There is also no restroom facilities nearby. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 4. 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL 36528, 251-861-6992, What are some popular things to do: CO, From San Diego, VA, OH, WI, MI, IL, IL Places, VA, San Diego, TX. From their fresh gulf seafood to the handcrafted half-pound burgers, everything on their menu is guaranteed to be made from scratch with fresh, real ingredients. The 1,861 sq. In addition to shaving hours off of travel time between these two points, the ferry ride, which takes approximately 40 minutes, offers spectacular views of Mobile Bay. That quiet about the place is probably because of the weather and a succession of hurricanes. Honestly, not a lot to choose from. Dauphin Island Tourism: Best of Dauphin Island. The town is part of the Mobile metropolitan area. The Estuarium also offers organized tours and educational materials for school groups. Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass 5 Aquariums from $25.00 per adult The area 101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528-4603 Full view Best nearby Restaurants 15 within 3 miles Dauphin Island Sea Lab May's Cafe 5 0 ft Billy Goat Concessions 30 0.3 mi$ Quick Bites American Lighthouse Bakery 595 2.1 mi$$ - $$$ Bakeries American Cafe Alabama Point Public Beach, Gulf of Mexico Fairhope Municipal Park, Mobile Bay Daphne May Day Park, Mobile Bay Dauphin Island East End, Gulf of Mexico HW 193 Bridge, Fowl River Volanta Ave., Fairhope, Mobile Bay Orange Street Pier/Beach, Fairhope, Mobile Bay Mary Ann Nelson Beach, Mobile Bay Camp Beckwith, Weeks Bay Cotton Bayou Beach, Gulf of . Our family-friendly, beach-front parks are steeped in history and memories. . ft. condo is a 3 bed, 3.0 bath unit. If you plan on going to the public beach, you need to know that it actually costs money. It will take a lot of work to get the course where it needs to be to have a real golf experience but I have played the past 2 days and very much enjoyed it both days. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. They have a few boutiques as well that sell some amazing clothes and jewelry. So just don't set your expectations too high for this to be a bird-watching walk, at least if you are there in February. If you want a delicious waffle, go to Foxy's I got a smoothie that was out of this world, but the kids ordered waffles topped with crazy concoctions and they were phenomenal. #5 Best Value of 7 places to stay in Dauphin Island. 8 Charming Seaside Towns in the U.K. for Beautiful Beaches, Delicious Seafood, and Nautical Pubs, It List 2022: Our Editors' Picks of the Best New Hotels in the World, How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Florida's Sanibel Island With Charming Inns, Beautiful Beaches, and a 190-mile Paddling Trail, 12 Best Tropical Vacations in the U.S. for Stunning Islands, Charming Beach Towns, and Beautiful Resorts. }. The rest of the time we were staying on Dauphin Island we chose to cook at our beach house. The Mobile Bay Ferry connects Dauphin Island to Fort Morgan, Alabama. In addition to giving tours, Action Outdoors organizes field trips that include educational materials for teachers. It's connected to mainland Alabama by a bridge, and ferry rides take you to and from the island. more, Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island Little Red School House Community Complex. We tried that one day and were disappointed as well. A place where there's something for just about everyone to enjoy, and life's daily stressors seem to melt away. Inn at Dauphin Island Location on the Gulf or on the Bay? Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass 4 Aquariums from $25.00 per adult The area 51 Bienville Blvd Fort Gaines, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Full view Best nearby Restaurants 15 within 3 miles Dauphin Island Sea Lab May's Cafe 5 0 ft Billy Goat Concessions 30 0.3 mi$ Quick Bites American Lighthouse Bakery 595 2.1 mi$$ - $$$ Bakeries American Cafe 918 Bienville Rd., Dauphin Island, AL 36528, 251-861-3300, Our experts' top picks for a long weekend getaway for couples: Berkeley, Tybee Island, Nantucket, NH resorts, MN resorts, Kona, Pasadena, ND, ME, From Boston, Salt Lake City. "https://" : "http://" ); (function(){var s=document.createElement('script');s.src=bbbprotocol + 'seal-centralalabama.bbb.org' + unescape('%2Flogo%2Fvisit-mobile-3001747.js');s.type='text/javascript';s.async=true;var st=document.getElementsByTagName('script');st=st[st.length-1];var pt=st.parentNode;pt.insertBefore(s,pt.nextSibling);})(). Everything else. