Spring Break Boom in Alabama's Gulf Coast

0:00Spring break, Crowther, packing orange beach and golf shores this season, drawing thousands of visitors to Alabama's Gulf Coast. Local spots are buzzing with activity, and roads are jammed as families had south for fun in the sun. Even with gas prices up from tensions in the Middle East, tourism leaders predict a solid uptick. Officials with the local tourism board report a 7% jump in hotel and rental bookings for March this year, over last. These beaches have turned into a hot spot all year long, not just summer. Visitors spending on places to stay hit a record $923 million in 2025, and rental income has almost doubled. In the last 10 years, meanwhile, police are stepping up to keep things safe during the busy period. Gulf shores officers rode out a special plan to tackle crime, which snagged 18 arrests in just one day last week. Check the good times to roll on, with extra eyes on safety as the crowds stick around through summer. I'm Cory with the story. That's your Birmingham News today update, AI powered and always on.