Bamahenge, Dinosaurs and a Lady in the Water – off the beaten path in Josephine, Alabama

There is something very strange going on in rural Josephine Alabama and if you’re not paying attention you just might miss it.  Josephine is small community in lower Alabama and the home of Bamahenge a large replica of Stonehenge.  Near by you’ll also find life sized dinosaurs.  Go farther south to Barber Marina and explore an Italian fountain, climb under a metal spider and admire the beautiful Lady in the water.

For lunch, bushwackers, music and some laid back beach time head down the road to Pirate’s Cove.

Original Article 2017 – updated 2023

A Quick History of Bamahenge

Bamahenge and the surrounding statues and oddities are a project of Alabama Billionaire George Barber.  The structures are mostly along Barber Parkway and in to Barber Marina.  The most impressive is Bamahenge but there are also life-size dinosaurs, a larger than life lady  in the water, spiders and fountains.

First, Some Quick Questions about Bamahenge

Where is it?

This place is in the middle of nowhere in Southern Alabama.  To find your way here look up directions for Barber Marina. It’s South of Elberta AL and just across Bay La Launch in Orange Beach (although to get to Bamahenge by water is not possible without a very, very long walk). The attractions are along Barber Parkway.

If you are vacationing in neighboring Gulf Shores, Pensacola or Orange Beach – it’s going to be a drive.  If you’re tired of all the white sand and just want to see something new – it may be worth a visit.  I’d plan on adding a stop to Pirate’s Cove.  Otherwise there’s not a lot to do nearby but … we have a boat – or at least we can borrow one.

We were in the area in hopes of having a sunset sail from the marina. However, when one sees a full size replica of Stonehenge on the side of the road – you just have to stop. At least once, or may be every time you drive by it.

Bamahenge

Basically, you will be driving down a country road with nothing around but trees.  No houses – just trees.  Bamahenge is to your right about half way down Barber Parkway.  It’s a short walk off of the road but you can see some of the stones peek through the forest.  Just pull off on the side of the road and go for it.  It’s such a fun place to run around especially for kids and getting that prefect Instagram shot is super easy.  Usually you’ll have the place to yourself.

Alabama Dinosaurs

The dinosaurs are a little bit trickier to find.  Keep an eye to the right.  You may see an area that has more tire marks and a small trail.  If you look in the woods in those areas that’s where you are likely to find the dinosaurs.   We’ve spotted 2 but there may be more.  These statues are also full size replicas and are large.

The Fountain

When you enter the marina grounds, you’ll see a very impressive replica of an European fountain in the round-a-bout.  It looks like someone just scooped it up from Italy and plopped it right in the middle of an Alabama traffic circle.

The Spider

If you then look to the right of the marina you’ll see the impressive spider.  I wouldn’t stand under it but eventually I talked 2 of the kids in to getting a little close.  It’s cool but it’s a spider – I don’t do spiders … even ones that are made of metal.

Barber Marina

The marina itself is really nice.  We found our loaner boat and headed out for our evening sail.  It’s a quiet place, nicely done and you can listen to the sea breezes.  This area of Alabama is definitely a hidden gem.

Update 1/2021:  Barber Marina was severely damaged during Hurricane Sally, much of the marina and surrounding area may be awhile before they are fixed. 

The Lady in the Water

If you’re not on a boat, you should be able to get a view of this large statue if you go to the right of the marina.  She’s in the water at the very end of the piers.  I just love this statue.  It feels like she’s looking over you as you come and go from the marina.  I think of Sirens, Mermaids and Greek Mythology.

(The last time we visited in November 2017 – the lady in the water was not there.  I’m hoping she was just on vacation.  Barber Marina had severe damage from Hurricane Sally in 2020 – I would expect the Lady in the Water to not return for awhile)

2023 – She’s back! The Lady in the Water was placed back in the Marina, I’ll update as I learn changes.

Pirates Cove (for lunch, beach, and beer)

After you’ve found all the area attractions head over to hwy 95 and south to Pirates Cove. Pirates Cove is a great place to get some lunch and hang out for a few hours.  We generally like to arrive by boat but a car will get you there just fine.  The inside is very small and rustic but you’re not here for fine dinning.  Order your burger, fries, beer and bushwhackers and grab a seat.   There is a large sandy area that is shallow and a great place for the kids to play.  You don’t have to worry about waves and it’s away from the boats.  We usually get a picnic table, bring our sand castle supplies and just relax.

Pirates Cove frequently has live music and hosts many events.   You can check our their website here for a schedule (but they may not keep it updated).

If you’re looking for laid back, dogs running, kids playing, southern music, flip-flops, good greasy food and boat people – this is your place.  If you want clean sparkling bathrooms, salads and AC – don’t bother.

Sunset Sail

When the sun starts to go down it’s time for us to jump back on the boat and sail back to the marina.  This area is an absolutely beautiful place to sail.  Sometimes the weather can be dicey but otherwise, it’s wonderful.  Do be careful if you are driving through these roads at night – the deer are everywhere.  I think I saw 15 the last time I drove this road – they’re beautiful but they tend to jump in front of cars so go slow and pay attention.

(For another great article on Bamahenge with Dinosaur Pics please click here)

More Locations

We’re a family of 5 taking a gap year from normal life to travel.  For blog posts, locations, and more information on how we did it and how you can to click here.

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