When the summer season comes to a close, many seasonal tourists are back to work, kids are back to school, and life is back on. But a lucky few vacationers can getaway during the winter to find a quieter and perhaps more relaxed vacation destination on Dauphin Island.
Though Dauphin Island may slow down a bit when the crisper air settles in, it is definitely still up and running.
You can find some wonderful sights and attractions throughout the island and in the beautiful nature preserves and parks. Dauphin Island is known for its quiet and isolated relaxation. Take this even further for a romantic and adventurous winter getaway.
Consider taking a break from colder weather up north, renting one of our Alabama beach condo rentals and enjoy pleasant temperatures and the ocean scenery on Dauphin Island.
Who is open and what is happening? Here is Dauphin Island as it looks during the winter.
Year-Round Dining
Dauphin Island is home to over 1,000 permanent residents. They work year-round and often stay on the island to do so. The island is still buzzing along even off-season. Many of the Dauphin Island restaurants remain open and vibrant.
Pirate’s Bar and Grill has some of the most impressive water views in the area. You can stay in the cozy interior and appreciate the backdrop from your table. Pirates restaurant is locally-famous for its breakfast. Wednesday wing night often draws a crowd.
Islanders Restaurant and Bar is another local favorite. Though Islanders has a wide-open patio and bar, you may want to stay inside and soak in the views from the warmer interior. The menu is rather refined, only focused on the best dishes. You have several locally sourced entrees to choose from, including rib-eye, pasta alfredo, and the seafood sampler of shrimp, oysters, fish, and calamari.
If you like the convenience of fast food and the delicious quality of a homecooked meal, then there is a restaurant on the island designed just for you! Dinner’s Ready is one of Dauphin Island’s newest eateries that focuses on local ingredients, good food, and speedy pick-up. Swing by to grab lunch and picnic on the beach or order dinner for an evening in your Dauphin Island rental with the family.
Visit Dauphin Island Today
Shop, dine, and play when the temperatures drop up north. Dauphin Island is an invigorating winter escape. Its quiet demeanor is even more charming during the cooler months of the year. Book one of our Alabama beach condo rentals to enjoy the shores of Alabama year-round.
There are also some warm and welcoming cafes and bakeries that could help elevate your winter-time escape. Lighthouse Bakery is a delightful little stop in a classic Alabama home by the water. Foxy’s Waffle Bar is something special. The cozy décor and fun attitude will help alleviate any winter time chills you may have.
Shopping
You may not necessarily be looking for a new bikini top in the middle of winter, but Dauphin Island has some fantastic shopping. Most of the best shops will be right alongside Bienville Blvd.
The Happy Octopus is a lovely little place to check out if you are looking for some boutique apparel, including dresses, accessories, sand dollars, and some local-specific goodies.
The Silver Pearl is a dedicated gift shop. Most of the items here have something to do with the local Dauphin Island culture. Find knickknacks, jewelry, and other island-themed gifts in this colorful little shack.
The Sand Box has a nice mix of higher-end items and accessible low-priced gifts. You can find handcrafted glass art, jewelry, beach gear, and more. It’s definitely worth a look if you are trying to find something unique to embody the spirit of Dauphin Island.
Snowbird Season and Top Attractions
Seasonal snowbirds during the middle of winter will keep the island thriving. While some sleepy towns may take a seasonal nap, Dauphin Island is still buzzing. Many of the top attractions may slow down, but they never outright close for the winter.
This includes perhaps the area’s most fascinating historic attraction, Fort Gaines. This authentic site was a pivotal point in the Battle of Mobile Bay. While it may cool down during the season, you can still walk the grounds and view the big and beautiful bay views. The fort will close for holidays, including Christmas and Thanksgiving, but is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. most days.
The Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium is also open year-round. It showcases the four main habitats of the region among other fascinating rotating exhibits.
Last but not least, the winter is one of the best times for birding on Dauphin Island, even without the fall bird migrants, as shorebird species flock into the island along with a variety of sea birds and other unique species. See them in the winter and any other time of year at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary.