The Mississippi Coast has so much to offer families when it comes to SUMMER FUN! From fun beach spots in every town to great local splash pads and parks, there’s truly something for everyone! Check out our resources below for more summer fun and make sure to follow our EVENTS PAGE for events going on all summer long!

THE GCM SUMMER EVENTS CALENDAR

From Local Library Story Times to ticketed events to firework shows and MORE, you can find everything. you need here: KEEP UP WITH ALL EVENTS THIS SUMMER!

GET OUTSIDE

Gulf islands Water park

This is definitely a go-to for families with kids of all ages! The kiddie area is perfect for littles, and the slides are great to keep your bigs entertained all summer long! Their season pass is the best money you’ll ever spend. Or, buy ahead and save on day tickets!

Centennial plaza

Nestled directly across from the white, sandy beaches of Gulfport, MS, sits Centennial Plaza; a 48-acre resort complex that has been completely reimagined as the area’s premier family and business traveler destination. Developed with the traveler in mind, Centennial Plaza is an exceptionally well-developed campus with unmatched amenities along the coast. Centennial is close to everything the area has to offer but, with the conveniences all on-campus, you might choose not to leave.

Margaritaville

Experience paradise here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast with this family-friendly resort featuring the largest arcade in the country, an exciting rooftop water playground, and a taste of the good life with a variety of dining and entertainment. Go check them out and make sure you tell them The Gulf Coast Mom sent you!

Paradise pier

Set sail with the whole crew to Paradise Pier! Located directly beside Margaritaville Resort Biloxi, experience thrilling rides, relax with hand-crafted refreshments, and enjoy unbeatable views of the Mississippi Sound at the biggest pier on the Gulf Coast. From soaring on the Aerobar to spinning uncontrollably on the Puddle Jumper, Paradise Pier is the ultimate destination for non-stop fun and excitement.

Splash pads guide

Summer is in full force all over the Coast, and what’s better on a hot day [when the kids are getting restless inside] than a splash pad? So, find a local splash pad below, load the kids up this week, and go make some memories with the whole family! Check out our guide to local FREE splash pads HERE.

SIP PADDLE RENTAL

'Sip Paddle Rental is the premier destination for paddleboarding adventures along the Mississippi Gulf Coast! They don’t just provide top-notch paddleboards; they also deliver all the equipment you need, from Waveland to Biloxi. Experience the convenience and thrill of having the paddleboarding brought directly to you. Get ready to explore stunning coastal views, feel the gentle breeze, and embrace the tranquility of the Gulf waters. Let them know The Gulf Coast Mom sent you!

Canoe / kayak rentals

Wolf River Canoe and Kayak

Famous for its white sand beaches and winding waterways, the Wolf River is the perfect playground for the amateur or experienced canoer and kayaker alike! Just minutes from the gulf beaches, the cool waters of the Wolf River flow over adventurous clay formations, twist around pristine white sand beaches, and meander through peaceful woodlands. Whether you want to swim, picnic, camp, fish, or just relax and enjoy nature, a canoe trip from Wolf River Canoes is for you!

IMMS - OCEAN ADVENTURES

From a dolphin show to a ray touch pool to the playground, we love IMMS! Ocean Adventures is the perfect place to take the entire family for a day of fun… and not to mention it’s pretty educational as well! The kids will be able to get up close and personal with all types of marine animals. They have a huge play place, with shaded picnic tables all around for the perfect afternoon outside!

LAVA LINKS MINI GOLF

Take a swing at Lava Links Golf Club, located right next to The Scarlet Pearl! Their two 18-hole golf courses, surrounded by lush gardens, refreshing waterfalls, entertaining music, and an erupting volcano, promise fun for the entire family!

take me out to the ballgame

It’s always a great day at MGM Stadium with fun for the whole family! The Shuckers just finished up some MAJOR stadium renovations that cater specifically to families — Have you all seen the new outfield splash pad?! Yes. It’s amazing.

