GULF SHORES, Alabama (WKRG) – Alabama beaches are the gem of the state’s tourism industry. Governor Kay Ivey touted the state’s coast from Gulf Shores on Wednesday.

“Tourism here on the Gulf Coast is a money making machine, for sure,” Ivey said, speaking to tourism executives statewide.

After another record breaking season that saw hundreds of thousands of people flock to the sands and surf, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are already set for another stellar season.

“The spring numbers, which is on the books right now, we are in the process of surpassing what we were the last two years. It looks like there is still a strong demand, ”said Beth Gendler, President and CEO of Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Tourism.

Gendler said the numbers are remarkable when you consider not only the vacation destination has faced a pandemic, but Hurricane Sally as well.

“Our destination bounced back really well in almost all of our events because of our ability to drive where people didn’t want to fly, didn’t want to fly or couldn’t and all outdoor activities,” said Gendler.

Tourism officials across the state are looking to build on last year’s momentum and move forward. But when it comes to the challenges of COVID, they don’t take anything for granted.

“Things have been very different over the past couple of years, so we’ll see what the new normal brings us,” said Gendler.