Travel News Roundup: 30% More RV Travelers, United Flies to Tulum & Oregon Grants $3.6M to Improve Tourism

In this week’s round-up, three airlines added 15 new routes and more people are going RVing this holiday season than you might think.

Alaska Airlines launches two new non-stop routes to Honolulu and Miami

Alaska Airlines announced two new non-stop routes between Seattle and Honolulu, and Portland and Miami. Kirsten Amrine, Alaska’s vice president of revenue management and network planning, said “Travel demand to leisure destinations to relax and recharge remains strong, especially to sun and fun locations as cooler weather settles in.” Tickets for the daily flights will be available all year.

20 million Americans planning an RV holiday vacation

Image: RV Industry Association
Photo credit: Image: RV Industry Association

The newly released Holiday Travel Intentions Survey by the RV Industry Association shows a 30% increase in travelers planning to go RVing this holiday season. That figure equates to approximately 20 million people taking out an RV between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.

Allegiant announces 12 new routes

Starting next spring, Allegiant will offer 12 new non-stop routes with one-way tickets starting as low as $49. Drew Wells, Allegiant’s senior vice president of revenue and planning and chief revenue officer, called the new destination options “a celebration of the success we’ve had in these markets.”

United debuts direct flights to Tulum

united tulum — Image: United Airlines
Photo credit: Image: United Airlines

United Airlines announced non-stop flights between the United States and Mexico’s soon-to-open Tulum International Airport, which gives easy access to the popular Riviera Maya region. The airlines will fly 22 flights per week from hubs in New York, Houston, and Chicago beginning on March 31, 2024, and on May 23, 2024, the company will add seasonal service from Los Angeles. Tickets are available now.

Oregon awarded $3.6 million in grants for accessible and inclusive tourism

Travel Oregon — Image: Oregon Adaptive Sports / Patrick Addabbo
Photo credit: Image: Oregon Adaptive Sports / Patrick Addabbo

The Oregon Tourism Commission awarded $3.6 million in grants to 56 recipients through its 2023 Competitive Grants Program. According to the announcement, Travel Oregon aimed to welcome underserved communities, such as people with disability, people of color, indigenous people, and LBGTQ communities.

7 Things To Know Before Visiting the Angel Tree, Charleston SC | The Magnificent Oak Will Amaze You

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

Twelve miles from Charleston SC, approximately 30 minutes by car, on Johns Island sits the Angel Oak, the largest live oak tree east of the Mississippi River. Angel Oak is also known locally as “The Tree.”

This historical site is considered a Low Country treasure. An estimated 40,000 visitors arrive each year to wander under the impressive branches of this magnificent tree and contemplate life in their shade.

Angel Oak Tree is reported to be anywhere from 300 to 500 years old, but many consider the tree to be ancient, claiming it’s 1,500 years old. This must-see tree continues to be popular because of its age, beauty, and the legends surrounding it.

The weather is hot and humid during the summer on Johns Island, so visit in the spring or fall to truly enjoy Angel Oak Park.

Here are seven things to know before you go.

7 Things To Know Before Visiting Angel Tree, Charleston SC

1. It Is a Southern Live Oak Tree

Angel Oak is a Southern live oak, or Quercus virginiana. Live oaks are evergreen, which means they remain green and alive throughout the winter. They do drop some leaves in the spring but tend to replace them quickly. They offer lovely shade. Native to the Lowcountry, the area along the South Carolina coast, they can live for hundreds of years, and most grow out wide rather than up.

It is believed that this type of tree does not usually grow tall, but Angel Oak is so mature that it grows both up and out. Angel Oak’s branches reach in all directions; some even dive underground and then grow up again. The wood is so hard that the USS Constitution, which was built of Southern live oak, earned the nickname “Old Ironsides” because cannonballs bounced off its sides.

2. Angel Oak’s Namesake

The tree got its name from plantation owner Justus Angel. It was initially on the property of Abraham Waight, recorded in 1717 as part of a land grant. Mr. Waight held a lot of land and several plantations in the area. He was incredibly wealthy. Angel Oak was on the property for four generations of Waights but was transferred to Justus Angel, Martha Waight’s future husband, as a part of Martha’s wedding settlement.

