Top Sandy Beaches Near Long Beach, MS
The area near Long Beach, MS, offers several sandy beaches with unique features. Visitors can find calm waters, natural beauty, and easy access for day trips. Each location has distinct qualities suited for different kinds of beachgoers.
Gulfport Beach
Gulfport Beach is a popular spot just a short drive from Long Beach. It features wide stretches of sand and calm water, ideal for families and swimmers. Lifeguards are on duty during peak times, making it a safe choice.
Amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, and concessions. The beach often hosts events like festivals and fishing tournaments. Its proximity to Gulfport city offers visitors access to restaurants and shops, adding convenience.
The beach is well-maintained and less crowded during weekdays. It provides a good mix of relaxation and activities, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Pass Christian Beach
Pass Christian Beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere and long shoreline. The beach allows for swimming, walking, and shell collecting along the coast. It is sometimes called the “Birthplace of Yachting in the South.”
Visitors can enjoy nearby parks, picnic spots, and fishing piers. The calm waters make it suitable for boating and kayaking as well. This beach has fewer crowds, perfect for those seeking a quieter environment.
Local shops and seafood restaurants are close by. Pass Christian also has historic charm, blending beach time with cultural experiences.
Ship Island
Ship Island is accessible by ferry from Gulfport or Biloxi and is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The island offers pristine white sand beaches and clear water, attracting beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Besides sunbathing and swimming, visitors can explore nature trails and view historic Fort Massachusetts. Facilities on the island include picnic tables and restrooms.
It is less developed than mainland beaches, providing a more natural experience. Ship Island is a good choice for day trips to enjoy both the beach and outdoor recreation.
Henderson Point Beach
Henderson Point Beach lies near Pass Christian and features calm waters and soft sand. It is characterized by its quiet, low-key environment, making it ideal for families and people looking for a peaceful visit.
The beach does not have extensive commercial development, which helps maintain its natural setting. Amenities are limited but include parking and access points.
It is a good location for fishing and birdwatching. The low crowd levels and clean shoreline make Henderson Point a favored spot for visitors seeking tranquility close to Long Beach.
Activities and Attractions at Local Beaches
Local beaches near Long Beach, MS, offer a variety of fun and outdoor activities for visitors. People can enjoy water sports, explore nature, or relax in scenic parks. These beaches provide options that suit different interests and age groups.
Swimming and Sunbathing
Many beaches near Long Beach have calm waters ideal for swimming. The shoreline usually has clean, soft sand, making it perfect for sunbathing. Visitors often bring umbrellas and beach chairs to relax and enjoy the sun.
Lifeguards are sometimes on duty at popular spots, adding a layer of safety for families and solo swimmers. The water temperature varies seasonally but is generally comfortable in summer months.
Some beaches also have designated swimming areas to keep visitors safe from boats or jet skis. Beaches like Biloxi Beach are known for their clear waters and good swimming conditions.
Shelling and Beachcombing
Beachcombing is a favorite pastime along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Shallow waters and tidal pools leave behind a variety of seashells and small marine creatures.
Visitors can find shells like scallops, clams, and sand dollars by simply walking along the water’s edge. Early mornings and low tide are the best times for collecting unique shells.
Some local beaches even have special events or guided tours focusing on beach ecology and shelling. These activities offer a chance to learn about the coastal environment while searching for treasures.
Fishing Opportunities
Fishing is popular in the Long Beach area, with options both onshore and offshore. Pier fishing is common at many local beaches, where anglers can catch species like redfish, flounder, and speckled trout.
Charter boats are available for deep-sea fishing trips, providing equipment and guidance for both beginners and experienced fishers. Some beaches have cleaning stations and bait shops nearby, making it easy to enjoy a full day of fishing.
Fishing from the shore at sunset is a relaxing activity and often brings good catches. Whether casting from the beach or the pier, fishing adds variety to the beach experience.
Family-Friendly Parks
Several beaches feature nearby parks designed for families. These parks often include playgrounds, picnic areas, and restrooms, making them convenient for visitors with children.
Some parks have walking trails and open green spaces for games and relaxing between beach visits. Shaded shelters and barbecue pits are common, helping families organize cookouts.
Events like outdoor concerts and festivals sometimes take place in these areas, providing added entertainment. These parks serve as easy, safe spots for families to enjoy the outdoors together during a beach trip.
For more details on activities and attractions near Long Beach, MS, visit things to do in Long Beach, Mississippi.
Planning Your Beach Day in the Long Beach Area
Visitors should consider the best times to enjoy the beaches, parking options, and whether their pets can join them. These details help create a smooth and enjoyable beach experience in Long Beach.
Best Times to Visit
The Long Beach area is busiest during summer months, especially from June through August. Early mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded. Spring and fall offer milder weather and fewer people, making these seasons ideal for those seeking a quieter visit.
Weather can change quickly near the coast. Checking local forecasts is important, especially for wind and tides. Late afternoon often brings cooler temperatures and calmer winds, which can be more comfortable for visitors.
Seasonal events or holidays can increase crowds. Planning visits outside major holidays like Memorial Day or Labor Day helps avoid heavy congestion at popular beaches.
Accessibility and Parking
Many Long Beach beaches provide convenient parking options, including both free and paid lots. Larger beaches like Long Beach City Beach have multiple parking areas with easy access to the sand and amenities.
Accessible parking spots and beach entrances are available at major locations. Visitors with mobility needs will find paved paths and ramps at beaches such as Juniper Beach and Belmont Shore.
It is best to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure convenient parking. Some smaller beaches offer limited parking, so walking or biking might be better choices in those cases.
Pet-Friendly Options
Long Beach has beaches that welcome pets, with rules to ensure safety and cleanliness. Rosie’s Dog Beach is a popular spot where dogs can run off-leash and enjoy the water under supervision.
Pets need to be kept under control and cleaned up after. Some beaches allow dogs only in certain areas or during specific hours, so checking local regulations beforehand is important.
Bringing water, waste bags, and a leash helps ensure a positive visit for both pets and their owners. Being respectful of other beachgoers maintains a safe environment for all.
For more detailed information on the best beaches in the area, visit the guide on the best beaches in Long Beach.
Storage Unit Rentals in Long Beach, MS
Long Beach offers several options for storage unit rentals to fit different needs and budgets. Many facilities provide units in various sizes, from small lockers to large spaces for vehicles or business inventory.
Some storage units are climate controlled, which helps protect sensitive items from heat and humidity. Others offer drive-up access for easier loading and unloading.
Here is a quick overview of what you can expect:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unit Sizes | Ranges from 5×10 to 10×30 feet |
| Climate Control | Available at many sites |
| Vehicle Storage | RV and boat storage offered |
| Security | Gated access, surveillance cameras |
| Online Reservation | Many facilities allow free online booking |
Iron Storage provides storage units in Long Beach, MS, with various size options and climate-controlled spaces for affordable prices. It is convenient for people who want drive-up access or secure parking for vehicles.
For those looking to rent easily, facilities like Storage Choice and Long Beach Safe Storage also offer clean and secure units near central locations. Prices often start low, with some units available for under $50 per month.
Customers can compare prices and reviews online to find the best fit. Many companies allow free reservation or provide special offers for new renters. Read more about self-storage options in Long Beach, MS, at Iron Storage.
