Biloxi Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Biloxi is a city of resilience and revelry, perched on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico where the Mississippi Sound meets Southern hospitality. For decades, it has been known as the “Seafood Capital of the World,” but today it stands as a diverse resort destination that blends its maritime heritage with the glitz of world-class casino resorts. Whether you are watching shrimp boats haul in the day’s catch at dawn or placing a bet at a high-energy craps table at midnight, the city offers an energy that is both relaxing and electric.

The charm of Biloxi lies in its contrasts. You can spend your morning touring antebellum homes and ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and your afternoon lounging by a resort pool with a cocktail in hand. The culinary scene is equally varied, ranging from dive bars serving the best po’boys you’ve ever tasted to white-tablecloth establishments that have been serving French-Creole classics for over a century. It is a place where history washes up on the shore alongside modern entertainment.

The Seafood Heritage

While the casinos often steal the spotlight, the soul of Biloxi remains tied to the water. The city’s history is deeply intertwined with the shrimping and oyster industries that boomed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This heritage is visible everywhere, from the architecture of the shotgun houses in the Point Cadet neighborhood to the menus of every local restaurant. The cultural mix of Croatian, French, and Vietnamese families who built the seafood industry has created a unique local culture that you won’t find anywhere else in Mississippi.

Exploring this history is essential to understanding the city. The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum offers a fascinating look at the wooden schooners and factories that once lined the coast. For a more immersive experience, visitors can walk the docks at the Small Craft Harbor, where the descendents of the original fishermen still dock their boats today. It is this authentic connection to the Gulf that gives Biloxi its true flavor.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Biloxi Lighthouse - Standing 65 feet tall, this cast-iron structure is the city’s signature landmark. It is unique for being located in the middle of a major highway (Highway 90). Tours are available in the mornings (0.1 mi from Visitor Center, $5 admission).

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino - Dominating the skyline, this resort is an attraction in itself. Even non-gamblers should visit to walk through the massive indoor atrium, which features seasonal floral displays and high-end shopping (Located on Beach Blvd, free to enter).

Ship Island - Located 12 miles offshore, this barrier island offers the best swimming beaches in the region. The ferry ride takes about an hour and frequently encounters dolphins ($44 round-trip ferry ticket).

Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art - A stunning architectural campus designed by Frank Gehry, dedicated to George E. Ohr, the “Mad Potter of Biloxi.” The museum features ceramics, African American art, and local history exhibits (Located on Beach Blvd, $10 admission).

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Biloxi is straightforward, with the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT) located just 20 minutes west of the main hotel strip. If you are driving, the city is easily accessible via Interstate 10. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, renting a car is highly recommended. The attractions are spread out along miles of coastline, and having your own vehicle allows you to easily explore neighboring Ocean Springs or Gulfport.

When packing, prioritize light, breathable clothing, as the humidity can be intense from May through September. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the casino resorts and museum campuses. If you plan on visiting during the summer, bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray, especially if you intend to visit the barrier islands or take a nature walk in the marshlands.

Biloxi is a year-round destination, but the best experience depends on what you are looking for. Spring and Fall offer the most comfortable weather for outdoor exploration, while Summer brings the beach crowds and peak energy. Winter offers a quiet, affordable escape perfect for golfers and history buffs. No matter when you arrive, the warm Gulf breeze and Southern welcome remain constant.