Dauphin Island Al.

Dauphin Island is awesome, and it's west of that horrendous tunnel. The beaches have white sand and are nice. There's also good fishing, an old fort, an Audubon bird sanctuary with walking trails, a sea lab with a touch pool, and an arcade. Don't know anything first hand about the restaurants or bars.

ETA: The beaches are similar to orange beach, but it's a much more small town, low key feel. Kind of like a nicer Grand Isle with more stuff to do. (no offence to GI).

Only went there once; but, the Water was MUDDY.

There are a couple of restaurants on the island. Barnacle Bill's is at the marina and is pretty good. Not sure what else is there now as several places have closed.

Oh, lighthouse bakery is good for breakfast.

Thanks for the feedback!!

You can see lots of rigs from the shore, last time there I stepped on a few tar balls. It's got the white sand but like mentioned before the water isn't as clear as GS/OB. The east end has a fort and ferry service to ft Morgan/Baldwin county.
Great fishing!
Small crowds
A day at the beach beats almost anything. I would go.

Went last year with the family and really enjoyed it. Beaches were nice, the rigs didn't really bother me.

Not much to do, but all I wanted was to chill on the beach.

Stay away from the fort/ferry side of the island as much as you can. Huge boat launch lines, ferry lines, and really hectic. The sea lab was great for the kids, though.

There is a seafood shop near the main road intersection, they will steam fresh seafood to go and the price is fantastic. Otherwise, plan of cooking and grocery shop on your way.

I spent the weekend there when i purchased my last boat a few years ago. Like others said there aren't many food options. I ate at the marina and also another place in the center of the island that was nice. We really enjoyed the civil war fort and was surprised how well preserved it was. Since i stayed on the bay side we drove down to the public beach accesses. There are some bad arse beach front camps for rent.