The Happiness Function

What should you do if you only have two days on Dauphin Island? This guide will take you to the best spots.

Visiting Dauphin Island is one of the most memorable things you can do if you are in the Mobile Bay area for a few days, a weekend, or a vacation. Located on a narrow barrier island south of Mobile Bay, this Gulf Coast barrier island offers beautiful white sand beaches and a laid-back vibe.

We love it here, and I’m excited to share what we did to help you plan your trip.

Dauphin Island Visitor’s Guide: What To Do in 2 Days

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Day 1: Explore the East End

Day 1 Overview: Fort Gains, the Estuarium and Dauphin Island Sea Lab, East End Beach, and Audubon Bird Sanctuary are all located on the island’s east end.

It is easy to walk from one place to the next and spend one entire day exploring what this side of the island offers.

Tour the Historic Fort Gains

Fort Gaines is a surreal place where you can spend an hour sightseeing. The fort was constructed in 1821 and served as an outpost during the American Civil War. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors can tour the inside and outside. Fort Gains is right next to the water and the East End Beach.

Visit the Estuarium and Dauphin Island Sea Lab

The Estuarium and Sea Lab are located across the street from Fort Gaines. Here, you can learn about local sea life and aquatic ecosystems. Visitors can see live creatures that normally inhabit the area and learn about their characteristics, behaviors, and habitats.

This is an excellent spot to visit, and it’s open year-round. It has 31 aquariums with over 100 species of marine life.

Hang Out at the East End Beach

After exploring Fort Gaines and the Estuarium, walk to the East End Beach. The white sand beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

The beach is also close to the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. The bird sanctuary trails go from the beaches into the coastal forest and marsh.

From May through November, keep your eyes peeled for nesting sea turtles.

Hike Around the Trails in the Audubon Bird Sanctuary

The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is a place for people who want to explore more of the outdoors. This sanctuary is known for its wide variety of birds. We saw turtles and lots of birds. There are beautiful trails and boardwalks. You might even catch a glimpse of an alligator or nesting Osprey.

Day 2: Explore the Central and West End

Day 2 Overview: Dauphin Beach, the Goat Tree Reserve, Shell Mound Park, and the West End Beach are all located on the central to west end areas of the island.

It is easy to drive from one place to the next and spend one day exploring. So pack your car for the beach and some light walking.

Spend Most of the Day at Dauphin Beach

Dauphin Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It’s located at the island’s southern end and offers a long, beautiful stretch of white sand. Some sandbars help make the water calmer and clearer, making it perfect for swimming.

Visitors are led along boardwalks and a pier to access the beach, taking beach-goers out to where the sand begins.

Dauphin Beach is dog-friendly.

A few shops and restaurants are across the street from the parking lot.

Drive By the Goat Tree Reserve

If you are a nature lover, then you will want to visit the Goat Tree Reserve. This is where you will find huge live Oak trees on the island.

The local lore says that goats would climb up these tall trees to escape the alligators at one time – hence the name Goat Trees.

You’ll want to drive or bike here. It’s just fun to see.

Stop and Walk Around Shell Mound Park

Shell Mound Park is where you can spend a little time walking around and taking photos. It also has a few interesting historical sites, such as large shell mounds built when people lived here centuries ago.

You’ll want to drive or bike here.

Catch the Sunset at the West End Beach

The West End Beach is another popular public beach, and it’s a great place to spend some time.

This particular beach and area of the island are known for their sunsets. Photographers flock here to capture pictures of the sky changing colors above the water.

Pets are not allowed at the West End Beach.

Day Trip Ideas From Dauphin Island

If you have more time on the island, you might enjoy taking the ferry to Fort Morgan and then onto Gulf Shores.

Taking the Mobile Bay Ferry To Fort Morgan

If you want to learn more about the local history and explore other attractions, then take a trip on the Mobile Bay Ferry to Fort Morgan.

Exploring Gulf Shores

After visiting Fort Morgan, head towards Gulf Shores. Hit up some of the beaches and enjoy a seafood lunch at one of many great restaurants. Gulf Shores is known as the “Riviera of the South.”

There are so many things to see and do and miles of beaches.

Gulf Shores State Park has a wonderful campground. Check out our travel guide: 15 Amazing Reasons You’ll Want to Camp at Gulf Shores State Park.

Getting to Dauphin Island

From Mobile, Alabama, follow I-10 West out of Mobile until you reach the bridge that connects to the island.

Getting Around

You need a vehicle to get to the island. We recommend having a vehicle (and a bike) while you’re there to make things easier. Though it is a small island where you can walk or bike to most places, it is 14 miles long.

Is Dauphin Island Worth Visiting?

Yes, it’s one of Alabama’s best-kept secrets.

The island is connected to land via an overwater concrete bridge. It is surrounded by water, so it feels like an oasis.

Where To Stay

Dauphin Island Campground

The Dauphin Island campground is located on the eastern end of the island. It provides easy access to Fort Gains, the Estuarium and Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary.

It has RV hook-ups, showers, and flush toilets. If you are interested in staying here, be sure to check availability and reserve your spot well ahead of time.

Read more about how to stay at the campground and our personal experience.

Dauphin Island Rentals

If you’re looking for an extended stay on Dauphin Island, renting a vacation home or condo could be perfect for your needs.

🏖️ Find mid-budget places to stay on Dauphin Island.

Dauphin Island vs. Gulf Shores

Both Dauphin Island and Gulf Shores have beautiful beaches. However, if you are looking for fewer crowds and a more secluded beach vacation, Dauphin Island is the way to go.

Dauphin Island is also pet-friendly.

Gulf Shores is more extensive and has more nightlife, shopping, restaurants, and places to stay. Gulf Shores has more of a resort beach town feel. In contrast, Dauphin Island has more of a laid-back local vibe.

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