Looking for coastal charm, maritime history, and natural beauty? Head to Pascagoula! Situated along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, Pascagoula offers a relaxed waterfront atmosphere, rich shipbuilding heritage, and easy access to nature preserves and beaches. Whether you're kayaking in the bayou, touring historic homes, or birdwatching in the marshes, Pascagoula is an ideal destination for a peaceful and educational Gulf Coast getaway.
Pascagoula, MS Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Visit the Round Island Lighthouse – Originally built in 1859 and moved to shore, this lighthouse is a symbol of Pascagoula’s maritime roots.
- For Nature Lovers: Explore Pascagoula River Audubon Center – Walk boardwalks through swamp habitats, kayak the river, and spot native wildlife.
- For Music Fans: Tour the Jimmy Buffett Childhood Home – Pay homage to the “Margaritaville” singer who grew up in Pascagoula.
- For Families: Enjoy Beach Park – A waterfront park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and views of the Gulf of Mexico.
- For Birdwatchers: Visit Shepard State Park – Hiking trails, disc golf, and abundant birdlife make this a great day-trip destination.
When I like to visit Pascagoula, MS
The best time to visit Pascagoula is in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when temperatures are warm and comfortable. Summer offers beach and boating fun, while winter is mild and ideal for birdwatching and nature walks.
Tips for getting to Pascagoula, MS
- By Car: Pascagoula is located along U.S. Highway 90 and I-10, about 40 minutes from Biloxi and 1.5 hours from Mobile, AL.
- By Plane: The nearest airport is Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT), about 45–50 minutes away.
- By Train: Amtrak's future Gulf Coast line is expected to stop in Pascagoula once resumed; check for updates.
Where I like to stay in Pascagoula, MS
- Recommended for Families: Hilton Garden Inn Pascagoula – Comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and proximity to downtown and the riverfront.
- For Budget Travelers: Super 8 by Wyndham Pascagoula – Affordable lodging with convenient access to highways and local attractions.
- For a Local Experience: Airbnbs near Beach Boulevard – Choose charming coastal cottages or modern condos with water views.
Best Things to Do in Pascagoula, MS
1. Round Island Lighthouse
Somewhat unusually, the historic Round Island Lighthouse can be found in the middle of a Pascagoula park, where it has been faithfully reconstructed using many of its original building materials. The lighthouse provided an essential beacon of light from Round Island, in the Mississippi Sound, for 150 years before it was topped by Hurricane Georges in 1998. Reconstruction work commenced to restore the lighthouse in its original location but nature struck again in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina once again destroyed the lighthouse. It was then decided to move all the remnants of the lighthouse to its current, more protected, location where it was again rebuilt. Tours are offered on weekends.
Round Island Lighthouse, Laurel Avenue, Pascagoula, MS 39567
2. Petit Bois Island
Forming part of the protected Gulf Islands National Seashore, Petit Bois an idyllic little barrier island off the Mississippi Gulf Coast, south of Pascagoula. The sickle-shaped island is about 10 miles long and is only accessible by private boat, which means that it remains pristine and is usually un-crowded. If you can find a charter to take you there, you can spend a wonderful few hours soaking up the sun, fishing, bird-watching and relaxing. Dolphins regularly frequent the waters at the east end of the island. You can bring along a picnic and enjoy an idyllic Robinson Crusoe experience, surrounded by the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Petit Bois Island, Mississippi Gulf Coast, Pascagoula, MS 39567
Where to Eat:
3. Bozo’s Too
Bozo’s is a third-generation family business which has been a local landmark restaurant and seafood grocer for over 60 years. Ranked in Top 20 Seafood Dives in America, Bozo’s continues to draw seafood fans from all over Mississippi and beyond. If you are in the area you simply have to visit Bozo’s Too for a delectable seafood treat. You can grab a feast from the Deli section or sit down in the restaurant. Top sellers include their Po-Boys – choose from shrimp, fish, oyster, roast beef or rib eye steak fillings. Other favorites include steamed crabs, shrimp and fish served with hush-puppies, coleslaw and baked beans and, of course, their legendary gumbo.
Bozo’s Too, 2012 Ingalls Avenue, Pascagoula, MS 39567, Phone: 228-762-3322
More Places to Eat in Pascagoula, MS
- For Southern Flavors: Edd’s Drive-In – A retro burger joint with chili cheese dogs, milkshakes, and plenty of local character.
- For a Casual Meal: Scranton’s Restaurant & Catering – Located in a historic firehouse with a menu full of Southern comfort food and seafood favorites.
My favorite local events:
- For Music & Food: Sounds by the Sea (Summer) – A free concert series in Beach Park with live music and local food vendors.
- For Seafood Fans: Zonta Club’s Shrimp Boil (Fall) – A tasty local tradition featuring Gulf shrimp, sides, and community gathering.
- For Holiday Cheer: Pascagoula Christmas Parade (December) – Celebrate with lights, floats, music, and family-friendly festivities downtown.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Pascagoula, MS:
- For Coastal Fun: Biloxi (40–45 min) – Enjoy casinos, sandy beaches, the Biloxi Lighthouse, and the popular Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum.
- For Nature Lovers: Gulf Islands National Seashore (Ocean Springs) (30 min) – Kayak, birdwatch, or explore the Davis Bayou area and visitor center.
- For Art & Culture: Ocean Springs (30–35 min) – Visit the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and stroll the artsy downtown district.
- For Maritime History: USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park (Mobile, AL) (1 hour) – Tour a WWII battleship, submarine, and aircraft exhibits on Mobile Bay.
- For Small-Town Charm: Moss Point (10–15 min) – Walk the nature trails of Riverfront Park and browse local markets.
Plan Your Trip