Summer is only a few weeks away, which means it will soon be time to bask in the sun and rejuvenate your mind. Sunshine is abundant on the Gulf Coast, and from Mississippi to Florida there are plenty of opportunities for summer fun, both on and off the water. From shimmering destinations by the water in Hattiesburg to the white sand in Biloxi, your sun-kissed vacation awaits you. When your toes are not in the water, there are many options for indoor fun: historical tours, delicious restaurants, art exhibitions, museums, relaxing hotel rooms, and eclectic shopping. Travel resources will also help you get where you want to go, whether it’s a one-way trip on the freeway or looking for seashells on the Florida beach. Check out the following destinations and start planning your summer trips now.
Now is the perfect time to dream about your future road trip! When the time is right and you’re ready to jump in the car, you can make sure your road trip stays on the right track with the security that comes with 24/7 AAA roadside assistance. AAA has you covered in any car, SUV, or pickup truck, even if you’re not the driver. AAA offers members free towing, free tire changes, free locking assistance, free minor mechanical first aid, free jump start and free delivery of emergency fuel.
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Big Bay Lake is a unique planned community on one of the largest private recreational lakes in Mississippi. Big Bay Lake is just outside of Hattiesburg and just 90 minutes from New Orleans and blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Waterfront home sites are available for home construction and retreats starting at $ 70,000. There are usually several resale houses available for immediate purchase. Both the homes and homes in this community offer unique opportunities to create the perfect home or weekend getaway.
It’s time to relax, unplug at Big Bay Lake, make memories, and create new traditions. Whether you’re a boating, fishing enthusiast, or just a family who loves to make a splash, Big Bay Lake is all about the lure of the water. Come and enjoy sun-drenched, fun days at Big Bay Lake, where the little things come to life … “Big!” Call 877-4BIG-BAY or visit for a boat tour today BigBayLake.com.
This summer, go on an island adventure that doesn’t break the bank and is only about 70 minutes from New Orleans. Mississippi’s most beautiful beaches are on Ship Island, about 11 miles off the coast of the Gulf Coast cities of Gulfport and Biloxi. The undeveloped sand island can only be reached by boat. Ship Island Excursions operates daily passenger ferries from Gulfport and Biloxi.
Watch out for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins during a 60-minute cruise. Ship Island is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and offers visitors the first high-quality natural beaches for swimming and shelling east of New Orleans. Travel to a special place where the main attractions are long, calm beaches, beautiful green water, and clean golf air. Historic Fort Massachusetts (circa 1858) is also located on the nine-mile-long barrier island.
Catering service is available on the boats and on the island. Chair and umbrella rentals are also available. In the summer, the National Park Service offers a lifeguard beach and outings. The ferry service runs from March to October. visit MSShipIsland.com For info.
Take a stroll through time and enjoy a glimpse into the lives of fascinating people who called St. Joseph Plantation home. Learn about the priestly family and grandson, HH Richardson, who was born in St. Joseph and became one of the most important American architects of the 19th century. Discover the story of Valcour Aime, known as “Louis XIV of Louisiana”, and his two daughters Felicite and Josephine, to whom he gave the St. Joseph Plantation and the neighboring Felicity Plantation. Discover the stories of the slaves who lived here and the work they did.
The story of today’s St. Joseph’s Plantation family began in 1877 when Joseph Waguespack bought the plantation. Joseph’s descendants, the Waguespack and Simon families, allowed this sugar cane plantation to flourish for over 135 years and planted over 1,000 hectares on the plantation. Visit and learn about the sugar cane industry and its regional importance.
Plus, see where scenes from All The King’s Men, Skeleton Key, 12 Years Slave, Underground, Queen Sugar, the remake of Roots and four-time Oscar nominee Mudbound were filmed.
Vicksburg moments wait
When the time is right, Vicksburg will be ready to welcome visitors to experience American history, Mississippi music, and Mediterranean charm. Vicksburg’s historic attractions, including the Vicksburg National Military Park, offer visitors a chance to make their own historical memories while learning about our nation’s past. Check out one of our tour houses, walking tours or ghost tours for an unforgettable experience.
Downtown and the entertainment district are a must see in Vicksburg. Walk the cobbled streets and check out the many restaurants, museums, galleries, shops, and walking trails.
Entertainment is covered with games of rock, country and Mississippi Delta blues at one of our four casinos, the Family Arcade in Margaritaville, and live performances at venues across the city.
With views you cannot imagine, you cannot miss a Vicksburg sunset along the mighty Mississippi. Relax – in Vicksburg, Key to the South, everything runs at river time.
