Harrison County, MS · Gulf of Mexico
West Ship Island
Ferry departs Gulfport Yacht Harbor, 1040 23rd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501
A barrier island ~12 miles offshore in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, reached only by the seasonal Ship Island Excursions ferry out of Gulfport. Visitors land near Civil War-era Fort Massachusetts and walk a short boardwalk to a wide, clear-water Gulf beach with seasonal lifeguards.
Today's Conditions
Great day for a beach walk.
Calm
Safety
- UV 12 (extreme) — spf 50+ mandatory, limit mid-day exposure
Best for walking today
Atmosphere
Water
Sun & Moon
Tides
| Time | Type | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 8:01 AM | High | 2.2 ft |
| 7:49 PM | Low | -0.5 ft |
| Time | Type | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 9:07 AM | High | 2.3 ft |
| 8:36 PM | Low | -0.5 ft |
| Time | Type | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 10:04 AM | High | 2.2 ft |
| 9:22 PM | Low | -0.4 ft |
| Time | Type | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 10:54 AM | High | 2.1 ft |
| 9:59 PM | Low | -0.1 ft |
| Time | Type | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 11:38 AM | High | 1.9 ft |
| 10:03 PM | Low | 0.1 ft |
| Time | Type | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 12:15 PM | High | 1.6 ft |
| 9:46 PM | Low | 0.4 ft |
| Time | Type | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 12:45 PM | High | 1.3 ft |
| 9:26 PM | Low | 0.6 ft |
High/low predictions from NOAA station 8741533, refreshed on every build. Times shown local.
What to Bring Today
- critical SPF 50 sunscreen UV index 12 — very high
Always remember water bottle, trash bag (leave no trace).
Beach Info
Parking
Paid lot at the Gulfport Yacht Harbor ferry terminal (no parking on the island).
Dogs
No pets allowed on the ferry or the island; service animals only.
Entry Fee
Ferry fare ~$32 adult / $22 child (mid-March – October); no separate park entrance fee.
Address
Ferry departs Gulfport Yacht Harbor, 1040 23rd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501
Amenities
Frequently Asked
Is it safe to swim at West Ship Island today?
West Ship Island shows a live water-quality reading (bacteria levels) and today's swim-safety score at the top of this page, refreshed on every update. Seasonal lifeguards patrol the swim area in summer — follow their flags. Always review the current advisories, surf, and rip-current notes before getting in the water.
Is West Ship Island dog-friendly?
No pets allowed on the ferry or the island; service animals only.
Is there an entry fee at West Ship Island?
Ferry fare ~$32 adult / $22 child (mid-March – October); no separate park entrance fee.
Are there lifeguards at West Ship Island?
Yes. Seasonal lifeguards patrol West Ship Island during the summer swim season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). Outside that window, swim at your own risk.
What amenities are at West Ship Island?
Amenities at West Ship Island include lifeguards, restrooms, showers, snack bar, pavilions, chair rentals, historic fort, pier.
When is the water warmest at West Ship Island?
The Gulf of Mexico is bathwater-warm by mid-summer — 84-88°F is typical from July through September on the FL Gulf, TX coast, and AL/MS coast. Swimming comfortable from April through October on most of the Gulf.
Where is West Ship Island located?
West Ship Island is in Harrison County, MS, at Ferry departs Gulfport Yacht Harbor, 1040 23rd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501.
Nearby Beaches
Updated · Data from NOAA, NWS