Ship island is located approximately 12 miles off the coast of Gulfport, Mississippi. The island is made up of two parts East Ship Island and West Ship Island. I the islands fall under the Gulf Island National Seashore Park's.
Some of the best beach area on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is located at ship island. The island attracts many who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving. The island is also home to Fort Massachusetts which was built in 1868 and is beautifully preserved. There are many dolphin sightings near the island as they feed off schools of fish in shallow waters. The water temperature in the summer is about 85°. The Park service has built a boardwalk about a third of a mile across the island to the South Beach this is the preferred swimming area. There are restrooms and freshwater showers as well as a covered picnic area for your convenience. There is also a snack bar located on the Boardwalk. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are also offered at the end of the Boardwalk. The only way to reach the island is by ferry which is seasonal check with your travel agent for the dates. For a unique daytrip you will enjoy your visit to the historic beautiful Ship Island
