Still have shopping to do? Head to Alabama Gulf Coast

Can you believe it's almost Christmas? Wasn't Labor Day just last week?

Seriously, though, if you still need to do some holiday shopping, why not make a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast and hit some of the spots where you can find lots of stores, lots of variety and lots of bargains. You can get your shopping done in record time and still have plenty of time to enjoy great meals and views of the spectacular Gulf of Mexico.

One of the places not to be missed is in nearby Foley. At the Tanger Outlets, you can shop at more than 125 stores. That's brand-name merchandise at outlet prices – all in one spot! You can find clothing, shoes, housewares, accessories and dozens of specialty shops.

In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, shoppers can head to The Wharf and The Pinnacle to find a range of options for gifting needs, something to fit any price point.

Situated around and between these destinations are dozens of shops that house unique boutiques and artists' studios. While perusing www.thebeachiscalling.org, I found some great ideas for gifts for a couple friends. There are a artists here who make pottery, including one who makes pieces inspired by Appalachian face jugs – which my friend adores! And there are artists here who make custom jewelry, do intricate beadwork and needlework, paint, sculpt, carve – the list goes on.

So come on down. There's still time to get in some shopping – for others and for yourself. And if you're lucky, you might even get to see “Sandy Claws”!