Dauphin Island, Alabama

I can totally recommend a beach for families with a member that has special needs. There are many factors I will list here as to why:
1. Not crowded
2. Clean beaches
3. Gentle waves
4. Friendly people
5. Family Friendly
6. Not a party destination
7. Not expensive
8. Not a super long drive from anywhere in the Mid West
9. Diverse activities available on the island for many family members including: Fishing (from pier, wade fishing and Deep Sea excursions departing from the island), Jet Ski rentals, Parasailing, Estuarium, historic Fort Gaines and a Bird Sanctuary.
10. Chicken Strips are available at the Chevron Grill (the gas station has a nice little store).

We were here during the week, so we can't say anything from experience about the crowds on the weekend.
This was the longest vacation we have taken with Teddy and as you can see in the photo, he really loved it and wants to go back! A big win in our world and we made some great memories.