Gulf Coast Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gulf Coast, Mississippi with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more!


Introduction to Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast is a beautiful destination located in Mississippi, USA. It is a great place to explore the natural wonders of the south and experience the southern hospitality. The Gulf Coast is known for its white sand beaches, scenic views, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Gulf Coast

There are many places to visit in Gulf Coast, ranging from museums, historical places, outdoor adventures, and scenic views. Here are some of the top places to visit in Gulf Coast:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Beauvoir, Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library: Visit the presidential library and home of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederate States of America.

  • Walter Anderson Museum of Art: Explore the unique art and paintings of Walter Anderson, depicting the natural landscapes and marine life of Gulf Coast.

  • Ohr-O’Keefe Museum Of Art: See the pottery and ceramic art of the famous artist George E. Ohr.

Natural Attractions of Gulf Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gulf Islands National Seashore: Discover the beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and scenic views of this national park.

  • De Soto National Forest: Explore the hiking and biking trails of this beautiful forest, home to diverse flora and fauna.

  • Ship Island: Take a ferry to this beautiful island and enjoy the scenic views, walking trails, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gulf Coast

The Gulf Coast has many scenic hiking and biking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes of Gulf Coast:

  • Longleaf Trace: This 41-mile long trail is perfect for biking, hiking, or jogging, with scenic views of the forest, rivers, and lakes.

  • Chickasawhay River Trail: This 30-mile long trail follows the Chickasawhay River, with beautiful scenic views of the river and pine forests.

Best Things to Do in Gulf Coast: Activities and Tours

  • Dolphin Watching Tours: Take a dolphin watching tour and see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.

  • Fishing Charters: Go on a fishing charter and catch some local fish like red snapper, trout, and flounder.

  • Eco-Tours: Take an eco-tour and explore the natural habitats and diverse flora and fauna of Gulf Coast.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gulf Coast

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Gulf Coast:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Beauvoir, Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library
2 Explore the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum Of Art
3 Go hiking in De Soto National Forest and visit the Gulf Islands National Seashore
4 Take a ferry to Ship Island and enjoy the beach and crystal-clear waters
5 Go on a dolphin watching tour and enjoy the local seafood
6 Take an eco-tour to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Gulf Coast
7 Relax at the beach and enjoy the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Gulf Coast

The food and drink scene of Gulf Coast offers a unique blend of seafood, southern, and creole cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crawfish Étouffée: A traditional Cajun dish made with crawfish, roux, and spices.

  • Po-Boy Sandwich: A traditional sandwich filled with fried seafood or roast beef.

  • Gumbo: A classic Louisiana dish made with shrimp, sausage, chicken, and seasoned with filé powder.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A southern classic, served sweet and cold with ice.

  • Hurricane Cocktail: A fruity cocktail made with rum, passion fruit, and lemon juice.

  • Local Beers: Try some of the locally brewed beers such as Gulfport Cream Ale or Biloxi Blonde.

Where to Stay in Gulf Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gulf Coast offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the top accommodation options in Gulf Coast:

  • The White House Hotel: A historic hotel located on the beachfront, with luxurious rooms and great amenities.

  • The Roost: A boutique hotel with modern rooms and amenities, located in the heart of downtown Ocean Springs.

  • The Guest House at Gulfport Landing: A charming guesthouse located in a historic building, offering comfortable rooms and great hospitality.

What to Buy in Gulf Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring home some of the local souvenirs and products that capture the essence of Gulf Coast. Here are some of the top things to buy in Gulf Coast:

  • Seafood: Bring home some fresh local seafood such as shrimp, oysters, and crabs.

  • Ceramic Art: Buy some unique ceramic art pieces from the famous artist George E. Ohr.

  • Hand-Painted Objects: Buy some hand-painted objects such as seashells and mugs from local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast has a unique blend of Southern and Creole culture, which is reflected in its food, music, and art. The locals of Gulf Coast are known for their hospitality and friendly nature.

Best Time to Visit Gulf Coast

The best time to visit Gulf Coast is during the fall and winter months when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. However, if you’re looking to experience the vibrant nightlife and festivals, the summer months are the best time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gulf Coast

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions of Gulf Coast.

  • Try the local seafood and cuisine.

  • Visit the national parks and museums to learn about the history and culture of Gulf Coast.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or parks.

  • Ignore the safety rules and guidelines while enjoying outdoor adventures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gulf Coast

Gulf Coast is a safe destination for travelers, but it is always recommended to be cautious while traveling. Avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night and take care of your belongings.

Health in Gulf Coast

In case of a medical emergency, Gulf Coast has many hospitals and clinics providing excellent medical care. It is advised to carry your necessary medication and travel insurance.

Getting to Gulf Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

You can get to Gulf Coast by Air, Bus, or Personal vehicles.

Airports Near Gulf Coast

The nearest international airports to Gulf Coast are Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT) and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

Bus Stations Near Gulf Coast

Greyhound Bus Lines have a bus station in Gulfport providing services to other major cities in the USA.

Other Options

One can rent a car from nearby cities such as New Orleans or Jackson and drive to Gulf Coast, enjoying the scenic routes and sights.

How to Get Around in Gulf Coast

The best way to get around Gulf Coast is to rent a car, which gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. Alternatively, you can also use taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Gulf Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions from Gulfport, which offer a unique mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top destinations to visit near Gulf Coast:

  • New Orleans: Experience the vibrant culture, music, and food of New Orleans, located just a few hours drive from Gulf Coast.

  • Mobile: Visit the historic city of Mobile, located in Alabama, and explore its beautiful downtown and architectural marvels.

Conclusion

Gulf Coast is a beautiful destination that offers a unique mix of scenic views, outdoor adventures, and culture. With this comprehensive travel guide, plan your trip to Gulf Coast, Mississippi, and experience the best of southern hospitality!



    Bay St. Louis
    Biloxi
    Collins
    D'Iberville
    Gulfport
    Ocean Springs
    Pascagoula
    Waveland