Everything you need to know about the City of Biloxi Mississippi you will find right here in this article. The best things to do, the best places to see, and even the best time to see and do them. Biloxi is a fantastic place, I know, I live and work in and around Biloxi. The best part of this article is that I am not from here so my perspective is of an outsider. Well, I have been here for several years so I am no longer an outsider but I can still be your tour guide.
The Q & format below provides answers to many of your questions:
Why is Biloxi called Biloxi?
A Native American tribe that lived in the area before Europeans arrived was called the Biloxi a Siouan-speaking Indian tribe.
How many casinos are in Biloxi?
Eight casinos are located in Biloxi. There are four additional casinos on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in neighboring cities.
- Golden Nugget Casino
- Harrah’s Gulf Coast Casino
- Palace Casino Resort
- Hard Rock Hotel Casino
- Beau Rivage Casino
- IP Casino
- Boomtown
- Treasure Bay
Does anyone win at Biloxi Casinos?
Lots of very big jackpots are announced regularly. The Mississippi Gaming Commission ensures that players get their fair share.
How do I get to Biloxi?
Drive East or West on I-10 from Louisiana or Alabama and exit at I 110, drive south when you cross Biloxi Bay, you are in Biloxi. Most casinos, restaurants, and hotels are located on U.S. 90.
How far is New Orleans from Biloxi?
About 1.5 hours using I10, drive West from New Orleans to I110 then South
How far is Biloxi from Memphis?
About five and one-half hours directly South on I-55 and US 49 to I10 then East to I110 then South
Where is the Biloxi located?
It’s located on the Gulf of Mexico on the south, Ocean Springs to the East, and Gulfport to the West.
Is there a Biloxi visitors center?
Yes, the City of Biloxi visitors center is located just across from the historic lighthouse on U.S. 90 (Beach Blvd) just about one block East of I110 and U.S. 90.
What’s a great time to visit Biloxi?
Any time of the year but Spring and Fall will have fewer visitors and lower prices for vacation rentals and rooms. The weather is warm during mid-Spring and early Fall. Little or no humidity during these periods. Biloxi is a great place to be at any time of year.
What is the average number of visitors to the Biloxi area?
Note: The following is only an estimate from the Mississippi Tourism Association. Do not use these numbers for projects that require accuracy. Any effort to count tourists is derived from multiple sources.
Average Number of Visitors to the Mississippi Gulf Coast by Month
| Month | Average Number of Visitors |
|---|---|
| January | 50,000 |
| February | 55,000 |
| March | 60,000 |
| April | 70,000 |
| May | 90,000 |
| June | 120,000 |
| July | 150,000 |
| August | 140,000 |
| September | 100,000 |
| October | 80,000 |
| November | 60,000 |
| December | 50,000 |
Where can I stay in Biloxi?
There are many choices from hotels to vacation rental properties. With the exception of major events, finding accommodation is simple. Book early for major events such as Cruzin the Coast and Concerts. Consider staying at vacation rental properties in nearby Gulfport as there are few in Biloxi. Vacation rentals provide entire houses or condos with parking and even yards with fire pits.
Are there beaches in Biloxi?
Yes, miles and miles of sandy white beaches that are frequently groomed. There is no charge to park at the beach or to use the beaches. All beaches are open 24/7 and you may bring adult beverages to the beach in other than glass containers.
One of the best beaches is located on Deer Island. Rent a kayak, canoe, or boat and visit the beautiful primitive island right in front of Biloxi Beach. Read our article about camping there for free.
Does Biloxi have a baseball team?
Yes, the Biloxi Shuckers minor league team. They play in MGM Park directly across from the Beau Rivage Casino.
Are there islands to see?
The barrier islands are part of the National Seashore. Take a boat to visit an old fort on Ship Island and stay the day. Deer Island is the closest a few yards from the Hard Rock Casino.
Can I go shrimping in Biloxi?
Yes, take the Biloxi Shrimping Trip. Visit the Seafood Industry Museum
What’s there to do in Biloxi Mississippi?
Fishing, art museums, historical homes, casinos, boating, sightseeing, swimming, great restaurants, bird watching, wildlife photography, visiting barrier islands going to events, and much more.
What time is it in Biloxi Mississippi?
Biloxi is in Central time and recognizes daylight saving time
What beach is in Biloxi Mississippi?
Biloxi is bordered by beaches the entire length of the city from the Biloxi Bay Bridge to the Gulfport City line. They are all open to the public.
Does Biloxi Mississippi have a beach?
