Dauphin Island, Alabama
This small barrier island (population: 1610) to the west of Gulf Shores and south of mainland Alabama welcomes dogs and their owners across the majority of its sun-kissed 6.26 square miles. All public beaches are dog-friendly, as are most vacation rentals and many restaurants. Even the Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary, a top spot in the U.S. to observe migratory birds in spring, welcomes dogs on its hiking trails. Anticipate glorious beach ambles at sunrise and sunset, and languid days relishing Dauphin’s slower pace.
First published by Condé Nast Traveler. Read the full story here.