Dauphin Island Sunset: My Beach Walk and Photos
Watching the sunset on Dauphin Island, Alabama, was a worthwhile stop during my Gulf Coast trip. I arrived about 90 minutes before sunset, walked along the beach, and found a spot overlooking the open water. The evening was somewhat hazy, but I thought that made the sunset even more spectacular.
Watching the Sunset on Dauphin Island - Table of Contents
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Why I Chose Dauphin Island for Sunset
During my trip, I drove from Biloxi, Mississippi, to visit Alligator Alley in Summerdale, Alabama. Before returning to Biloxi, I wanted to find somewhere to watch the sun go down. I came across an article recommending Dauphin Island and decided to give it a try. Having extra time before sunset gave me a chance to explore the beach and find a spot I liked.
Where to Watch the Sunset on Dauphin Island: My Experience
During my visit, I parked beside what was then the beachfront location of Pirates Bar & Grill at the Isle Dauphine complex and walked down the steps to the beach.
At first, I was a little unimpressed. The water immediately in front of me was sheltered by a stretch of sand, and I had been hoping for a view of the open Gulf.
With plenty of time before sundown, I continued walking until I reached the Gulf-facing shoreline. After a brief walk up and down the beach, I found the spot where I wanted to watch the sunset. It took me about 30 minutes to walk from the parking area to the location I chose.
Planning a visit today: Use the Isle Dauphine complex at 100 Orleans Drive as your reference point for this account. Pirates Bar & Grill now lists a different address on Bienville Boulevard. The town currently lists paid visitor beach access at Isle Dauphine through Parkify. Check the town’s Isle Dauphine information and posted access and parking instructions before setting out.
Tips for Watching and Photographing the Sunset
Based on my visit, these are the things I would keep in mind:
Arrive early. I arrived about 90 minutes before sunset and appreciated having time to walk around. My chosen spot was about a 30-minute walk from where I parked.
Check the sunset time for your date. Allow time for both the walk out and the return, and check when your parking area and beach access close.
Bring a tripod if you want longer exposures. It can be helpful for photographing the water and fading light.
Carry a flashlight for the return. My walk back was in the dark. A light is useful, but make sure your planned return fits the current access hours.
My Dauphin Island Sunset Photos
Dauphin Island did not disappoint. Once I reached the open shoreline, I thought the spot I chose was a spectacular place to watch the sunset.
The haze gave the evening a different look, and I also photographed silhouettes of people fishing along the shore. Below are some of my favorite Dauphin Island sunset photos from that visit.
Have Extra Time Before Sunset?
If you enjoy scavenger hunts and interactive games, the Dizzy Dauphin Island Scavenger Hunt is an option for earlier in the afternoon. The approximately two-hour activity involves solving clues and completing challenges around the island, with a remote host helping through your phone. I haven’t tried it myself, but it may appeal to families or friends looking for a group activity before heading to the beach. Allow extra time afterward to reach your sunset spot.