Last winter we spent several weeks exploring Mississippi’s coast, from the Alabama border on the east to Louisiana on the west. Although the area experienced cooler weather than normal, we never wanted for things to do. Here are 21 Mississippi Gulf Coast places to go and things to do, no matter what the temperature.
Twelve miles off the Mississippi Gulf Coast and accessible only by private boat or ferry, Ship Island was a tourist destination for years. And then, in 1969, Hurricane Camille hit. She split the island in half, creating West Ship Island and East Ship Island. In 2005 Hurricane Katrina did even more damage.
Thanks to an Army Corps of Engineers project, the two halves were reconnected in 2019, making the entire island available again via a single ferry ride.
Spend the day exploring Ship Island—or sunbathe all day. The choice is yours. Either way, a Ship Island visit is a highlight on a Gulf Coast itinerary.
Mention the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and you may think of sunning on white sand beaches, deep-sea fishing, or dining al fresco. All of those are great Gulf Coast activities…except when the weather doesn’t cooperate. On the occasional rainy or chilly day, plan to visit one of several Mississippi Gulf Coast museums. Here are four museums that history buffs, especially, will enjoy:
