Long Beach, Mississippi: 10 Must‑Do Activities Near This Gulf Coast Gem

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Long Beach, Mississippi

If you’re looking for a laid-back Gulf Coast getaway, Long Beach, Mississippi in Harrison County is a sweet spot many travelers overlook. It’s quieter than nearby Biloxi and Gulfport, but you’re still close to great food, beaches, and coastal adventures. Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip, a family vacation, or just passing through on a Gulf Coast drive, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Long Beach, MS that show off the best of this friendly beach town and its neighbors.

1. Stroll the Peaceful Long Beach Harbor & Beachfront

One of the best things about Long Beach is how uncrowded it feels. The Long Beach Harbor and nearby shoreline offer that classic Mississippi Gulf Coast vibe, but without the big crowds you’ll see in some other spots. Take a slow walk along the harbor, watch the fishing boats, and enjoy the wide stretch of beach just across Highway 90. The sand is soft and white, and the waves are gentle, which makes it a nice place for:
  • Relaxing beach walks
  • Collecting shells
  • Sitting with a book and a cooler chair
  • Letting the kids play in the sand
If you like sunsets, this is your spot. The view across the Gulf in the evening is worth planning around.

2. Grab Coffee and Explore Downtown Long Beach

Long Beach has a small but charming downtown area a few blocks north of the beach. It feels like a true local town, not a tourist trap. You’ll find:
  • Cozy coffee shops and bakeries
  • Local restaurants with fresh seafood
  • Small boutiques and gift shops
  • Mural art and photo-worthy corners
Spend an hour or two just wandering. Grab a coffee, people-watch, and poke your head into any place that catches your eye. It’s a nice way to get a feel for everyday life on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

3. Walk the Campus of the University of Southern Mississippi – Gulf Park

Just up the road in Long Beach is the beautiful USM Gulf Park campus. Even if you’re not a student, it’s worth a visit. The campus sits right across from the beach and has big old live oak trees, historic buildings, and calm green spaces. Why go?
  • It’s a peaceful place for a walk or picnic.
  • The oak trees are great for photos.
  • It’s a different side of Long Beach most tourists don’t see.
If you like slow travel and seeing how locals live, a short walk around Gulf Park can be surprisingly relaxing.

4. Enjoy the Sand and Surf at Nearby Gulfport Beaches

Long Beach is close to plenty of other Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches, especially in Gulfport, just a few minutes east along Highway 90. If you want more options for beach access, Gulfport is an easy add-on. You can:
  • Lay out on long stretches of soft sand
  • Rent chairs or umbrellas in some areas
  • Fish from the shoreline
  • Take long walks with wide-open views
The drive between Long Beach and Gulfport runs right along the water, so even the ride itself feels like part of the coastal experience.

5. Visit the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport

If you’re traveling with kids (or if you’re just an animal lover), don’t miss the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS) in nearby Gulfport. This is a marine education and rescue center where you can learn about:
  • Dolphins and sea turtles
  • Marine conservation on the Gulf Coast
  • How injured animals are rescued and rehabilitated
Some programs include dolphin shows, touch pools, and guided tours. It’s both fun and educational, and it adds a nice balance to your beach time. Be sure to check hours and make reservations ahead—programs can fill up, especially during school breaks and summer.

6. Ride the Ferris Wheel and Play at Gulfport’s Attractions

Looking for more action near Long Beach? Head over to Gulfport for family-friendly attractions. Depending on the season, you may find:
  • Small amusement rides like Ferris wheels or carousels
  • Arcades and mini golf
  • Seasonal events and waterfront festivals
If you’re on a Gulf Coast road trip, Gulfport is where you’ll find more “busy” fun: lights, games, rides, and activities that keep kids smiling and adults entertained. Tip: Check local event calendars for Gulfport and Harrison County before your trip. There’s often a festival, car show, or live music event happening somewhere along the coast.

7. Take a Day Trip to Ship Island from Gulfport

One of the best adventures near Long Beach is a boat trip to Ship Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Ferries typically leave from the Gulfport harbor, about a short drive from Long Beach. On Ship Island, you can:
  • Relax on clear, uncrowded beaches
  • Swim in beautiful Gulf waters
  • Explore historic Fort Massachusetts
  • Look for dolphins on the ferry ride
The water around Ship Island is often clearer than along the mainland, and the whole trip feels like a mini escape. Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and a hat—the sun is strong and shade is limited.

8. Explore Casinos, Dining, and Nightlife in Biloxi

If you’re based in Long Beach, you’re only a short drive from Biloxi, one of the most popular spots on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Even if you don’t gamble, the Biloxi casinos and nearby beachfront have:
  • Great restaurants and buffets
  • Live music and shows
  • Bars and lounges with Gulf views
  • Spas and shops inside the resorts
You can enjoy the quiet small-town feel of Long Beach by day, then head to Biloxi in the evening for lights, entertainment, and a little more energy. It’s the best of both worlds in a single trip.

9. Visit Local Parks and Piers Around Harrison County

Beyond the beach, Harrison County has several parks and piers that are easy to reach from Long Beach. These spots are great for stretching your legs, enjoying some green space, or letting the kids run around. Depending on where you go, you might find:
  • Playgrounds
  • Picnic tables and grills
  • Fishing piers
  • Walking paths under big shade trees
If you like simple, low-cost activities, pack a cooler, some sandwiches, and maybe a frisbee or football. A relaxed picnic under the pines or oaks can be just as memorable as any big attraction.

10. Eat Your Way Through Gulf Coast Seafood Spots

You can’t visit Long Beach, Mississippi and skip the seafood. Being so close to the Gulf means plenty of fresh shrimp, oysters, crab, and fish on local menus. In and around Long Beach, Gulfport, and Biloxi, look for:
  • Local seafood shacks and cafes
  • Po’boy sandwiches stuffed with fried shrimp or oysters
  • Gumbo, étouffée, and other coastal favorites
  • Laid-back spots with outdoor seating and water views
If you’re not into seafood, don’t worry—there are burger joints, pizza spots, and Southern comfort food restaurants too. But if you’re even a little curious, this is a great place to try something new from the Gulf.

Planning Your Visit to Long Beach, Mississippi

Long Beach is a great home base if you want a mix of quiet beach town and easy access to attractions. Here’s why it works so well:
  • It’s calmer and less crowded than some bigger Gulf Coast cities.
  • Gulfport and Biloxi are only a short drive away.
  • You get a true small-town Mississippi Gulf Coast feel.
Whether you love walking the beach at sunset, checking out local shops and cafes, or taking day trips to places like Ship Island and Biloxi, Long Beach offers a nice balance of relaxation and adventure.

What Would You Add to This Long Beach, MS Bucket List?

Have you spent time in Long Beach, Mississippi or elsewhere on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
  • Did you find a favorite coffee shop or seafood spot?
  • Do you have a go-to beach access point or pier?
  • Any hidden-gem things to do near Long Beach that visitors should know about?
Share your tips, stories, and favorite places in the comments! Your experience might help someone else plan their own Gulf Coast getaway. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are thinking about a trip to the Mississippi Gulf Coast—or anyone who loves discovering quieter beach towns with plenty of charm.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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