The 6 Best Beaches in Mississippi

When you think of the state of Mississippi, beaches and coastal views may not be the first thought that comes to mind. After all, surrounded by Florida, Texas, and Louisiana’s coastlines in the Gulf, it’s easy for Mississippi to be unfairly overlooked. Although it has a smaller coastline compared to many of these states, the beaches that are there are not worth missing out on! As the sun continues to shine bright and the days get longer, you’re going to want to pack up the car and head to the beach. So grab your sunscreen, pack up some food and drinks, and get the family together. It’s time to explore some of the best beaches in Mississippi. 

We’ve got the rundown on the six best beaches in Mississippi as well as what makes these beaches so notable.

Gulfport Beach

Hands down, one of the best beaches in Mississippi is Gulfport Beach. This is one of the main beaches in the state. Ask any local, and most of them will say that they love heading to this beach on their beach days. Both the beach and the harbor area are great tourist spots. Many travelers come here to enjoy the clean beach. Since it’s so clean and safe, many families love coming here as well. Along with tanning and swimming in the ocean, the beach also offers areas for you to fly a kite and even fish along the harbor. 

Additionally, it’s pretty close to cities such as Biloxi and Ocean Springs. Also, if you forget your beach chair, you won’t have to worry! There are chair and umbrella rental services along the beach. Finally, if you get tired or hungry, there are great restaurants around, as well as bars and cafes. You’ll also be close to Gulf Islands Waterpark and Ocean Adventures Marine Park. These are both great spots to check out if you’re going on a beach day with friends or with your family!

Biloxi Beach

If you’re looking to dive into some of the warmest waters in the area, then you need to give Biloxi Beach a visit. This is one of the most popular beaches in Mississippi — and for good reason! Biloxi is well-known for some of the softest sand around and the warmest water. The beach is also big enough to give you plenty of space if you want a more secluded area to settle down. However, this beach is so much more than just suntanning and diving in the ocean. This area is known for being a huge entertainment hub for people of all ages. 

There are tons of activities in the area that you can take advantage of, including steamboat tours and fishing charters. You can even rent jet skis and get out on the water that way! Biloxi Beach is also well-known for its 19th-century lighthouse that many come to see. Finally, you won’t run out of places to eat when you’re here as restaurants, bars, and cafes are abundant around here. Overall, this is a great beach with white soft sand and lots of fun things to do around.

Horn Island

If you’re open to getting off mainland Mississippi and traveling a bit, then you won’t be disappointed when visiting Horn Island. Horn Island is a thin barrier island located off the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Although the island is several miles long, it is less than one mile at its widest point. To get here, you’ll need to either charter a private boat or go on a boat tour. However, some adventurous folks have gotten here by way of kayak. Either way, once you’re on this island you’ll be greeted by a gorgeous beach that has some of the softest sand you’ve ever experienced. 

Additionally, the wildlife here has been left untouched, which means you get to observe it in its purest state. Some of the wildlife that people have seen here include herons, pelicans, and even gators! Many couples travel here for a weekend getaway, so if you’re feeling up to it bring along some camping gear like a tent and sleeping bags. Make sure to respect the beautiful wilderness and not leave anything behind except your footprints along the shore.

Old Bridge Beach

One of the most underrated beaches in the state happens to be Old Bridge Beach. It happens to be a hidden gem that is located off Highway 4. During the summer months, people of all ages flock to this beach because of how beautiful the sand and clean the waters are. The sand at the beach is often said to be some of the softest and whitest in the state. The water is also absolutely breathtaking as it is so clean. The biggest reason that the water is so clear is that it’s located on Bay Springs Lake. 

So if you’re looking for a great place to swim and cool down in the hot summer heat then you need to check out Old Bridge Beach. Another feature that makes this beach so popular is that there are also tables and grills available for public use. Since the beach is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers there is a fee to access the beach. However, it is incredibly affordable, with it only costing $4 to cover one vehicle with up to eight people inside of it. Also, be sure to get to the beach early, as it can get pretty packed during the peak of the summer.

Ship Island

Once again, if you’re looking for a daytime excursion to access a beautiful beach then you’re going to want to check out Ship Island. This island is a barrier island off the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. It is only 11 miles south of Gulfport, Mississippi. It is important to note that Ship Island refers to two separate islands known as East Ship Island and West Ship Island. Back in 1969, Hurricane Camille caused the island to split in two. 

Today, there is a ferry that you can take from Gulfport that only takes one hour to get there. While you’re on the boat ride, you may even get a chance to see dolphins in the water! Once you’re on the island, you’ll be greeted by beautiful serene beaches. However, there’s more to do here than just hang out on the beach. There is a nature trail that you may want to check out. There is even an old fort that is considered a historic site.

Bay St. Louis Beach

If you’re looking for a beach that is less crowded than the others, you’ll want to explore Bay St. Louis Beach. This is a quaint beach that is part of a small beach town. It is not too far away from Biloxi Beach. So if you’re close to that location then you may want to check out Bay St. Louis Beach for the day. What makes this beach so great is that it is a quiet and calmer experience. Not everyone wants to be in the middle of huge crowds. At Bay St. Louis Beach, you can enjoy the simple pleasures of a quaint beach day. 

Along with being such a peaceful beach option, the surrounding area also offers you amazing seafood restaurants and different quirky shops to step into. Additionally, this beach is also another popular area for fishing. So if you happen to consider you’re self an angler then you won’t want to miss out on the catches available here. This is a fantastic beach to visit! So if you’re ready to enjoy a beautiful sunset while sitting on a peaceful shore, visit here.

Summary of The 6 Best Beaches in Mississippi

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