Islands to Boat to
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Our destination is home to beautiful white sand beaches, perfect for swimming, sunning, and playing. With 32 miles of shore, there’s a lot of room to get your beach fix. However, if you have a boat, there are even more opportunities to splash or relax. While you’ll find several islands along our waterways, there are a few easily accessible and public islands that are perfect for soaking up rays. Rent a boat, bring your own, or paddle it out and explore these uninhabited gems.
Bring a boat, rent your own, or paddle it out to experience the beauty of the islands on Alabama's Beaches.
Bird Island
Located just north of the Perdido Pass Bridge, Bird Island is a boater’s paradise. During the summer, it’s lined with boats of both visitors and locals looking for fun in the sun. The island is also a haven for a variety of coastal bird species, so keep your eyes peeled for herons, egrets, and pelicans. Pull up to the island or anchor nearby and enjoy wading in the water or hanging on the shore.
Robinson Island
Just 30 yards away from Bird Island sits Robinson Island. Like its neighbor, this island is a popular hangout spot for boaters. Robinson Island is named after a family of settlers who were some of the first to live in the area. Lush with vegetation, it offers a tranquil setting for sightseeing and exploring.
Walker Island
A sanctuary for native and migratory birds, Walker Island is located just east of Bird and Robinson Island. It acts as a refuge for waterfowl, and its grass beds attract crab, shrimp, and several fish species. A relaxing stroll on this island will reveal its natural wonders to visitors.
Island Reminders
We know you're on island time while you're here, but remember that these protected islands are an essential part of the ecosystem of Alabama’s Beaches. When visiting, please take all your belongings with you and do not disturb wildlife. As you make your way around the islands, be mindful of the 'no motor zones' posted on the east side of the islands. Do not enter the interior of Robinson or Bird Island, as these are protected shorebird nesting sites. Because these islands are home to native wildlife, dogs are not allowed on or in the waters near the islands. As always, swim with caution and be aware of watercraft in the area.
Island Restoration
This year, the City of Orange Beach and The Nature Conservancy are working to restore natural areas on Robinson and Walker Island. Over the years, wildlife habitats and water quality have been negatively impacted due to increased visitation to these islands. A little over seven acres will be added to Robinson Island, while Walker Island will gain around 19 acres of marsh. Walker Island will not be open for public use. An estimated 216,000 cubic yards of local sand will be used to help build back the area, and 198,000 native plants will be placed along the islands to maintain them.
The project will be completed using dredge pumps, barges, pipelines, tug boats, and land-based equipment. While in the water near these islands, be aware of signage regarding dredging and other construction activities. Do not enter areas with active construction. The restoration is currently underway and expected to be completed by early summer.
