Dauphin Island’s stunning views, secluded beaches, and warm waters make it a great Gulf of Mexico vacation spot – away from the noise and the crowded snowbird beaches. It’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway or a trip for the family looking for a quieter adventure – and one of the best places to see birds and other wildlife.
But what’s a vacation without the four-legged members of your family? Below is a guide to bringing the dog on vacation, from Dauphin Island dog-friendly vacation rentals, to beaches, to natural attractions.
Dog-Friendly Nature Parks and Sights
A popular dog-friendly site on the island is the Audubon Bird Sanctuary (211 Bienville Blvd.) at the eastern end of Dauphin Island.
This 137-acre sanctuary with three miles of trails brings visitors to the natural heart of the island and allows you to see a vast range of migrating and native bird species in their habitat.
Pets are allowed in all areas of the park, with city leash laws in effect.
The sanctuary is open 24 hours a day. Practice safe hiking by bringing a first aid kit, hiking boots or shoes, and plenty of water for you and your pet. Contact sanctuary officials at (251) 861-3607 for details, including trail guides and bird sighting checklists.
While there aren’t currently any dog parks on the island, efforts are being made toward creating off-leash zones for both locals and visitors.
Dogs on the Beach and City Rules
Pets are allowed on Dauphin Island public beaches. However, there are two enforced laws that any pet owner should be familiar with and abide by: pets must be picked up after (using bags and trash cans available at most beach access points), and pets must be kept on leashes at all times. Both of these city rules are enforced with potential fines.
While pets are generally welcome in public spaces on Dauphin Island, there is one exception: West End Beach. This area is home to critical bird nesting habitats. Dauphin Island is a major migratory bird point, providing essential grounds for bird species.
While West End Beach might be one of the top wildlife attractions for humans, pets are prohibited on this beach.
Plan Your Dauphin Island Vacation
Contact us at (251)-861-3311 for details about any of our Dauphin Island dog-friendly vacation rental and attractions here. Find a home away from home without leaving any family member behind!
Dog Friendly Vacation Rentals
Few of the above features hold weight unless you can find the perfect Dauphin Island dog-friendly vacation rental.
We are pleased to be able to provide multiple pet-friendly vacation homes on Dauphin Island. Many of the rental properties offer direct access to the pearl-white sands and overlook the gulf or have breathtaking views of the bay and the sound.
With its vast, quiet beaches and small-island town feel, Dauphin Island is a great place to bring the whole family – including Fido.
Are you dreaming about your beach vacation? Start planning your trip and find the perfect Dauphin Island vacation rental for you: