xperience the Gulf Coast like never before and explore the salt marshes this summer. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab hosts summer excursions for all ages to explore the coastal grassland area. Put on your marine biologist hat and learn about the important role the salt marshes play in the Gulf of Mexico and how they support life outside of their habitat.
Any spot along the coastal areas of the byway can provide breathtaking views. It’s sometimes hard to tell where the sky ends and the water begins. And reflections off the water are something to behold.
As you explore Alabama's Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway, it won’t take you long to realize why there is a strong movement to protect its natural beauty, wildlife and coastal barrier strength. Coastal ecosystems are both fierce and fragile. They’re vital for wildlife, those who make their home and livelihood inland, and global environmental systems. ...Read More
Dauphin Island, a favorite stop along Alabama’s Coastal Connection, is known for gorgeous natural scenery and educational opportunities. The island is also home to beautiful, quiet beaches! Here are your options for public beach access on Dauphin Island: West End Public Beach This beach is a wonderful choice, especially if you’re looking for a beach ...Read More
On either side of the entrance to Mobile Bay from the Gulf of Mexico, a fort greets sailors and visitors. But these are not just gathering places for friends and family. Both Fort Gaines on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan on the western bank of the Fort Morgan Peninsula have storied ...Read More
If you love the sounds of spring as much as you do the sights, make sure to make a stop at the Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary holds a top-four spot in the nation for viewing spring migrations. Whether you cross the little bridge over to Dauphin Island or ferry over ...Read More
If you’re looking to add to your byway adventure at a more leisurely pace, the Mobile Bay Ferry may be just the stop for you. The ferry offers year-round service across Mobile Bay between Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island. Tickets can be purchased at varying rates for passage. No matter where you’ll arrive, the journey ...Read More
Traffic lights are few, and bike paths and walking trails are many on Dauphin Island. Home to Historic Fort Gaines, the Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and the Mobile Bay Ferry, this oasis provides family-friendly fun away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Dauphin Island beckons you to slow down and spend ...Read More
As a top North American location for bird viewing, Dauphin Island offers some of the best spots in the world to catch sight of winged beauties! The area features more than 135 acres of salt marshes, forests and dunes - as well as a lake and a beach - which are home to 420 bird ...Read More
Fishing along the Alabama Gulf Coast is popular in warmer months. But did you know winter fishing can also provide a great haul? During cooler weather, anglers reel in amberjack, Spanish mackerel, flounder, mullet, sheepshead, grouper and more. Dip a line in waterways along Alabama’s Coastal Connection. A great place to start is the Gulf ...Read More