08/20/2006 – Dauphin Island

Launch: Southeast end of the island by the rock jetties. Launch Cost: Free. Route: West to the northern end of Sand Island, then southeast along the north side of the Sand Island to the end, then north across Pelican Bay back to the launch site. Distance: 10.6 miles. Average Speed: 3.5 mph. Time: Approx 3 hrs. Pace: Leisurely. Weather: Sunny, 10 mph winds from the northwest, waters smooth and current minimal.

(1) Above left. Nice conditions today for kayaking. Went about a quarter mile west and got out of the kayak to take some photos. (2) Above right. Sea Oats. As always, double click on photos to view a larger image.

(3) Above left. The creeping stems of the common sand dune morning glory, aka Ipomoea stolonifera. (4) Above right. Close up of the morning glory flower.

(5) Above left. This mass of Sandbur grass is something you do not want to be barefooted around – the spiny flower clusters are extremely painful to step on. (6) Above right. This is my first time seeing this unique flower that blooms in clusters of squares – identity unknown.

(7) Above left. There is now enough room to paddle around the pier. Today the winds were out of the north making for smooth water conditions. (8) Above right. I did not realize the immensity of the new condo under construction until seeing the small condos next to it.

(9) Above left. Black Skimmers like to hang out near the north end of Sand Island. (10) Above right. Down near the southeast end of Sand Island, the numbers of birds are unbelievable. Had to end this trip early before the heat of the day set in. I can’t wait for cooler temperatures.