How to get to Dauphin Island from Gulf Shores

Dauphin Island is known for being a wonderful vacation getaway for anyone looking to take a trip to the Gulf Shores area. With beaches and a laid back feel away from the hustle and bustle of a bigger city, this spot is perfect for ultimate relaxation. You won’t miss the Gulf Shores at all, and you’ll soon be excited to book your Dauphin Island Holiday Isle rentals right away.

But of course, just like any vacation, you have to plan on how to get to your newly booked Dauphin Island vacation rentals.

Map on how to get to Dauphin Island from Gulf Shores

Where is Dauphin Island on the map?

Rentals of Dauphin Island beach are usually referred to as being near Gulf Shores. This is an easy direction to narrow down where the area is, but Dauphin Island is so much more than that. Located in the Gulf of Mexico, you can find Dauphin Island due west of Gulf Shores, and off the southern coast of Alabama. Dauphin Island is located directly south of Mobile, Alabama and is just southwest of the waters of the Mobile Bay.

The long, thin island stretches between Fort Morgan to the east and Petit Bois Island to the west. South of Dauphin Island is nothing but beautiful blue gulf waters.

Historic Fort in Alabama

How far is Dauphin Island from Gulf Shores?

Many people use the Gulf Shores as a landmark for Dauphin Island because of the short distance between each of the shores. Although some people may tell you there are more than 80 miles to travel between Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island, that’s taking the long way. Really, there’s a distance of just under 25 miles between the two if you are traveling the shortest distance possible.

Driving directions from Gulf Shores

Because of the proximity to Gulf Shores, many people will use this as a starting point when getting to Dauphin Island. One option is to take major interstates up and over the Mobile Bay and then back south to Alabama Port and eventually take the bridge over to Dauphine Island. This route, however, is very long and tedious considering the alternative.

Instead of taking that drive, there is a much more interesting and fun option to take to travel from Gulf Shores to Dauphin Island—and that’s by hopping on the ferry. Not only is this route a little more exciting, but it’s also much quicker. Using this option, you would simply take Fort Morgan Road west through Gulf Shores until you get to the end. There, catch the ferry over to the island.

Not only will you get an interesting and unique ride to Dauphin Island, but you’ll also end up at the Sea Lab to learn more about the nature around you. A 40-minute ferry ride on the Fort Morgan Ferry will take you right to the eastern end of Dauphin Island where the Sea Lab is located. On your way over from the mainland, you’ll be able to see local scenery and wildlife.

Couple walking in wooded area Dauphin Island

Why visit Dauphin Island

Between the beautiful beaches and the calm seclusion from city life, the reasons to visit beautiful Dauphin Island are endless. Of course, you’ll want to spend some time on or in the water. Water sports or even some fishing expeditions are great options. There are tons of shops and restaurants to check out.

One other fantastic thing you can do is explore the nature that surrounds Dauphin Island by visiting the bird sanctuary or the sea lab. Plus, you’ll find so many choices for family-friendly vacations too.

Whatever you decide to fill your days with, a vacation to Dauphin Island will give you the relaxing and rejuvenating getaway you’ve been looking for.