Pelican Island

Near Pelican Island, Dauphin Island offers a variety of dining options. Pirate's Bar And Grill is a popular spot for seafood and Southern fare, known for its casual atmosphere and waterfront location. Another favorite is Dockside Seafood Restaurant, which serves fresh seafood in a cozy setting. For a more informal experience, Islanders Restaurant & Bar offers a mix of seafood and traditional Southern dishes with patio seating. Additionally, Skinners Seafood is a go-to for fresh seafood purchases, and Lighthouse Bakery provides delicious baked goods and breakfast options.

For accommodations near Pelican Island, Dauphin Island offers several options. The Inn At Dauphin Island is highly rated for its beachfront location and family-friendly amenities. Another choice is the Dauphin Island Beach Rentals, which provides vacation rentals with easy access to the beach. The Gulf Breeze Motel offers a laid-back, family-owned environment near the beach. Lastly, the Dauphin Island Harbor House provides a cozy bed and breakfast experience.

Pelican Island itself lacks developed amenities like restrooms or showers directly on the beach. However, nearby areas on Dauphin Island offer more comprehensive facilities. Visitors can find restrooms and showers at public beach areas or nearby parks like the Dauphin Island Public Beach. Rental equipment for activities like kayaking or paddleboarding is available from local outfitters. Picnic areas are also accessible in nearby parks, providing a scenic spot to enjoy meals.

Pelican Island and its surrounding areas offer a range of activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and fishing in the Gulf's crystal-clear waters. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and leisurely walks. For more adventurous activities, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular options. Birdwatching is another highlight, with the nearby Audubon Bird Sanctuary being a major attraction. The area is also great for nature walks and observing marine life like dolphins.

While Pelican Island itself does not have specific disability access features like ramps or wheelchair rentals, nearby areas on Dauphin Island offer more accessible options. Many restaurants and hotels in the area provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating. However, the remote nature of Pelican Island means that it is less accessible for those with mobility impairments.

Parking near Pelican Island is generally available on Dauphin Island, with both free parking lots and street parking options. The public beach areas have designated parking lots that are free and usually have ample space. However, parking directly on Pelican Island is limited due to its remote nature and accessibility primarily by boat or kayak.

Pelican Island is part of a rare geological phenomenon where it merges with Dauphin Island approximately every 150 years, creating a new peninsula. This process is a natural form of beach nourishment, replenishing sand on Dauphin Island's beaches. The island's dynamic nature makes it a unique spot for observing geological changes firsthand. Historically, similar mergers have occurred in the early 1700s and 1852, highlighting the area's dynamic coastal evolution.

Near Pelican Island, several attractions make Dauphin Island a compelling destination. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse bird species. Fort Gaines offers historical insights and stunning views of the Gulf. The Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab provides an educational experience with marine life exhibits. Visitors can also take a ferry ride to Fort Morgan or Gulf Shores.