How to Make the Most of the Gulf State Park Pier

Gulf State Park Pier
The vast and biologically diverse sanctuary that is Gulf State Park features some of the area’s best opportunities to spot flora and fauna like nowhere else. Features of the park, like the Gulf State Park Pier, allow you to soak it all in and take advantage of some of the best scenery and fishing the park has to offer. So, when you plan your visit to the Gulf Shores area, be sure to make the most of your trip with a stop at the Gulf State Park Pier.

Gulf State Park and the Gulf State Park Pier are a couple of great things to do on Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Fortunately for you, there’s plenty more where those come from. Here at Sunset Properties, we want you to have the best vacation ever. So, we’ve put together a free, downloadable Vacation Guide, just for you! It’s the best way to plan and see all the great things our area has to offer. You’re going to love it!

What’s There to Do at the Gulf State Park Pier?

The Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier is one of the park’s focal points, and it offers some of the best views along the Gulf Coast. It is the second longest pier along the entire Gulf Coast at 2,448 feet of available fishing space. So, what’s the best way to enjoy the pier? Here are a few options.

Fishing

The obvious answer. With 2,448 feet of fishable pier, all you have to do is pay a small daily fee to enjoy great pier fishing. You can fish off the pier for just $9.00 per day, and you can rent a fishing rod for $20.00 per day. Children under 11 may fish for free when accompanied by a paying adult. And, for your fishing needs, the indoor retail area on the pier has you covered. Be sure to get your Alabama saltwater fishing license before you go!

Photography and Sightseeing

The second longest pier on the Gulf Coast is naturally a wonderful scenic vantage point. Bring your camera or enjoy a moment of tranquility on one of the pier’s benches, and you’ll know what we mean. This is a spectacular sunset view whether you want a picture or just want to relax. There is a small fee for sightseeing on the pier, just $3.

Other Things to Do at Gulf State Park

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

This is your opportunity to see the beauty of the park up close and personal. Wonderful hiking and biking trails and paths wind through the park, highlighting the waterways, wooded areas, and dunes the park contains.

Nature Center

Gulf State Park’s Nature Center features plants and animals native to the park and the Gulf Coast region. Whether it’s the turtles, the snakes, the trees, or the taxidermy, there’s something to enjoy for everyone in the family!

Beautiful Beaches

Over three and a half miles of white sand beaches will capture your attention and delight your toes. And, these family-friendly beaches are ideal for beach days full of fun and relaxation. Cool off in the water or lay out and get a tan, it doesn’t matter! You’ll love these beaches!

The Perfect Vacation for Utter Relaxation

When you consider all the incredible experiences you can have along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, it’s a no-brainer to book your summer vacation here. So, get to planning! Here at Sunset Properties, we’re ready for you! Our beautiful condos and beach houses are the best way to make beachy memories you and yours will never forget. So, browse our available properties and see for yourself how great a vacation here can be. Contact us today to book your beach getaway!

What Cool Animals Will You See at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo?

alabama gulf coast zoo
The biologically rich and diverse region that is Alabama’s Gulf Coast offers great ways to experience nature, whether out in Gulf State Park or at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The zoo offers unique chances to experience a variety of animals; it’s a great chance for kids and parents alike to make fun memories here on Alabama’s Gulf Coast! So, what do you have to look forward to at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo? We’ll tell you!

Lions, tigers, and bears are just part of the fun you’ll find on Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Download our free Vacation Guide for the best ideas for an incredible vacation. At Sunset Properties, we strive to ensure your vacation is the best it can possibly be. We think you’ll love it!

What Will You See at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo?

First and foremost, to get the most out of your visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, you should understand their mission. They opened in 1989 under the moniker, Zooland Animal Park. At the zoo, you’ll find an experience tailor-made to the visitor. Wide pathways, over 500 exotic exhibits, ample shade, and concessions are just a few ways the zoo strives to bring you the best zoo experience on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The zoo operates from sponsorships, grants, and endowments to bring the best experience possible to its patrons. There, you’ll find lions, tigers, bears, primates, leopards, wolves, and more! Caring zookeepers work with the animals to ensure your zoo experience is the best it could possibly be!

Zoo Encounters

At Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, you’ll have great opportunities for a zoo encounter with some of the more easygoing animals! Imagine the look on your kids’ faces when they hop around with a joey, play with the lemurs, take it slow with the sloths, and more!

Kangaroo Encounters

Come, hang out with some joeys! The friendly kangaroo kids are a fun way to get up close and personal with Australia’s most iconic marsupial. The encounter also makes a great photo op!

