Move Over Gulf Shores! Visit Alabama’s Secret White-Sand Island To Avoid The Crowds

Gulf Shores got the memo. Visitors were tired of making road trips every summer, mainly as inflation steered gas prices to new highs.

While not everyone can fly to Gulf Shores, flights are growing to this Southern paradise’s new commercial airport anchored by the increasingly popular budget airline Allegiant.

With 9 total direct flight options in 2025, there’s no denying crowds are all but unavoidable — even the secret is out on neighboring Orange Beach offering similar stunning shores.

That being said, Alabama’s choices aren’t solely narrowed down to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, nor do you have to settle for brackish waters up north around Mobile.

What’s overlooked in Alabama (beyond an overrated college football team), are its cluster of barrier islands.

We at Travel Off Path are happy to reveal Dauphin Island, boasting white sand beaches, fewer crowds, cozy vacation rentals, and a surprising historic

Welcome To Alabama’s ‘Sunset Capital‘

Who doesn’t love a sunset?! Dracula, maybe?

After a fun day spent beachside, there’s no better way to wind down in the salty breeze than taking in an epic sunset.

Alabama has many claims to fame, including Southern hospitality and blissful waterfronts from Mobile to Gulf Shores, but it’s actually Dauphin Island that’s been crowned the state’s ‘sunset capital’.

From the wide, inviting beaches to the rows of boats docked in Dauphin Marina, every evening feels opportune for fiery skies.

While Dauphin Island has no towering hotels or high-rise eyesores at all, some may see that as a plus, giving the island a more authentic hideaway feel.

Though, the lack of balconies certainly doesn’t bode well for sweeping, elevated Gulf views or sunsets.

However, you’d be hard-pressed to find any visitors disappointed, claiming Dauphin doesn’t live up to the moniker.

In fact, one beachgoer posted on TripAdvisor that sunsets here ‘took their breath away’.

Dauphin Island Is The Perfect Alternative To 2 Southern Paradises

Well, you probably read the headline if you’ve stuck with me this far, so you already know one alternative if Gulf Shores.

Head down the rightfully named Dauphin Island Parkway from Mobile or hop aboard the ferry from neighboring Fort Morgan and save your gas for the ride back.

Dauphin Island has undoubtedly become more popular over the years, especially as Gulf Shores continues to soar.

It’s still relatively off-the-radar for those who aren’t the adventurous type, preferring to plant their butt in the sand and not move for a week.

That’s the appeal to Dauphin Island — less footprints in the sand, less pizzazz, more authenticity, and more space to enjoy the white-sand coast.

But, there’s another Southern paradise that’s not as well known, which also makes Dauphin Island more appealing.

Ever heard of Ship Island? It’s Mississippi’s best-kept secret, even as more vacationers are opting for the coast here rather than the same-o, same-o beach vacations in Florida.

Ship Island is only open to the public until October, but Dauphin Island is open year-round since it’s available by both ferry and driving.

Plus, both offer significant historical forts tied back to the Civil War. Make sure you tour Fort Gaines when visiting the island — it’s a nice break from the beaming sun and truly fascinating to learn about its pivotal role in the Battle of Mobile Bay.

Where To Eat & Stay

The South + the sea = great food. Tell me I’m not good at math…

Any trip to the Gulf, let alone Alabama, requires a bib and boatload of napkins for all the seafood you’re set to devour.

Dauphin Island is only a town of 2,000 locals, so options are limited. Locals favor Pirate’s Bar & Grill, set on the beach — and yes, it’s a great spot to snag a patio seat to watch Dauphin’s famed sunsets.

Stays are limited too. Usually, visitors opt for a vacation rental, but guests rave about the Inn At Dauphin Island too.

Of course, Dauphin Island also makes for a great day trip. Given the geographical constraints, it’s not the most accessible for doing so from Gulf Shores without taking the ferry from Fort Morgan — it’s a lot more feasible from Mobile if you plan to drive.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.