from across the country. Along with this most recent accolade, the area has been recognized with a number of other awards this year.

“FamilyFun magazine has recognized the very best in family travel for 2013 – from top tourist towns and outstanding attractions to can’t-miss museums, including Gulf Shores– as voted on by real families,” said Mary Giles, deputy editor of FamilyFun. “Featured in the April issue of FamilyFun, Gulf Shores and the other U.S. destinations included in the 2013 FamilyFun Travel Awards represent the cream of the crop in their respective categories.”

Other recognitions for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach include being named to several coveted lists as follows: the 2013 SportsEvents Readers’ Choice Awards, Travel Channel’s best Gulf Coast beaches, SmarterTravel.com’s “10 places you should go while they're still cheap” and Nashville Lifestyles’ “best luxury locations in the U.S. for discerning travelers.” Alabama’s Gulf coast was also named Country Roads’ favorite family-friendly escape while Gulf Shores was a finalist in Budget Travel's contest to find America's coolest small town. Finally, Orange Beach was nominated for World Fishing Network's Ultimate Fishing Town contest (round one voting opens April 15 at www.worldfishingnetwork.com/uft).

 “It’s a high honor to be recognized by a reputable publication such as FamilyFun,” said Joanie Flynn, vice president of marketing for Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. “As we continue the spring season, we’re happy to see that guests are pleased with what we have to offer and that families feel welcome in our area. We consider that an enormous compliment that renews our spirit to continuously improve our family offerings.”

 For more information on this family beach destination, visit www.gulfshores.com or www.orangebeach.com.