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National Seashore

Gulf Islands National Seashore

CautionFeb 20, 2026

Road workers on Park Road in Davis Bayou

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InformationFeb 20, 2026

Opal Beach Pavilion Restroom Operating Hours

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Park ClosureDec 22, 2025

Fort Pickens Campground Restroom E Loop Closure

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Ferry in the Pensacola Bay

A National Park Service ferry navigates the Pensacola Bay to Fort Pickens.

Photo: NPS/Doggrell

About

Millions of visitors are drawn to the Gulf of America for Gulf Islands National Seashore's emerald coast waters, magnificent white beaches, fertile marshes and historical landscapes. Come explore with us today!

Activities

BikingMountain BikingRoad BikingBoatingMotorized BoatingJet SkiingBoat TourCampingBackcountry CampingCanoe or Kayak CampingCar or Front Country CampingGroup CampingRV CampingFishing
Freshwater Fishing
Saltwater Fishing
Food
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Boat Tour
Hands-On
Citizen Science
Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horseback Riding
Hunting and Gathering
Hunting
Living History
Paddling
Canoeing
Kayaking
SCUBA Diving
Snorkeling
Swimming
Saltwater Swimming
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store
Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Directions

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a place of myriad riches - blue-green, sparkling waters, magnificent white beaches, and fertile coastal marshes. Its 13 areas include historic forts, shaded picnic areas, trails, and campgrounds. From Cat Island, Mississippi, it stretches eastward 160 miles tot he Okaloosa Area east of For Walton Beach, Florida.

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Weather

Weather along the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico can change quickly. During the winter temperatures range from 40-70 degrees fahrenheit, rain is less common than other seasons. Snow and freezing temperatures are not common. During the summer temperatures range from 70-100+ degrees fahrenheit. Rain is common during the summer with many thunderstorms. Hurricanes impact the area during the tropical storm season between June and November. Tornadoes can impact the area during the Spring and Fall.

News

National Park Service Plans Prescribed Burn for the Davis Bayou Area in Gulf Islands National Seashore
Feb 9, 2026

National Park Service Plans Prescribed Burn for the Davis Bayou Area in Gulf Islands National Seashore

Prescribed burn scheduled within the Davis Bayou Area sometime between Feb. 7 and 23.

Tourism to Gulf Islands National Seashore contributes 514M to local economies
Sep 29, 2025

Tourism to Gulf Islands National Seashore contributes 514M to local economies

A new FY24 National Park Service released demonstrating visitor impact to community.

Gulf Islands National Seashore will begin Fort Pickens Campground Restroom Remodel Sept 15
Sep 12, 2025

Gulf Islands National Seashore will begin Fort Pickens Campground Restroom Remodel Sept 15

The Fort Pickens Campground restrooms will be remodeled. Beginning

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Private Vehicle$25.00
Entrance - Motorcycle$20.00
Entrance - Per Person$15.00