Mississippi beaches have always been a favorite destination when visiting the state. The southern part of the state’s situation along the Gulf of Mexico makes it a sought after and well traveled area for those looking for warm waters, miles of white sand beaches and a place to relax and unwind. The bonus of the southern shores is the close proximity the beaches have to cities such as Biloxi and Gulfport. This makes a vacation in the area even better with the option of a huge amount of things to do. Spend lazy days by the water and then head inland and discover the many exciting things that await such as great Biloxi casinos.
Though a large amount of beaches in Mississippi did suffer damage from Hurricane Katrina, most have long since bounced back and been reopened enjoying thriving tourism throughout the year. Ship Island Beach is the most popular of beaches Mississippi has. Secluded and scenic the shores of Ship Island Beach are situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico.
Great for nature lovers and families there are an abundance of interesting plants and wildlife found in the area. A picnic area creates a perfect outdoor dining area and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone occupied. Fantastic Mississippi fishing, swimming, strolls along the boardwalk and great views from the pier make time spent here fun and relaxing. Note that visitors have to take a short ferry ride to reach the beaches Mississippi boasts in the barrier islands..
Mississippi beaches west of Ocean Springs and Gulfport are the colorful and urban sands of Biloxi Beach. This area is popular with surfers who love the breaks and equally popular with families as fishing and swimming arm excellent here. This beaches Mississippi amenities include a picnic area, public showers, concession stands, lifeguards and nearby Biloxi hotels. Parking is available at the beach and there is a pier and boardwalk to enjoy.
Pass Christian-Long Beach is another cluster of beaches in Mississippi. Restrooms, small grocers, a variety of shops and restaurants are in the area making a lot of amenities a breeze to find. Deep south and eclectic, Pass Christian is known to locals as “The Pass” and it is also known as the “Birthplace of Yachting in the South”. Theodore Roosevelt visited the area often to write, sail and spend time with his friends. Anglers favor this area as the fishing is great. This beach area is popular with locals and visitors and is family-friendly. Play in the surf, fish or relax on the beach with a book and take in the grand stretch of sand before you.
Just west of Long Beach lies Bay St. Louis which empties out into the Mississippi Sound. Noted for its pristine beaches and highly regarded restaurants this is also a great area for chilling out by the ocean. This is the highest point along the stretch of the Gulf of Mexico coast and affords terrific views. There is also one of the many Mississippi casinos located in the area, the Hollywood Casino, which is perfect for great evening entertainment.
Though only a small part of the southern end of the state runs along the Gulf of Mexico there are plenty of Mississippi beaches and quiet areas to take advantage of. Even if you’re touring Jackson you can easily take the scenic route south past Natchez and make the drive over to one of the beaches for a day away from hectic urban scramble.