Yes, miles of beach called Biloxi Beach, the perfect place for a picnic or a fire in a fire pit at night.
What is the best beach in Biloxi Mississippi?
Try the beach across from the mall. There are concessionaires who will rent beach toys and jet skis and there are fast food restaurants. Another good beach is one by the lighthouse and visitor center. All of the beaches are clean and offer free parking, it’s hard to identify the best. The main differences are fast food restaurants and activities.
Is there a beach in Biloxi Mississippi?
Yes, the entire length of the city.
What is the average temperature by month in Biloxi?
Average Temperature by Month for Biloxi, MS
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| January | 53 |
| February | 56 |
| March | 62 |
| April | 68 |
| May | 75 |
| June | 81 |
| July | 84 |
| August | 84 |
| September | 80 |
| October | 71 |
| November | 63 |
| December | 56 |
What county is Biloxi Mississippi?
Harrison county
How far is Gulfport Mississippi from Biloxi Mississippi?
They are neighboring cities, a few yards to a few miles
When is Spring Break in Biloxi Mississippi?
There is a period of about four weeks each year in March and April as Spring Break starts at different times for schools around the country.
Can you have alcohol on the beach?
Yes, on all Biloxi beaches. You are not permitted to have glass bottles.
What time zone is Biloxi Mississippi?
Central Time Zone
How far is Mobile Alabama from Biloxi Mississippi?
From downtown Mobile to downtown Biloxi the distance is about 62 miles by car.
Which airport is closest to Biloxi Mississippi?
The Gulfport/Biloxi International Airport is very close, just a few miles (GPT). The second closest and often the least expensive is New Orleans which is about 1 1/2 hours away.
Does Amtrak go to Biloxi Mississippi?
Not yet, it will start service soon. Amtrak will serve Biloxi from New Orleans and Mobile when it starts using the old train station. Service ran for decades before Hurricane Katrina.
Where can I ride my bike in Biloxi?
The best place to ride your bike is along the beach. Paved walkways can use used for bicycle riding.
What’s the weather like in Biloxi Mississippi?
The Mississippi Gulf Coast weather is mild. Warm most of the year, the hottest summer months can get to 90 degrees or more. Winters can get into the ’40s but usually are in the ’50s and ’60s. Spring and Fall weather is usually in the high 70’s and low 80’s
What airlines fly to Biloxi Mississippi?
United, American, Delta, Allegiant, and Sun Country Airlines all fly in and out of Biloxi
Are bars open in Biloxi Mississippi?
Yes, bars can be open 7 days per week if they choose. Restaurants can serve liquor also.
What should I see in Biloxi Mississippi?
The following are just a few things to see as part of your bucket list:
- Hurricane Katrina Memorial
- Mad Potter of Biloxi
- Betsy Ann Riverboat
- Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum
- Ohr-O’keefe Museum of Art
- Biloxi small craft harbor
- Jefferson Davis’s home and presidential library are on the National Register of Historic Places
- Coast of Biloxi
- Biloxi Lighthouse
- Old Biloxi Cemetery
How can I sightsee in Biloxi?
Take the Biloxi tour train to see the rich history of the area and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of things to see and do. The local history can be explored at the Biloxi Visitors Center. You will see why Biloxi is the playground of the South.
What is in the surrounding area of Biloxi?
Walter Anderson Museum of art in Ocean Springs, recreational fishing, beautiful houses along U.S. 90. Attend special events held along the Mississippi Gulf Coast such as Mardi Gras events in each city on the coast.
What are some foods I should eat?
Gumbo is at the top of the list followed by gulf shrimp, blackened, fried, or boiled. Redfish, flounder, and of course Mississippi Catfish. This is just a starter. There is a long list of fish species available in the Gulf of Mexico and inland waters. Try our oysters before you leave.
What is the Annual Mississippi Bill Fish Classic?
Billions of dollars worth of fishing boats participate in this annual event held in Biloxi adjacent to the Golden Nugget casino. The purse is usually more than one million dollars. The largest of a list of specific species of fish will qualify for a cash prize. Crews leave on a Thursday and arrive back on the weekend for weigh-in. Some categories are catch and release. The photo below shows just some of the activity. The event usually occurs the first week of June each year. Free admission.
What are some local restaurants to try?
Half Shell Oyster House, Mary Mahoneys, Snappers Seafood Restaurant, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, the White Pillars, and many, many more.
Is Biloxi Mississippi safe?
