History
From as early as the 1800s, affluent families from Mobile, New Orleans and across the United States came to spend their summers in Point Clear. In the days of yellow fever outbreaks, Pt. Clear residents believed they were escaping to what was called “good air” because of the cool daily breeze blowing off Mobile Bay. Because of this, the front of most homes (also referred to as cottages) and their extensive screened-in porches face the water. Travel to the area was traditionally by steamboat ferry and most people arrived in Pt. Clear at Zundel’s Wharf. Remnants of the old pier at the Zundel property were still visible up until Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
In 1944, Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Thompson, oversaw Operation Ivory Soap from a suite in The Grand Hotel, Point Clear’s Crowning Jewel. The nineteenth-century Alabama hotel housed soldiers and served as a maritime training facility training troops in skills including swimming, special calisthenics, navigation, ship identification, signaling, cargo handling, sail-making and amphibious operations. The school produced 5,000 trained Army seamen. The training these troops received thanks to Operation Ivory Soap allowed the soldiers to save countless lives and aircraft. The name “Ivory Soap,” according to Col. Thompson, was derived from the fact that, like the experimental Aircraft Repair Units the military wanted to deploy, Ivory soap floats. The Grand Hotel is still in operation today.
Point Clear Today
Neatly situated on the eastern shore of Mobile bay, Point Clear is known for great views, southern hospitality and a rich cultural scene. There are many excellent choices for dining, such as the Wash House, or R Bistro, offering a rich menu of seafood along with French and Southern-inspired dishes. Explore your artistic side at Everblue Arts, a hub for local as well as regional art exhibitions and workshops. Another must-do in Point Clear is the Punta Clara Candy Kitchen, a quaint period-style eatery situated in a beautiful Victorian home that’s famous for its handmade candies and sweets.
For a reunion, wedding, or just for some relaxation, try Little Point Clear Suites, a romantic, bay-inspired retreat for couples and families. For more walkable eateries, attractions, and great schools, you can visit Fairhope; Point Clear’s closest neighbor. If you’re here for an extended stay, consider The Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club, & Spa; Point Clear’s most renowned resort and hotel.
Are You Building in Point Clear?
Point Clear is a well-kept secret on the gulf coast, a place hard not to love! With only 2,000 total residents, and Fairhope just a little to the north, it’s the perfect blend of sophisticated, safe and beautiful. It’s just the place to spend a relaxing evening with family on the bay, seeing the birds roost, and hearing the waves lap against the dock. Or perhaps you enjoy fishing and sailing, golfing, or quietly watching the sun rise as you drink your morning brew. No matter your interests, if you are looking to build a custom home or renovate an old one, this is prime real estate.
Point clear is adorned with a variety of historic retreats and striking villas. At Green Coast Living, we specialize in high-quality, custom homes that fit your personality and style. If you want your own residence to match the unique local architecture, we would love to build it. Looking to remodel, restore or add on to an existing Fairhope home? We will help you through every step of the process, such as with planning and design, permitting, all the way to completion of construction. Contact us today for information on your new home in Point Clear!
There are many contractors to choose from, so why us? We build quality custom homes to meet your needs, keeping you involved every step of the process. We remodel homes with premium finishes and materials. Not enough space? We build additions to meet your needs that seamlessly blend into your existing design. Experience the difference with Green Coast Living, where your satisfaction is guaranteed.
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