Dauphin Island, AL - question about gulf

[StaceyinLA]

How's the water in Dauphin Island? We are doing a day beach trip and were planning to go to Pensacola. DI would be at least an hour closer and make for a little more pleasant trip with the grandkids, BUT, not worth it to me if the water is ugly.

 

Anyone?

Edited April 23, 2016 by StaceyinLA

[Paula in MS]

I can only compare Orange Beach (east of Dauphin Island) and Pensacola.  Pensacola is totally worth the drive even if it is farther.  The water is considerably better.  The beaches in the Fort Pickens area are really lovely and less crowded as well.  Enjoy your trip!

[lollie010]

Dauphin Island is beautiful, but not necessarily touristy. It's been a while since we've driven out but it's more of a nature adventure kind of place. There is the sealab, historic fort and birding. There is also the ferry that would take you across to Gulf Shores if you want more touristy type excitement. Gulf shores just opened a trampoline park!!! All kinds of cool stuff to spend money on.

[StaceyinLA]

Well we went for the day yesterday and I doubt I'd ever go back - not for the beach anyway. The walk out from the public parking area was awful, and the water was definitely yucky (by our standards for sure). The beach certainly didn't compare to Destin, but the sand was pretty white, so that was good.

 

The only reason we wound up there instead of Pensacola is because my 10mo old grandson was NOT enjoying the ride. We figured the hour time savings x both directions would be worth it. Suffice it to say I will just never do a day beach trip like that again with kids - period.

 

Live and learn. ;-p

Edited April 24, 2016 by StaceyinLA

[Seasider]

Dauphin Island is beautiful, but not necessarily touristy. It's been a while since we've driven out but it's more of a nature adventure kind of place. There is the sealab, historic fort and birding. There is also the ferry that would take you across to Gulf Shores if you want more touristy type excitement. Gulf shores just opened a trampoline park!!! All kinds of cool stuff to spend money on.

Tagging onto this, I think it's best to be going there for a specific purpose (i.e., a camp at sealant). Unless you have a sailboat and are able to cruise.

 

ETA oops, too late. Sorry your experience was unpleasant.

Edited April 24, 2016 by Seasider