Angel Oak in Charleston, South Carolina. — You can see the tree for free, but donations are accepted.
Photo credit: Jeanine Consoli

3. Admission Is Free

Angel Oak Park on Johns Island is owned by the City of Charleston, and there is no charge to visit, but donations are accepted to help preserve it for future generations. There is a parking lot outside the fence and just a short walk into the park to see this natural beauty. It is open seven days a week (except for holidays).

A gift shop is located on the property and picnic tables are available around the park’s perimeter. The gift shop provides more information about Angel Oak and merchandise, including the gorgeous sweetgrass baskets handmade by local artisans.

You are not permitted to take photos in the gift shop, but you are welcome to take pictures of the tree with hand-held cameras. Tripods are prohibited. Bring a picnic and sit at one of the tables. Visitors aren’t permitted to put blankets under the branches or have any food or drinks near the tree. Leashed pets are allowed in the Angel Oak Park picnic area.

Permits are required for weddings and photoshoots and are provided by the City of Charleston Parks and Recreation Department.

Pro Tip: The ground may be uneven around the trunk, so watch your step, look up, and marvel at her size and strength. Similar caution is recommended when visiting other giant live oaks in Louisiana, Georgia, etc.

4. Angel Oak’s Impressive Size

Angel Oak has been growing for at least three centuries and has had a lot of time to mature. The tree is 65 feet tall and the trunk has a circumference of 25.5 feet. Dripping in Spanish moss, the canopy offers over 17,000 square feet of shade. The most extended branch reaches 187 feet from tip to end. There are supports under some of the most massive branches or wires attached to the tree to help keep the giant limbs from breaking. Typically, live oak branches will grow underground and then come back up and grow outward. Some of Angel Oak’s branches do this as well. This feature makes the tree look almost otherworldly.

5. It Has Survived Many Storms

Angel Oak has seen its share of storms, floods, and even earthquakes, and it has remained standing. The only hurricane to cause the tree damage in recent history was Hurricane Hugo. Hugo was devastating to South Carolina as it made landfall as a category 4 storm near Sullivan’s Island on September 22, 1989. The wind speeds were clocked at 140 miles per hour, and the storm surge pushed up the rivers, especially the nearby Ashley River, which is 12 miles away. The water flooded the lowlands. The damage caused by the storm exceeded $7 billion to property and agriculture. While many local trees were snapped in half or blown down by the winds, Angel Oak did not topple over.

Despite Hugo’s severity, the damage to Angel Oak was not severe, and the tree continues to thrive and grow. The most recent threat to the tree was a housing development planned in 2012. Luckily, a group called Save the Angel Oak and the Coastal Conservation League argued that the groundwater would be compromised if apartments were built near the site. In 2013, the Lowcountry Land Trust preserved 17 acres around the tree, which protected it from future development.

6. A Symbol Of Strength In Books And Television

Angel Oak was featured in a novel by author Emily Nelson entitled The Heart of a Child. It was also used as a backdrop for an Allstate Insurance television commercial during Hurricane Florence’s aftermath in 2018. The advertisement begins with a panoramic shot around the tree’s entire span. The voiceover speaks to the resilience of South Carolina residents, likening their strength to that of the Angel Oak.

7. The Tree Is Rumored To Be Haunted

It is no secret that there are ghostly stories that surround the tree. For her book Ghosts and Legends of Charleston, South Carolina Denise Roffe interviewed an old African American woman, a descendant of slaves who once labored on the land near Angel Oak. She recounted a legend that the tree was home to giant vultures who feasted on the bodies of slaves who were hung from the branches. She said that the tree had a curse on it due to the violence that occurred there and that slaves felt that the tree was a bad omen. She also claimed that Native Americans met underneath the tree and made it a sacred burial ground and believed it was the spirits of Native Americans that protected the tree and kept it alive and safe. Truly the richest legends east of the Mississippi River.

In recent years, reports of glowing lights and faces have been reported. In 2008, a couple was married under the tree and returned a few months later during a full moon to have a romantic moment where they were married. They reported seeing glowing human forms gathered around the trunk and some up in the branches.

Another couple visited the tree one evening. The husband tried to carve a heart into the bark as a symbol of their love but stopped when he heard noises nearby. The wife was feeling uneasy, and she asked him to put his blade away. She claims she saw a fiery face appear in the branches. She said she saw another anguished face in the surrounding trees. As they ran back to the road, they looked back to see a group of lighted souls gathered around the trunk.

