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.
Check the ferry schedule before you go, since it's the only practical way out and back in a single day.
More Gulf Coast beaches
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