Gulfport Beach is a quiet and peaceful beach located right on Boca Ciega Bay. It’s a short drive from Nola (just about one hour and fifteen minutes). The beach isn’t wide, but it’s very, very long, extending from Biloxi to Gulfport, and then to Long Beach – you’ll see miles and miles of soft white sand and shining ocean. The scenery is beautiful and there aren’t many people around.
Gulfport Beach is definitely one of the best beaches for a quick trip from New Orleans, offering plenty of relaxation – a great place for flying kites, sunbathing, watching sunrises and sunsets, catching crabs, walking along the seashore, or reading a book to the sound of waves. Dogs are not allowed, but you can walk your pet on the path next to the beach. The beach offers a calm and tranquil atmosphere for relaxation in the bosom of nature.
Access and parking
The beach is situated quite close to big cities, which makes it a convenient destination for a quick holiday outside the megalopolis. Many people come here, but it rarely gets crowded, since it’s extensive and offers enough space for everyone.
If you wish to find a private spot far from big and loud companies, you should avoid the areas with water equipment rentals. There is free parking near the beach, which is almost always available. You can find parking spaces along the highway in some places.
Perfect sand and not that perfect water
Gulfport Beach boasts fine, white, well-groomed sand, great for taking off your shoes and walking barefooted; it’s soft and tender to the touch. The beach workers empty the trash cans regularly and do a good job maintaining the beach.
However, you won’t find crystal clear emerald water here. The water on the beach isn’t dirty and doesn’t smell, but it’s often brown in color and contains lots of sticks, twigs, leaves, pine cones, etc. Much of the driftwood comes from the nearby barrier islands.
It doesn’t frighten people off, though, and many enjoy swimming. The waters are very shallow and it takes quite a while to reach at least the waist-deep area – quite convenient for those who can’t swim well or for small children.
Tourist facilities and services
There are plenty of newly established restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels, and casinos nearby. On-site, you’ll find umbrellas and water equipment rentals and also some food outlets which offer light snacks.
Driving Time
- 1 hour 15 minutes from Mobile, AL
- 1 hour 20 minutes from New Orleans, LA
- 2 hours 55 minutes from Jackson, MS
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Gulfport Beach which you can visit:
- Harrison County Sand Beach (2 miles)
- Long Beach (3 miles)
- Mississippi Gulf Coast Beach (10 miles)
- Biloxi Beach (12 miles)
- Ship Island Beach (14 miles)