Located in the center of Mississippi’s 65-mile stretch of shoreline, Biloxi is a bustling city whose livelihood is tied directly to its vast waterfront. It has been known as a summer resort destination since the late 19th century thanks to its sandy beaches, sea breezes, and proximity to ports like New Orleans. During World War II, Biloxi became synonymous with its new Air Force base, Keesler Field, leading to a boom in economy and drawing residents from all over the world. But post-war, Biloxi regained its reputation as a sunny vacation spot, increasingly catering to tourists as the decades passed. Today, visitors flock to Biloxi to sample its incredible seafood restaurants, enjoy its casinos and entertainment districts, tour its stunning Frank Gehry-designed museum of art, and visit the historic Biloxi Lighthouse, one of the last surviving lighthouses on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT), 35 minutes west, is the second-largest airport in the state, serving major hubs throughout the Midwest and the South. Alternatively, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is about a 90-minute drive west, serving flights to the rest of the country. Within the city of Biloxi, Coast Transit Authority (CTA) operates buses connecting to Mississippi’s three coastal counties and regional towns including Gulfport, Ocean Springs, and Pass Christian. For local stops around town, catch the Beachcomber trolley or check out the Bike & Bus service. Several Casino Hopper buses service Biloxi’s two entertainment districts, and there are several taxi companies and multiple rideshare services.

Biloxi experiences a subtropical climate consisting of hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer, the city’s temperatures can reach the mid-90s Fahrenheit, which typically don’t drop much after sundown. Spring and fall temperatures average in the low 80s to upper 70s, though the occasional 90-degree day isn’t out of the question. Winter brings some relief: Temperatures in Biloxi average in the 60s during this time of year, with lows in the mid-40s. Rainfall is fairly consistent year-round. Biloxi gets six or seven inches of rain each month during summertime, and slightly less in the winter. If you’re planning to book one of Biloxi’s vacation rentals during the region’s tropical storm season — late summer to early fall — pay particularly close attention to local weather reports. Biloxi is a prime target for strong hurricanes.

Biloxi Beach

Though it was damaged by Hurricane Katrina, Biloxi Beach has been extensively repaired and is once again the star of the shoreline. Protected by a string of barrier islands, the water remains calm and is a perfect temperature for swimming, and the stretch of white-sand beach is family-friendly.

Ocean Springs

Just east of Biloxi across the Biloxi Bay Bridge, Ocean Springs is an historic coastal town whose charming main streets feature beautiful period Southern architecture. Known for its arts and festivals, as well as a small but thriving craft beer scene, Ocean Springs is easily navigable in an afternoon.

Pass Christian

About 40 minutes west of Biloxi lies Pass Christian, aka the Pass, a small port town with a lot of character. Grab lunch with a view of the harbor, then take a stroll through the historic district or enjoy a shaded picnic at War Memorial Park.