When you stay at The Inn at Long Beach, MS, you’re never too far away from area attractions like shopping, dining, entertainment venues, and more. We’re centrally located so you can explore all that Pass Christian, Long Beach, and Gulfport, Mississippi, have to offer. Our area guide details all the great things to do in Gulfport, MS.
Only 15 minutes away from our hotel, Gulf Islands Waterpark is the place to enjoy wet and wild fun for the whole family. Take a break from the beach and sightseeing to careen down waterslides and relax by the wave pool or in the lazy river. The park is home to various water slides and Mississippi’s only water roller coaster.
Whether you want to spend your day on a fast-paced adventure winding down waterslides or lounging around the wave pool, Gulf Islands Waterpark has it all. The Lazy Pearl River is a highway of sorts that encircles the whole park, providing a fun way to cool off and transport you to your next attraction of interest. The wave pool is the park’s most significant attraction at 12,000 square feet. There’s plenty of room to cool off or hang out at the wave pool beach area.
For smaller children, there are two areas for fun and safe play. The Ship Island Wreck is a small water slide. It is an excellent introduction for small children who aren’t quite ready to take on the big slides of the much older kids. Spray St. Louis is a wet play area where toddlers and little ones can enjoy splashing without swimming.
Adventure seekers will love the various water slides at the Gulf Islands Waterpark! Race your friends at the Riptide Racer, where you use a mat to slide down a giant waterslide. The Horn Island Blaster is Mississippi’s first and only water roller coaster. Blast uphill and plummet down 45-degree drops through 500 feet of twists, turns, and tunnels. Also, check out the Camille Cutter Slide, a rafting adventure the entire family can ride on together. There are many more attractions in the park, so you’ll want to check out their website to plan your trip.
The Gulf Islands Waterpark offers various options for guests to spend one day or enjoy the entire season. Day pass prices vary based on seasonal operations and may change based on whether you visit on a weekday or weekend. Day passes start at $14.99 for children and adults 42 inches or taller, and you can buy tickets online. Tickets are non-refundable, and there is a per-ticket transfer fee if you wish to change the date you visit. Seasonal passes allow local guests to enjoy splishing and splashing throughout the season at reasonable prices. Passes start at $60 per person and include unlimited admission into the park for the entire season.
Cabana and group rental facilities are also available within the park. Rent a Cabana, Fish Camp, or Boat House starting at $35 a day. With options that can accommodate 2 to 120 people, there’s room for everyone! Fish Camps and Boat Houses offer shaded areas, picnic tables, and more. These are great for birthday parties and family reunions. If you’re looking for the ultimate private experience, call the waterpark to rent T-Klin’s Hangout, a fully air-conditioned private room with its own restroom.
The waterpark has everything you need to enjoy a full day of water-filled fun. Below are some helpful tips for planning your trip.
Take a break from slipping and sliding and fill up at one of the various eateries at the waterpark. The Petit Bois Island Cafe serves up American classics like chicken tenders, hamburgers, chili-cheese fries, and salads. Or, grab a slice of pizza at Dockside Pizza. Are you looking for a sweet treat? Check out Polly’s Sweet Spot and indulge in a funnel cake, cotton candy, or shaved ice.
A waterpark is a great place for a corporate event, family reunion, or birthday party. There are various group areas with plenty of room to have fun and relax. Special discounted admission rates are available for groups. The park also hosts live music and “celebrity” meet and greets on occasion as well.
Wanting to host a birthday party, the kids will never forget? The waterpark is a great place to do it. Packages start at $280 and include a two-hour party pavilion rental, admission for 20 guests (the birthday child gets in for free), pizza, and drinks.
Anyone wishing to visit the waterpark must make an online reservation in advance, including seasonal pass holders. Making reservations ensures the park stays within the maximum occupancy guidelines as required by the state. View all of the park’s COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines here.
Bad weather can put a damper on any day, so the Gulf Islands have a rain check policy if the park is forced to close due to inclement weather. If the park needs to close, simply bring your receipt to use as your admission to return during the same season. However, it’s important to note that the park will never close in advance of bad weather. Rain checks will be issued day-of as the forecast changes.
The waterpark is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm throughout the summer until August 5th. After that date, the waterpark moves into weekend operating hours and is open from 10 am to 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays through September 7th. Gulf Islands Waterpark is located on 16th street in Gulfport and is close to our hotel in Long Beach, MS. If you have questions, they can be reached by calling 228-328-1266 or emailing customer service at customerservice@gulfislandswaterpark.com.
Visiting Gulf Islands Waterpark is a must-do attraction if you visit Pass Christian, Long Beach, or Gulfport, Mississippi, during the summer. The best part about it is that when you stay at The Inn at Long Beach, MS, you’re only a few minutes away from some wet and wild water fun! Explore everything Long Beach and Gulfport have to offer without going far. We can’t wait to see you!