A quiet Dauphin getaway

Southern Living, Spring 2001 by Thompson, Annette

Favorite Islands

Alabama's Dauphin Island is ideal for escaping coastal crowds and enjoying a solitary retreat.

As the copper sun breaks the gray surface of the bay, the canopy of trees above me erupts with song. I'm strolling Dauphin Island's Audubon Bird Sanctuary at first light to catch a glimpse of spring migrants. Like those voracious avians, I too must replenish my soul's yearning for a quiet getaway.

I have found it here on Alabama's southernmost island, a place where human visitors are kept to a minimum as only a couple of tiny motels and condos offer accommodations. Still, I can stay busy if I like, for there's plenty to do throughout the village.

Nearby on the eastern tip of the island, the Estuarium (part of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab research station) provides exhibits on coastal Alabama's watery residents. Plus, the free fishing pier next door is good for watching ships head in and out of Mobile Bay.

A collection of gift shops and galleries invite browsing around the island's center. When I get hungry, I grab a sandwich at the Lighthouse Bakery and eat at the public beach pavilion overlooking the Gulf. Or I have fried shrimp and oysters at the Seafood Galley.

There are plenty of ways to get on the water. Capt. Jim Hall escorts passengers on his yacht, Let It Be, as he cruises around the island. Charter-- fishing boats take anglers out on nearby waters to reel in the best snapper in the Gulf.

Fort Gaines portrays military life in the 19th century. Across the bay, its sister, Fort Morgan, tells the story of the battle for Mobile Bay during the Civil War.

One of the best beaches for swimming is the Bon Secour public beach area near Fort Morgan. The Mobile Bay Ferry takes guests and their cars across the bay to a powdery white stretch of sand undiscovered by tourists.

At day's end, I go to my rented condo at the Dauphin Island Beach Club, knowing that when the songbirds fly south next fall, I will return again as well.

Annette Thompson