Mississippi destinations dodged hurricanes Harvey and Irma, but another storm stalked its friendly shores.
“Hurricane Nate’s impact wasn’t as severe as anticipated, and we were extremely grateful for that,” says Kristen Parker, leisure group sales manager for Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast. “Our coastal communities saw a minimal amount of damage.”
However, area beaches and barrier islands were closed for debris removal and analysis, and a number of fishing piers, boardwalks and overlooks in national parks were temporarily closed for assessment and restoration. Parker hopes all will soon be reopened.
“Thanks to a high level of preparedness, the hard work of our public officials, and the dedication of our incredible hospitality employees, our destination rebounded quickly, and we did not experience a significant interruption in tourism to our area,” she says. “Mississippi Gulf Coast hotels, casinos, attractions and restaurants have resumed business as usual.”
Because of the temperate climate, groups enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, eco-tours, fishing and boating along Mississippi’s Gulf shores. Parker says that area sightseeing ships are back in action. “The Ship Island Excursions ferry has closed for the remainder of the season, but they are running dolphin-watching cruises every Saturday and Sunday. The Biloxi Schooner continues to offer walk-on sails and group charters, and the Biloxi Shrimping Trip is still welcoming passengers aboard their 70-minute Living Marine Adventure Cruise.”
Destinations along the Mississippi Gulf Coast appeal to a wide range of groups, as the area offers gaming options, student performance venues, kid-friendly attractions, museums, tours and branded hotels. “We’re always celebrating something on the coast, with lots of festivals and holiday events,” Parker says, adding that coastal communities also offer an easy drive to other popular destinations, such as New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama.
For more details, go to gulfcoast.org or email Kristen Parker.
Top photo: Biloxi Schooner
Photo by Alex North