Lemur Encounters

These fun creatures have been the icons of recent children’s movies, but what makes them popular at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is playtime! Come, join in on the fun with the young lemurs as they swing around and climb all over the place! It’s sure to make fun memories!

Reptile Garden

Walk through the reptile garden with a knowledgeable handler and have the chance to meet some of the coolest slithering critters! Lizards, gators, snakes, turtles, and more await you, safely, of course.

Sloth Encounters

Take it slow with a sloth encounter! The loveable, lazy sloths are the perfect slow-paced encounter for the kids! During this encounter, you’ll learn about the sloth’s natural habitat, diet, and movement patterns.

Tamandua Encounters

The tamandua, or lesser anteater, is a friendly-looking creature sure to make the kids laugh at its goofy appearance. The anteater, though, offers a unique zoo encounter! Learn about its habitat, diet, and more!

Plan a Visit to the Zoo During Your Family Vacation

There’s so much to adventure as a family here on Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Plan a visit to the zoo or soak up the fun and sun at the beach! You can’t  go wrong! Plan your family vacation to the Gulf Coast and see for yourself how incredible of a time it will be. Browse our beautiful condos and beach houses for the best places to stay down here. Here at Sunset Properties, we are your source for comfort and relaxation! So, contact us today to book your stay! And, when you’re looking for great things to do, be sure to download our free Vacation Guide!

 

Here are the Top 5 Gulf Shores Summer Camps

gulf shores summer camps
All around the Gulf Shores area, fun and educational opportunities are available for children to make the most of their summers.
Gulf Shores summer camps bring to the table what a typical vacation may not include, giving your child the chance to engage and enjoy the fantastic natural beauty, ecosystems, and fun on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. When your child participates in one of these Gulf Shores summer camps, you can be sure they get the most out of their time on the Gulf Coast. Here are the top five you should consider!

Summer camps are a great way to ensure your child stays engaged and has some serious fun during vacation! For the times they’re not in camp, though, be sure to download our free Vacation Guide! Here at Sunset Properties, our expertise will help you plan the best Gulf Shores vacation you’ve ever had! We guarantee it!

5 Great Gulf Shores Summer Camps for Your Child

Kidcam Gulf State Park Camp

From kindergarten to 13, your child can enjoy this weekly camp offers daily rates during the summertime at the biologically interesting and fun area, Gulf State Park. There your kids will enjoy the beaches, pool, splash pad, sports, nature trails, zip lines, boating, fishing, golf, and more! Register for this camp here!

PADI Seal Team Youth Camp

For kids 8 and up, this incredible summer camp focuses on everything underwater! If your kids are comfortable with the water, then this camp will take them to new depths! They’ll learn underwater photography, navigation, underwater ecosystems, and more. Think about the special memories they could make when you register for this snorkeling day camp!

Ocean Camp

If your kids love everything about the ocean, then Ocean Camp is for them! When they spend the day at camp here, they’ll learn about marine biology and the local environment. Marine science teachers bring fun and facts to the table, combining for an unforgettable experience they’ll tell all their friends about in the fall! Register here!

Kaleidoscope Summer Fine Arts Camp

The camp takes place during the last week of June only and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day during that time. At the arts camp, your kids will take part in hands-on classes working with a variety of mediums, including dance, music, and theater, as well. To end each day, your kids will enjoy a live performance from a recognized artist! Register here.

SummerTide Theatre Camp

Put on by the University of Alabama, the camp spans three weeks in June with each week geared toward different acting ability levels. If your child loves theatre and acting, then this is for them! Covering everything from the basics of theatre to advanced concepts depending on ability level, your child will act their way to inspiration! Register here.

Fit a Summer Camp into Your Summer Vacation

Summer day camps are perfect for kids when you visit Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Take advantage of all the great things to do here, too, when you download this free Vacation Guide! With it, you can craft the very best vacation. And, when you start your search for a place to stay, check out our beautiful properties! At Sunset Properties, our beach houses and condos are just steps away from the beach and minutes away from the very best restaurants and activities the area has to offer. So, why wait? Contact us today to book your stay!

What Are the Best Gulf Coast Amusement Parks?

gulf coast amusement parks

Let the fun begin! When you plan your summer vacation to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, you have the chance to enjoy the very best beaches, museums, nature, and Gulf Coast amusement parks in the area! So, when the kids clamor for a thrill, you can have these great options up your sleeve. These are some of the best Gulf Coast amusement parks you need to know about!

