Dauphin Island has about 17 miles of beaches on both sides, allowing for an exquisite and magical backdrop at every turn.
What are the beaches like? How can you access them?
The below is our detailed guide to the Dauphin Island beaches, from the amenity-filled beach points near downtown to the isolated and uncrowded beach escapes on the island’s fine western edge. These are some of the least known beaches along the Gulf.
Dauphin Island Public Beach
Dauphin Island has a singular main public beach. Colloquially known as Dauphin Island Public Beach, you can find covered picnic tables in the sand, well-kept facilities, and a lovely boardwalk pathway.
There is a nominal fee of $5 per car, and the beach is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Pets are allowed on the beach, but they must be leashed at all times. Parking is available at the site on a first come, first served basis.
It is formally located at 1501 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528.
You can choose to stay at the Holiday Isle Resort for unimpeded views of the beach. Your condo rental overlooks the water, giving you unprecedented access to some of the most glorious beaches on the gulf. You can take advantage of the close proximity to Dauphin Island’s top beach destination.
East End Beach
East End Beach is a stunner. Tucked away on the northeastern edge of Dauphin Island, the beach overlooks some of the prettiest water views anywhere on the gulf. It is known for its close proximity to the major historical site, Fort Gaines.
Private Beach
Contact us for details about any local private beaches. Many of our Dauphin Island vacation rentals have beach access points you and your family can take full advantage of, right from the patio of your home-away-from-home.
What do the locals think is the best beach?
Tourists often turn to Dauphin Island Public Beach first and foremost due to its size and popularity. While this is certainly a great option, it is not necessarily the beach considered the best by the locals.
West End Public Beach is the most isolated, as it gets you away from the main island center and to its reserved and isolated western side.
Which beach is best for families, fishermen, couples looking for a quiet spot?
Every major beach on Dauphin island has its own charms. You can find some lovely views at the East End Beach. This spot is especially popular for families due to its close proximity to Fort Gaines. The facilities are generous and clean, making this a lovely spot for many visitors. You can also utilize the nearby Mobile Bay Ferry at this beach.
Dauphin Island Beach is pet-friendly, so families bringing their furry friend along should spend their afternoons here. However, please keep your pet on a leash. We want all of our visitors to be safe and have a good time, whether they walk on 2 legs or 4.
Couples looking for a quiet spot may find a lot to love on the West End Beach due to its off-the-radar appeal and nearness to the remote western sprawl of the island. Wade fishing is also popular here, and many daring fishermen may even head as far west as they can for some true fishing adventurers.
The Audubon Bird Sanctuary also has its own beach access point at the very back of the grounds. It features incredible dune views, and is a dazzling place to go for a romantic escape soaked in nature.
Beachfront Dauphin Island Rentals
Stay close to the action when you stay in a beachfront condo or rental home. Contact us any time for more on the beaches and our beachfront Holiday Isle resort vacation rentals.