Whether you believe the lore or not, one can’t visit the incredible Angel Oak without feeling something stir deep in their soul. I always feel a sense of peace there. I have been to see Angel Oak many times and it still overwhelms me. The sheer age and size of this natural specimen make it feel like you are visiting a sacred spot where all the earliest days’ knowledge is housed inside the trunk and limbs. I have never seen it during the evening, as the park closes at 5 p.m. Visitors are not permitted to congregate in the park after closing time, and signs remind people not to deface the tree.

Where To Stay Near the Angel Oak Tree?

When visiting Charleston SC, you will enjoy natural beauty throughout your whole stay. Scenic-view rentals offer delightful spots to appreciate Mother Nature’s handiwork, including decks overlooking marshland or screened porches shaded by maritime woods. You can also opt for an ocean-view rental and admire the crashing surf, soaring coastal birds, and Kiawah Island’s population of dune-dwelling deer.

On the other hand, if you want to explore the city as well, it is generally recommended that on your first visit, it is best to try to stay in the Historic District of Charleston SC, especially if it is a short visit. It is the heart of Charleston and you will feel immersed in the culture.

What Else To Do In Charleston SC?

Finding amazing things to do in Charleston SC should not be difficult. The charming city is bustling with exciting activities and breathtaking scenery. From the cobbled downtown alleys to long stretches of pristine beachfront, there’s something to please every traveler. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, eager to explore nature, or a history buff ready to dive into the past, Charleston SC offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery.

FAQs

Can You Touch the Angel Oak Tree?

Yes, you are even encouraged to gently touch it or kiss it. You are also free to wander beneath the Angel Oak at will. On the other hand, signs ask visitors not to climb or sit on its branches, and not to carve their initials.

Who Comes To See Angel Oak Tree?

Everyone. From the elderly with walkers, to babies in strollers. You can hear foreign languages or deep southern drawls around the Angel Oak. Naturalists, photographers, families, and couples will find Johns Island and Angel Oak Park perfect for an outing. This majestic tree is a must-see for anyone heading out to Kiawah or Seabrook Islands.

Is There a Dress Code When Visiting Angel Oak Tree?

No, except for one thing: wearing spiked heels isn’t allowed because they can damage the fragile root system of the Angel Oak. For the same reason, tripods aren’t allowed either. As long as your clothing or equipment doesn’t endanger the roots or hollow branches of the Angel Oak, you’ll be fine.

Is There a Tour Involved in Angel Oak Park on Johns Island?

No tours or guides to Angel Oak. There’s no admission charge to the general public either, but donations are gladly accepted to help in the preservation of the Angel Oak for future generations. The park has a gift shop and picnic area which add to the memorable visit.

What’s It Like Being Near Angel Oak?

It is spirit-lifting. The experience itself is a total immersion in nature, which is in contrast to the gas stations and even a McDonald’s on your way to Angel Oak Park. However, once you get there you hear nothing but Angel Oak, crickets, birdsong, and treetops rustling in the breeze.

How To Have The Best ‘Calm-Cation’ According To Campspot

Campers and outdoor adventurers everywhere are always searching for the best places to experience nature. From Acadia to Yellowstone, both hidden-gem and well-known parks around the country can fit the bill. But with so many options from coast to coast, it can be difficult to narrow down your final camping destination. And when it comes to the idea of pure relaxation, it’s even harder to make the perfect selection.

Luckily, campground management software company Campspot is here to help. This past week, Campspot released its 2024 Camping Trends Outlook & Destination Index, detailing the camping trends and interests of over 2,800 campers.

Subtitled “The Year of the Calm-Cation,” the data yielded trends that show campers want a relaxing experience. “In a recent customer survey, we found that 93 percent of campers feel more relaxed or mentally refreshed after time spent camping versus other kinds of trips,” reports Campspot.

Utilizing specific camping factors amongst different types of calm-cations, let’s dive into Campspot’s findings and discover which locations ranked at the top for camping in the U.S.

About The Data

After surveying several of its marketplace customers, Campspot explored destinations across the country, measured them on five key factors, and ranked them on two different lists — one for “Water-Lust Wellness” calm-cations and another for “Fresh Air, Clear Sky Sanctuaries.”

The five key factors in Campspot’s data are camping availability, overall ratings and average price, proximity to water, air quality index data and dark skies, and high-speed internet connection.

With these factors in mind, let’s dive into the best water-lust and clear sky calm-cations in the United States.

