Part of our Mississippi guide.
Mississippi’s beaches line the Gulf of Mexico from the Pearl River to the Alabama border, with the main public beach spanning 26 miles from Biloxi to Henderson Point. The state’s coastline includes barrier islands, fishing villages, and historic lighthouses, all shaped by the Gulf’s warm waters and subtropical climate.
Biloxi's Maritime And Seafood Museum: A Coastal Gem
The Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum in Biloxi, Mississippi, covers the coastal life that has shaped this city, from shrimping and oystering to boat building. Interactive exhibits make learning fun for all ages, while the historic schooners docked nearby provide a tangible link to the past. The museum also touches on the region’s deeper history, connecting to the blues history and landmarks in Mississippi that grew from the same working waterfronts.
Ship Island Ecosystems
Ship Island, located off the coast of Mississippi, is home to unique ecosystems that support a variety of wildlife. From the playful dolphins in the Gulf waters to the migratory birds that stop by during their long journeys, the island is a haven for nature lovers. The island's salt marshes and seagrass beds play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the coastal environment. Ferry service runs from Gulfport to the island seasonally, typically from March through October, with a round-trip fare of about $35 for adults. This is one of the beaches to visit in Biloxi, Mississippi that requires a boat to reach, offering quieter sands than the mainland.
Gulf Coast Fishing Villages
Mississippi's Gulf Coast fishing villages, from the docks of Biloxi to the smaller harbors in Pass Christian and Bay St. Louis, offer more than just fresh seafood. You can stroll along scenic waterfronts, visit local markets, and chat with friendly fishermen who have stories to tell. The villages date back to the 18th century, when French and Spanish settlers established trading posts along the coast. Today, the shrimping fleet in Biloxi numbers around 100 boats, with the season running from May through December. These working harbors are also gateways to the secret wetlands and bogs in Mississippi that line the tidal creeks behind the villages.
Unveil The Mystique Of Cat Island In Pass Christian
Cat Island in Pass Christian offers pristine beaches, lush forests, and a rich history waiting to be explored. The island is accessible only by private boat or charter, with no ferry service, so plan your own transportation. Walking along sandy shores, you can spot rare birds or discover old ruins from centuries past, including remnants of a 19th-century plantation. The island spans about 6 miles in length and is a designated Coastal Preserve, meaning no development is allowed. This remote spot is one of the secret Civil War and frontier sites in Mississippi, as Union forces used the island as a staging ground in 1862.
Gulf Islands' Petrified Forest
The petrified forest on Mississippi's Gulf Islands offers a glimpse into ancient times, where trees turned to stone over millions of years. The petrified wood here tells tales of prehistoric landscapes and ancient ecosystems, with specimens dating to the Miocene epoch, about 20 million years ago. Access is limited to guided tours from the Gulf Islands National Seashore visitor center in Ocean Springs, with tours running on select weekends from March to November. The site is not a full forest but scattered logs embedded in sandstone, exposed by erosion.
Gulf Coast
The hidden spider lily lagoons along Mississippi's Gulf Coast offer a unique glimpse into the region's natural beauty. These lagoons, found in the marshes near the Pascagoula River, bloom with vibrant clusters of spider lilies from late July through September. The best viewing is by kayak, with rentals available at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center for about $25 per half-day. The lagoons are part of the larger mysteries of the River Valley in Mississippi, where the dark water and white flowers create a surreal landscape.
Gulf Coast
Mississippi's Gulf Coast holds hidden trading posts that tell stories of the past. These spots, often overlooked, offer a glimpse into the history of commerce and culture in the area. The De Soto trading post near Ocean Springs operated from 1689 to 1700, exchanging deerskins and furs for European goods. Another site, the Old Spanish Fort in Pascagoula, dates to 1718 and served as a trading hub for the French colony. Imagine walking through a place where traders once exchanged goods, ideas, and tales from distant lands. Each post has its own unique charm, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the Gulf Coast.
Grand Bay Islands
Grand Bay Islands, located in the Mississippi Sound near the Alabama line, offer a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and unique wildlife. The islands are part of the Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, which covers 18,400 acres of marsh and open water. Exploring pristine beaches, lush marshes, and diverse ecosystems is possible via the reserve’s boardwalk trails, which are free and open daily from sunrise to sunset. The islands themselves are only reachable by boat, with guided kayak tours available from the reserve’s visitor center in Moss Point. These islands are a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the resorts to stay in Gulfport, Mississippi and looking for a day trip into nature.
Thrilling Airboat Rides At Gulf Coast Gator Ranch
Gulf Coast Gator Ranch offers thrilling airboat rides that let you glide across the waters while spotting alligators in their natural habitat. The ranch, located in Moss Point, operates tours daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with prices starting at $25 for adults and $15 for children. Each ride lasts about 45 minutes and covers the swamps and marshes of the Gulf Coast, where you can see alligators up to 12 feet long. The ranch also houses a small museum with live alligator exhibits and educational talks on conservation efforts.
Pascagoula's Enchanting Round Island Lighthouse
Pascagoula, Mississippi, offers a hidden gem that history buffs and lighthouse enthusiasts will love. The Round Island Lighthouse stands tall as a beacon of the past, guiding sailors since 1833. Originally located on Round Island, it was moved to the mainland in 1854 after hurricanes threatened its existence. Today, visitors can explore this historic structure, learn about its storied past, and enjoy the scenic views of the Gulf Coast. The lighthouse is open for tours from March through November, with a small admission fee of $5 for adults. It sits at the end of Pascagoula’s beach park, which also features a fishing pier and picnic areas.
Coast Mound Shell Rings
The Mississippi Coast Mound Shell Rings are one of the most intriguing archaeological sites in the United States. These mysterious structures, built by Native American cultures over 3,000 years ago, offer a glimpse into the past. The rings, made from shells and other materials, were likely used for ceremonies, gatherings, or even as living spaces. The largest ring, at the Poverty Point site near the coast, measures about 600 feet in diameter. Visiting these sites can transport you back in time, allowing you to imagine what life was like for the people who built them. The rings are protected as part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, with free access to the shell ring trail on Horn Island.
The Midwest
Hidden river beaches in the Midwest offer sandy shores, clear waters, and peaceful surroundings. The Mississippi River, which forms the western border of the state, has several sandbars that emerge during low water in late summer. These spots, such as those near Grand Tower Island, are accessible only by boat, with canoe rentals available in the town of Grand Tower for about $40 per day. Imagine spending a sunny day lounging by the water, skipping rocks, or having a picnic with friends. These hidden river beaches provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Barrier Coast
Mississippi's Barrier Coast includes the chain of barrier islands that stretch from Cat Island to Petit Bois Island, protecting the mainland from storm surges. The islands are part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, which covers 160,000 acres of land and water. From charming small towns like Ocean Springs to unique wildlife like the endangered Alabama beach mouse, there's something for everyone. The islands are less crowded than other popular destinations, making them a perfect getaway. Ferry service to West Ship Island from Gulfport costs $35 round-trip for adults, with departures at 9 a.m. and noon from March through October. This coast is also home to the nightlife spots to experience in Biloxi, Mississippi, which are a short drive from the ferry terminal.