There are so many fun things to do down here, you won’t know where to start! With our free Vacation Guide, we lay out what you shouldn’t skip so you can have the best vacation possible. And, that’s what we’re all about at Sunset Properties! Let us show you how to have the best time here on Alabama’s Gulf Coast!

The Best Gulf Coast Amusement Parks

Make memories the kids won’t forget with these super fun Gulf Coast amusement parks! From water parks to the newest theme parks in the area, you’re bound to make fun memories!

The Track Family Recreation Center

At the Track Family Recreation Center, you’ll have the chance to make sweet, fun memories that will last. Everything from go-karts to mini-golf to bumper cars to a 70-mile per hour rollercoaster make for a great time full of family fun! Located in Gulf Shores, you’re just minutes away from fun!

Waterville USA

The huge waterpark-amusement park combo has the best water rides on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. That means that when the kids are clamoring for something fun, you’ve got a wet and wonderful solution. Features like a 25,000 square foot wave pool, a slide with a 60-foot drop, a surfing simulator, a lazy river, and much more make Waterville USA one of the best Gulf Coast amusement parks! Right at the heart of Gulf Shores, it’s not only fun but convenient, too!

The New Kid in Town: Owa

Currently under construction, the newest Gulf Coast amusement park will be 520 acres of all the fun you could ever imagine! The new amusement park will be about 9 miles from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach on County Road 20 and Foley Beach Express. The word, “Owa,” is Creek for “big water.” The park will feature a water park, amusement park, and a mimicry of a southern town with a downtown district, warehouse district, and amusement park district.

Don’t Miss Out on All the Fun!

You simply can’t go wrong with a trip to any of these fantastic Gulf Coast amusement parks! You’re going to make sweet, fun memories the kids will never forget! And, when you download our free Vacation Guide, the fun won’t have to end! It’s full of great ideas for ways to make your summer vacation that much better. Here at Sunset Properties, we want you to have the very best time here on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. That’s why we strive to offer beautiful, convenient, and comfortable beach houses and condos, perfect for you and your family. You’ll feel right at home in our vacation rentals. So, browse our availability today and see for yourself how great your vacation can be! We are eager to host you, so contact us today to book your stay!

 

How to Have the Best Time at Waterville USA in Gulf Shores AL

Waterville USA in Gulf Shores AL
When the kids need to blow off some steam and you’re looking for something exciting and fun to do during your vacation, Waterville USA in Gulf Shores AL is your go-to! The huge waterpark-amusement park combo has the best water rides on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. That means that when the kids are clamoring for something fun, you’ve got a wet and wonderful solution. Here’s how you can have the best time at Waterville USA in Gulf Shores AL.

Looking for the most fun and incredible experiences on Alabama’s Gulf Coast? Make memories with Sunset Properties! Our totally free Vacation Guide has only the best things to do in the area. We’re confident that, when you use our guide, you’ll have the best vacation yet!

Take a Splash at Waterville USA in Gulf Shores AL

Make sweet splashy memories at this 20-acre waterpark and amusement park this summer. Here is a list of the different ways to get wet and have fun!

  • Crystal Waters River – A lazy river perfect for relaxing!
  • Dune Racer – A 55-foot, six-lane mat racer slide sure to thrill!
  • Flowrider – A surfing simulator for you to hang 10!
  • Gold Rush – Speed down a 20-foot fall into a lagoon on a three-person raft!
  • Great White – “Shoot through the shark’s mouth” on the best tube ride around!
  • Jet Stream – This enclosed slide has 350 feet of surging, sliding fun!
  • North Shore Wave Pool – A 25,000 square foot pool with a built-in surf!
  • Rainbow Falls – This is the perfect slide for those kiddos not quite ready for the big ones!
  • Screamin’ Demon – The 60-foot drop will have you screamin’ on this slide!
  • Shrimp Boat Village – The kids will love this interactive water playground!
  • Triple Dog Dare – That’s what it might take to get on this blazing slide!
  • WaWa World – Perfect for the little ones, a gentle water playground full of fun!

Dry Off at the Amusement Park

Waterville USA in Gulf Shores AL is a combination park after all. So, whether you’re wanting to stay dry or wanting to dry off, the amusement park is the perfect solution!

