Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab
Explore coastal Alabama's underwater world at the Alabama Aquarium, featuring diverse marine life and interactive exhibits on Dauphin Island.
Discover the wonders of the Gulf Coast at the Alabama Aquarium, located on Dauphin Island. As the public outreach facility for the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the aquarium showcases the diverse aquatic life and ecosystems of coastal Alabama, from the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta to the Gulf of Mexico. With interactive exhibits, a touch pool, and a living marsh boardwalk, it's an engaging experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab
- 102 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528, US
- +1251-861-7500
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the Dauphin Island Sea Lab website for information on Boardwalk Talks and other special events.
- Consider visiting during Discovery Day, the Sea Lab's annual open house, for a chance to tour research labs and enjoy hands-on science activities.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience all the exhibits and activities.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Fort Gaines for a historical perspective on Dauphin Island.
Getting There
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Driving
From Mobile, take I-10 East to Exit 17A for AL-193 S/Rangeline Road toward Dauphin Island. Follow AL-193 South for approximately 29 miles to reach Dauphin Island. Continue on Bienville Boulevard; the aquarium will be on your left. Parking is free. Expect about 51 minutes of driving time from Mobile Airport (MOB).
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Ferry
For a scenic route from Fort Morgan, take the Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island. The ferry departs from Fort Morgan and arrives near Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island, a short drive from the aquarium. From the ferry landing, follow Bienville Boulevard east to the aquarium. The ferry ride is approximately 40 minutes. The cost for a vehicle and driver is $16, with an additional $4.50 per passenger. Pedestrians are $5.00 each. Check the Mobile Bay Ferry website for the current schedule, as it varies by season.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Mobile Airport (MOB) to Dauphin Island. The ride is approximately 51 minutes and costs between $100 and $130. United Airport Shuttle and Allied Taxi Cabs also provide services.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dauphin Island Indian Shell Mound Park
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Explore ancient Native American history and observe diverse birdlife amidst the natural beauty of Dauphin Island's Shell Mound Park.
Battery Thomas
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Explore Battery Thomas at Fort Morgan: A historic coastal defense site offering insights into late 19th-century military strategies and Mobile Bay's past.
Battery Duportail
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Middle Bay Lighthouse
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Weeks Bay Plantation, Inc.
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Swift-Coles Historic Home
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Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Gaines
0.3 km
Explore a historic Civil War fort on Dauphin Island with stunning views, original cannons, and fascinating stories of the Battle of Mobile Bay.
Mobile Bay Ferry - Dauphin Island Landing
0.4 km
Experience the scenic route! Connect Dauphin Island & Fort Morgan via the Mobile Bay Ferry, saving time and offering stunning Gulf Coast views.
Dauphin Island East End Public Beach
0.4 km
Discover serene shores and historical echoes at Dauphin Island's East End Public Beach.
Dauphin Island Beach
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Discover Dauphin Island Beach: Pristine shores, stunning sunsets, and a relaxed Gulf Coast escape await in Alabama's best-kept secret.
Audubon Bird Sanctuary
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Explore diverse habitats and witness incredible bird migrations at this 164-acre sanctuary on Dauphin Island, a globally recognized birding hotspot.
D.I. Reef Monster
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Reel in unforgettable memories with D.I. Reef Monster: Dauphin Island's premier fishing charters and sight-seeing tours along the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Goat Tree Reserve, Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuaries, Inc.
2.3 km
Discover a haven for migratory birds at Dauphin Island's Goat Tree Reserve, a legendary spot blending natural beauty and local history.
Cadillac Square
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Discover Cadillac Square on Dauphin Island: where history and nature intertwine under the shade of ancient oaks, offering a tranquil coastal escape.
Hernando Beach
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Discover Hernando Beach on Dauphin Island: a serene escape with soft sands, clear waters & stunning sunsets. Perfect for relaxation & nature lovers!
Indian Shell Mound Park
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Dauphin Island Heritage and Arts Council
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Island Golf
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Dauphin Beach
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Dauphin Island Welcome Center
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Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Site
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Essential places to dine
BGH Cafe LLC
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Experience delicious coastal cuisine at BGH Cafe LLC on Dauphin Island – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Dinner’s Ready
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Foxy's Waffle Bar and Sugar Den
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Subway
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Dockside Seafood Restaurant
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Pirate's Bar And Grill
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Capt'n Snapper's
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Islanders Restaurant & Bar
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Pirate's Pizza and Wings
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Reel Deal BBQ & Seafood
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Sassy Bass Amazin' Grill
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Wash House Restaurant
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Southern Roots
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dockside Bait and Tackle
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Best way to go
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Lighthouse Bakery
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Treasure Trove
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Beach Planet
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Island Chevron & Grill
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VFW Tiki Bar
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Tiki bar at Amer Legion
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