Nature
Audubon Bird Sanctuary & Shell Mound Park
Dauphin Island is one of North America’s great spring and fall migration stops. These two free parks are the best places to see it.
From Pelican Pointe
Head east on Bienville Boulevard. Shell Mound Park is near the center of the island and the sanctuary is near the fort on the east end.
Dauphin Island guide
Audubon Bird Sanctuary
164 acres of habitat
Maritime forest, marsh, dunes, a lake, a swamp and beach, owned and managed by the Dauphin Island Park and Beach Board near the east end of the island.
Trails
About three miles of trails form a National Recreation Trail, and a 1,000-foot accessible boardwalk leads from the parking lot to Gaillard Lake.
Globally important
The American Bird Conservancy recognizes Dauphin Island as globally important for bird migration. Spring and fall are the best seasons.
Dauphin Island guide
Indian Shell Mound Park
Ancient history
The 11-acre park preserves shell middens left between about 1100 and 1550 CE, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Live oaks
Giant, moss-draped live oaks, some estimated at hundreds of years old, shelter migrating songbirds.
Getting there
On North Iberville Street, near the middle of the island. Park on the shoulder and follow the trails.
Tips
Before You Go
- Both parks are free.
- Bring bug spray in summer.
- Early mornings are best for birds and cooler walks.
Hours, prices and schedules change. Check the official source before you go: Alabama Birding Trails · Visit Gulf Shores: Audubon Bird Sanctuary.
Keep exploring
More of Dauphin Island
Book direct with the owners
Stay steps from the sand at Pelican Pointe
Beachfront · sleeps 12 · 4 bedrooms · private 7-person hot tub · pet friendly.
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