I don't know what y'all are talking about (but I'm biased, being from Alabama).
As far as Alabama:
There are some options in and around Fairhope, AL. The Grand Hotel is one, and the other option (of which I've always wanted to own one), is to rent a big house on the bay close to Fairhope. These tend to be great houses, beautiful bay views and a good surrounding area. It's typically the Point Clear area, and it is written up in Southern Living a lot.
Dauphin Island is supposed to be secluded and pretty nice (although I have not been). It's more beach houses, no condos to speak of, so it's more off the beaten path.
Lake Martin is another area that is nice in Alabama. It is a beautiful lake, with a lot boating, etc. They do let the levels down after Labor day though, so it's probably better during the summer for boating, etc.
Mobile can be okay sometimes, but maybe not for a family vacation, but Fairhope is close to Mobile.
Gulf Shores/Fort Morgan is a nice beach, but if you are looking to get off the beach, there are a lot of bay areas to consider, even in and around Gulf Shores.
Here are some links and options:
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ptlal-grand-hotel-marriott-resort-golf-club-and-spa/
http://www.cofairhope.com/vis_lodging.php
http://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/usa/alabama#a1878
http://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/usa/alabama/dauphin-island
http://townofdauphinisland.org/home.asp?ID=2
http://www.lakemartin.com/Rentals/Default.asp
If you want any other recs, let me know what you are looking to do. Age of family members, etc. There is plenty to consider in Alabama. Just as much or better than Louisiana and Mississippi (with the exception of New Orleans). Biloxi is okay, but you are basically going to a Casino, not really getting the Mississippi Coast experience.
Edited by pilotzs 2011-08-29 2:47 PM