Page 95 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2024

TOP: Buccaneer State Park in Waveland. ABOVE LEFT: Biloxi Schooner. ABOVE MIDDLE: Pascagoula Historic Bike Trail. ABOVE RIGHT: Explore the Shepard State Park in Gautier.
as scary as it seems, and once you’re at cruising altitude
it’s quite peaceful. Parasail Biloxi can hook you up, and they’ll even let you bring friends along with you so they can photograph your adventure.
If you want to stay dry, the Coast has a variety of biking trails, everything from cruises along the beach to mountain biking through the woods. One option is the Pascagoula Historic Bike Trail. It’s an 11.4-mile route with 15 different historic sites including the oldest standing building in Mississippi (built in 1750), Jimmy Buffet’s boyhood home, and the 1850 Longfellow house.
If you’re like me, you’re not much for long, hard hikes. Good news! The Coast is filled with hiking trails that aren’t overly challenging. What these hikes lack in difficulty, they make up for in experiencing the natural wonders and
wildlife the Coast offers. The Escatawpa Trail, Pirate’s Alley Loop at Buccaneer State Park, and The Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve all guide you through exquisite scenery and animal sighting opportunities.
Camping can also be a fun option with a nice fire and plenty of s’mores, although I’d probably save this one for a cooler time of year. A couple of options are Shepard State Park in Gautier or completely on the other side of the Coast in Waveland, Buccaneer State Park, with a lot of their sites offering views of the Gulf.
It’s clear that the Gulf Coast offers plenty of options for a memorable staycation – these are only a few ideas. So skip the travel stress and cost and explore the amazing activities right in your own backyard for a fun and unforgettable summer experience.
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