Guadalupe River Trail near New Braunfels, Texas
Photo credit: damoney777 / Pixabay

Best Destinations For Water‑Lust Wellness

“Water has long been known for its healing properties and it seems campers take to water like catfish to a muddy creek,” says Campspot.

Topping the list for water-lust wellness, Ashland, New Hampshire, is situated near both Little Squam Lake and the Pemigewasset River. The featured Ashland campground on Campspot is Ames Brook Campground, featuring an arcade, a pool, fishing, and much more.

The full list of water-lust wellness calm-cation destinations is as follows:

Ashland, New Hampshire
Auburn, Maine
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Knoxville, Tennessee
Port Aransas, Texas
New Braunfels, Texas
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Lake George, New York
Navarre, Florida

Mackinac Island, Michigan
Photo credit: wnk1029 / Pixabay

Best Destinations For Fresh Air, Clear Sky Sanctuaries

“Recent reporting from the American Lung Association revealed a staggering one in four people in the U.S. (aka over 119 million people) live with exposure to health-altering air pollution,” continues Campspot. “It’s no wonder that camping, often an activity that takes place in a more rural setting, offers so many a literal safe haven.”

When it comes to fresh air and dark night skies, Asheville, North Carolina, ranks as the number one camping location. Mayland Earth to Sky Park and Bare Dark Sky Observatory are both in the area and Asheville is within safe distance from major populated cities like Charlotte and Knoxville. Campspot’s featured campground in Asheville is Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground with an arcade, showers, a playground, and more.

The full list of fresh air, clear sky calm-cation destinations is as follows:

Asheville, North Carolina
Jamestown, Tennessee
New Braunfels, Texas
Greenville, Maine
Kanab, Utah
Luray, Virginia
Moab, Utah
Sedona, Arizona
Mackinaw City, Michigan
Ellison Bay, Wisconsin

For more camping inspiration, be sure to check out these articles:

Will the Credit Card Competition Act Eliminate Travel Rewards?

The airline trade group is in full opposition to the Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA), legislation that aims to reduce credit card processing fees. Although the bill largely pits banks against retailers, Airlines for America argues that if the bill passes, it will eliminate travel reward programs for customers.

Marli Collier, the A4A communications manager, told TravelAwaits that because the bill targets interchange fees — the 2% rate that pays for credit card processing — it would destroy the revenue stream airlines use to fund the reward programs.

“Our customers are very passionate about the miles that they earn,” Collier said. “They choose these credit cards specifically so they can get rewarded for spending money they were already planning to spend.”

However, there’s much debate and information circulating online about what the CCCA will do if enacted, so we’re taking a look at what it is and the potential benefits and risks.

What is the Credit Card Competition Act?

The CCCA was filed in June by a bi-partisan group of Senators led by Majority Whip Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Illinois. The group said the goal of the legislation is to “enhance competition and choice in the credit card network market.”

The senators explained that the current market includes four networks: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. However, they argue that Visa and Mastercard hold some 83% of the U.S. market, and with their “duopoly,” they impose some of the highest processing fees in the world.

The legislation would address the issue by requiring banks with assets of more than $100 billion to use more than one credit card processor, including one that isn’t Visa or Mastercard. It will also put a cap on processing fees. While the idea is to lower processing fees for retailers, some observers say the benefits for consumers are unclear.

How does the bill affect points?

One of the main criticisms of the bill by groups like the Electronic Payments Coalition, a lobby representing banks and networks and has been leading the charge against the legislation, is that it would jeopardize credit card reward programs such as travel points or cash back.

The EPC argue the regulation would greatly reduce interchange rates — also known as swipe fees — which would pose a problem because they cover processing costs and fund reward programs. They say that’s what happened in 2010 when the Senate passed a similar measure — the Durbin Amendment to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act — to regulate debit card processing fees. It resulted in the elimination of debit card rewards.

On the other hand, supporters of the bill like the Merchant Payments Coalition argue that rewards will not be affected by the legislation. They explain that banks create reward programs — as opposed to networks — to use as marketing tools to attract customers.

The MPC also argues that the revenue they’ll lose is only a fraction of the profit they will continue to make from swipe fees. In defense of the legislation, supporters say Australia passed similar reforms — despite Visa and Mastercard claiming they would hurt reward programs — but banks continued to offer them.

