Ship Island

 

Ship Island is a barrier island located about 12 miles off the coast of Mississippi. It is only accessible by boat and features a historic fort, swimming area, beautiful beaches, two pavilion areas, restrooms, and a concession store. Cell phone service is extremely limited on the island.

Passport stamps and guided programs are available at Fort Massachusetts. Download the National Park Service app for a self-guided tour of the fort.

Structures & Facilities

 

Fort Massachusetts

Learn about the purpose, construction, and features of the fort on Ship Island.

Ship Island Excursions

Passenger ferry service is available seasonally from mid-March through October.

Ship Island Swim Beach

Access to the Gulf, outdoor showers, a concession store, picnic area, and chairs available for rent.

 

Operating Hours

Ship Island restrooms are open March through October 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Fort Massachusetts is open Wednesday through Sunday October 10:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.

Ship Island buildings, structures, and Fort Massachusetts are closed from Nov. 1 to Feb. 28, with an extension to Feb. 29 in a Leap Year.

Directions

Ship Island Map

Ship Island is only accessible by boat. If traveling on your private vessel, consult navigational charts. Operating a vessel greater than 5 mph or creating a wake is prohibited within 500 feet of the Ship Island Pier.

A public ferry boat is available between March and October from Gulfport, Mississippi. The ferry departure pier is located at the Gulfport's Jones Park 1022 23rd Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39501.

 

Plan Your Trip

• Events with groups of 26 people or more must obtain a Special Use Permit issued by the National Seashore.
• Fires are permitted in portable gas grills in all areas except the designated swim beach.
• No glass or pets are allowed on the island except for service animals.
• Bring walking shoes, there is no public transportation on the island.
• Download the NPS mobile app for Fort Massachusetts self-guided tours and program times.
• Visitors are permitted to bring food. It is also available for purchase.
• Respect the wildlife and landscapes. Do not climb on dunes, or structures, or feed birds.
• Review rip current and safety tips before departure. Flags are located on the swim beach.
• Fishing is not allowed on the pier or swim beach. License required.
• Camping is currently not permitted on Ship Island.

 

Plan Your Visit

Ship Island Excursions

Passenger ferry service is available seasonally from mid-March through October.

Know Before You Go

Park Rules & Regulations

You are responsible to know the rules and regulations of the national seashore prior to your visit.

Be prepared for Your Trip

Park Safety

The national seashore can be a challenging location, plan ahead to be prepared for your trip.

 

Learn More

Second Louisiana Native Guard

The Second Louisiana Native Guard broke barriers and fought for freedom.

Beacon of Safety

Ship Island Lighthouses

Lighthouses provided a safe beacon for ships approaching Ship Island nearly 100 years.

a ship's legacy

USS Massachusetts

Learn about the ship who's legacy lives on at the national seashore.