Dauphin Island is one of the last unspoiled coastal towns left on the Gulf Coast. A visit to Dauphin Island today is like a visit the coast 50 years ago. I grew up spending summers on Dauphin Island and I am glad not much has changed. You can always get the new and improved coast but, for a simple vacation and/or lifestyle, Dauphin Island is just what you are looking for.

The island has changed much since I've known it. There has been a little development and a little demolition. In the 60's there was a great Holiday Inn on the island. The pool had a little bridge over it and I spent days swimming in that pool. Back then the west end was not fenced off and there was not a cut through he west end. In fact, you could get your car out on the beach and drive all the way to the western tip of the island. That was great fun but not possible anymore.

The Isle Dauphin Club was actually a club back then with a golf course, tennis courts, swimming pool, pool side grill and a fancy dress restaurant and the beach with complimentary sunfish sail boards for members. After a full day of fishing we'd come back and sail the sunfish, swim, then shower, dress and have dinner. life couldn't get any better than that I thought.

There was also a time when Sand Island was a real island. Over the years it has migrated to the west to the point it actually touches Dauphin Island. Before this big migration, Sand Island sat closer to Sand Island Light and was accessible only be boat. Tidal pools and a dip net guaranteed endless hours of fun capturing and releasing the tidal pool inhabitants. There was even an old shipwreck that sat on the southeastern tip of Sand Island. Over the years it has disappeared. 

Dauphin Island is actually an island. It is one of the barrier islands that protects the gulf coast proper from the ravages of hurricanes. The first bridge to Dauphin Island was not completed until 1952.

Just because Dauphin Island hasn't been subjected to the out off control development that has swept through the rest of the gulf coast, you still have some nice vacation condo developments.

You also have some unique attractions, fishing, Fort Gaines, Indian Shell Mound Park, The Estuarium, then beach, peace and quiet, everything that can make your visit both memorable and enjoyable.

Dauphin Island has never been known for upscale restaurants. 

If you time your visit right you can observe the goings on of the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo and, if you are adventurous enough you can even fish in it. (More Rodeo Info)

Places to Eat on Dauphin Island: There are quite a few great little restaurants on Dauphin Island. You won't find the Four Seasons but you will eat good.

The Lighthouse Bakery is fantastic. Pastries and coffee in the morning should be your tradition when you are on the island. Stop in to get a quick breakfast but be prepared to share the line with some very informed and well fed fishermen who know the Lighthouse Bakery makes some of the best sandwiches you will find anywhere. The Lighthouse Bakery, 919 Chaumont Ave., Dauphin Island, AL 36528 (251) 861-2253.

Barnacle Bill's is more than just a burger joint at the marina. There is nothing fancy about the place, just good food in a friendly atmosphere Barnacle Bill's is the first place you see on the left hand side of the road when you come onto Dauphin Island. You can come by car or foot to this little restaurant located at the Dauphin Island Marina. I've had the best burger of my life at Barnacle Bill's. Make sure you stop by.