Need a quiet Gulf Coast retreat with Southern charm? Head to Daphne! Nestled along Mobile Bay, Daphne is known as the "Jubilee City" for its rare natural seafood events, warm hospitality, and scenic beauty. Whether you're kayaking through bay waters, exploring nature trails, or savoring fresh Gulf cuisine, Daphne is a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.
Daphne, AL Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Kayak the D’Olive Creek and Mobile Bay – Paddle through bayous and wetlands rich in birds and aquatic life.
- For History Buffs: Tour the Village Point Park Preserve – Visit Native American sites and learn about local Civil War history along wooded trails.
- For Shoppers: Explore boutiques at Eastern Shore Centre – Find fashion, home goods, and eateries at this upscale shopping destination.
- For Couples: Watch the sunset from Bayfront Park – Cozy up on the pier or enjoy a romantic picnic with sweeping bay views.
- For Families: Play and picnic at Gator Boardwalk – View live alligators in their natural habitat from a safe wooden boardwalk.
Best Time to Visit Daphne, AL
The best time to visit Daphne is from March to May or September to November. These seasons bring mild temperatures and ideal conditions for enjoying the outdoors, festivals, and sunset walks along Mobile Bay. Summer is hot and humid but perfect for water activities.
How to Get to Daphne, AL
- If you are traveling by car: Daphne is located on I-10, about 15 minutes from Mobile and 2.5 hours from New Orleans.
- By Air: Fly into Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) or Pensacola International Airport (PNS), both within an hour’s drive.
- By Bus: Regional bus lines and shuttles connect Daphne to nearby Gulf Coast cities.
Where to Stay in Daphne, AL
- Hilton Garden Inn Mobile East Bay/Daphne – Comfortable stay with bay views and convenient access to downtown Daphne.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham – Budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and free breakfast, close to I-10.
- Historic Malbis Plantation Homes (vacation rentals) – For a unique stay, rent charming southern homes in a historic Greek Orthodox community.
Best Things to Do in Daphne, AL
1. View 450 alligators at the Gator Alley Boardwalk
If you’ve ever wanted to get up close (safely!) with hundreds of alligators, Gator Alley Boardwalk is the place to be. Founded in 2004 by Wes Moore, this unique sanctuary in Summerdale, Alabama gives rescued alligators a second chance in a safe, natural-style environment. Every gator here was relocated from a dangerous or unsuitable setting and now lives in a space built just for them.
Highlights:
- Home to 450+ rescued alligators in a natural habitat
- Elevated boardwalk for safe and scenic viewing
- Guided walks and wildlife spotting along the way
- Gator Station lets visitors feed and hold baby gators
- Founded in 2004 as a rescue and relocation effort
Pro Tip:
Visit earlier in the day when the gators are more active—and don’t forget your camera for some wild up-close shots!
Address: 19950 Highway 71, Summerdale, AL 36580
Phone: 866-994-2867
2. Relax on the public beach at the Village Point Park Preserve
Tucked away in Daphne, Alabama, the Village Point Park Preserve may be one of the town’s newer parks, but it’s steeped in deep history. This scenic preserve sits on land once traveled by some of North America’s earliest inhabitants and later explored and settled by Europeans—making it a site of both local and global historical significance.
Highlights:
- One of Daphne’s newest and most historically rich parks
- Features one of the last public-access beaches on Mobile Bay
- Scenic shoreline, peaceful walking paths, and picnic areas
- Historic ties to early Native American cultures and European settlers
Pro Tip:
Stick around for sunset—Mobile Bay views in the evening are unforgettable, and it’s usually a quiet, crowd-free spot to relax.
Address: 27710 Main St, Daphne, AL 36526
Phone: 251-621-3703
3. Take the kids to the playground at May Day Park
With roots dating all the way back to 1887, May Day Park is a beloved gathering spot in Daphne, Alabama. For more than 60 years, it’s been the heart of local festivals and community celebrations. Set on a gentle bluff that leads down to Mobile Bay, the park is shaded by massive oak trees, making it a peaceful place to relax or play year-round.
Highlights:
- Established in 1887, rich in local history
- Festival and event space for over 60 years
- Pier, beach, bandstand, and boat launches
- Playground, picnic areas, and public restrooms
- Handicap-accessible boardwalk and free parking
Pro Tip:
Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy a sunset over Mobile Bay from the pier—it’s one of the most peaceful views in town.
Address: 1 College Ave, Daphne, AL 36526
Phone: 251-621-3703
Attractions for Couples
4. View sculptures and paintings at The American Sport Art Museum & Archives
For a unique blend of athletics and creativity, head to the American Sport Art Museum & Archives (ASAMA), located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, Alabama. Founded in 1984, the museum celebrates the powerful connection between sports and the arts—a relationship that dates back to the earliest days of athletic competition.
Highlights:
- Founded in 1984 to honor sports through art and culture
- Collection includes 1,800+ works across multiple media
- Features paintings, prints, photography, and sculptures
- Located on the campus of the U.S. Sports Academy
- Largest known sport art collection in North America
Pro Tip:
Plan your visit during the week—campus access is easiest, and you’ll have more time to explore without crowds.
