Mississippi has among the smallest oceanside coastlines in the U.S., just ahead of Rhode Island, Maryland, Delaware, and New Hampshire, respectively. At just over 40 miles long, it ranks right beneath Alabama, but like its eastern neighbor, it boasts some outstanding beaches, which don’t get the crowds like many of Florida’s Gulf Coast spots do. For this reason, it makes a great place to head to the seashore.
7 Best Beach Towns to Live in Mississippi
Compared to other Gulf Coast neighbors, Florida and Texas, Mississippi has a short 44-mile (359 mi by NOAA) coastline. But as any Mississippian will tell you, even that small number is more than enough to provide the Magnolia State with some of the finest, underrated beach towns in the region. Consider spending a night or …
Top Beaches and Coastal Towns in MS
Given its location in the southern U.S. along the Gulf of Mexico, residents and tourists alike will enjoy the year-round warm weather and the opportunities that it creates for visiting a beach. Hot spots include Biloxi and Gulfport as some of the favorite coastal cities, along with other cool beach towns like Pass Christan, Long Beach, Bay St. Louis, and Ocean Springs. Peak season is summer, but also the hottest time of year, so consider going during the other 3 seasons for more space to yourself.
Guide to Visiting the Beaches in Mississippi
Despite having only 44 miles of coastline, Mississippi has some of the finest beaches on the Gulf Coast (359 miles, according to NOAA). People who come to this coastal area like to surf the waves, look for shells, swim in the calm water, and just lay out in the sun.
Oceanside cities like Biloxi and Gulfport in “The Hospitality State” are well-known all across the country, attracting visitors from many other states. These regions are notable for their friendly locals, charming boutiques, and delicious seafood. They are among the state’s top beach towns for vacationing and full-time living.
Get away to the Mississippi coast and snooze on the white beaches while your family enjoys kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boarding, or taking a dolphin-watching tour.
Biloxi Beach, one of Mississippi’s most well-known beaches, is popular with visitors due to its powdery sand and inviting warm water. Arrange a fishing charter or go on a sunset cruise if you don’t like swimming in the Gulf but enjoy being on the water.
You can reach Gulfport from Biloxi in just half an hour, and once there, you’ll have another set of pristine beaches to explore. Plan a trip to one of the quieter barrier islands, such as Ship Island or Horn Island, for a more memorable experience in a remote area.
Mississippi Coastal Weather
There are two prime periods to visit the Mississippi Gulf Shores: spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). The Gulf of Mexico is a pleasant swimming temperature for tourists in the late spring and early autumn. Take advantage of these hotspots outside of the crowded (and more costly) summer season.
The average high in the summer is 91 °F, with a low of 70 °F, while the average low in the winter is 60 °F, with a few chilly days in the 40s °F. Summers here are lengthy and hot, while winters are brief. Temperatures in the spring and autumn range between 71 and 80 °F.
Sharks
The Atlantic sharpnose, blacktip, and finetooth shark are the three of the most often seen species in Mississippi, just as in the other Gulf states. Although encounters with such animals are rare, they are present and may be found in these oceans.
Sharks frequent Mississippi’s coastal waters from spring through autumn, but they go offshore for the winter. While the water is often shallow around the Magnolia State, bigger sharks like great whites and tigers sometimes go closer to the coastline.
Activities
The sands of Mississippi’s beaches are very smooth, making them ideal for sunbathing, sandcastle-building, and beach volleyball. When the weather is nice and mild, people who like water sports can choose from activities like swimming, snorkeling, splashing in the waves, and kayaking.
Plan an excursion to see dolphins, book a fishing charter, or take in the scenery from the piers to get your fill of water activities.
There is a wealth of historical sites and interesting people to meet in this portion of the state. Learn about the rise of the Mississippi Gulf Coast as a popular tourist destination and gambling hub in the early 20th century. Visit the presidential library in Biloxi to see what life was like so many decades ago.
Accommodations
Staying at a quaint inn or hotel along the Mississippi shore is the best way to enjoy the region’s renowned hospitality. There are a lot of cottages on the water’s edge, and some have all the comforts of home and dreamlike views. There are also a number of RV parks where you can park your rig for a few nights and relax by the water if you’re on a long road trip.
Hotels from well-known names like Hilton, Hyatt, and Quality Inn may also be found here. There are plenty of places to spend the night, regardless of your budget.
Head to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for a fun and memorable trip. There’s terrific when you’re eager to see beautiful beaches, but without the hassle of crowds or significant amounts of tourists.
