Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Dauphin Island

"There’s enough to do at Gulf State Park to entertain you for an entire day, and the trails are just one piece of the puzzle. You’ll find more than 28 miles of paved trail, which includes the seven trails of Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. You’ll be able to experience all kinds of wildlife and can take to the trail however you please, whether that’s a slow stroll, a quick run, or a bike ride."

"Geocaching for kids is a great way to explore in Gulf Shores State Park. Geocaching uses GPS-enabled devices for real life, outdoor treasure hunting. Simply input a specific set of GPS coordinates into your map and try to find the container hidden at the location."

"Thanks to the paved bike trail system extending outside the park itself, it’s easy to leave the park grounds via Coyote Crossing to get to nearby restaurants along Fort Morgan Blvd, Canal Rd, and Gulf Shores Parkway. Being big fans of diners for a hearty breakfast to start the day, we hit The Diner for breakfast basics, and tried Hazel’s Nook, which was jam-packed with locals for the breakfast buffet. Definitely get the buffet, which includes made-to-order omelets."

"Beaches1054 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542MoreLess Info. Gulf Shores Beach is a scenic white-sand beach commonly visited during the warmer months of the year. Visitors to the beach enjoy swimming, relaxing in the sand, or viewing the marine wildlife (including dolphins) that live in the water."

"Piers & Boardwalks20115 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores, AL 36542MoreLess Info. Besides being the longest fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier also has indoor seating and souvenir shops. It has 2448 feet available for amateur and professional fishermen."

"Gulf State Park welcomes families to explore 4 miles of beaches. Relax in the sun, play in the Gulf and look for seashells. When not on the beach, visit the championship golf course, walk backcountry trails and stop by the nature center."

"Winding its way through 15 miles of diverse ecosystems, Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail captures your imagination around every corner. The trail stretches through Gulf Shores, Gulf State Park and Orange Beach, and is named after Hugh Branyon – a superintendent who managed Gulf State Park for almost 40 years. There is much to see along the trail, with coastal swamps and freshwater marshes which are home to abundant wildlife."

"The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail spans more than 15 miles through Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. The seven trails will take guests through six unique ecosystems, all with their own unique beauty and breathtaking wildlife. Head to the butterfly garden to unwind and watch the gorgeous colors all around you, or take to one of the trails for a more up-close experience."

"The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system is popular with families. The backcountry trail is actually comprised of seven different trails through six distinct ecosystems. Along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, you’ll discover all sorts of different plants and animals, including a bald eagle (if you’re lucky), butterflies, and an alligator named Lefty."

"First up, the Chicken Pasta – breaded thin chicken breast, cavatelli pasta, lemon caper sauce, shaved manchego. I would have preferred this chicken to be grilled, but it was good. Playa Gulf Shrimp & Grits – sweet corn grits, ham, peppers"

"The former Shipp’s Island Grill is now in the hands of the culinary masterminds from Fisher’s at the Orange Beach Marina."

"If you’re in need of a good cup of joe Southern Grind has you covered. In addition to specialty coffee drinks Southern Grind also has breakfast and a variety of gourmet pastries."

"Thanks to the paved bike trail system extending outside the park itself, it’s easy to leave the park grounds via Coyote Crossing to get to nearby restaurants along Fort Morgan Blvd, Canal Rd, and Gulf Shores Parkway. Being big fans of diners for a hearty breakfast to start the day, we hit The Diner for breakfast basics, and tried Hazel’s Nook, which was jam-packed with locals for the breakfast buffet. Definitely get the buffet, which includes made-to-order omelets."

"Beaches1054 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542MoreLess Info. Gulf Shores Beach is a scenic white-sand beach commonly visited during the warmer months of the year. Visitors to the beach enjoy swimming, relaxing in the sand, or viewing the marine wildlife (including dolphins) that live in the water."

"Really friendly, great personality, quick drink refills, great dipping sauce recommendations. I could go on and on.... (251) 970-1337Order online"