Glorious, glorious Gulfport
Gulfport is a small beach town with a big heart. Set in Pinellas County on the Gulf of Mexico, it borders buzzy St Petersburg and overlooks Boca Ciega Bay. This eclectic waterfront community is renowned for its vibrant art scene and boasts a wealth of independent shop and restaurants, and a packed calendar of music, food and arts events. Well-located Gulfport vacation rentals are usually in the heart of the action. Ride the free trolley through Gulfport's historic downtown, past pastel-colored art deco buildings and down to the palm-lined waterfront and Gulfport's famous quartz-white sandy beach.
Find history not mystery in Gulfport
While beaches are a large part of Gulfport's attraction, there's a little history here too. The Gulfport History Museum on 28th Avenue South is a quirky collection of historical artefacts from the Gulfport area. In the quaint clapboard house, visitors can see black-and-white images of Gulfport through the years, and you can even delve into the history of your Gulfport vacation rental. On the way out, pick up a shell ornament from the Square Mullet gift shop or a book about Florida. It's open most days, but check the Gulfport historical society website for opening hours.
Life's a beach in Gulfport
Florida's Gulf coast is not short of great beaches, but the sweeping views of Boca Ciega Bay makes Gulfport Beach one of the star attractions of the area. Gulfport vacation rentals are usually a short walk from the beach. Great for families, the snow-white sands and shallow turquoise waters are even suitable for tiny nippers. The shady beachfront pavilions, children's playground, and public restrooms and showers make for an easy day at the beach. As the sun sets over the bay, chuck some fresh shrimp on the barbecue, and hear someone, somewhere strumming a guitar.
Hello sunshine! Gulfport, a year-round sun destination
Gulfport has around 245 sunny days a year. Now that's a lot of sunscreen! In June, July and August, the temperatures can reach sizzling highs of 90F, but the cool breeze off the ocean makes it bearable. Book a Gulfport vacation rental with a pool and cool off in your own backyard. Like much of Florida, the Gulf coast is a year-round destination. It does get cooler in the winter, but lazer-blue skies and long sunny days means even in December the temperatures are pleasantly mild. Late fall or winter to see Gulfport at its quietest.
Wild at Heart - Gulfport's natural attraction
The Clam Bayou Nature Park is just south of 29th Avenue South on Miriam Street. Here you can explore Florida's native environments from upland natural vegetation and mangrove forests to the deep, clear waters of Boca Ciega Bay. You'll find indigenous fiddler crabs and clams, several varieties of wading birds, as well as dolphins and even manatees if you're lucky. There are several self-guided trails and observation decks in the 10-acre nature park, but to really be at one with nature book a canoeing and hiking tour.
Traveling to and around Gulfport
The nearest airport is in Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA), located 19 mi (30.6 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you can also fly into St. Petersburg-Clearwater Intl. Airport (PIE), which is 11 mi (17.6 km) away.