Gulfport beach, also known as the gem of Gulfport, is one of the closest ocean beaches to Arkansas. Located in Mississippi, this beach is known for a serene atmosphere where visitors can engage in various activities. This beach provides the best combination of relaxation and adventure. The beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico from this beach will definitely leave you in awe. Let’s dive deeper to learn more about Gulfport beach.
Things to do at Gulfport Beachere
- Swimming: As said earlier, Gulfport beach is one of the most serene beaches in Mississippi. It never gets too crowded, which gives the visitors the best environment for taking up activities like swimming for relaxation.
- Jet Skiing: To make your trip adventurous rent for yourself a jet ski and get ready to have a thrilling experience.
- Kayaking: The calm waters and gentle slope of Gulfport beach allows you to have a good kayaking experience. You can rent a single-person kayak, or a two-persons kayak to take part in the adventure along with your partner.
- Sunbathing: Gulfport beach is calm due to less crowding, giving you a good place to sunbath and enjoy a rejuvenating time.
- Beach volleyball: No beach trip can be complete without a good volleyball match. The plenty of area on Gulfport beach allows you to play volleyball with your friends or family and even lets you make new friends at the destination.
- Fishing: The gulf shores are home to a variety of fish species. If you want to extend your fun at the beach, Gulfport beach is the perfect place to book a fishing charter or go fishing on the shores of the beach.
- Dolphin-watching tours: Since the Gulf shore is known for having a variety of fishes, Dolphins form a major portion of worth watching fishes. Dolphin tours are one of the not-to-miss activities that will leave you mesmerized.
Gulfport Harbor and Marina
Gulfport harbor and Marina is the vibrant activity hub near Gulfport beach. This area adds a rich layer of experience to your visit to the beach. It offers a series of activities like fishing charters, dining with views, local and cultural shopping experience, scenic boat rides like dolphin tours, sunset cruises and eco-tours, and events and festivals that take place on a regular basis. Gulfport Harbor and Marina is a perfect place for everyone and should not be missed if you are on a trip to Gulfport beach.
Gulf Island Waterpark
If you are visiting Gulfport beach with your family, Gulf Island Waterpark is a must-visit. It is a family friendly water park a short drive from the beach. The key attractions of the park include water slides, lazy river where visitors can just relax in inner tubes on a river, kiddie areas for young kids including small rides, family rides for a good fun time with the family members. The park also includes amenities like cabanas, lockers, dining options and a gift shop. To include adventure in your trip with family, this is a perfect location near Gulfport beach.
Ocean Adventure Marine Park
For a more educational trip, turn to Ocean Adventure Marine Park which is a short distance from Gulfport beach. This park showcases exciting exhibits and activities that are designed to include visitors of all ages. The main shows are- Dolphin encounters, Sealion shows, Stingray Encounter with touch pools and feeding sessions, Sharks and fish exhibits with aquarium, aviary with includes bird encounters. Not just this, the park also conducts seasonal shows and events with interactive activities. Ocean Adventure marine park is great place for learning and experiencing the marine ecosystem and adding life to your Gulfport beach adventure.
Dining options
- Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach: This restaurant provides a laid-back experience with a soft and casual ambience. Known for American sea food and crafted beer collection, this place is a must visit for foodies.
- Salute Italian Restaurant: If you are looking for Italian seafood options, this is the place for you. This offers seafood pizzas and pastas that are loved by all, along with a wine collection worth tasting.
- Island View Buffet: Enjoy your food with the beautiful views of the gulf from this restaurant. It offers great taste of international seafoods.
Hidden gems
- Lynn Meadows Discovery Center: If you have gotten your kids along, make sure to not miss this place. This is an amazing place for kids and adults alike. It includes interactive exhibits, outdoor playing areas for kids and much more.
- Friendship Oak: A 500-year-old tree located in the premises of the University of Southern Mississippi stands till date as a symbol of friendship and endurance. Provides a beautiful location for walks and clicking pictures.
Chandeleur Brewing - Company: One of the favorite places of locals but missed out by tourists is this brewing company where local beers are crafted on-site. Visitors can indulge in tasting and tours.
- Bayou Vista Golf Course: If you are a golf enthusiast get to this public golf course which is never crowded and loved by tourists for its beautiful location. It offers a golf course for all levels of players.
Location
Gulfport Beach is located in the city of Gulfport, Mississippi. It is one of the prime locations at the shores of Gulf of Mexico that provides scenic beauty unmatched. It is one of the closest ocean beaches to Arkansas and other places like New Orleans. It is easily accessible from different parts of the country. The beach is located on Highway 90 and as you approach it offers breathtaking scenery.
Transport options
- By Flight: if you are flying to visit the beach, you will need to reach the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT). From here you can use rideshare taxis or cab services to reach the location.
- By Car: Gulfport beach can be conveniently reached by a car. You can simply drive to Gulfport city and reach the beach. Many parking options are also available.
- By Bus: All nearby towns and cities offer bus services to reach Gulfport city and once you are in the city use local transport to reach your destination.
- By train: Use Amtrak and reach Gulfport station after with pick any local transport option to reach Gulfport beach.
All in all, Gulfport beach is a perfect beach vacation location for people who want a mix of adventure and relaxation. It provides options for water activities and the city also has many other options for visitors to keep them falling in love with the city. This summer plan your visit to Gulfport beach in Mississippi.
