Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Gulfport
Gulfport invites visitors with its warm breezes, slow pace, and scenic coastline dotted with piers and boardwalks. It's a place where you can start your day with a beach walk, spend the afternoon kayaking or shopping, and end it with fresh oysters and live music. Attractions like Ship Island Excursions and local museums offer entertainment beyond the shore. The atmosphere is welcoming, with an easygoing vibe that makes every visit feel like home.
Top areas to stay at in Gulfport
Downtown Gulfport
Downtown Gulfport offers easy access to beaches, restaurants, bars, and museums. Visitors staying here can enjoy a walkable environment with access to the Mississippi Aquarium and Jones Park. Rentals include loft apartments, modern condos, and vacation homes with Gulf views.
West Gulfport
This quieter, more residential part of the city offers easy beach access and a slower pace. Vacation rentals here include spacious homes and family-oriented Airbnbs with backyards and porches. It’s ideal for longer stays or those wanting to unwind away from the busier tourist areas.
North Gulfport
Further inland, North Gulfport provides a suburban experience close to shopping centers, golf courses, and the airport. Rentals here are more affordable and include cozy homes and apartments ideal for road trippers or budget-conscious visitors. It’s a convenient option for exploring the wider Mississippi Gulf Coast region.
Broad Avenue Historic District
This neighborhood showcases Gulfport’s architectural history, with early 20th-century homes and tree-lined streets. Staying here provides charm and local character, with Airbnbs often reflecting the area’s historic roots. It’s close to the beach and a short drive to downtown.
East Beach / Courthouse Road Area
Located near a popular fishing pier and scenic coastline, this area blends residential comfort with stunning views. Rentals include beachfront homes, duplexes, and charming bungalows. It’s great for guests seeking ocean access, seafood joints, and relaxing sunsets.
Must-visit places and attractions in Gulfport
Mississippi Aquarium
This state-of-the-art facility brings marine life to life with interactive exhibits and educational programs. Families can enjoy viewing sharks, otters, and sea turtles in a modern, immersive space. It’s centrally located in downtown Gulfport.
Jones Park & Gulfport Harbor
Jones Park features a marina, amphitheater, splash pad, and access to the beach. It’s a hub of outdoor activity, perfect for walking, fishing, or catching a sunset concert. The harbor adds a nautical vibe to the experience.
Ship Island Excursions
Take a ferry ride from Gulfport to Ship Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, historic Fort Massachusetts, and turquoise waters. It’s a day trip full of nature and history.
Gulfport Premium Outlets
Located in North Gulfport, this shopping destination features more than 70 brand-name outlet stores. Shoppers can score deals on clothing, shoes, and accessories. It’s a nice break from beach time and perfect for rainy days.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
An award-winning children’s museum housed in a historic schoolhouse, offering hands-on exhibits and outdoor play areas. It’s a top pick for families with young children. Educational and fun, it provides hours of entertainment.
Gulf Islands Waterpark
Open seasonally, this waterpark features slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. It’s a great way to cool off in the summer months. Families love the kid-friendly zones and shaded cabanas.
Chandeleur Brewing Company
A local favorite for craft beer lovers, offering tasting flights, food trucks, and live music. The brewery showcases regional flavors and coastal flair. It’s a relaxed place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Fishbone Alley
This colorful alleyway is filled with murals, art installations, and occasional events or pop-ups. It’s a unique space for photos and local flavor. Food and drinks are steps away.
Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Gulfport
Biloxi, Mississippi
Just 15 minutes east, Biloxi offers casinos, historic lighthouses, and a lively beach scene. Visitors can explore museums, dine on seafood, or catch a show. It’s a high-energy complement to Gulfport’s laid-back charm. Enjoy the nightlife and sea breeze from a vacation rental in Biloxi located right along the shoreline.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Located 30 minutes west, Bay St. Louis is a quaint Gulf Coast town known for its harbor, antique stores, and vibrant art scene. Vacation rentals include waterfront homes and cottages. The town combines coastal beauty with Southern personality. Relax for the weekend in a house in Bay St. Louis just steps from galleries and harbor sunsets.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
About 25 minutes from Gulfport, Ocean Springs is an artsy and historic town with galleries, boutiques, and quiet beaches. It has a walkable downtown full of character and creativity. It’s a great contrast for visitors wanting serenity. Stay in an airbnb in Ocean Springs where cozy porches and creative spirit come together.
Pass Christian, Mississippi
Just 20 minutes from Gulfport, Pass Christian is a quiet beach town with historic homes and unspoiled shores. Visitors can fish off the pier, enjoy small-town dining, or relax at the marina. It’s a peaceful retreat close to the action. Spend a few days in a vacation rental in Pass Christian where charm and sea breezes set the tone.
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Roughly 90 minutes inland, Hattiesburg offers a mix of college-town energy, historic neighborhoods, and outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the Hattiesburg Zoo, the Longleaf Trace trail, or dine at local Southern eateries. It’s a great cultural and natural pairing to Gulfport’s coast. Book a comfortable stay in an apartment in Hattiesburg with easy access to trails and downtown flavor.
Explore coastal escapes and natural wonders across the United States
From Gulfport's sandy shores, you can expand your horizon by exploring other exquisite beach destinations. Bask in the serene tranquility of airbnb in Pawleys Island where time seems to stand still amid its untouched landscapes. Experience the lively atmosphere of Port Aransas vacation rentals, where the warm Texas sun meets the brisk Gulf waters. For those seeking a vibrant coastal visit, Daytona Beach Shores holiday apartments offer a dynamic setting, perfect for sun and surf enthusiasts. And don't miss the wide, welcoming beaches when you book rentals in Myrtle Beach, which promise a delightful blend of relaxation and recreation.
Embrace the serene beauty of nature and venture to other enriching natural habitats across the country. In vacation homes in Sheridan, WY, immerse yourself in the captivating vistas offered by the Big Horn Mountains, a paradise for outdoor adventurers. The unique beauty of airbnb in Lake Ozark awaits, known for its shimmering waters reflecting the expansive sky, perfect for boating and fishing. Discover the charm of the high-desert landscape with holiday homes in Las Cruces, where the interplay of sunlight and the Organ Mountains creates stunning panoramas.