15 Best Fun Filled Things to do in Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island, Alabama is a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast, offering a unique mix of nature, history, and fun. Located just south of Mobile Bay, this barrier island is known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and charming small-town atmosphere. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Dauphin Island has something for everyone. Here are the 15 best fun-filled things to do in Dauphin Island, including things to do in Dauphin Island when it rains and family-friendly activities.

1. Visit the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab is a marine science education and research facility, offering a variety of interactive exhibits, aquariums, and educational programs. Visitors can learn about the Gulf of Mexico’s diverse marine life, explore the estuarine habitats, and even touch live marine animals. The Sea Lab is perfect for families with kids of all ages, and a great way to learn about the Gulf Coast’s unique ecosystem.

2. Relax on the Beach

Dauphin Island is home to miles of beautiful, uncrowded beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The Island’s public beach offers free access to the Gulf of Mexico and is ideal for families with children. Visitors can also explore the island’s more secluded beaches, like the West End Beach or the Shell Mounds, for a more private experience.

3. Explore the Estuary

The Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is a hands-on exhibit that showcases the diverse estuarine habitats of the Gulf Coast. Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and live animal displays to learn about the unique plants and animals that call these habitats home. The Estuarium is a great place to spend a rainy day and is perfect for families with young children.

4. Discover the Fort Gaines Historic Site

Fort Gaines is a historic military fort that played a significant role in the Civil War and the Battle of Mobile Bay. Visitors can explore the fort’s original cannons, tunnels, and bastions, and learn about the daily life of the soldiers who served there. Fort Gaines also offers guided tours and interactive exhibits, making it a great place for history buffs and families alike.

5. Visit the Audubon Bird Sanctuary

The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is a 164-acre nature preserve that offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can explore the island’s diverse ecosystems, including dunes, marshes, and forests, and see a variety of migratory birds and local wildlife. The Bird Sanctuary is a great place for nature lovers and hikers, and a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty.

6. Go Fishing

Dauphin Island is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Visitors can fish from the island’s public piers, take a charter boat out into the Gulf of Mexico, or explore the island’s estuarine habitats for a chance to catch redfish, speckled trout, and other popular game fish.

7. Take a Dolphin Watching Tour

The waters around Dauphin Island are home to a variety of marine wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays. Visitors can take a guided dolphin-watching tour to see these animals up close and learn about their behavior and habitat. Dolphin-watching tours are a fun and educational way to experience the Gulf Coast’s diverse marine life and are great for families and animal lovers.

8. Rent Bikes and Explore the Island

Dauphin Island is a small, bike-friendly community, with miles of scenic bike paths and trails. Visitors can rent bikes from local rental companies and explore the island at their own pace, taking in the island’s natural beauty, historic sites, and charming small-town atmosphere.

9. Visit the Dauphin Island Public Library

The Dauphin Island Public Library is a cozy community library that offers a variety of books, movies, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The library also hosts weekly events, like storytime for kids and adult book clubs, making it a great place to connect with the local community and learn something new.

10. Take a Sunset Cruise

The Gulf Coast is known for its stunning sunsets, and Dauphin Island is no exception. Visitors can take a sunset cruise to see the island’s coastline and the Gulf of Mexico in a whole new light. Sunset cruises are also a great way to see dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

11. Visit the Isle Dauphine Golf Club

The Isle Dauphine Golf Club is a public golf course that offers 18 holes of scenic golfing, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The course is suitable for all skill levels, and visitors can rent clubs and carts from the clubhouse. The Isle Dauphine Golf Club is a great way to spend a relaxing day on the island and take in the stunning views.

12. Take a Kayak or Paddleboard Tour

Visitors can explore Dauphin Island’s estuarine habitats and waterways by taking a guided kayak or paddleboard tour. These tours offer a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty and are great for active visitors who want to experience the Gulf Coast’s diverse ecosystem up close.

13. Visit the Indian Shell Mound Park

The Indian Shell Mound Park is a historic site that dates back to the Mississippian Period, around 1100 AD. Visitors can explore the park’s ancient shell mounds, which were created by the island’s early inhabitants, and learn about the island’s rich Native American history. The Indian Shell Mound Park is a great place for history buffs and families with children.

14. Go Crabbing

Crabbing is a popular activity on Dauphin Island, with opportunities to catch blue crabs and other types of crabs in the island’s estuarine habitats. Visitors can rent crab traps from local bait and tackle shops, and try their hand at this fun and educational activity. Crabbing is a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty and learn about the Gulf Coast’s diverse marine life.

15. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Dauphin Island is known for its fresh seafood, and visitors can sample some of the island’s best dishes at local restaurants and seafood markets. From fried shrimp and oysters to grilled fish and crab cakes, the island’s cuisine is a must-try for foodies and seafood lovers.

Things to Do in Dauphin Island When It Rains:

1. Visit the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium
2. Explore the Fort Gaines Historic Site
3. Visit the Dauphin Island Public Library
4. Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour
5. Visit the Indian Shell Mound Park

Family Things to Do in Dauphin Island:

1. Visit the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium
2. Relax on the Beach
3. Explore the Fort Gaines Historic Site
4. Visit the Audubon Bird Sanctuary
5. Go Fishing
6. Take a Dolphin Watching Tour
7. Rent Bikes and Explore the Island

FAQs

Conclusion:

Dauphin Island, Alabama, is a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast, with something for everyone, from stunning beaches and outdoor activities to rich history and fresh seafood. Whether you’re a family looking for fun-filled activities or an animal lover wanting to explore the Gulf Coast’s diverse ecosystem, Dauphin Island has plenty to offer. Don’t miss out on the top 15 things to do in Dauphin Island, including visiting the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium, exploring the historic Fort Gaines site, and enjoying the island’s fresh seafood cuisine. Start planning your trip to Dauphin Island today and experience the Gulf Coast’s hidden gem.