Located at the Southernmost point of Alabama, Dauphin Island offers the perfect destination for summer fun. Book your getaway with Boardwalk Realty and easily access the top Dauphin Island tourist attractions found along our 14-mile island. Head to the island’s east end and spend the day exploring historic Fort Gaines, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. Or visit the pristine East, Middle, or West end beaches for a day of fun in the sun. Whether you seek a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous family vacation, we have something for everyone!
1. Historic Fort Gaines
Historic Fort Gaines was built in 1821 and is best known for its contributions to the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. This preserved fort has original cannons, a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, a gift shop, and tunnels for visitors to explore. Take a self-guided tour and learn about the fascinating history through signs, exhibits, and artifacts.
2. Dauphin Island Sea Lab Alabama Aquarium
The Dauphin Island Sea Lab is Alabama’s leading marine science research and education center. The Sea Lab operates the Alabama Aquarium, where you can stroll through exhibits and interactive displays highlighting the four key habitats of coastal Alabama. Discover the 10,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall, explore the Living Marsh Boardwalk, and attend an educational Boardwalk Talk at one of Dauphin Island’s top tourist attractions!
3. Audubon Bird Sanctuary
Dauphin Island is located in a Globally Important Bird Area and is one of the best places in the country for bird watching! Visit the Audubon Bird Sanctuary and look for hundreds of bird species as you stroll through 164 acres of trails winding through pines, live oaks, swamps, and beaches. Use the local bird sighting checklist for helpful info about birding on Dauphin Island!
4. Dauphin Island Beaches
Play at the Dauphin Island beaches during your getaway and relax along our Gulf Coast beaches’ soft, sugar-white sand. Head to one of three public beaches- East Beach, Middle Beach, or West End Beach for fishing, swimming, and watersports. Check out all the local beach access points to find where to park during your visit. Stay in one of our Gulf Front vacation rentals and access the beach steps from your rental home.
5. Indian Shell Mound Park
Indian Shell Mound Park is on the National Register of Historic Places. It features shell mounds dating back to the Mississippi period (1100-1550). Over centuries, this shell mound was used as a gathering site for indigenous people, where they came together to harvest fish and exchange goods. Learn about the history of indigenous people on Dauphin Island here!
Dauphin Island Alabama Beach Rentals
Plan a visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast and discover the top Dauphin Island tourist attractions during your visit with Boardwalk Realty. Reserve one of our Gulf Front vacation rentals on Dauphin Island and stay steps away from our beautiful white sand beaches. If you need assistance finding the best rental, please call us at 1-877-861-3992.
