Gulf Islands National Seashore

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a park rich in natural resources. There are sparkling blue waters, magnificent white beaches, coastal marshes, and winding nature trails. It is America’s largest national seashore and is located in Mississippi and Florida. The two districts are about a two-hour drive apart. Although Gulf Islands National Seashore is 80% underwater, the islands and mainland sites attract millions of visitors each year. In Florida all areas are accessible by car, and in Mississippi, only the Davis Bayou Area is accessible by car. The passenger ferry to West Ship Island, MS operates spring through fall and leaves from the Gulfport Yacht Harbor. All areas of the Florida District are open year-round unless posted. Operating hours vary seasonally and from unit to unit. The park operates four visitor centers in both states.

Whether you visit for a day or a week, there are many activities to choose from and many places to explore. Activities include bicycling, snorkeling, fishing, beach combing, and wildlife watching. Both districts offer developed campgrounds as well as primitive camping. There are miles of shoreline and opportunities to swim but it is best to swim at beaches with lifeguards or designated swim beaches. The Santa Rosa Sound shoreline is popular for people with small children who want to avoid the rough surf at the beach. The Okaloosa Day Use Area is a quiet water area that features white sandy beaches, calm waters, picnic tables, a boat launch, parking, and public restrooms with outdoor showers. There are also a variety of ranger-led tours to visit historic forts, hike through dune and salt marsh habitats or walk along the barrier islands. The forts of Gulf Islands National Seashore span almost 150 years, from the Spanish colonial time period in the late 1700’s to the World War Two-era. All of the forts saw action during the Civil War and will be part of the National Park service commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War.

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Gulf Islands National Seashore