I am in Gulf Shores every summer. Sandpiper looked ok last August, and appeared to only have suffered external, cosmetic problems after Ivan (though I cannot be sure). I paid close attention because I love the Sandpiper condos. Last summer, West Beach looked better than you would think. There was a long pipe running from one end of the beach to the other that was helping to dredge sand. Wasn't pretty, but there was plenty of beach to enjoy. Some areas still look a little shabby, but GS is building back quite well. I can't update you on your restaurants, but some of my faves are back in working order. Mikee's suffered a lot of damage after Ivan & rebuilt and then some more from katrina, but it is better than ever! Pink Pony is back in working order, and I believe Sea & Suds is too.

I live in GS and things are going quite well. Sandpiper is in good shape, so all should be well on that point. Live Bait and Calypso's are both open, as are most of the other restaurants. The beach is in great shape and the water looks really good. Tarps are pretty much gone, but you will see a lot of new construction in the area. Lots of new condos going up on East Beach Blvd and some on West Beach, but the beach area around Sandpiper is as it always was. Come and enjoy!

I'm hoping my first trip to GS will be great. Am worried first week of August may be a poor time--but as above posted- we're going no matter what! Jelly fish, and beach reconstruction are my worries? Reassurance from the locals, please? Our place is right on the gulf (duplex on beach blvd)-- very excited and hoping for that perfect vacation!

Stop worrying! West Beach Blvd is in great shape and the beach down that way is excellent. Never had any problem with jellyfish, but I guess they may show up occasionally.

never had a problem with Jelly Fish either, but keep in mind that June-Nov is Hurricane Season down here..so be prepared,you never know

We stay at the Sandpiper every Sept. and was there in Sept 2005--everything was fine just mounds of sand everywhere because of the hurricane but now I am sure everything is fine. As matter of fact we are going in May 2006 for a week and again in Sept. and always stay at sandpiper. Never disappointed!!!!!

the beach is in great shape. whiter, wider cleaner than before the storm if you can believe it. night life was thriving and the restaurants going full blast. we had a great visit. there is new construction going up but there is more than you could possibly ever do open, going strongm alive and prospering right now. go!!!! you'll have the time of your lives.

We were just at the Sandpiper for 2 weeks the end of June. Very family oriented place. Beach was in good cond. was a little crowded, not sure why. We tried a new rest. called Flippers. It's off Canal Road. The food was excellent, service was a little slow, but we had 14 in our group. The salad was a nice size,with lots of mixed greens. The grilled Grouper and Tuna great! New place open called the Hang Out, we did not go but people from condo did and liked it. The original oyster house always a good pick, but packed all the time, go early. Deep sea fishing prices I heard were from $95.00 to $165.00 on boats. They caught fish also. Red Snapper 2's the limit per person. Not sure about Golf, didn't hear anyone's comments. Jelly Fish stings were mild, but did occur. Dolphins were sighted early mornings several days. Weather was great.