Dauphin Island 50 years later (Montgomery, Mobile: 2009, rentals, condos)

[MullinsCurve]

My parents honeymooned at Dauphin Island in 1959. As far as I know, they've never been back and I have never been there myself, as it is not a convenient beach for us to visit since we live in the Montgomery area.

My parents have have asked us not to host a large reception/party for them, but instead requested time with our family, a good dinner, maybe a few days somewhere. I thought that since they honeymooned at Dauphin Island, we might return there to see where it all began.

I am looking to rent a house large enough for 9 adults (3 married couples, 2 single females (sisters) and 1 single male) and 2 girls under the age of 12 around the weekend of June 7/8/9 2009. Who would be a good contact to arrange/reserve such a place?

Are there any restaurants, say on par with Jesse's in Magnolia Springs, in the area, somewhere we could have a private room or closed off area?

[Reactionary]

Great idea and very thoughtful.

I went down to Dauphin Island a couple of years ago and had a nice time. Lots of construction / hurricane repair at the time, a lot of the rental houses were still wrecked. I think most of them are fixed now.

I enjoyed the SeaLab, Fort Gaines, and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary.

There weren't many dining choices at that time. IIRC there's a bar at the marina, a seafood restaurant on the causeway, and a Cajun place towards Bayou la Batre.

You might also consider going to nearby Bellingrath Gardens.

Dauphin Island, Alabama Park and Beach Board

http://www.bellingrath.org/

[MullinsCurve]

Thanks Reactionary, I'm glad one person from that area has responded.
We've been to Bellingrath Gardens, although it has been a while. I've not heard of SeaLab and I will look into that more.

[downtowndoll]

We go a pretty good bit since friends have homes on island plus out in the boat to meet them.

We've had good luck with homes I've rented online from Boardwalk Realty. Dauphin Island Alabama-Boardwalk Realty-Dauphin Island Vacation Rentals and Property Sales There was one called the Big Kahuna that was awesome- great decor and even had a pool,plus was on the bay (which is safer for the kids). Divided between 3 couples, it wouldn't be crazy expensive. That's the one I'd rent!
You can look at pictures and see what you are getting into. That company has a wide selection, all online.

There are some decent condos there now. Holiday Isle is the newest one, but will be pricy. There are some less expensive options. We have stayed at Sandcastle, which is on the beach but in a very natural section on the eastern side. You would only want to stay in the ones in the front, but you'd have to reserve now.

There is a restaurant at the old Country Club, open to the public. Serving seafood. Ask Boardwalk Realty about how to rent bikes for the bike trail.

There's a restaurant called Pelican Pub on that small stretch just by the DI Marina. It's actually on the water. Restaurant at the Dauphin Island Marina. Each probably could accommodate a separate room ,I think.

On the way down is another really good seafood place at Bayley's Corner area. It's a white nautical style building to the right. Maybe someone here will remember name of it.

The Sea Lab is like an aquarium place showcasing area fish, animals; it's pretty new for the most part and I think it's really great. Like a shorter version of Aquarium of Americas in New Orleans.

There is also the car ferry, which pedestrians can also ride; it goes across the mouth of Mobile Bay to Fort Morgan area. You should be able to find plenty of places to eat around Dauphin Island, though.

[downtowndoll]

Uh oh, went back to check that website and they no longer have Big Kahuna. Another favorite one I saw, no pool, but right on the gulf front beach is Driftwood Palace. Good luck.

[Reactionary]

The restaurant I mentioned on the way to Bayou la Batre might be Mary's Place in Coden. It doesn't look like much but the place is packed - good sign when you're located in the middle of the bayou.

I concur with downtowndoll about Boardwalk Realty (but there aren't that many choices). They sponsor the Island Mullet Wrapper:

Island Mullet Wrapper - Dauphin Island News from Boardwalk Realty

You might consider calling the Town and talking to the Town Clerk, Mayor or Council for recommendations and information. They would love to hear from you. Seriously - they might get a kick out your parents story and pass a Council Resolution commemorating 'MullinsCurve's parents anniversary or something. IIRC Councilman Mike Tafra owns the Gulf Breeze Motel (which is mostly for fishermen IMO) - DI elected officals are eager to raise awareness of their little piece of Heaven on Earth.

Dauphin Island, Town of Dauphin Island, Alabama. Official website

[MullinsCurve]

Thank you both so much for your assistance, it is GREATLY appreciated. I will take your advice and now try to get in touch with my sister and see if we can start planning.

[southernnaturelover]

I ate at Mary's Place in Coden a few days ago, it was pretty good.

[Da_Island_Mon]

You can find the "Big Kahuna" at along with some other great beach rentals at DIBeachHouses.com


Good Luck, and congratulations to your folks.

Da Island Mon