Searching for a great place to cool off? How about an island with waters so clear, they rival the Caribbean? If this sounds like your idea of paradise, we’ve got the perfect beach for you. Take a look:
Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Ship Island offers “the finest beaches in Mississippi.”
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook
USA Today even named it “the hidden gem of Mississippi.”
Dennis Koon/Google
Despite being an island, it’s relatively easy to access thanks to Ship Island Excursions, which offers ferry service to and from Ship Island.
Jody May/Google
The island is about 11 miles from the state’s coast, so the boat ride takes about an hour. But it’s well worth it because when you dock, you’ll find the clearest water in Mississippi.
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook
The clear gulf surf is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding.
Melissa B/TripAdvisor
Though the pristine water is the first thing you’ll notice, the gorgeous white sand is sure to be a close second.
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook
Like a true tropical paradise, the beach is full of umbrellas and chairs, which you can rent.
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook The umbrellas can be rented for $15 per day, while the reclining chairs with footrests can be rented for $5 per day. The island also includes a snack bar and restrooms.
Of course, you can always bring your own umbrellas and chairs, but remember, you’ll have to carry everything you bring, so most opt to rent umbrellas and chairs.
Frankie Lovell/Google Ice chests are also allowed; however, they cannot exceed 42 quarts. Beverages of all kinds are permitted on Ship Island, but glass containers are prohibited.
Ship Island Excursions offers regular ferry service to the island March through October. Round trip tickets are $32 for adults and $22 for children.
Gerald J/TripAdvisor Tickets go on sale one hour before departure. However, it’s highly suggested you buy your tickets online in advance during the summer since boats tend to sell out.
Like our very own tropical paradise with pristine sand and clear waters, a visit to Ship Island is a summertime must.
TRaeMcPherson/TripAdvisor
For more information, call (228) 864-1014. You can also visit the Ship Island Excursions website or Facebook page.
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook
Dennis Koon/Google
Jody May/Google
Melissa B/TripAdvisor
The umbrellas can be rented for $15 per day, while the reclining chairs with footrests can be rented for $5 per day. The island also includes a snack bar and restrooms.
Frankie Lovell/Google
Ice chests are also allowed; however, they cannot exceed 42 quarts. Beverages of all kinds are permitted on Ship Island, but glass containers are prohibited.
Gerald J/TripAdvisor
Tickets go on sale one hour before departure. However, it’s highly suggested you buy your tickets online in advance during the summer since boats tend to sell out.
TRaeMcPherson/TripAdvisor
Address: 1040 23rd Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39501
This isn’t the only impressive beach in the state. Read about another here.
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