Located off the mainland of Mobile is Dauphin Island, a three-mile long island where many residents of Mobile enjoy its miles of white sandy beaches and fishing pier. Historic Fort Gaines is located here and is the site of numerous events that celebrate life in the 19th century. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium are on the west end of the island and the 160 acre Audubon Bird Sanctuary has miles of walking trails that give access to pine forest, live oak and magnolia clearings. It is a stopping point for thousands of migratory birds and home to other wildlife. Dauphin Island also has a marina that is home to several charter boat businesses. You can catch the Mobile Bay Ferry here to take you across to Gulf Shores at Fort Morgan.

Homes in Dauphin Island, Alabama are subject to special building codes due to the waterfront nature. Prices vary according to location (gulf front, facing the Mississippi Sound, inland, or on one of the many natural manmade bays). Many local Mobile residents own weekend homes on Dauphin Island and many Mobile workers call Dauphin Island their home 7 days a week. While Hurricane Katrina crossed paths with Dauphin Island, it continues to stay a popular destination year round for the locals and folks from all across the country.