  • Cannonball Run – A ⅓-mile wooden roller coaster that hits 50 miles per hour? Hold on!
  • Fun Depot – This area is perfect for little ones and has great well-paced rides!
  • Starcade – The largest arcade on Alabama’s Gulf Coast!
  • Trampoline Thing – Located in the Fun Depot, this bungee trampoline will flip you!
  • Waterville 500 – The fast go-cart track is sure to be a hit!
  • Waterville Mini-Golf – This is the perfect family activity! Challenge each other to fun!

The Perfect Gulf Shores Vacation Activity

Be sure to plan a trip to Waterville USA in Gulf Shores AL during your next vacation to Alabama’s Gulf Coast! It’s the perfect way to have fun off the beach. And, when you’re planning that next great adventure here, browse our beautiful beach houses and condos! Here at Sunset Properties, we offer only the best vacation rentals for your family beach vacation. You’ll love the beachy vibes and breezy comfort. And, when you’re looking for ideas to fill your time, download our free Vacation Guide! Contact us today to book your stay!

What You Need to Know About the Mullet Toss

Mullet Toss

Every year, all kinds of folks flock to the Alabama-Florida state line for the wacky Mullet Toss competition. It’s a day full of flying fish, fun, food, contests, and sunshine for all people, mullets, and seagulls. The fish-throwing contest takes place smack-dab on the Alabama-Florida state line. Planning to take part? Here’s what you need to know about the Mullet Toss!

Are you looking for the most fun experiences on Alabama’s Gulf Coast? Then, you’ve come to the right place! That’s because here at Sunset Properties, we’re the experts when it comes to all things Gulf Shores. Check out our free Vacation Guide and see for yourself the incredible experiences that can be yours!

Mullet Toss Need-to-Know’s

What is a mullet toss, you may ask? The ceremonious, plentiful mullet is one of the more populous fish indigenous to the Gulf Coast area. It is the only fish with a gizzard and is fabled to possess mystical powers. It is known as bait fish on the east coast, but it is also a local delicacy here. The party that is the Mullet Toss consists of contestants throwing the no-longer-living piscine projectile from a 10-foot circle in Alabama. The airborne “delicacy” then flies across the state line and into Florida. Or into the crowd depending on the fish thrower’s aim and grip on the slippery fish, of course. The fun activities, music, and food are a great way to blow off some steam and have a good laugh at the same time.

For those concerned with the livelihood of marine life, the participating mullet are no longer alive, but, according to multiple accounts, do remain very friendly! After their generous sacrifice, the fish are then donated to the local avian menu. This is absolutely one of the don’t-miss events in the area!

How Much Does it Cost?

A paltry $15 buys you the chance to launch your favorite fish and garners you a nifty souvenir t-shirt, as well! Plus, 1st Place gets a trophy, a Flora-Bama gift certificate, and, according to the event, “any other junk [they] can find laying around.” The best part? A contribution of your fish-flinging fee goes toward local youth charities! Here are a few easy rules to keep in mind while you’re there!

  • You will toss approximately one whole mullet (roughly 1 lb.) across the Florida/Alabama state line.
  • To participate, you must submit a registration form at the beach.
  • $15.00 Entry Fee. You will receive your new favorite Interstate Mullet Toss t-shirt.
  • During your toss, no gloves or sand on mullet to improve grip is allowed.
  • Mullet will be picked out of the water bucket. After you throw, retrieve your mullet and toss it back into the bucket.
  • Mullet will be thrown from a 10′ circle down a designated alley.
  • No stepping out of the circle during your throw and follow through or you will be disqualified.
  • Throwing your mullet out of bounds will result in an automatic disqualification.
  • DON’T MISS! One chance only to qualify for finals.
  • There are six finalists in both the men’s and women’s divisions each day.

Toss Your Mullet Into the Sunset

Aim for the best place to stay on Alabama’s Gulf Coast when you’re tossing your mullet! Here at Sunset Properties, our condos and beach houses are the perfect fit for whatever reason you’re here. You’ll love their proximity to the beach, quality, and comfort. So, check out our available rentals! Then, when you’re ready to book, contact us! We are eager to accommodate you, and cheer you on, during your Mullet Toss adventure. For the best experiences in the area, Mullet Toss and otherwise, download our free Vacation Guide today!

How to Plan the Best Day at This Gulf Shores State Park

Gulf Shores State Park

The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the south. When you plan your visit the area, you’ll want to plan to spend some time at this Gulf Shores state park, Gulf State Park. Explore the rich natural resources of the area at Gulf State Park. Let us be your guide to the best day at this Gulf Shores state park.

