Mobile - Things to Do in Mobile in March

Mobile in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Mobile

22°C (72°F) High Temp
12°C (54°F) Low Temp
89mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

  • Perfect Azalea Trail weather - peak blooming season occurs in March with comfortable 12-22°C (54-72°F) temperatures ideal for outdoor walking tours through historic districts
  • Lower accommodation prices compared to summer peak season - hotel rates typically 20-30% cheaper than June-August rates, with March being shoulder season
  • Ideal sailing conditions on this destination with mild winds averaging 15-20 knots and minimal afternoon thunderstorms that plague summer months
  • Mardi Gras aftermath means better restaurant availability and service after the February crowds disperse, plus you can still find parade throws and decorations throughout the city

Considerations

  • Unpredictable weather swings - temperatures can fluctuate 15°C (27°F) within 48 hours due to Gulf Coast cold fronts, requiring layered clothing strategies
  • Higher rainfall than winter months with 10 rainy days averaging 89mm (3.5 inches), though showers are typically brief afternoon affairs
  • Some outdoor festivals and events may be cancelled or postponed due to weather variability - always confirm event status 24-48 hours ahead

Best Activities in March

Historic District Walking Tours

March offers perfect weather for exploring Mobile's antebellum mansions and oak-lined streets. Temperatures stay comfortable for 2-3 hour walks, and you'll catch the tail end of azalea blooms. The post-Mardi Gras period means fewer tourists crowding photo spots at Fort Morgan and the Historic this destination.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours cost ฿400-800 ($10-20), guided tours typically ฿1,200-2,000 ($30-50). Book guided tours 5-7 days ahead as March is when local tour operators resume full schedules after Mardi Gras recovery. Look for operators offering rain guarantees.

Mobile Bay Dolphin Watching Cruises

March marks the beginning of optimal dolphin viewing season as warmer waters bring pods closer to shore. Calm bay conditions and mild 22°C (72°F) highs make 2-3 hour boat trips comfortable without summer's intense heat and humidity.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost ฿1,600-2,400 ($40-60) and run Tuesday-Sunday in March. Book 7-10 days ahead as operators have limited schedules early in season. Choose afternoon departures (2-4pm) when dolphins are most active and weather is warmest.

Fort Morgan Beach Exploration

March offers beach walking without summer crowds or winter chill. While water temperature at 18°C (64°F) is too cool for swimming, it's perfect for beachcombing, metal detecting, and photographing the historic fort. Low tourist season means better access to prime spots.

Booking Tip: Fort entrance typically ฿320 ($8), parking ฿200 ($5). No advance booking needed in March. Visit mid-morning (10am-12pm) when temperatures peak and before afternoon rain chances increase. Combine with nearby Gulf Shores for full-day trip.

Mobile Delta Kayak Tours

March water levels are optimal after winter rains but before summer drought. Wildlife is active as temperatures warm - expect to see alligators sunning, migratory birds, and emerging wildflowers. Comfortable air temperatures prevent overheating during 3-4 hour paddles.

Booking Tip: Guided tours typically ฿2,000-3,200 ($50-80), equipment rental ฿1,200-1,600 ($30-40) per day. Book 10-14 days ahead as March marks busy season start. Choose morning tours (8am-12pm) to avoid afternoon rain and catch most active wildlife.

Bellingrath Gardens Tours

March is prime camellia and early azalea season at this 65-acre display garden. Cool mornings at 12°C (54°F) and warm afternoons at 22°C (72°F) make all-day garden visits comfortable. Spring blooms peak in March before summer heat stress.

Booking Tip: Garden admission typically ฿800-1,200 ($20-30), house tours additional ฿800 ($20). March is busy season so book home tours 7-10 days ahead. Visit early morning (8-10am) for best light and cooler temperatures, then explore grounds until afternoon.

Mobile River Sunset Cruises

March offers comfortable evening temperatures around 18°C (64°F) perfect for 2-hour river cruises. Longer daylight hours mean sunset cruises start around 6:30pm instead of winter's 5pm departures. Clear March evenings provide excellent photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Evening cruises typically ฿1,600-2,400 ($40-60), dinner cruises ฿2,800-4,000 ($70-100). Book weekend cruises 10-14 days ahead as March marks return of regular schedules. Weekday cruises often have same-day availability and lower prices.

March Events & Festivals

Throughout March (weather dependent)

Mobile Bay Jubilee Season Start

While jubilees can't be predicted exactly, March marks the traditional start of conditions that create these rare phenomena where sea life rushes to shore. Local knowledge and monitoring bay conditions becomes essential for experiencing this unique Gulf Coast event.

Mid to Late March

Azalea Trail Run

Annual running event through Mobile's most scenic historic neighborhoods during peak azalea bloom. The 10K course showcases antebellum homes and blooming gardens along Government Street and surrounding historic districts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - temperatures swing from 12°C (54°F) mornings to 22°C (72°F) afternoons, requiring light sweater plus t-shirt combinations
Waterproof walking shoes - 89mm (3.5 inches) of March rainfall creates puddles on historic brick sidewalks and unpaved areas
Light rain jacket or umbrella - afternoon showers hit 40% of March days but typically last only 15-30 minutes
SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 on clear days, and reflection off this destination intensifies exposure
Insect repellent - warming temperatures activate mosquitoes and no-see-ums, especially during delta and bayou activities
Long pants for evening - temperatures drop quickly after sunset, and long coverage prevents insect bites
Comfortable walking shoes with good tread - historic district tours involve 3-5km (2-3 mile) walks on uneven surfaces
Light fleece or cardigan - air conditioning in museums and restaurants can feel cold after outdoor activities
Waterproof phone case - essential for boat tours and kayaking, plus protection during unexpected rain showers
Binoculars - March wildlife viewing opportunities require magnification for dolphin watching and bird spotting

Insider Knowledge

Local restaurants offer 'Lent specials' throughout March featuring Gulf seafood - the best deals are at family-owned establishments on weekdays
this destination Bridge traffic is heaviest 7-9am and 4-6pm - time fort and beach visits for mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid delays
March is when locals start their annual 'porch sitting' season - many historic homes have residents who enjoy talking about neighborhood history
City parking meters are free after 6pm and all day Sunday, making evening and weekend historic district visits more economical

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for morning activities - 12°C (54°F) morning temperatures feel much colder with Gulf Coast humidity and wind
Not checking weather before boat tours - March cold fronts can create dangerous bay conditions with little warning
Assuming summer beach activities work in March - water temperature at 18°C (64°F) requires wetsuits for any water activities

Activities in Mobile