Ship Island at Gulf Islands National Seashore is about 11 miles off the coast of Biloxi, Ship Island is a popular daytrip for families. Accessible only by boat, the island is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Once on the island, you can relax on the beach with its glistening white sands or take a free guided tour of the tactically located Fort Massachusetts, which dates back to the late 1850s.

On Ship Island at Gulf Islands National Seashore there’s also the Ship Island boardwalk, which is outfitted with basic amenities (including beach gear rentals and a concession stand). You can pack your own supplies, but prepare for a bit of a hike, visitors warn (tip: a cooler with wheels will come in handy). The ferry docks on the north side of the island, but the beaches for swimming and sunning lie on the south side of the island. Recent travelers said the walk from the dock to the sand is a bit strenuous, but worth it to enjoy a day on the beach splashing around in the clear Gulf waters. Many especially enjoyed the leisurely boat ride to the island and said you should keep an eye out to spot dolphins.

You can catch a round-trip ferry at the Gulfport Yacht Club from March to October. The ride to Ship Island takes about an hour; the boat also sells refreshments, and gear can be rented on the beach. 

Ship Island Excursions does an fantastic job of getting you out to Ship Island. The Capt. and Crew are so informative; it was a pleasure to be abord the Capt. Pete.

Ship Island Excursions
https://msshipisland.com/round-trip-ferry/
National Park Service
https://www.nps.gov/guis/planyourvisit/ship-island.htm

Last Week’s Blog Post
https://storiesacrossamerica.com/davis-bayou-at-gulf-islands-national-seashore/