Mississippi is the nation’s 20th state and a great place to visit for the summer. Many travel to the state to explore its famous tourist attractions like the Mississippi Delta or Vicksburg National Military Park. But it’s also home to a number of beaches that are a great escape from the city.

What is Mississippi Known For?

Mississippi is recognized as the birthplace of blues music. Many legendary blues artists like B.B. King called Mississippi their home. And you can get a taste of authentic blues culture at its many bars and lounges that play live music all night.

And if you like seafood, Mississippi is well-known for having some of the best catfish in the country. Catfish are commonly found swimming along the bottom of the Mississippi Delta, making it a popular destination to go fishing. But if fishing isn’t your thing, you can have one of the many seafood restaurants do the work for you.

Aunt Jenny’s Catfish Restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists. The restaurant offers delicious catfish dinners like fried catfish filet or catfish Creole. And Moss Creek Fish House is another prominent eatery that serves up a large assortment of seafood options. Seafood lovers will enjoy their catfish po’boys or seafood gumbo — both customer favorites.

Best Beaches in Mississippi

Speaking of seafood, Mississippi is home to a vast array of marine life, from dolphins to stingrays to sea lions. That’s because the state boasts several white sand beaches that many tourists like to explore. Although Mississippi is popular for its casinos and entertainment, the beaches provide a lovely retreat away from the action. If you’re planning a trip to Mississippi, consider traveling to one of its many beaches and beach towns. Here are five of the best beaches in Mississippi to cross off your itinerary:

Biloxi Beach

Biloxi Beach is arguably the most popular beach in Mississippi — and for a good reason. Its prime location makes it easy to explore nearby casinos and restaurants. Plus, the warm summer weather is an inviting change from the frigid winter cold. And its fun and kid-friendly recreational activities make it the perfect place for families to enjoy.

The beach offers some of the most amazing views of the ocean. And there are a number of activities to enjoy while there as well.

Catch a big one during a fishing trip, or float along the water in a kayak. To uncover why Biloxi Beach is considered the most popular in the state, take a boat tour where you can learn more about the beach and its marine life.

Long Beach

Long Beach is a city in Mississippi and home to a number of popular tourist attractions. One of those attractions is its white sand beach that offers impressive views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Many tourists travel to the beach for its nearby eateries and recreational activities. And because the Mississippi Gulf Coast produces approximately 70 percent of America’s oysters and shrimp, it’s a great place to find some fresh seafood.

Steve’s Marina Restaurant is a seafood restaurant and bar, and a local favorite in the beach city. There, you can find an array of delicious seafood options inspired by Cajun and Creole flavors. And On A Roll Sushi is a popular restaurant that sells sushi PLUS other seafood menu items like lobster rolls and poke bowls.

East Beach

East Beach is a sunny beach located in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Its quiet, serene vibes are a popular feature among locals. In fact, you may not find many tourists at this beach, making it the perfect getaway for weary travelers.

A lot of Mississippi beaches are in prime locations. The area provides many things to see and do. But at East Beach, simplicity is paramount. Of course, you can find a nearby restaurant or cafe to grab something to eat should you get hungry. But the best way to enjoy the beach is to pack a lunch and take it all in.

If you want to explore the beach a bit, try fishing at one of its piers. And because it stretches more than a mile long, you can take a morning job to get some fresh air and exercise before exploring the rest of the city.

Gulfport Beach

Gulfport Beach is a vibrant beach town between Biloxi Beach and Long Beach. It’s one of the more famous beaches in Mississippi because of its wide selection of restaurant and entertainment options.

At Gulfport Beach, you can engage in several water activities like jet skiing or sailing. There’s even a nearby water park filled with various water slides and play areas.

And even though the beach is so popular among locals AND tourists, it’s one of the cleanest beaches in the state. Plus, there are so many things to do around town, you don’t have to worry about the beach being too crowded.

Waveland Beach

Bask in the sun at Waveland Beach, located in Hancock County, Mississippi. This calm and tranquil beach is a great destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Wiggle your toes in its warm, white sand while you read your favorite book. Or ride your bike on its nearby bike path for a scenic route to a local restaurant.

You might also spot some marine life while at the beach. Many visitors have found seashells and even jellyfish while there. Plus, Waveland Beach is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the ride.

Best Beaches, mississippi