WILD ACRES

From animal encounters to group tours to homeschool meet ups and private events, Wild Acres has something fun for the entire family!

Pascagoula River audbon Center

Adventure awaits at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center in Moss Point. The Center is the educational gateway to exploring nature and bayou habitats by offering educational programming for school groups while featuring local nature themes, a step back in time with the historic trolley ticket booth and Scout Hut, and hands-on learning opportunities to fit your needs. Daytime visitors can discover the outdoors on the nature trails, bayou pier, bird feeders, critter tanks, art gallery, kayak rentals, gift shop and more!

Ship island excursions

Relaxation, recreation, and history-these are the gifts offered to you on Ship Island. Here in the Gulf of Mexico, about 11 miles off Mississippi’s Coast, are some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in America. Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and protected by the U.S. Park Service, these exquisite sand islands offer visitors the first high-quality, natural beaches for swimming, birding and shelling east of New Orleans.

A cruise to Ship Island is an affordable, family-friendly adventure and one of the most popular outdoor attractions on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Passengers are sure to spot dolphins while crossing the Mississippi Sound on the 1-hour boat ride. You’ll discover what locals and visitors have enjoyed for generations, the Coast’s finest beaches. The passenger ferries depart from the Gulfport Yacht Harbor in Jones Park (intersection of Hwy. 90 and Hwy. 49). Boats operate typically mid-March through October.

The island is also home to Fort Massachusetts, a beautifully preserved, brick structure used during the Civil War. Seasonal fort tours are offered by the National Park Service. A section of beach with lifeguards is available in summer. Food service is offered on the boats and on the island. Umbrella and beach chair rentals are also available.

Take a trip to our favorite beach spots

Grab a few towels, sand toys, snacks, and an umbrella and take the family out for a relaxing day! To be honest, there are tons of great beach spots all around the coast, but our local mom contributor team shared their favorite beach spots and here they are:

Bay St. Louis: Any beach spot in Bay St. Louis is great!
Pass Christian: Our favorite is just out in front of War Memorial Park .
Long Beach: Either side of Long Beach Harbor is great!
Gulfport: Check out Courthouse Rd. and in front of Jones Park.
Biloxi: Head out in front of the condos and Edgewater Mall.
Ocean Springs: Front Beach is everyone’s favorite!

MISSISSIPPI STATE PARKS

Make a Splash at Mississippi State Parks - Thank you to MDWFP for giving The Gulf Coast Mom permission to publish their article. Whether you are looking to stay close to the Coast or travel the state, there are so many great options for family fun!

Mississippi’s State Parks conjure up thoughts of nature trails, campgrounds, and maybe even disc golf — but do not overlook the fun to be had on the water. From boating and water skiing to splash pads and slides, get ready to make a splash at the parks’ many attractions.

BUCCANEER STATE PARK

LOCATION: Waveland

WATER FEATURE: Water Park and Camp Pool

HOURS: May 25 to August 1: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 7 days a week

August 1 to September 4: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday only

ADMISSION: Click here for pricing

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is home to Buccaneer Bay, a 4.5-acre water park located across from the Gulf of Mexico. Buccaneer Bay has Pirate’s Lagoon, a wave pool featuring six-foot waves and eight different surf patterns. Up for more adventure? Climb the tower and careen down Pirate's Plank, an enclosed water slide built for speed, or Pirate’s Plunge, a twisting, turning body slide.

Buccaneer Bay has Pirate's Lagoon, a wave pool featuring six-foot waves and eight different surf patterns.

We are excited to share two new exciting amenities that are sure to make your next visit even more memorable! Splash Island, Buccaneer Bay's newest addition, features three waterslides, 26 interactive spray features, and two giant tipping buckets! That's not all - overlooking Splash Island are six luxurious cabanas that are available for rent. Watch the kids play as you relax and unwind in your own shaded piece of paradise.

Back again this summer are the iconic Pirate's Lagoon Wave Pool, Pirate's Plunge and Pirate's Plank Waterslides, and Lil Smuggler's Cove.

Lil’ Smuggler’s Cove offers a children’s water playground complete with sprays and tipping buckets. Treasure Island is a giant sun deck and lounge area that seems to be a perfect spot to relax and catch some rays.

Buccaneer Bay is a prime spot for birthday parties and special occasions, with Crow's Nest pavilion available for rent.

Overlooking the gulf is the park’s campground, home to Castaway Cove, a smaller, circular pool that features waterfalls.

Click here for more information on all the amenities at Buccaneer Bay Waterpark!

CLARKCO STATE PARK

LOCATION: Quitman

WATER FEATURE: Splash Pad - NOW OPEN!

HOURS: Starting Memorial Day weekend, open seven days a week until Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

ADMISSION: Gatehouse entry of $2.00 per person

Located about 15 minutes south of Meridian, this park has been a family favorite since it was built in 1938.

“There’s a lot of history here,” said Manager Tony Fleming. “We have families who have come back year after year for more than 70 years.”

In addition to the splash zone, another main draw is the 65-acre Ivy Lake, which offers fishing, boating, water skiing, swimming, and more.

There are plenty of water-related activities at Clarkco State Park, including a splash pad that is open daily.

J.P. COLEMAN STATE PARK

LOCATION: 613 CR 321 Iuka, MS 38852

WATER FEATURE: Pool

HOURS: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Thursday-Sunday

*Memorial Day Weekend -- Pool will be open Saturday - Monday

POOL ADMISSION: Ages 0 to 3: $3.00, ages 4 to 12: $4.00, ages 13 and up: $6.00

Not only is there a camp pool at J.P. Coleman State Park, but visitors also have access to Pickwick Lake.

Perched above the Tennessee River, J.P. Coleman State Park has unmatched sailing, water skiing, and fishing in the sparkling water of Pickwick Lake. Rent a pontoon boat from nearby vendors and explore all the fun Pickwick Lake has to offer with waterfalls, chalk mines, Goat Island, and more.

“It’s the prettiest lake in the state to me,” said Manager Gary Ray. “Fishing is huge. We have pleasure boats, jet skis, and water skiing."

PAUL B. JOHNSON STATE PARK

LOCATION: 319 Geiger Lake Road Hattiesburg, MS 39401

WATER FEATURE: Splash Zone

HOURS: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 7 days a week *CLOSED FOR MAINTENANCE

SPLASH ZONE ADMISSION: Ages 3 to 15: $6.00, ages 16 and up: $8.00

Are you looking for a way to beat the heat this summer? Take your pick of fun at Paul B Johnson State Park. The Splash Zone and Geiger Lake provide visitors twice the opportunity to cool off and have a blast with friends and family.

Geiger Lake is a 300-acre, well-stocked lake that provides anglers and boating enthusiasts the perfect getaway. Visitors also enjoy water skiing and hanging out on one of the park's two beaches.

Another attraction is the 5,000-square-foot splash pad featuring 37 water sprays and jets, water cannons, tipping buckets, and more.

The frog slide is a popular feature at the Paul B. Johnson State Park splash pad.

ROOSEVELT STATE PARK

LOCATION: 2149 Hwy 13 S Morton, MS 39117

WATER FEATURE: Pool and Waterslide

HOURS: May 25 to August 1: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM, 7 days a week

August 1 to September 4: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday and Sunday only

WATERSLIDE AND POOL ADMISSION: $11.00 for all ages

POOL ADMISSION: Ages 3 and under: Free, ages 4 to 12: $4.00, ages 13 and up: $6.00

Conveniently located between Meridian and Jackson, this park is home to 150-acre Shadow Lake, which draws boating, water skiing, and jet ski enthusiasts.

Those interested in taking a trip down the slide or a dip in the pool are in luck - the pool and waterslide are available for both campers and day-use visitors. Day-use visitors will pay their $2.00 entry fee in addition to the pool admission fees.

Make a day of it by enjoying lunch at one of the nearby pavilions and picnic tables.