In an analysis of swipe fees, Investopedia looked at both examples from both the U.S. and Australia. The personal finance website reported two significant effects after implementing debit card regulations in the U.S. First, merchants now pay less in debit card swipe fees, but credit card companies are charging the maximum amount possible. Second, banks beefed up credit card rewards. The website also reported that there were no noticeable effects on the price of goods and services in Australia.

How will it affect the traveling consumer?

Exactly how the Credit Card Competition Act will benefit consumers is unclear. Proponents of the bill argue that merchants will lower prices because they’ll have lower swipe fees, but critics argue that there’s nothing in the bill requiring them to pass the savings onto consumers. They say what’s more likely is that merchants will hoard the profits.

In a white paper about the subject, Julian Morris, a senior scholar at the International Center for Law & Economics, argued that the legislation would likely only benefit credit card networks that aren’t Visa or Mastercard as well as big-box retailers. “Unfortunately, the number and scale of those who lose is likely to be far greater than the number and scale of those who win,” Morris wrote.

Morris described the legislation as causing significant disruption with airline-branded credit cards, which are a steady revenue stream for airlines. He explained that airline companies generate relatively thin profit margins, so they rely on revenue generated from loyalty programs in both good and bad economic times. In fact, most of the major airlines report earning nearly $4 billion in annual revenue from co-branded credit cards. He also explained that cardholders with travel rewards rely on the points and discounts that come with their credit cards and for that reason, the programs are popular.

The potential consequence of the bill, as Morris explained, is that credit card companies may offer fewer benefits and discounts. He also argued that the current networks maintain a high standard of security that third-party networks might not be able to match. He added that while airlines may start offering loyalty programs using different networks, they would need customers to either agree to new terms or switch programs. He called it “a timing mismatch effect.”

“The revenue loss will occur in the short term, while the rewards-redemption effect occurs over a longer time horizon,” Morris said, adding that customers switching programs would immediately interfere with the airlines’ revenue streams and the airlines would lose the loyalty of frequent fliers. In his conclusion, he said: “[A]irlines, in particular, could be adversely affected, leading to reduced fleet investment, termination of routes, and potentially to bankruptcy.”

What’s next for the Credit Card Competition Act?

There’s no clear answer to whether or not the CCCA will pass or when the Senate (or the House) plan to vote on it during the 2023 legislative session. According to GovTrack, a website that records the stages of legislation as it advances through Congress, it’s still listed in the introductory phase. Additionally, unlike previous attempts when it was attached to another bill, the personal finance site NerdWallet reported that the current draft will mostly likely get a standalone vote.

Article updated at 11:53 a.m. Eastern on Nov. 20, 2023

4 Vibrant City Neighborhoods To Explore

A city getaway is a chance to experience new cultural events, exciting nightlife, popular restaurants, and new people. Next time you’re in a new city, hit the streets to get a feel for what the area truly has to offer. The uniqueness of each city lies within its neighborhoods. Here are four favorite vibrant city neighborhoods to explore.

1. Greenwich Village, New York City

New York is a magical city that’s so much fun to visit. There’s always so much going on and one of the best neighborhoods to hang out in is Greenwich Village. The Village was known as a neighborhood for creative thinkers, artists, and musicians in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, this area of New York is home to live music clubs, great restaurants, and beautiful brownstones. Here’s where you’ll see Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment and the Friend’s Building.

The Village is known for its outstanding nightlife, so head over to Bleecker Street for some of the best clubbing in the city. Comedy Cellar Club is a super popular comedy venue known far and wide as one of the best clubs in the country. Marie’s Crisis Cafe is a well-known piano bar that gets rave reviews. We had a blast on our Greenwich Village Food Tour where our fabulous tour guide took us to hot spots like Murray’s Cheese Shop, the original Joe’s Pizza, and a lot more. Delish!

The intersection of Royal and St. Louis Streets in New Orleans
Photo credit: LRMoore / Pixabay

2. French Quarter, New Orleans

Everyone should visit fabulous New Orleans at least once. With an incredible food scene and more parades than practically anywhere else, it is a city teeming with activity. And much of that fun happens in the French Quarter. You could visit New Orleans and never leave “The Quarter” — as locals call the downtown neighborhood — there’s that much to see and do in this vibrant area.

