Things To Do
in Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi sits on the Gulf of Mexico with a laid-back coastal vibe, sandy shores, and a friendly Southern vibe. The city blends a working harbor, seafood culture, and waterfront parks with easy access to Biloxi’s casinos and the wider Mississippi Gulf Coast. Visitors can enjoy beaches, museums, and outdoor activities while staying within a short drive of vibrant dining and nightlife along the coast.
The climate is humid subtropical, delivering warm summers, mild winters, and plenty of sea breeze year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring a classic Southern biscuit alongside freshly brewed coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Gulfport's Historic District, where you can admire the beautiful early 20th-century architecture. Don't forget to visit the Gulfport Museum of History to learn about the city's rich past.
For lunch, enjoy a seafood feast at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can indulge in local favorites like shrimp and grits. Post-lunch, take some time to explore the unique local shops and galleries that showcase the talents of Gulfport's artists. End the afternoon with a relaxing walk along the beach, taking in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby bar for live music and a taste of Gulfport's vibrant nightlife. Dine at a popular restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes, enjoying the local catch of the day. End the evening with a stroll along the beach, where you can listen to the gentle waves and reflect on the day's adventures.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront diner, enjoying the ocean breeze and views. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters of the Gulf, soaking in the sun and enjoying the scenic shoreline. If you're feeling adventurous, take a quick lesson for jet skiing or parasailing to get your adrenaline pumping.
Return to shore for a delicious lunch at a beachside grill, where you can feast on fish tacos and refreshing beverages. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or building sandcastles. For those looking for a thrill, join a dolphin-watching tour that departs from the local marina.
As the day winds down, enjoy a casual dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can sample local craft beers and fresh seafood. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the beach, watching the sky transform into a canvas of colors. Conclude the evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at casual restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧁Dessert or snack | $5-8 |
| 🛍️Local souvenir or small gift | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and a relaxed Gulf Coast vibe
- Excellent seafood and friendly, welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife in Gulfport city center compared to Biloxi
- Hurricane season can affect travel plans and scheduling
Places to Visit in Gulfport
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shoreline with sunrise/sunset silhouettes, palm trees, and colorful beach umbrellas along Beach Boulevard.
Shoreline boardwalk with marsh views, wildlife, and golden-hour lighting over the water.
Architectural waterfront backdrop with coastal exhibits and engaging marine life displays.
Boats, docks, and industrial coastal scenery ideal for urban-seascape photography and sunset shots.
Food in Gulfport
Gulfport Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crisp fried shrimp on a crusty roll with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade; a Gulfport staple found at many beachside eateries.
Must-Try!
Hearty gumbo loaded with shrimp and crab, served over rice at numerous local restaurants.
Classic coastal dish — succulent shrimp paired with fritter-like hush puppies.
Rich, spicy shellfish stew over rice; Cajun-influenced options are common in coastal spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, local seafood, artisanal goods, and small bites from local vendors near downtown.
Casual vendor stalls and food trucks along Highway 90 offering quick seafood bites and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings, polite conversation, and a relaxed pace are typical; say hello with a smile and use basic courtesy with service staff.
Safety
Tipping in Gulfport
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. practice is to tip 15-20% at restaurants and for bar service; tip higher for exceptional service.
Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common at many establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and blooming coastal landscapes—great for outdoor walks, nature trails, and harbor photography.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor activities and beach time.
Pleasant weather with lower humidity; ideal for coastal hikes, bike rides, and sunset photography.
Mild to cool daytime temperatures; comfortable for museum visits, coastal walks, and seafood-focused dining.
Gulfport at Night
Hiking in Gulfport
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle loops through coastal marsh and pine habitats within a short drive, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Dune and boardwalk trails with ocean views in nearby national seashore areas.
Historic site trails with wooded paths and tidal marsh scenery close to Biloxi.
Airports
How to reach Gulfport by plane.
The primary regional airport serving Gulfport and Biloxi, with domestic flights and connections to major hubs.
A major international hub about a 1.5–2 hour drive away, offering extensive domestic and international connections.
A smaller regional airport located a short drive further west, with limited domestic services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the coastal population along with other groups.
A sizable portion of the community with rich cultural traditions.
A growing demographic contributing to the regional cultural and culinary scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal fishing is popular along the pier and nearby bays, with charter boats available for deep-sea trips.
Seasonal beach sports on public sand areas near the coast.
Seasonal spectator sports and youth leagues are common across the Gulf Coast counties.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gulfport.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose veggie-focused dishes such as grilled vegetables, salads, rice bowls, and pasta; ask for seafood or meat-free versions of local favorites, and request dressings or sauces served on the side.