Are you looking for the most incredible experiences on Alabama’s Gulf Coast? You need to check out our recommended activities! Here at Sunset Properties, we specialize in everything coastal Alabama, so you can trust our expertise when planning your visit.

A Gulf Shores State Park Full of Fun and Adventure

You’ll love the pristine sands, surf, sea shells, and peace and harmony found at Gulf State Park.There’s so much to do there, you may want to plan more than one day! Two miles of beaches, a golf course, a beach pavilion, tennis courts, hiking trails, and a fishing pier make this an ideal activity for any vacationer! Here’s what you don’t want to miss at Gulf State Park.

Beautiful Beaches

Over three and a half miles of white sand beaches will capture your attention and delight your toes. And, these family-friendly beaches are ideal for beach days full of fun and relaxation. Cool off in the water or lay out and get a tan, it doesn’t matter! You’ll love these beaches!

Refuge Golf Club

The natural resources and beauty of the park make for a wonderful golf opportunity. At Refuge Golf Club, you will experience a championship course with over 6,500 yards of wonderfully manicured courses, a driving range, putting green, and pro shop. Grab a bite to eat at the Refuge Grill after you’ve worked up an appetite after 18 holes!

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

This is your opportunity to see the beauty of the park up close and personal. Wonderful hiking and biking trails and paths wind through the park, highlighting the waterways, wooded areas, and dunes the park contains.

Fishing

This Gulf Shores state park features an education and fishing pier that is 20 feet wide, offering 2,450 feet of fishing space for anglers who seek to reel in a big one! You can fish off the pier for just $9.00 per day, and you can rent a fishing rod for $20.00 per day. Children under 11 may fish for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Nature Center

Gulf State Park’s Nature Center features plants and animals native to the park and the Gulf Coast region. Whether it’s the turtles, the snakes, the trees, or the taxidermy, there’s something to enjoy for everyone in the family!

A Great Day Trip from Your Beach House

During your vacation to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, you’d be remiss to not venture out into Gulf State Park. And, when you stay in one of our lovely beach houses or condos, you’ll be just a short drive away from the beautiful park. So, whether you’re looking for that adventure or just want to bum around on the beach, let Sunset Properties be your guide to the best stay in the area. Check out our available rentals and see for yourself the quality that awaits you. Then, contact us today to book your stay!

 

What Will You See at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park?

uss alabama

When you visit Alabama’s Gulf Coast, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the nation’s most important historic sites. Of course, there’s Fort Morgan, the Civil War fort. And, if you head over to Mobile, the USS Alabama sits, majestically awaiting your visit. There’s much more to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park than the battleship, itself. So, what can you expect to see there? We’ll tell you why you don’t want to skip it!

If you’re looking for the most incredible experiences on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, then you’ve come to the right place. Let Sunset Properties recommend some of the best local activities to make your visit as incredible as can be.

Look Back Into History at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

When you come to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, you’ll be taken aback by the sheer magnitude of what is on display there. Not only are the ships and planes imposing, but they’re uniquely historical, each in its own right. These war relics stand as memorials to those who fought, bravely defending generations beyond them and their rights to freedom. So, what will you see there?

The USS Alabama

The battleship is the recipient of nine WWII Battle Stars representing the courage and bravery of her 2,500 crewmen. Also known as “The Mighty A,” the USS Alabama saw a year of war in the Atlantic before joining up with the Pacific Fleet in important battles like Leyte, the Gilbert Islands, and Okinawa. Immediately following the end of the war in 1945, the USS Alabama led the Pacific Fleet into Tokyo Bay.

The DRUM

America’s oldest Gato Class submarine sits next to the USS Alabama on display, as well. The crew of 72 men were responsible for dispatching 15 Japanese ships during 13 patrols. The ship earned 12 battle stars as a result. Today, visitors can descend into the ship to see what life was like for the Navy’s submariners.

“Calamity Jane”

Not to be outdone, the Air Force’s very own “Calamity Jane,” a B-52 behemoth, is also on display. The Stratofortress served with the Strategic Air Command and will wow you with its enormity.

“Blackbird”

The Cold War Veteran “Blackbird” is an A-12 spy plane used during the Cold War. Check out this intriguing specimen and imagine the days where counterintelligence became key.

Many Others On Display

Come, check out the many other aircraft from the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and Desert Storm. Inspiring memorials will give you pause and give you a chance to give honor where it is due. Then, when you’ve seen all there is to see, check out the gift shop to bring home a souvenir.