Roosevelt State Park is now hiring summer lifeguards. Applications can be picked up in person at the park.

TISHOMINGO STATE PARK

LOCATION: 105 CR 90 - P.O. Box 880 Tishomingo, MS 38873

WATER FEATURE: Bear Creek Float Trip - Opens May 25

HOURS: Friday and Saturday, meet at the park office by 9:00 AM

The float trip is weather and water dependent. The goal is to open for the season early May and not close until mid-October. However, due to weather and water levels, the park might open the float trip later in the year and close earlier.

ADMISSION: $40 (plus tax) per canoe, no more than 2 people to a canoe. Maximum of 8 canoes per trip. Ages 5 and under are not permissible. Reservations are encouraged.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure down the picturesque Bear Creek as you paddle through beautiful wooded scenes and under the iconic Swinging Bridge. With the trip length reaching just over 6 miles, this trip is perfect for families, couples, and friends alike and promises to create memories that will last a lifetime. Taking only around four hours to complete, this float trip is perfect for summer and fall.

To reserve your spot, call Tishomingo State Park at (662) 438-6914.

Shepard State Park

1034 Graveline Drive
Gautier, MS 39553
P: (228) 497-2244

Shepard State Park has 395 acres abounding with trees and wild flowers, bike and nature trails, 28 developed campsites, 1 bathhouse, tent camping and picnicking and 18-hole disc golf course. The park is nestled in the heart of Singing River (Pascagoula River) country, where legend has it that members of the Pascagoula Indian nation linked hands and walked into the Pascagoula River rather than be taken captive by hostile Indian tribes. The mournful death chant they sang as they walked earned the Pascagoula River the nickname “Singing River”. Tales of the heroic exploits of French and Spanish settlers and romantic legends of the Pascagoula and Biloxi Indians are standard fare in the scenic coastal area surrounding Shepard State Park.

shepard@wfp.ms.gov

***Effective January 28, 2013***
Shepard State Park will be operated and maintained by the City of Gautier. Any questions regarding reservations should be directed to Shepard State Park at (228) 497-2244 or visit the website at shepardstatepark.com.

State Park KAYAK RENTALS

LOCATION:

Lake Lowndes State Park
Roosevelt State Park
Tombigbee State Park
Trace State Park

HOURS: Available for hourly or daily rentals between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

PRICE: $30 for a full day or $20 for a half day (4 hours)

RESERVE: You can reserve a kayak by calling the park.

This is the perfect outdoor activities for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike, our kayaks offer a fun and relaxing way to experience nature up close.

Click here for more information.

HIKING TRAILS ON THE COAST

Pirate's Alley Nature Trail

"Pirate's Alley Nature Trail" Over 12,000 trees and varying vegetation was destroyed due to the high winds and tidal surge of Hurricane Katrina. Now, nearly seven years of new growth has changed the landscape of the trail, but still provides an excellent opportunity for guest to see nature in its most natural setting. This 1.8 mile, self-guided trail, encompasses many species of Oaks, Magnolia, Pines and a variety of indigenous plants and animals of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A pier with a gazebo extends over Mud Bayou's canal. Here, visitors may spot lots unique coastal wildlife including, Brown and White Pelicans, Egrets, Osprey or feeding Blue Crabs.

Type: Nature

Location: Buccaneer State Park - 1150 South Beach Boulevard Waveland, MS 39576

Length: 1.8 miles

Shepard Park Nature Trail

Approximately 8 miles of trails on the grounds of the park offer many areas for exploring. On these trails you will come into contact with the true beauty of this park. From the majestic oaks to the unique wet lands, where you will encounter a variety of coastal plants and wildlife These trails expand over five different locations.

Type: Nature

Location: Shepard State Park - 1034 Graveline Drive Gautier, MS 39553

Length: 8 miles

Trail of Southern Pines Nature Trail

The "Trail of the Southern Pines" provides an interesting and educational look at Mississippi plant, bird, and animal life. This well-marked nature trail features two lookout towers providing a wonderful overall view of the wilderness. A trail brochure is available from park office.

