Dauphin Island Information
Dauphin Island is a barrier island located in the Gulf Mexico south of Mobile, Alabama. With its rich history and family-friendly environment, Dauphin Island is an interesting vacation spot.
Dauphin Island was first mapped in 1599 by Alfonzo Pineda, but was not settled until 100 years later by the French.
Dauphin Island was originally named Massacre Island because of the mounds of human remains found by French explorers. The dozens of victims appeared to be of all ages and to have been murdered. It's popular theory the victims were local Indians killed by a neighboring tribe.
Dauphin Island is 14 miles long and slightly less than two miles wide. The dimensions change and shift frequently because of Gulf hurricanes.
Dauphin Island is home of the historic Fort Gaines, which played a pivotal role in the Civil War. Fort Gaines was used by the Confederacy to keep Union soldiers out of Mobile Bay for a period of time.
Dauphin Island was destroyed by pirates at the turn of the 18th century. All buildings burned and cattle was stolen. No human life was lost.
Dauphin Island has two popular beaches: the public beach and the West End beach. The public beach has restroom facilities and a long shoreline, but no lifeguard. The West End beach features all the desired amenities, including showers, restrooms, food and a lifeguard. There's no charge for the public beach, but there is a charge for the West End beach.
- Monica Patrick