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Dauphin Island Public Beach showcases some of the island's most beautiful landscapes. There are restaurants serving everything from seafood to pizza to hamburgers, plus stores selling fishing supplies, beachwear, groceries, souvenirs, and more. The masonry fort stands at the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula and was used to guard the area where the bay and the Gulf of Mexico connect. In addition, all beaches in Alabama are considered open, so once on the sand, there are 14 miles for swimming, fishing, walking, sightseeing, and shell hunting. Learn More Permits & Business Licenses Quickly find business applications, building permits and more. It was heavily used throughout the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II, until it was given turned into an Alabama historical site in 1946. Relax at Dauphin Island East Public Beach. Dauphin Island Public Beach - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Plan a relaxing weekend getaway from Birmingham, Montgomery, Huntsville, Gadsden, Florence, Mobile and other cities. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or even pets, Vrbo vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, including swimming pools and private pools. Right beside Foxy's is Miguel's and they have the best tacos and nachos I have ever put in my mouth. Pelican island migrated and the shifting sands created a new shore line. We have visited the Al gulf coast numbers of times but usually stay on fort Morgan. A Google search indicated dogs were allowed on at least 2 of the beaches there, so for that purpose Dauphin island was ok. FYI, from what I read dogs are not allowed on the West end beach. Read More. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 5. Ticket prices start at $5 for a one-way trip. If you plan on going to the public beach, you need to know that it actually costs money. We had non stop action, tired out the kids, and the whole experience was great. How are the restaurants on Dauphin island ? The sanctuary has different water habitats: lake, swamp and the Gulf to view birds. Paying to get on the beach is very strange to me. Can I drive a semi truck ( no trailer) to dauphin island? Visiting the lighthouse is free of charge, but requires a boat rental or tour in order to get there. }. I would suggest not using the uneven boardwalk, and use the walking trail down below. Miguels Baja has great fish tacos. History buffs might enjoy the Dauphin Island Indian Shell Mound Park, too, which features a short walking trail and information about Native Americans and their fishing habits while living on the island. Only thing I was surprised by was you can see a number of oil rigs out in the ocean. Painting classes and art fundraisers are the main vehicles that DIHAC uses to help Dauphin Island's residents and visitors understand the value of art. The west end beach offers the gulf (more surf)and the bay (calmer waters). 7. Dauphin Island Beach Retreat in prestigious Desoto Landing 14 Sleeps 10 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms from $1,000/night Kayaks - On the Water - Sandy Beaches - 1 Sleeps 8 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms from $262/night Luxury Dauphin Island Beachfront Holiday Isle Condo--NO FEES BY OWNER 4 Sleeps 6 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms from $332/night Since we were able to eat at a few places, I thought I would list them all here. Everyone was rude that we came across on our day trip. There were no shells on that part of the beach. I, myself, have spent hours at the sanctuary, walking the well-marked trails and watching birds and alligators at the small pond. 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For any questions or concerns call (251) 861-5525 or send us an email. https://jenaroundtheworld.com/renting-a-beach-house-with-vacasa/. It's about 40 miles up the highway to Mobile, a cultural hub on Alabama's Gulf Coast. Read More. The mounds in Shell Mound Park are believed to be the remnants of seafood meals consumed by Native Americans between AD 1100-AD 1550. 6B Alvarado St. Dauphin Island, Up/Right w/Deck ! 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Our family has enjoyed the reclusive tiny island located across the bay on the edge of. This is NOT a party beach. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. We were about 100 steps from the beach and it was perfect for us. I did not read any them until I was already down here but I have not had any of the negative experiences I read. The trails through the sanctuary are nicely maintained and a beautiful, quiet walk. Dauphin Island Campground in Dauphin Island, Alabama: 70 reviews, 44 photos, & 20 tips from fellow RVers. Some restaurants were closed however after a long day at the beach we could NOT find a pet friend restaurant and left via the ferry very hungry. GALLERY OF DAUPHIN ISLAND Sunset Capital of Alabama Explore Dauphin Island Upcoming Events Upcoming Events Check out what is happening on the Island any time! Founded by Joseph Bosarge, who was granted the land from the King of Spain in 1786, Bayou La Batre was the first permanent settlement on the South Mobile mainland. Dauphin Island Condo w/ Boat Slips: Walk to Beach! No drinks. Its not a crowded beach. Dauphin Island, Alabama is home to the only public pet-friendly beaches in Alabama! Dauphin Island, Alabama, is easy to access since it is connected to the mainland by a bridge, and ferries regularly transport commuters and tourists between Dauphin Island and mainland communities. While there, we learned a few tricks of the trade that I thought I would share with you. We went there to get doughnuts but we found out that they do not sell doughnuts but they have other baked goods that are so delicious! Show prices. Visitors can marvel at the original structures throughout the fort along with several canon displays. Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528 (251) 861-5525. We just wanted to walk and play 9 holes and this was a good place to do it. We are looking forward to our beach trip. Home to historic Fort Gaines, The Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium, the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, a public beach, pier and boat ramps, Dauphin Island has been the sandy backyard for generations of Mobilians, as well as a popular beach destination for thousands of tourists each year who prefer a simpler, beach experience. Buy your groceries before you travel and just bring them with you. We have already booked two more trips to go fishing with Joey next week! That sounds like the public beach. The chartered trip rates include the cost of renting a fishing rod, reels, tackle, bait, and other supplies. We were there on a Monday in august. In addition to the beach itself, visitors can enjoy a variety of nearby trails, parks, and historical exhibits. dauphinisland.org Dauphin Island Public Beach Try a platform where you can hire a tutor todo your assignmentonline. Free WiFi. Points of Interest & Landmarks Piers & Boardwalks. Enter dates to see prices. 19 reviews. I believe so. I've found the peaceful atmosphere, friendly people, and homey feel not to mention the beach and many attractions of Dauphin Island to be enough. Aside from the fort itself, the area contains a blacksmith shop, a museum, and a gift shop. Its a little bit more developed than it was but still had a quite serenity to it. Capt Wes was awesome! Mobile Area Multi-Attraction Pass 5 Aquariums from $25.00 per adult The area 1501 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528-4335 Full view Best nearby Restaurants 17 within 3 miles Island Rainbow 239 0.3 mi$ Dessert Italian American Islanders Restaurant and Bar 610 445 ft$$ - $$$ American Bar Seafood Reel Deal BBQ & Seafood 33 Thank you so much, Great info!! The mounds are not marked but the walk around is nice. Coastal breezes, sorbet-colored sunsets, the sound of waves crashing in the background; where time slows down and the hardest decision of the day is where to set up your beach chair and decide which gulf to table delicacy youre going to indulge in! Every single morning and afternoon, we would take long walks on the beach with Tucker and a bag and we would pick up so many pieces of sea glass and seashells. Due to its location near the shoreline, Fort Gaines has endured years of erosion from water, winds, and inclement weather. According to the National Audubon Society, the sanctuary plays key role in protecting and perpetuating a number of bird species. For Sale: 3 beds, 3.5 baths 2598 sq. When we chose Dauphin Island as our beach vacation, we had no idea that it would be the perfect location for finding all kinds of seashells and sea glass. Neat place to visit and check out but that is about it, unless you like bird watching and then you could sit on one of the several benches they have around the trail and enjoy the birds for a while. You wanna beat the crowds this is it. There is also a nice picnic area right on the water with shelters. So yes.Dauphin Island is a quiet and charming beach town. Discover a selection of 500 vacation rentals in Dauphin Island, AL that are perfect for your trip. Cute little aquarium off the beaten path highlighting the importanceof the delta and bay, as well as showcasing the local sea life. We really enjoyed our visit to Dauphin Island beach. However, Friday and Saturday will be paydays. Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528 Her studio is inside her house but very private. Frequently Asked Questions about Dauphin Island. Before the bridge was built in 1955, visitors arrived at Dauphin Island via small plane, ferry, or boat. Dauphin Island Marina, Dauphin Island, AL 36528, 251-861-2201, Insider travel recommendations, In-depth reviews of our favorite places: NC, NM, ME, VegasFrom LA, WY, Hot Springs, Midwest , Things to Do in Reno, Ohio castles,, KY, South Padre Island, Dream vacation spots. Of course, we did have to drive to Fairhope so that we could experience a Yard Milkshake and we were not disappointed there! Nice, informative volunteers. What restaurants are near Dauphin Island Park And Beach? Return to State Map Coast Guard Group Mobile - Dauphin Island Recreation Complex Website: Coast Guard Group Mobile Campground Eligibility: Active Duty, Retirees, Reserves, National Guard, DOD Civilians Telephone: Address: 350 Air Force Rd., Dadeville, AL, 36853 Reservations: Call for Availability Note: Minimum 2 nights stay required. 