Dauphin Island Travel Forum

I'm a mid-west person(St.Louis Mo.)who had planned on visiting Satellite Beach Florida again where my sister-i- law owns a condo right on the beach.Have been there several times which I guess makes it an easy destination since I know where everything(stores,restaurants etc).
This time a larger group of people that usual will be going which means driving instead of flying.Since it's approximately an 18hr. drive to Florida I stared looking for somewhere closer that we could go to relax and enjoy the beach with the kids.
Not being familiar with the gulf coast area which is a seven hour shorter drive to the beach.I checked out the more popular areas Gulfport etc.When I ran accross Dauphin Island Alabama.Would someone familiar with the area please tell me I'm not dreaming!Affordable housing on a beautiful white sand beach!!Is it too good to be true or is a best kept secret?
Any info would be greatly appreciated.Thank You

I don't know it personally but found this on Google
http://www.800alabama.com/areas-to-visit/alabama-gulf-coast/city.cfm?cityid=58

Hundreds of other web sites too but Tourism seemed the most relevant. Have a good trip.