The Audubon Bird Sanctuary — Hiking and Bird Watching

This bird sanctuary is a unique and beautiful part of the island. It is located within walking distance from the house via the beach or a very short drive via car. The bird sanctuary consists of approximately 150 acres consisting of maritime forest, a fresh water lake and sand dunes. It is a beautiful place to observe birds or simply enjoy a wonderful hike in nature with a variety of trees, plants, and landscapes. Several sources have ranked Dauphin Island as one of the top spots for birds and bird watching. Gaillard Lake is a fresh water lake in the bird sanctuary and is home to alligators, turtles and fish. There is a defined trail system with a portion of it set up with a boardwalk and that portion is a handicap accessible trail. A part of the trail has become part of the National Recreational Trails.

 

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium

The Estuarium is a public aquarium which is part of the Dauphin island Sea Lab. The Estuarium focuses on the Mobile-Tensaw Estuary System. It is a great learning experience with many exhibits including an outdoor stingray tank.

The sea lab itself is a marine science education and research laboratory serving many colleges and Universities throughout Alabama.

More information about the Estuarium and the Sea lab can be found at :

 

Fort Gaines

Fort Gaines is located on the most eastern tip of the island. Fort Gaines has a great deal of history.  It was built in 1821 and was center stage during the civil war battle of Mobile Bay.

The Fort is open for tours and throughout the year will host special events such as re-enactments, blacksmith demonstrations, concerts, etc.

 

 

Fishing

In addition to shore fishing, there are piers on the eastern tip of the island that accommodate fishing. Just north of the main bridge there is Cedar Point fishing pier.

There are numerous fishing charters that operate from Dauphin Island. Guides are also available to do various salt and fresh water fishing in the bay and the gulf.

The island hosts fishing rodeos during the summer.

 

Kayaking

Kayaking has become a very popular activity around the island. Not only is the Gulf of obvious interest but also Pelican Island and Little Dauphin Island are beautiful to explore and where one can find a variety of birds, turtles, crabs, stingrays, seashells, driftwood, etc.

There are several places that rent kayaks on the island.


Mardi Gras Parades

Dauphin Island hosts some of the first Mardi Gras Parades of the year. Usually the first parade is around the middle of January. The parades center on family fun. You can typically expect large crowds as everyone seems ready to celebrate.


Bicycle Riding

The island has bicycle trails that make it easy to get around on a bike and enjoy the sights, sounds and sunshine of the island. The main bike trail runs along side of Bienville Blvd. which is the main road running east and west.

There are several places that rent bicycles on the island.

 

Sunset Capital of Alabama & Sightseeing & Public Beaches

In July of 2013, Dauphin Island was designated the "Sunset Capital of Alabama." The view of the sunsets from the beaches can be truly breathtaking. For early risers, don't forget that the sunrises over the water to the east can be equally beautiful.

Sightseeing is also a favorite activity on the island to just relax and take it all in.

The main public beach offers parking, showers, and swimming. The old (now land locked) fishing pier offers an easy walk with great panoramic views.

The western end of the island also has a public beach. Both public beaches charge a fee for parking/admission.