Things To Do In Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island Alabama is a barrier island located just three miles south of Mobile Bay on the Gulf of Mexico. It's a fabulous place for things to do, have fun with family and friends, or simply relax with its slower pace. Check out our list of things to do in Dauphin Island before you arrive or after you join us. Welcome!

Play on 7 Miles of Dauphin Island Beaches

Dauphin Island activities include beach-combing, swimming, fishing, shelling, kayaking, paddle boarding, crabbing, surfing, and just plain relaxing. Great for kids of all ages!

At remote West End Beach, you can find parking, restrooms, and a variety of vendors offering food, drinks and other beach services.

Dauphin Island Public Beach is a pet-friendly local beach. Visitors pay access fees of $2-$5 during high season. Beyond the beach, there are parks, trails, and historical exhibits.

Fishing for all anglers can be found here

Dauphin Island is a paradise for fishing along the Gulf of Mexico. Choose from surf fishing, fishing from piers, jetties or beaches, or head to the water on a variety of boat and charter options. Just ask us, we'd love to help.

The variety of fish found in our waters is simply incredible. See our post on Dauphin Island surf fishing, for the complete list.

Where to fish on Dauphin Island

On the uninhabited west end, you'll find glorious surf fishing opportunities. Then on the eastern end, don't forget about the jetties and the popular Billy Goat Hole. Honestly, you can't go wrong.

Deep-Sea Fishing

Get ready for epic sport fishing, touted as some of the best found in the U.S. Boat rentals and fishing charters are both available.

Full-Service Dauphin Island Marina

The marina features an array of amenities including all fishing and boating supplies, restrooms with showers, and dining. It's also the jumping-off point for fishing charters, in addition to kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and pontoon boats that can be rented for spotting wildlife, including dolphins.

Fishing Rules

Before heading out, be aware that fishing licenses may be required. They can be purchased online or from an approved local agent.

Ride the Mobile Bay Ferry

Spend the day at nearby Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Enjoy an afternoon of shopping or visit the Hangout, Lulu's or the Wharf. There are many popular restaurants and music complexes.

Visit around

Visit Historic Fort Gaines, the Sea Lab Estuarium or Audubon Bird Sanctuary. These are just a few of the epic excursions found nearby Dauphin Isand.

Historic Fort Gaines

Fort Gaines was named for General Edmund Pendleton Gaines, a hero of the War of 1812. It played a significant role in the 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay, as did nearby Fort Morgan. Enjoy a self-guided walking tour with panoramic views. Or explore connecting tunnels that are well preserved. View the cannons still perched on walls overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. There is also a museum, a gift shop, and a blacksmith shop.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium

This 30,000 gallon educational facility features more than one hundred species on display among 30 aquariums. See the Living Marsh Boardwalk and the stingray touch pool. This public aquarium lets visitors learn about and observe local sea life. A great place to hang out while awaiting your Dauphin Island ferry ride.

Audubon Bird Sanctuary

Daupin Island is listed among the ten most globally significant sites for bird migrations. The Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary is comprised of 164 acres of maritime forest, marshes, and dunes. In addition to the aviary life, you may also see turtles or alligators in the swamps. Pack snacks and water, then enjoy the easy trails that are also bike-friendly.

Indian Shell Mound Park

Called Shell Mound Park, it is found on the National Register of Historic Places and is found on the eastern side of the island, across from the Alabama mainland. You'll find a lovely one-third mile loop which is perfect for walking and watching bird migrations during spring and fall. The mounds comprised primarily of oyster shells, are thought to be remnants from seafood meals consumed when Native Americans traveled there and cooked oysters.

Tour The Sand Island Lighthouse

The only lighthouse in Alabama is more than 150 years old. When it was completed in 1830, San Island was over 400 acres in size. Today, however, it is less than one acre.

Sand Island is about three miles from the entrance to Mobile Bay, which is bordered on to the east by Mobile Point and to the west by Dauphin Island.

A boat trip is required to visit the lighthouse. You can either rent a boat or join a boat tour. Admission to the lighthouse is free.

Evenings on Dauphin Island

Most of our Dauphin Island rentals have gas or charcoal grills available. Grill your favorite foods followed by family activities like night crabbing, board games and more. All of our Dauphin Island beach rentals have Wi-Fi Internet and either Cable or Satellite TV.