Ship Island Beach - Mississippi

Address:Ship Island, Mississippi

Ship Island Beach, located on Mississippi's Gulf Coast, is one of the least accessible and most scenic beaches in the region. The island is 11 miles offshore, accessible by ferry from Gulfport, Mississippi and is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, run by the National Parks Service. There is no overnight accommodations on Ship Island and camping is not allowed, so plan for a day trip. And leave Rover at home, pets are not allowed. During the summer season, ferries leave Gulfport at 9am and noon and return at 2:30 pm and 5 pm.

A visit to Ship Island Beach, Mississippi requires substantially more planning than a trip to Coney Island. Locals bring basic beach items, including sunscreen and insect repellent. More serious locals bring a fishing rod or two. Other than a small bag or small cooler, it is recommended not to bring much on the boat. There is not much storage space on board and there is a 10 minute hike from the port to the beach. On the island you will find restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables and a snack bar, but not much else. Please bear in mind that you must pack out whatever you bring in. You are more likely to spot a marlin than a garbage can.

To be more precise, the above describes West Ship Island. It turns out that in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Ship island split in two parts – West Ship Island and East Ship Island. Unless you have (or charter) your own boat, there is no way to get to East Ship Island. Note that descriptions of Ship Island nude beach refer to areas a few miles east of the main beach area on West Ship Island. While the beach is not officially clothing-optional, park rangers usually allow nudity in this very remote area.