Walk through 65 acres of botanical gardens and enjoy the historic mansion on your tour. There are many gardens to enjoy and a river cruise. Bellingrath Gardens lights up in winter with 3 million lights. Located on the Fowl River in Theodore, Alabama.
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.
Historic Fort Gaines
Fort Gaines was named after General Edmund Pendleton Gaines, a hero of the War of 1812. It was here where Admiral Farragut shouted his now famous order, “Damn the torpedoes! Take a self guided walking tour and enjoy panoramic views.
Dauphin Island Sea Lab
This exciting educational facility has 31 aquariums totaling over 30,000 gallons with more than 100 species on display. There is a living Marsh Boardwalk and sting ray touch pool. A good diversion while waiting for the Dauphin Island ferry.
Dauphin Island Ferry
Considered the Gulf Coast’s most scenic drive, you will save hours of driving time using the ferry. The trip between Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island and Mobile Point has exceptional views and takes 40 minutes each way.
Audubon Bird Sanctuary
The Audubon Bird Sanctuary on Dauphin Island has been cited as one of the ten most globally important sites for bird migrations. It consists of 164 acres of maritime forest, marshes, and dunes. Bring water and enjoy the easy trails that are also bike friendly.