Discover A Pristine Paradise When You Visit Mississippi’s Ship Island

If you thought paradise existed only in faraway lands, think again! There’s a little slice of paradise right here in Mississippi – and it’s Ship Island. With stretches of white sand and crystal clear waters, it’s like a whole other world. Luckily, though, it’s not! This pristine paradise is right here in Mississippi, and it’s just a short boat ride away.

If ever there were a place worthy of being deemed a “pristine paradise,” it’s Ship Island.

Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and protected by the U.S. Park Service, it’s brimming with unspoiled beauty.

From the sea to the sand, the island is faultless.

Since 1926, Ship Island Excursions has been providing ferry service to Ship Island, which lies about 11 miles off Mississippi’s coastline.

The ferries, which run seasonally from March – October, depart from Gulfport Yacht Harbor in Jones Park.

It takes about 1 hour to get to the island. The ride is sure to be an enjoyable one, though, since dolphin-sightings are a real possibility.

As soon as you arrive on Ship Island, you’ll be met with stretches of white sand.

From the boat dock, you’ll trek to the opposite side of the island, the Gulf side, which boasts a swim beach.

A far cry from the beaches on Mississippi's Gulf Coast, the beach on Ship Island has crystal clear water.

Ship Island's got more than beauty going for it, though. It's also got several man-made amenities to help make your time on the island a bit more enjoyable.

In addition to seasonal lifeguards, there's a snack bar, a vendor offering chair and umbrella rentals, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and outdoor showers.

For more information, call Ship Island Excursions at (228) 864-1014. You can also visit the Ship Island Excursions website or Facebook page.

So, did you know about this pristine paradise in Mississippi? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think? Know of another pristine swim spot in Mississippi? Tell us!

This isn’t the only slice of paradise hiding in Mississippi. Click here to read about another.