Type: Nature

Location: Paul B. Johnson State Park - 319 Geiger Lake Road Hattiesburg, MS 39401

Length: 1.5 miles

Tuxachanie Trail

DeSoto National Forest trails are plentiful. However, of all the trails within the forest, there’s one that stands out above the rest, and it’s the Tuxachanie Trail. Just under 12 miles, the trail is a lengthy one. Don’t let that deter you, though. It’s an easy trek and can be accessed from several different points, so you don’t have to hike the whole trail. You’ll definitely want to hike part of it, though, and that’s because it includes an abandoned railroad, former POW camp, and lots of natural beauty.

Type: Nature

Location: 26204-26154 US 49, Saucier, MS 39574

Length: 11.9 miles

INSIDE FUN

Infinity Science center

As a non-profit science museum, Infinity is committed to delivering an exceptional and engaging learning experience for all guests. Proudly serving as the host to the NASA Stennis Visitor Center, INFINITY offers an immersive blend of space exploration, Earth science, engineering, and technology. Their innovative programming aims to ignite curiosity and spark the next 'a-ha' moment for visitors of all ages. Jump in on a journey where science is not only educational but also incredibly fun and accessible to everyone!

Traintastic

Have you been to check out TrainTastic™ yet? It’s the largest and most exciting Model Train Museum in the U.S.! Their museum is a combination of model train displays that are presented in ALL GAUGES. Guests will be wowed by some of the LARGEST, most scenic, and INTERACTIVE model railroad exhibits in the country. As they follow the mini-trains throughout the museum, they can “travel” to see wonders of the world while strolling along mountain vistas, rivers, coastlines, fields of gold, farms, factories, and more!

But there’s more than just trains at TrainTastic! Guests will be able to ride on a real train car as they enter a space that honors the period when trains were crucial to our country: the 1950’s. Numerous S.T.E.A.M.-inspired activities emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math will entertain visitors young and old while sharpening their problem-solving skills. A one-of-a-kind climber will help visitors burn off their own energy physically with its wild tangle of ramps, nets, tunnels, slides, stairs, and railroad-themed play spaces. Then, a mini model town with two-story buildings that doubles as a birthday party space will make visitors feel like they’re back in the 1950s. And that’s just the beginning - Load up the kiddos for a day of fun, and be sure to let them know that The Gulf Coast Mom sent you!

Lynn meadows

Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is dedicated to inspiring children, families and communities through the arts, interactive educational experiences and exploration! There’s plenty to do inside and outside! There are also events and special themed days all month long! See our events page for upcoming events at LMDC!

the mississippi Aviation museum

Have a little history buff on your hands? Come explore aviation history with STEAM activities and hands on experiences!

Created by a group of community leaders seeking to highlight the great adventures of John C. Robinson, the "Brown Condor." Robinson was the first African American pilot to ever fight in combat in the Ethiopian War against Fascist Benito Mussolini in 1935 & 1936. In time, the museum dream grew to that of a place to not only honor Robinson, but those in the State of Missisissippi whose influence had contributed significantly to the field of aviation.

the mississippi Aquarium

Mississippi Aquarium is a premier institution delivering an awe-inspiring entertainment experience which supports animal research and conservation, inspires learning and instills a passion for the aquatic world. At Mississippi Aquarium, there is something amazing at every turn! Annual Passes include unlimited visits, discounts on food, retail and events. Get an Annual Pass today to add more to your adventure.

MARITIME & SEAFOOD INDUSTRY MUSEUM

The Museum exhibits hundreds of one-of-a-kind artifacts and an unrivaled collection of vintage photos, which tells the story from the time of the first Indian settlement through generations of immigrants whose journey contributed to the melting-pot culture of the Gulf Coast. The Grand Hall features the "Nydia" a 30' gaff rigged cabin sloop built in Biloxi in 1898 at the Johnson Shipyard. Featured exhibits include shrimping, oystering, recreational fishing, wetlands, marine blacksmithing, net-making, boat building, hurricanes, featuring Camille and Katrina, all the while telling the tale of over 300 years of history, culture and heritage!