The St. Louis Cathedral is a must-see. This gorgeous cathedral is the oldest in the United States and is a hallmark of Jackson Square. Next door is the Presbytere, a museum that shines a light on the history of Hurricane Katrina on the first floor, and upstairs, you’ll jump into the history of Mardi Gras. It’s a wonderful place to learn about the important events that have shaped this classic southern city. Outside along Jackson Square, you’ll usually find plenty of vendors and live music performers. Grab a spot at Cafe Du Monde for the best beignets in town and go to Arnaud’s for a lovely fine-dining experience. This is the restaurant to enjoy celebrating a special event in the heart of the French Quarter.

3. Pearl District, San Antonio

The Pearl District in San Antonio is a vibrant neighborhood where you can have a good time in several different ways. The entire area, originally home to the largest brewery in San Antonio, has been revitalized into a cool entertainment district with award-winning local restaurants and bars, along with lots of different entertainment options for the family.

Watch a movie on a giant inflatable screen at Pearl Park. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the incredible Culinary Institute of America. Get pampered in a fabulous day spa. Or, experience the fabulous Weekend Market at Pearl.

You’ll find two different markets each weekend. Saturday mornings are all about food, with a selection of spectacular fresh produce grown nearby, as well as artisan meats from area ranchers. This is freshness at its best. Sunday’s market lasts from late morning to early afternoon and focuses on local makers offering their handmade wares. You’re likely to score some new favorites at this premier market, which USA Today recently named one of the top ten farmers markets in the country.

4. Power And Light District, Kansas City

Kansas City is a vibrant Midwestern city located in central Missouri. Home to a professional baseball, football, and soccer team, along with many artistic venues and fantastic food, Kansas City is a cultural hub in the center of the country. One of the best neighborhoods for good times is the KC Power and Light District. The P&L District is an indoor-outdoor entertainment district home to plenty of bars, restaurants, and jazz clubs. For juicy burgers and cold beers, it’s hard to beat Johnny’s Tavern. Other food options include sushi, tacos, seafood, and more.

You can also see live music on the huge outdoor stage. Sports fans will enjoy the seemingly hundreds of televisions scattered throughout the area. Nearby are more venue options for live entertainment. Enjoy concerts and live performances at the T-Mobile Center, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and the Crossroads Arts District. If you’re a jazz lover, be sure to check out the jazz scene at the Green Lady Lounge, one of the most well-known clubs in the area. Of course, you can’t go to Kansas City without eating barbecue, and the P&L District has you covered. Check out Country Road Ice House for authentic KC-style barbecue. It’s the real deal.

The 7 Best Things To See And Do in Vibrant Gulfport Mississippi

Gulfport Mississippi is the second-largest city in this state, nestled right on the Gulf Coast. The area has long been the summer playground of people in New Orleans, who sought to escape summer’s oppressive heat. Today, this vibrant city, easily accessible from Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, has something to offer every visitor!

7 Best Things To Do in Gulfport Gulfport Mississippi

The area is full of history, art and culture, seafood shacks, and, of course, beaches! Outdoor enthusiasts will get their share of fun fishing, kayaking, and just hitting the area’s sugar-sand stretches along the warm and calm Gulf of Mexico/Mississippi Sound waters. Here are a few of our favorite things to see and do in and around downtown Gulfport MS. (You can also read my account of exploring Mississippi’s Gulf Coast!)

Sand and surf in Gulfport, Mississippi. — Sand and surf in Gulfport
Photo credit: Fotoluminate LLC / Shutterstock.com

1. Gulfport Beach

Gulfport Beach is beloved by locals and tourists alike and is a terrific place to spend the day in the sun, sand, and surf. This man-made beach isn’t that wide but is quite long, extending all the way into neighboring Biloxi. The sand is soft, and for the most part, it’s quieter here than in other stops along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

While the water isn’t pristine, it is shallow and refreshing. Bring a picnic, book, towels, and drinks if you’re looking for a low-key outing. If you don’t want to DIY your beach day, there are plenty of umbrella rentals and quite a few cafes nearby where you can duck in for a nosh and get a break from the sun. Free parking is available near the beach and along the nearby highway.

2. Water Sports

Gulfport is the perfect place to get active on the water, whether it’s simply swimming or sea kayaking, paddle boarding, or even jet-skiing. There are water equipment rentals up and down Gulfport Beach, which makes it easy to ramp up the adventure factor during your beach break!

