Coastal Mississippi is the perfect place to enjoy some sea breezes and sunshine! While you may be eager to come to the area for great food or fun festivals, you may not be aware that Gulfport is home to tons of incredible outdoor attractions and expeditions. Just check out this list of five unique outdoor activities near Gulfport Mississippi.
Once a crucial port for French Louisiana, Ship Island is considered the Plymouth Rock of the Gulf Coast. In addition to being a landing spot for early colonists, the historic port was also used during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Modern-day visitors can get to Ship Island via a relaxing ferry to experience the Mississippi Barrier Islands. Belonging to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, these protected islands represent some of the country's last undeveloped barrier islands. The raw beaches are phenomenal! In addition to swimming and sunbathing, guests can take fort tours operated by the National Park Service.
Paddle the beautiful Wolf River! Located minutes from amazing beaches, this stunning waterway takes you through woodlands, clay formations, and sandy beaches. Kayaking on the Wolf River with a guide is a peaceful, relaxing way to encounter Mississippi's natural landscape.
Don't miss this fun photo opportunity while vacationing on the Mississippi coast! The official 35-foot-high Rocking Chair at Dedeaux Clan Furniture on Canal Road in Gulfport has become one of America's top roadside attractions since being installed in 1995. This larger-than-life rocker amazingly survived Hurricane Katrina with only some stripped paint.
Bring a tropical vibe to your trip by enjoying a tiki party in Bay St. Louis with a popular local tour company called Cruisin' Tikis Bay St. Louis. During this 1.5-hour cruise experience, you'll enjoy cold drinks and island-themed music as you sail off in search of amazing views and wildlife sightings. Guests can choose morning or sunset excursions. Bookmark this one if you're coming to Gulfport to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, family reunion, bachelor/bachelorette party, or team-building workshop.
If you're looking for unique outdoor activities near Gulfport Mississippi you'll remember for a lifetime, consider a Gulfport fishing charter. Nothing showcases the marine environment of the Mississippi coast like this! Both novices and experienced anglers will enjoy choosing from inshore, offshore, or deep-sea fishing experiences that will satisfy their desires for reeling in snapper, trout, redfish, and much more! Depending on your schedule, you can book half-day or full-day charters. The best part is that everything is planned for you on boats that are fully equipped for optimized comfort. It's the perfect choice for making memories with family or friends!
The truth is that it's hard to want to come back indoors after exploring unique outdoor activities near Gulfport Mississippi. When you're ready to dip inside for a bit, the area has tons of great restaurants and specialty shops where you can fuel up. Tuck away this list of coffee shops Gulfport MS locals love for when your energy needs a reboot between adventures!