610 E Lemoyne Dr, Dauphin Island, AL 36528, 251-265-3474, What to do near my location, inexpensive getaways: Florida Keys, IN, Healdsburg CA, Madison, Water parks in Texas, New Braunfels, Long Island, NY, NC, OK, OR, Day Trips in Southern California, Cocoa Beach, CA, Harpers Ferry, Durham. They also serve pizza here but we did not get to try that. We stayed in the Dauphin Tale House that is for rent through Vacasa. The name of the house is called Dauphin Tale. Relax at the lovely Dauphin Island East End Public Beach, one of the two beaches that visitors come to visit while on the island. Dauphin Island Campground Our 151-site campground features secluded pet-friendly beachfront on the Gulf, playground, campground store, free boat launches and much more. Upon stepping foot into the downtown area, there's a massive water tower as the focal point surrounded by a memorial park that greets visitors similar to a Welcome Sign. Our family has enjoyed the reclusive tiny island located across the bay on the edge of the state for several years. display: none; The council also manages a gallery that features works from local artists. It is not near as crowded as other areas and life a little more quiet and relaxed. (251) 861-5525, COPYRIGHT 2021 THE TOWN OF DAUPHIN ISLAND. 10 minute walk to beach! Wish there was a way to see it closer. Beachfront Rentals & Sales Inc. Read More. . Located on the eastern tip of the island, you can spend your time relaxing while enjoying the cool breeze. (My family has always opted for one of the two-bedroom, Gulf-facing condominiums available for rent there's nothing like opening a balcony door at night to let the ocean sounds flow freely inside.). Action Outdoors boat trips are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It was a very nice place when I was growing up, I went almost every day and then the bridge got destroyed by hurricane Fredrick and we the people paid for the bridge to be rebuilt and now they want to charge an arm and a leg just to go to what you would think would be a public beach. Be sure to bring your fur friend along for your next family vacation! If you plan to visit Dauphin Island anytime soon, I hope you take these things into consideration. Small gift shop and library books, movies and games to check out. . There is no indoor seating and no outdoor benches. Action Outdoors provides boat trips through the waters that surround Dauphin Island, and private boat rides, birthday parties, and bay fishing trips are also available through Action Outdoors. Dauphin Island Beach Retreat in prestigious Desoto Landing, Luxury Dauphin Island Beachfront Holiday Isle Condo--NO FEES BY OWNER, Private Ramp - Canal Frontage - Kayaks w/Free use. It is in the post with a link to the actual place we stayed through Vacasa. From Fort Morgan, visitors can enjoy shopping at several outlet malls and bookstores. What hotels are near Dauphin Island Park And Beach? 1438 Bienville Blvd # 1-4, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 is a condo unit listed for-sale at $650,000. We really enjoyed our visit to Dauphin Island beach. For most, mentioning Alabama beach destinations likely brings Gulf Shores or Orange Beach to mind. The sand is super white and soft. I was surprised that the greens did putt fairly true even though they are very slow. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. 101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL 36528, 251-861-2141, Things to do near me today: Getaways from Seattle, NC day trips, FL, Getaways in California, Near Atlanta, AL. We started doing research and found it to be the #1 spot. Bayou La Batre is also host to a successful boat building industry, producing everything from barges and tugs to the Black Pearl from Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. The gallery is located at 918 Bienville Boulevard, and you'll recognize it by the small red and white lighthouse attached to the building. Dauphin Island guards the entrance to Mobile Bay, and it's about a thirty mile drive across water and land to Gulf Shores . Dauphin Island. The closest Gulf-front beach to Mobile is on Dauphin Island at the mouth of Mobile Bay, 40 minutes south of the Port City. display: none; Dauphin Island is known as a prime place for relaxing and having fun with family and friends. If you want groceries you have three options. Town of Dauphin Island Filters. We were told that the main parking area on the end of the beach by the beach houses was not pet friendly. Dauphin Island Heritage & Arts Gallery. Mobile Bay Ferry, Dauphin Island, Alabama. Dauphin Island Willow Tree Cottage. This post was originally published on September 2, 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. It was fun to watch kids and dogs playing. It was so good. Once you cross the bridge, you'll be transported into another time. Now known as the seafood capital of Alabama, the town immortalized in Winston Groom's "Forrest Gump" is home to oodles of fishermen and shrimpers. Restaurants were crowded but decent food considering the pandemic and shortage of workers.". a small nut . Yes Dogs are allowed. The full-service marina has an assortment of amenities, including fuel and oil for boats, an area for boat maintenance and storage, restrooms with showers, and a restaurant. Fort Gaines Campground. Dauphin Island, Alabama is three miles south of Mobile Bay in the Gulf of Mexico. They charge you per car and per person which can get pretty expensive. 