If you’re an angler, or there’s one in your traveling party, consider a fishing charter to really take your vacation over the top. There are plenty from which to choose in Gulfport, and most offer a full-day, full-service experience including gear, bait, pre-purchased licenses, and even cleaning service for whatever you’re lucky enough to bring to the surface!

Pro Tip: If you’re an active walker or jogger, a stroll or run down Beach Boulevard is a must! There’s a lot of fantastic outdoor adventures you can try on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Fort Massachusetts on Ship Island. — Fort Massachusetts on Ship Island
Photo credit: SeanRhinoPhotography / Shutterstock.com

3. Ship Island

A dozen miles offshore from the city of Gulfport lies Ship Island. You’ll need to take a roundtrip ferry to get to the barrier island, but trust us, you won’t Ship Island excursions! This pristine, sandy stretch is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and is absolutely teeming with sea creatures.

For starters, keep an eye out for pelicans and dolphins on the ferry ride. Ship Island, with its crystal-clear water and unspoiled beaches, is also home to horseshoe crabs, seabirds, and even colorful fish. They can all be spotted here, making it a favorite place for snorkelers. Ship Island is also home to Fort Massachusetts, a historic base built after the War of 1812; it is open today for tours.

Pack smart for your outing: The full and direct sun on the Ship Island can blaze right off the clear water, and there aren’t many shady spots where you can escape its wrath. Slather on that sunscreen, stay well-hydrated, and consider wearing SPF gear.

The replica of Ship Island Lighthouse in Jones Park, Gulfport, Mississippi. — The replica of Ship Island Lighthouse in Jones Park; the original was destroyed by a fire in 1972.
Photo credit: GLBG / Shutterstock.com

4. Jones Park

Want to get your daily steps in on terra firma instead of sand? Head to Gulfport’s Jones Park, an expansive green space that sits adjacent to the city’s marina. Strolling through now, it’s hard to believe that after Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, the entire area was under 25 feet of storm surge, and once that receded, muck.

Rebuilding the park took 7 years, at the coast of $40 million, but today, it’s one of the Gulfport area’s crown jewels. The park routinely hosts special events in its two amphitheaters, and there are paved walking trails throughout.

5. Aquariums, Marine Parks, And More

In Gulfport MS, there are a variety of places you can meet the marine creatures that also call the city, beach, and gulf home. The Mississippi Aquarium, a nonprofit organization, is a brand-new space with a mission to tell the story of Mississippi’s marine life. Residents include alligators, river otters, dolphins, and stingrays.

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies cares for wounded or sick gulf animals, while at the same time providing interactive programming for visitors; the Institute’s Ocean Adventures Marine Park offers many different encounters and experiences with the animals at a variety of price points.

Street art in Fishbone Alley in Gulfport, Mississippi. — Street art in Gulfport’s Fishbone Alley
Photo credit: SeanRhinoPhotography / Shutterstock.com

6. Fishbone Alley

Fishbone Alley is the entryway to Gulfport’s thriving arts scene. Once used for trash storage, this side-alley secret, with its laid-back, funky vibe, now celebrates the intersection of art and culture with its bold, colorful murals. The alley backs up into pubs, cafes, and galleries.

Artists from Harrison County and across the Gulf Coast are periodically asked to leave their mark here, so the alley rarely looks the same for very long. Festivals, concerts, and other live performances take place here often. It’s the perfect place to grab a nightcap after a day on the beach!

7. Friendship Oak

A short drive east of Gulfport, down Highway 90, and you’ll reach the University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park. While the campus is charming, what you want to see is the Friendship Oak. This hulking live oak is estimated to be more than 500 years old, and miraculously survived Hurricane Katrina’s wrath as well as storms that wrecked the coast in the centuries before. It’s a stunning natural wonder that has been the site of countless weddings, meetups, and picnics, so it shouldn’t be a surprise the Friendship Tree is one of the most photographed nature’s historic sites and landmarks on the Mississippi Gulf coast!

Best Restaurants In Gulfport

Seafood is king here, and the Gulf waters produce beautiful shrimp, crabs, oysters, and fish, all as fresh as can be! You’ll find it prepared in a variety of ways: fried, sauteed, blackened, and grilled. Here are our top picks for the downtown area and the beach.

Half Shell Oyster House

The Half Shell Oyster House is a great place to grab a bite, with a decidedly French Quarter flair. Located in a historic building in downtown Gulfport, it’s known for incredible local fish, plus pasta and steaks.

