Ship Island Beach
Gulfport, MS
A barrier island reachable only by ferry or private boat, with Civil War era Fort Massachusetts standing at one end and clear, calm Gulf water along the rest. Locals treat the ferry ride as part of the tradition, packing coolers for a full day since there is no quick way back.
Civil War era Fort Massachusetts and clear, calm Gulf water are worth the ferry ride, just check the schedule since it's the only practical way out and back in a day.
How we score beachesCheck the ferry schedule before you go, since it's the only practical way out and back in a single day.
Dogs are not permitted on Ship Island's beaches, as Gulf Islands National Seashore bans pets on all barrier island beaches to protect nesting shorebirds.
Mississippi Sound water warms into the 80s by midsummer, comfortable for swimming from late spring through early fall. The ferry itself is weather dependent, and hurricane season, June through November, is the main reason to check conditions before booking a trip.
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