The Most Beautiful Islands in Mississippi

Located in the southeastern United States, Mississippi’s southernmost border lies along the Gulf of Mexico, giving the state six beautiful barrier islands. White sandy beaches, jaw-dropping views, scenic swimming, and fascinating wildlife make these unpopulated outposts a popular stop for visitors and locals alike. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy a true castaway experience in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, these beautiful islands are the perfect vacation destination.

Ship Island

Lying 12 miles off the coast of Mississippi, Ship Island has a fascinating and varied history. Considered an important tactical site, the island was used by both Confederate and Federal troops during the Civil War and was fortified in 1866 with the completion of Fort Massachusetts. Modern-day visitors can browse the perfectly preserved brick fort and take a tour to learn more about its use and history. Ship Island is the busiest of all the barrier islands, with regular ferry service and facilities, including a boardwalk that traverses the island, covered picnic areas, and a snack bar. The island is also an important ecological site and a critical habitat for many species, such as sea turtles, who regularly nest here.

Cat Island

Cat island takes its name from a comical misunderstanding. When European explorers arrived on the island in the 1500s, they discovered it overrun with raccoons. Mistaking the raccoons for cats, they named it Cat Island. Ironically, the island was later used by the US Army to train hundreds of military dogs during the Second World War. In the 1800s, Cat Island was a known hideaway for smugglers and bootleggers — check out Smugglers Cove on the western side to see where these pirates stowed their booty.

Today, the island is only accessible by private boat charter. The northern and eastern half of the island are privately owned, and the rest is a wilderness area, which means no pets are allowed, and visitors are asked to leave no trace of their visit. Cat Island isn’t just a popular stop for campers and explorers; it’s also a fishing paradise with plentiful redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Local charter company Shore Thing Charters offers fishing tours and accommodation at their luxury lodge on the island.

Deer Island

Of all Mississippi’s islands, Deer Island is the closest to shore and the mainland. It takes its name from deer who made the short swim over from the mainland to take refuge during hunting season. Accessible only by private boat, this beautifully secluded spot is perfect for a lazy picnic lunch on the stunning, unspoiled beach. The island is also home to ten endangered species and is a state-owned Coastal Preserve. Take a hike along the dunes, watch the shorebirds come and go, or simply take a refreshing dip in the gin-clear Gulf waters — Deer Island is a hidden gem that makes you feel as if you’re in another world.

Horn Island

Horn Island is a skinny strip of land, less than a mile wide at its thickest point, with long beaches, white sand dunes, and inland lagoons. In 1978, Horn Island and its neighbor, Petit Bois, were designated as protected wilderness areas due to their unique flora and fauna. As a result, the island is now bursting with varied animal, bird, and marine life and is the perfect retreat for fishermen, boaters, or campers looking for a quiet and remote getaway. But be aware that you’re sharing your spot with the island’s animal residents; look out for alligators, pelicans, raccoons, and herons as you explore.

Petit Bois Island

Like Horn Island, six-mile-long Petit Bois is a wilderness area only accessible by private boat but boasting some of the most gorgeous views in Mississippi. Named “little woods” in French, you may be surprised to find there are no woods on Petit Bois Island. It takes its name from a cluster of trees that were unfortunately destroyed when Hurricane Katrina blazed her devastating path through the Gulf in 2005. Several fishing charter companies offer trips to Petit Bois for keen anglers eager to spend the day catching redfish, trout, cobia, and more. While you’re on the water, keep an eye out for the area’s friendliest dish. Schools of dolphins love to play in these protected waters.

Round Island

Round Island is a coastal preserve that was once home to a historic lighthouse built in 1859. Don’t go looking for that lighthouse on the island, though. After being ravaged by hurricanes, the decision was made to move the structure somewhere safer, and it’s now a popular tourist stop onshore at Pascagoula’s Lighthouse Park. Round Island remains uninhabited but can be visited by private boat. The island’s shoreline is a beautifully pristine 65-acre preserve. An important nesting site for Osprey and Great Blue Herons and a resting place for migratory birds such as pelicans and cormorants, Round Island is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and birdwatching, the gorgeous islands of Mississippi promise summer-style vacation activities all year-round. Whatever you get up to, always remember the first rule of beachgoing — leave only your footprints behind. These incredible islands aren’t just an oasis for tourists, they’re important habitats for a diverse range of species from shorebirds to sea turtles. Aside from the natural residents, you won’t find any crowds on these tranquil beaches. Spend a day at the shore of your private paradise with a visit to the most beautiful islands in Mississippi.