Shaggy’s Beach Bar

Shaggy’s Beach Bar, right on Beach Blvd., has stunning Gulf views with a laid-back family vibe. Its seafood and Southern pub grub fare (including crab cakes and fried green tomatoes!) are a great value.

BR Prime At Beau Rivage

If you’re in the mood for a great steak, consider making a reservation at Beau Rivage’s BR Prime. The casino’s swankiest restaurant does not disappoint.

Chandeleur Island Brewing

To get your brew on, head to Chandeleur Island Brewing downtown. This craft brewery is friendly and welcoming and has a large variety of beers rotating through its taps.

Pop Brothers

For a cool-down that will satisfy any sweet tooth, you’ll want to hit Pop Brothers. This artisan popsicle stand has creamy, fruity, and indulgent varieties of pops, including mango, strawberry, Nutella, and Oreo cheesecake, just to name a few.

Best Places To Stay In Gulfport

Gulfport is blessed with a wide array of overnight options to suit any sort of visitor. There are high-rise condominium complexes, which offer incredible Gulf views and are often available on home-share sites. Casino resorts also abound all around Gulfport, including amenities such as on-site golf courses, spas, and, of course, slots to go with their luxe rooms!

The Oasis Resort is just steps from the beach and features comfortable, affordable suites. If you’re looking for a slower pace during your Gulfport visit, no worries. There are plenty of seaside cottages and historic inns to consider: The Oak Crest Mansion Inn was built back in 1920 and has been charming guests since reopening after an extensive renovation in 2009. Visitors rave about its gorgeous park-like setting and luxe guest suites.

Pro Tip

Word to the wise: Gulfport, while charming, is not the most walkable city. Many of its attractions are widely spread out along Highway 90. If you’re not bringing a car with you, plan to call a ride-share service, or consider public transportation. The Coast Transit Authority provides comprehensive bus service for just $1.50 a ride.

Shopping In Gulfport

Whatever you want, Gulfport has it! For unique artisanal gifts, the downtown Gulfport art galleries and antique stores are just the places. For children’s gifts choose from a wide selection of hip boutiques. And if you’re in the mood for a full day of shopping, Gulfport’s Premium Outlets Mall is not to be missed.

This huge shopping center features over 70 designer and name-brand stores, including favorites like Nike, Coach, Michael Kors, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Apart from fantastic retail options, the Gulfport Premium Outlets offer great dining choices perfect for refueling after the shopping spree.

Best Time To Visit Gulfport, Mississippi

This charming coastal towns in Mississippi can be enjoyed almost all year round because of its moderate winter and summer temperatures. For the travelers though, the period between May to July is the safest time to get on the road. Since Gulfport’s weather is heavily impacted by oceanic currents, winters tend to be mild and short, while summers are pretty humid.

The hottest months are July and August and December is probably the wettest. Storms are most likely between August and October, but hurricanes do not occur every year in the state, making Mississippi’s most beautiful towns even more inviting.

FAQs

Is Going To Gulfport Harbour Light Winter Festival Worth It?

Yes! The show is now Mississippi’s Largest Christmas Light Show with over 1.5 million lights in Jones Park. Visitors can ride carnival rides, enjoy the “Dancing Trees” Show, or stroll through Santa’s Village. Each year the show grows and brings new surprises!

Are There Any Waterparks In Gulfport?

Yes, waterparks are a great way to cool off during your Gulfport getaway. The most popular is the Gulf Islands Waterpark where your kids can meet the stars from Nickelodeon and Disney Channel, watch Sea Lion Shows, Frisbee Dog Shows, and more.

Can You Go Off-Roading In Gulfport?

Yes, South Mississippi Off-Road & RV Park is the most popular one in MS. It is a place to come for the weekend and relax so jump in your ATV, SxS, Jeep, or mud truck and take a ride around the many miles of offroad trails.

Where Can You Run In Gulfport?

With sandy beaches, flat terrain, and gorgeous views coastwide, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is a runner’s paradise. For those who want more elevation, the Coffee Creek Recreational Trail trail, owned by the City of Gulfport, is free and open to the public.

Is Fishing Allowed Off The Piers Or The Beach In Gulfport?

Yes, it is. Fishing piers and beaches are located throughout the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast but recreational fishers in Mississippi are required to have a Mississippi State Saltwater Fishing License. You can get one at various locations along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.