Exploring Gulfport, Mississippi: Your Guide to Coastal Charm & Southern Hospitality

Relax on the Beach: Spend a day soaking up the sun and enjoying the pristine beaches of Gulfport, including popular spots like Jones Park Beach and Gulfport Beachfront.

Visit the Gulfport Harbor: Explore the scenic Gulfport Harbor, where you can stroll along the waterfront promenade, watch the boats come and go, and enjoy waterfront dining at restaurants like Shaggy's Gulfport Beach.

Gulf Islands Water Park: Cool off and have fun at Gulf Islands Water Park, featuring thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools and kiddie areas for the whole family to enjoy.

Island View Casino Resort: Try your luck at the Island View Casino Resort, where you can play a variety of slots and table games, dine at award-winning restaurants and enjoy live entertainment.

Lynn Meadows Discovery Center: Bring the kids to the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, an interactive children's museum with hands-on exhibits, outdoor play areas and educational programs.

Shop at Gulfport Premium Outlets: Score great deals on designer brands and name-brand merchandise at Gulfport Premium Outlets, featuring over 70 stores to shop from.

Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival: Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival, featuring a dazzling light display, ice skating rink, holiday market and more.

Visit the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies: Learn about marine life and conservation efforts at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies, where you can see dolphins, sea turtles and other marine animals up close.

Gulfport Dragway: Catch a thrilling drag race at the Gulfport Dragway, where you can watch high-speed racing action and enjoy a fun day at the track.

Gulfport Sportsplex: Play sports and enjoy outdoor activities at the Gulfport Sportsplex, featuring baseball fields, soccer fields, walking trails and a splash pad.

Fishing Charters: Go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico with a charter boat excursion, where you can reel in a variety of fish species including redfish, speckled trout and flounder.

Day trips

New Orleans, Louisiana: Head west to the vibrant city of New Orleans for a day of exploration and excitement. Experience the unique culture, cuisine and music of the Big Easy as you stroll through the French Quarter, visit historic landmarks like Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral, and indulge in beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde. Don't miss the opportunity to take a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River or enjoy live jazz music on Frenchmen Street.

Biloxi, Mississippi: Explore the neighboring city of Biloxi, located just a short drive east of Gulfport. Visit attractions like the Biloxi Lighthouse, the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum and Beauvoir and the historic home of Jefferson Davis. Try your luck at waterfront casinos like the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino and the Golden Nugget Biloxi, or relax on the sandy beaches and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Ship Island: Take a ferry ride to Ship Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, for a day of sun, sand and sea. Relax on the pristine beaches, swim in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and explore historic Fort Massachusetts, which dates back to the Civil War era. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day soaking up the natural beauty of this scenic barrier island.

Half Shell Oyster House: Indulge in fresh seafood and Southern specialties at Half Shell Oyster House, known for its oysters, po'boys and seafood platters served in a casual yet upscale setting.

White Cap Seafood Restaurant: Enjoy Gulf Coast cuisine with a waterfront view at White Cap Seafood Restaurant, featuring dishes like shrimp and grits, blackened redfish and seafood pasta made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Shaggy's Gulfport Beach: Dine beachside at Shaggy's Gulfport Beach, a laid-back eatery known for its seafood tacos, burgers and signature cocktails, with live music and panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Chimneys: Experience fine dining at The Chimneys, housed in a historic mansion overlooking the Gulfport Harbor, offering a menu of gourmet dishes, steaks and seafood, along with an extensive wine list.

Salute Italian Restaurant: Delight in authentic Italian cuisine at Salute Italian Restaurant, where you can enjoy handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian dishes in a cozy and welcoming setting.

Tony's Brick Oven Pizzeria: Taste the flavors of Italy at Tony's Brick Oven Pizzeria, known for its wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta dishes and Italian-inspired entrees served in a family-friendly atmosphere.

The Rack House Steak & Spirits: Indulge in hand-cut steaks and craft cocktails at The Rack House Steak & Spirits, featuring a menu of premium meats, seafood and gourmet sides in a rustic yet elegant setting.