The Perfect Complement to an Alabama Gulf Coast Adventure

As you’re planning your summer vacation to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, you’ll definitely want to plan a trip to see the USS Alabama into your itinerary. It’s a great way to spend a day off the beach! And, when you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the beautiful vacation rentals from Sunset Properties. Our condos and beach houses are ideally situated near the beach, meaning your beach getaway is just minutes away every day. So, check out our available rentals and see for yourself the kind of quality you can afford. Then, contact us today to book your stay! We’re eager to accommodate you!

Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Other Fun Things to Do on Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Take the 40-minute ferry ride from Fort Morgan to Dauphin Island and discover a whole new world full of incredible experiences for the whole family. On Dauphin Island, you’ll find the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Fort Gaines, Shell Mound Park, and more! Explore the subtropical oasis that is Dauphin Island and see for yourself the adventure day that will be one of the highlights of your trip to Alabama’s Gulf Coast!

Are you looking for the most incredible experiences on Alabama’s Gulf Coast? Then, you’ve come to the right place! Here at Sunset Properties, we consider ourselves experts when it comes to all things Gulf coast. So, check out our recommended activities and get the ball rolling on your next adventure!

You’ll Love These Great Things to Do on Dauphin Island

Audubon Bird Sanctuary
Cost: Free!
Hours: Open daily from dawn until dusk.
The Audubon Bird Sanctuary features 137 acres of maritime forests, including marshes, dunes, lakes, swamps, and beaches. As a result, the Audubon Bird Sanctuary on Dauphin Island is home to 420 of the 445 officially documented bird species in Alabama, or 95% of documented bird species. Its three-mile-long trail system is recognized as a National Recreational Trail, and it’s an exciting way to discover the island. Come, explore with the whole family!

Fort Gaines
Cost: Adults $6 (ages 13+) | Children $4 (ages 5-12)
Hours: Open year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from June – August; Group tours by appointment only.
The Fort is famous for Admiral Farragut’s infamous line, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!” at the Battle of Mobile Bay at Fort Gaines. This pre-Civil War brick fortification is home to original cannons, kitchens, a blacksmith shop, and tunnels. The kids are sure to love the guided tours. Plus, living history performers in period-correct replica uniforms interact with the Fort’s guests! Come while you can because, due to shoreline erosion, Fort Gaines is considered one of the Eleven Most Endangered Historic Sites in America.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab
Cost: Adults $11 | Children (ages 5-18) or students with ID $6 | Seniors $9 | Group rates available
Hours of Operation
Both adults and children will enjoy the interactive exhibits and visual displays at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab! You’ll definitely want to check out the Living Marsh Boardwalk, the Mobile Bay Gallery, Barrier Island, Billy Goat Hole Gallery, the Touch Tanks, and the Weather Station. Be sure to grab a souvenir from the gift shop before you go!

Shell Mound Park
Come, explore the fascinating shell mounds! What are shell mounds? Scientists believe these shell mound are possibly the remains of Native American oyster roasts from A.D. 1100-1500. These incredible relics to Native American life in the area are a great reason to visit Dauphin Island! Plus, explore 11 acres of plant species on this “subtropical natural wonder.” It’s maintained by the Alabama Marine Resources Division.

Ferry Schedule
Single ferry, departing Dauphin Island
8:00 a.m. | 9:30 a.m. | 11:00 a.m. | 12:30 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. |3:30 p.m. | 5:00 p.m. | 6:30 p.m.*
Single ferry, departing Fort Morgan
8:45 a.m. | 10:15 a.m. | 11:45 a.m. | 1:15 p.m. | 2:45 p.m. |4:15 p.m. | 5:45 p.m. |7:15 p.m.*

Second ferry, departing Dauphin Island
8:45 a.m. | 10:15 p.m. | 11:45 a.m. | 1:15 p.m. | 2:45 p.m. | 4:15 p.m. | 5:45 p.m.
Second ferry, departing Fort Morgan
9:30 a.m. | 11:00 a.m. | 12:30 p.m. | 3:00 p.m. | 3:30 p.m. | 5:00 p.m. | 6:30 p.m.

*These hours only run during daylight savings time.

Take an Adventure Day from the Best Place to Stay on Alabama’s Gulf Coast

Dauphin Island is the perfect place to take a family adventure during your beach vacation! When you’re planning your vacation to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, check out the available condos and beach houses from Sunset Properties. You’ll love the comfort and proximity to the beach each of our properties affords. So, contact us today to book your beach getaway!