Big play

Big Play Entertainment Center is a State-of-the-Art Premier Entertainment Complex Featuring:

12 Luxury Bowling Lanes with Digital Scoring Systems and Overhead LCD Monitors
Multiple High Definition Video Projection and Monitor Systems Above Lanes and Seating Areas
Huge Arcade with Reloadable Game Cards (can be used anywhere in the facility)
Laser Maze
Laser Tag
Mining Sleuth
Expansion Prize Redemption Store
Full Service Restaurant
40 In Your Face HD TVs
Fully Stocked Bar with over 40 beers
Quick Serve Snack Bar

Big Play Entertainment Center is the perfect location for family fun, date nights, birthday celebrations, team building and corporate and group events, up to 700 can be accommodated for groups.

Skyzone

Go check out all that Sky Zone has to offer: Main Court, Foam Zone, Ultimate Dodgeball, Warrior Course and more!

All ages are welcome, and a Sky Zone liability waiver is required for each jumper (those under 18 must have their waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian). Weekends can get busy, so guarantee your jump time by reserving your spot online and sign your waiver in advance! (Jump time begins every 15 minutes)

KROC CENTER

There's something for everyone at The Kroc Center! Kroc Center Features:

52,000 square feet facility
Indoor Aquatics Center
Exercise Pool, Zero-Depth Entry, Lap Pool, Splash Pad, Two-Story Waterslide
Chapel/Performing Arts Center
Multi-purpose gym designed for basketball, indoor soccer, volleyball, pickleball, and more
Fitness Center
Group Fitness and Dance Studio
Locker Rooms
Multi-purpose room/dining hall for Salvation Army and community events, classrooms and meeting rooms
Play Care
Lobby for art and music exhibits
Stadium complex
Full Athletic Field, 1/4 mile Track, Visitor Stands

FARMS to visit

Green acres creamery

3rd generation dairy farm with naturally produced non homogenized cream line milk. Stop by for ice cream, fresh milk, farm goods, and more!

Black jack ranch

Head to Wiggins to check out the farm store at Black Jack Ranch for fresh beef and more! Find out more in their link above!

Courtney farms

Grab your clippers and head to beautiful flower fields to pick your own bouquets!

Coastal Ridge Farm

Coastal Ridge Farm is open seasonally. We offer flower fields for photography and flower picking. Head out and pick some fresh blooms with the kiddos!

Charlie’s u pick- lucedale and Wiggins

Pack up the family to shop the retail fresh produce and farm goods OR grab your boots and head to the U-PICK fields! It’s so much fun and we promise you’ll have a great time!

Prissy branch blueberry farm

3 acres of well maintained, pick your own blueberries for $10/gal; bulk price 3 gal or more $8/gal! Grab your buckets and go pick some fresh berries!

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO…

Hattiesburg zoo

We love a trip up to the Hattiesburg Zoo! It’s a hidden gem complete with great food, a splash pad, animals of all kinds, train rides and the all new Serengeti Springs Water Park

Audubon zoo

Located in historic Uptown New Orleans, Audubon Zoo features exotic and endangered animals from around the globe. Amidst canopies of great oak trees, experience the wonder of nature in a shaded wonderland that includes beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, kids' play areas, and more.

Audubon aquarium

With more than 3,600 animals from more than 250 species, including endangered species, such as African penguins, and rare animals, such as white alligators, the Aquarium offers you an experience you’ll never forget!

Flint Creek Water Park

Flint Creek Water Park, located on Highway 29 in Wiggins, Mississippi, and an easy 35 miles north of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, offers water fun for the whole family. The park is comprised of 1900 total acres and features a 650-acre lake with 13 miles of shoreline stocked with bass, bream, crappie and catfish offering excellent fishing 24-hours a day. The lake is also a favorite for boating, water skiing and swimming. (Aluminum boat rentals are available.)