Enjoy waterfront views, charming streets and laid-back coastal vibes in Gulfport.
Wonderfully Weird & Whacky
The friendly, small waterfront community of Gulfport has been celebrating its weirdness since before it was cool to do so. The city’s eclectic collection of artists, writers, musicians and small business owners along with its walkable downtown and sparkling bayfront make this a must-visit place.
Gulfport is a tiny waterfront town on Boca Ciega Bay that packs a genuinely artsy, independent spirit into walkable blocks of candy-colored boutiques, working galleries, and a historic waterfront district that comes alive during the twice-monthly Art Walk. Spend the morning at the Tuesday Fresh Market, wander a pier that's been anchoring the town for decades, and let the evening wind down with dinner overlooking the bay. It's a slower, quirkier side of the coast, and it knows it.
Things to Do
Spend the day wandering along Beach and Shore boulevards, popping in and out of shops and galleries, sampling delicious food and taking in local history as you walk past charming old buildings. It’s likely that you’ll hear live music coming from Art Village Courtyard and several of the restaurants along the waterfront.
For a day on the water, head to the City of Gulfport’s Municipal Marina, where you can book a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the nearby Clam Bayou Nature Preserve. If you’d rather stay on land, the Gulfport Recreation Center offers a large playground and a skate park, making it a popular spot for families.
Walking tours of the downtown are offered by the Gulfport Historical Society (check out the museum, too, while you’re in the area).
Looking for some fun on or near the water? The beach here isn’t huge, but it’s quiet and relaxing, and its volleyball courts are a popular spot. Nearby, the skate park near the Gulfport Recreation Center is popular with families.
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Events & Festivals
Gulfport is renowned for its events. GeckoFest jubilantly marks the end of summer over Labor Day weekend with live music, more than 200 vendors, kids’ activities and more. The city’s Night Market falls on the first Friday and third Saturday of each month, and draws locals and visitors alike in search of handcrafted treasures. The Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market offers local produce, foods and flowers. Enjoy the creative side of Gulfport during Plein Air Festival, an interactive showcase where local artists paint its charming scenes in real time. And on any given day of the week, you might spot an impromptu parade marching by to celebrate (or protest) any number of things.
Where to Eat & Drink
A good meal is never far away in Gulfport. Stroll through the small downtown area or check out the restaurants that line the waterfront here. It's a great place to mingle with the locals who love this tiny town.
A Taste of Old Italy in Gulfport
Places to Stay
Gulfport’s laid-back indie vibe carries over to its accommodations. With its friendly staff and waterfront views, Sea Breeze Manor on Shore Boulevard is an inviting option. Peninsula Bed & Cocktails, a dog-friendly boutique hotel built in 1905, is in the heart of downtown.
How to Get Around Gulfport
Hop on the Gulfport Trolley and Looper for easy, fun rides to big events and popular Night Markets on First Fridays and Third Saturdays all year long. The waterfront and charming downtown district are both completely walkable, making it simple to soak in the sights without needing a car.