Address: 1 Academy Dr, Daphne, AL 36526
Phone: 251-626-3303
5. Dine at Sunset Pointe at Fly Creek Marina
Just a quick 10-minute drive from Daphne, you’ll find one of the area’s best-kept culinary secrets: Sunset Pointe at Fly Creek Marina. Owned by renowned Gulf Coast chef “Panini” Pete Blohme, this waterfront gem in Fairhope is known for its creative spin on seafood, laid-back vibes, and incredible sunset views.
Highlights:
- Located right on the water at Fly Creek Marina
- Owned by local favorite chef “Panini” Pete Blohme
- Inventive small plates, fresh oysters, and signature seafood entrées
- Creative cocktails and sunset views from the deck
- Just a short drive from Daphne—perfect for date night or a foodie detour
Pro Tip:
Plan your visit around sunset and ask for outdoor seating—you’ll get dinner with a view and unbeatable marina vibes.
Address: 831 N. Section Street, Fairhope, AL
Phone: 251-990-7766
6. Lear about local history at Daphne Museum (Daphne Methodist Church)
Tucked behind two towering oaks and perched on a scenic bluff overlooking Mobile Bay, the Daphne Museum offers a quiet, meaningful look into the heart of the Eastern Shore’s past. Housed in the historic Daphne Methodist Church, the building itself is a piece of local history—the oldest church still standing on Alabama’s Eastern Shore.
Highlights:
- Located in the Eastern Shore’s oldest existing church
- Classic Colonial architecture made from white pine
- Displays on the local social history of Daphne residents
- Scenic setting on a bluff above Mobile Bay
- Surrounded by historic oak trees and peaceful views
Pro Tip:
Bring a camera—this charming spot is perfect for peaceful photos, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Address: 405 Dryer Ave, Daphne, AL 36526
Phone: 251-621-9620
7. Go fishing with Ugly Fishing LLC
Ugly Fishing LLC is a top-rated fishing guide service offering unforgettable excursions throughout the Mobile Bay area and the entire Alabama Gulf Coast. Whether you're a local or just visiting, you can book a personalized charter in places like Daphne, Point Clear, Fairhope, Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, Gulf Shores, and more.
Highlights:
- Experienced local guide with 30+ years on Mobile Bay
- Fishing charters offered across the entire Alabama coast
- Ideal for families, solo anglers, and serious sport fishers
- Trips customized to skill level and season
- Launched in 2010 by Captain Patric Garmeson
Pro Tip:
Book early during peak seasons like spring and summer—Captain Patric’s charters fill up fast, especially on weekends!
Address: Daphne, AL
Phone: 251-747-1554
8. Go roller skating at Hot Wheels Skate Center
Hot Wheels Skate Center is way more than just a place to lace up your skates—it’s a full-on family fun zone in the heart of Daphne. Locally owned and operated by the Eady family for over 17 years, Hot Wheels is known for its welcoming vibe and commitment to keeping things fun, safe, and affordable for all ages.
Highlights:
- Family-owned for over 17 years by the Eady family
- Public roller skating sessions in a safe, friendly space
- Arcade, snack bar, Stuff Shop, and Pro Shop onsite
- Summer camps, after-school care, and party packages
- Located in the center of Daphne and loved by locals
Pro Tip:
Check their website for weekly themed skate nights—they're a blast for both kids and adults, and often include prizes or giveaways.
Address: 616 Whispering Pines Rd, Daphne, AL 36526
Phone: 251-626-5120
Where to Eat
9. Take the kids to Boudreaux's Cajun Grill
Boudreaux's Cajun Grill knows that creating a memorable dining experience takes more than just good food—it’s all about the right mix of ingredients, flavors, and Southern charm. Founded by a group of country boys with a serious love for Louisiana cuisine, this Eastern Shore favorite brings a bold Cajun twist to the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Highlights:
- Cajun and Creole-inspired cuisine made from scratch
- Fresh, locally sourced seafood and premium steaks
- Laid-back yet refined atmosphere on the Eastern Shore
- A local favorite for both casual nights and special occasions
Pro Tip:
Ask for a table on the patio at sunset—the view over the water and the live music (on select nights) take the experience up a notch.
Address: 29249 US Hwy 98, Daphne, AL 36526
Phone: 251-621-1991
10. Have dinner at Moe's Original BBQ
Moe's Original BBQ was born out of friendship, tradition, and a deep love for all things Southern. Started by three Alabama boys—Jeff Kennedy, Ben Gilbert, and Mike Fernandez—who met at the University of Alabama, the restaurant combines their passion for whisky, football, blues, and of course, BBQ.
Highlights:
- Founded by three Alabama friends with a love for Southern food
- Fire-roasted BBQ inspired by pit master Moses Day
- Meats smoked fresh daily for authentic flavor
- 8–10 rotating Southern sides and classic desserts
- Laid-back vibe with seriously good food
Pro Tip:
Come hungry and don’t skip the sides—fan favorites like collard greens and banana pudding are just as good as the BBQ.
Address: 6423 Bayfront Park Dr, Daphne, AL 36526
Phone: 251-625-7427
Plan Your Trip