Gulf Islands National Seashores

Gulf Islands National Seashore covers 160 miles in the northern Gulf Coast through Florida and Mississippi. We will explore the points of interest in the Gulf Island regardless of which state they are located in. Visitors enjoy a variety of diverse activities along the Gulf of Mexico from snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring historic forts. Besides the breathtaking views and relaxation, there are many activities in Gulf Islands National Seashores. Things to do in the area are designed to please visitors of all ages interests and activities.

Visit The Barrier Islands
  • Visit Islands in Gulf Island National Park – There are a total of 6 unique barrier islands in Mississippi. Visitors can explore 4 of these islands in the Gulf Island National Shores. The four Islands include Ship Island, Horn Island, Cat Island, and Petit Bois Island. Each
The Best Beaches

The unspoiled beaches with soft white sands along the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico are perhaps the most obvious reason to visit Gulf Island. Perdido Key, Johnson Beach, and Santa Rosa Island are a small sample of what to expect when visiting the area. One of our favorites is Santa Rosa Island. This is a narrow and small island, 8 miles in length and less than a quarter a mile in width. The island offers unique white sand made out of quartz along the coastline. The wildlife in Santa Rosa Island also entertains visitors who appreciate nature at its best.

Diving and Snorkeling

There is an abundance of recreational activities for visitors to the Gulf Islands. While the area offers an amazing and diverse collection of wildlife there is another incredible world settled under the water. The clear emerald green waters attract divers and snorkelers from all over the world. They enjoy the water temperature of around 80 degrees in summer to 60 degrees in winter and the clarity of water all year long. In addition, the area is the home to the largest artificial reef in the world, USS Oriskany.

Camping
  • Davis Bayou Campground – This area is a haven for people traveling with recreational vehicles. The campground is equipped with many amenities including bathrooms and showers all handicapped accessible. There are around 52 campsites equipped with water and electricity hookups.
Historic Forts in Gulf Island

The military importance of the Gulf Island and Pensacola area dates back to before the revolutionary war. The number of military forts in the area indicates the defensive significance of the area. Three of these forts were designed specifically to defend the Pensacola Harbor. They include Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, and Fort McRee. These Islands are part of the Gulf Island and National Park Services and oversee all of them.