5 min to Beach/Boat launch ! Hotels near Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Hotels near Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Hotels near Dauphin Island Little Red School House Community Complex, Hotels near Dauphin Island Park And Beach, Hotels near Mobile Municipal Airport (MOB), Motels near Mobile Municipal Airport (MOB). When we first booked our vacation house through Vacasa, we didn't really know a lot about the area. You can get there by riding the ferry, or driving around the island and coming across the bridge. If you are familiar with Gulf Shores, then you will know that Dauphin Island is at the very tip of the peninsula. The boat also takes cars and bicycles across the bay to Fort Morgan at Mobile Point. The island also offers two public beaches for day visitors at no cost. We stayed there a whole week. The public beach does not allow dogs and is so heavily trafficked you cannot find anything. Dauphin Island Beach Rentals. These will come in handy in case you are going to spend some time visiting Dauphin Island as well. Dog-friendly beachfront home with hot tub, wood fireplace, & elevator access. It is on the list of America's most endangered historical sites. We had heard that it was perfect for someone wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of it all. Bring everything you need including an umbrella, a ton of sunscreen, chairs, a cooler, towel, camera, a net (even if ur an adult its fun!) It incorporated in 1988. The Marina also provides kayak, standup paddleboard, and pontoon boat rentals for visitors who want to see dolphins and spot wildlife. We wanted to Snapper fish and he put us right on them. Prices vary throughout the year, with winter rates being the highest. The field trip and related curriculum provides students of all ages with an in-depth look at bay ecosystems. Each aquarium focuses on a unique aspect of the Mobile Bay Estuary, an area that is considered to be the fourth largest estuary system in the United States. [5] The population was 1,778 at the 2020 census, [4] up from 1,238 at the 2010 census. What are the top attractions to visit in Dauphin Island? There are oyster shells all over so you get a good idea of the history of the area. The seaweed is so far back on the beach that you cannot even get to the water. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. There are not a lot of restaurants on the island, so you have to be choosy when finding a place to eat but we did find a few places that are worth mentioning for sure. ENJOY! Very typical of civil war forts. Prices start at $375 per night, and houses and . For an educational venue the kids will appreciate, head to the Alabama Aquarium at the Sea Lab for one of the daily tours. However the "Hurricane of 1906" put an end to all of that, as it ransacked the hotels and railroad business. This property offers access to a patio. Dauphin Island Park And Beach - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Excellent white sand and clean beaches. Relaxing sun set great service and the best prices on kayak rentals they have fast delivery and great recommendations Adrenaline & Extreme Tours Waterskiing & Jetskiing. You'll even want to leave with plenty of time to stop at the unique shops and produce stands along the way. I like cooking breakfast in the mornings and son & husband love grilling. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. 110 AL-180 Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Get Directions Phone (251) 861-3000 Email kwade@hmsgm.com Come aboard the Mobile Bay Ferry and experience "the Gulf Coast's most scenic drive." Our ferries, the Fort Morgan and the Marissa Mae Nichole, carry passengers across Mobile Bay between Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan at Mobile Point. Mort Morgan (Across the bay) is better in my opinion). It's a protected bird sanctuary and Sea Lab campus. On the island, there is a Dollar Store and a convenience store with extremely overpriced food. When planning your trip to Dauphin Island, there are plenty of choices when it comes to selecting accommodations for your stay. We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times. By the turn of the 20th century, the area had developed into a thriving resort community. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is the prime area for spotting birds as they travel to and from Central and South America. Get Directions (251) 861-3607 . Dauphin Island's beaches, with their fine white sands and clear blue water, are considered some of the best in the state. He is the president of 5 Arrow Media, a company that covers community news in Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. A mix of the charming, modern, and tried and true. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. What hotels are near Dauphin Island Public Beach? Where did you go and stay that allowed your dog? The Mobile Bay Ferry operates year-round, and during busy months there are two ferries available to make the bay crossing.