The Biloxi Police Department prides itself on keeping residents and guests safe. The department is well-staffed with the latest equipment. The Biloxi police cooperate with the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department, Mississippi State Police, and many other state and local policing agencies when they need assistance for an event.
Residents of Biloxi fund their police department. The number of officers is greater than 72% of all police departments. Funding is greater than 82% of all police departments. The majority of arrests are for lower-level crimes, the types that would prey on visitors. Many of those arrested and convicted are from outside of the area. Compare Biloxi to big metro areas where defunding of police has left their police departments short-staffed.
Where can I take my children in Biloxi Mississippi?
- Margaritaville Resort is open to the public with its amusement center and rides and water park.
- Big Play Entertainment Center. Ride the roller coaster just across from the beach.
- Finishline Performance Karting is great for older children and adults.
- The Beau Rivage Resort & Casino has arcades for kids.
- Multiple parks on the beach including Cadet Point with the water feature
- Swim in the Gulf at any of the beaches, rent water toys
Can I use the firepit at the beach in Biloxi?
Fire pits are available along Biloxi beaches where you can bring wood and create a fire, roast marshmallows and enjoy an evening.
Do Biloxi casinos charge parking fees?
No, all Biloxi casinos offer free parking usually in a parking structure or open parking lot adjacent to the casino property. Disabled persons can be dropped off at the door.
What is special about Biloxi?
This small coastal city is popular with visitors. Residents in many cases represent generations of people who have grown up, raised families, and retired in their favorite city. Biloxi is a community. People know each other. Even with the influx of people from other areas, they tend to adopt the local culture. This local culture is what is special about Biloxi.
You can live in a new house recently constructed or a centuries-old cottage that has been lovingly restored. Biloxi is about choices. In part what is not in Biloxi is also important. No riots, no burning buildings, no traffic, no crowds, and no high taxes.
Is there a Mardi Gras parade in Biloxi?
Yes, in fact the largest Mardi Gras parade is held in Biloxi each year in February. Tens of thousands of spectators arrive hours early to set up their chairs, ice chests and even tail gate parties along the parade route. Adult beverages are permitted. Check the calendar here: Mardi Gras Parade Schedule
Will I have to pay to park at the beach?
No, free parking is available at Biloxi beaches for up to 24 hours
What types of fish can I catch in Biloxi?
Fish Species Available at Biloxi, MS
- Redfish
- Speckled Trout
- Flounder
- Black Drum
- Cobia
- Spanish Mackerel
- King Mackerel
- Grouper
- Snapper
- Sheepshead
- Pompano
- Shark
- Tuna
What is the driving distance in miles to Biloxi Missississippi?
Driving Distance to Biloxi, MS
| City | Driving Distance (miles) |
|---|---|
| Jackson, MS | 182 |
| Memphis, TN | 383 |
| Houston, TX | 435 |
| Dallas, TX | 491 |
| Atlanta, GA | 426 |
| Chicago, IL | 934 |
| Little Rock, AK | 442 |
| Jacksonville, FL | 447 |
| Tampa, FL | 489 |
| Knoxville, TN | 538 |
| Louisville, KY | 676 |
| Indianapolis, IN | 803 |
What events are held each year in Biloxi?
Annual Events
- Mardi Gras (February/March)
- Crawfish Music Festival (April)
- Blessing of the Fleet (April)
- Mississippi Coast Coliseum Crawfish Festival (April)
- Gulf Coast Veterans Day Parade (November)
- Gulf Coast Winter Classics Horse Show (December – March)
- Gulf Coast Carnival Association’s Parade (February/March)
- Biloxi Seafood Festival (September)
- Biloxi Boat and RV Show (February)
- Scrapin’ the Coast Car Show (June)
- Smokin’ the Sound Poker Run and Powerboat Races (April)
- Biloxi Black Beach Weekend (April)
- Biloxi Shuckers Baseball Season (April – September)
- Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition (July)
- Mississippi Songwriters Festival (September)
- Cruisin’ the Coast Car Show (October)
- Biloxi First Fridays (monthly)
- Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Annual George Ohr Fest (November)
- Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra Concerts (various dates throughout the year)
- Annual Southern Gaming Summit (May)
What military base is located in Biloxi Mississippi?
Keesler Air Force Base is located in Biloxi. Keesler is one of the U.S. Air Force’s largest training bases that first opened in 1941 before the start of world war II.
How old is Biloxi Mississippi?
The first Europeans to arrive in Biloxi in 1699 from France eventually named Biloxi as the capital of all French possessions in what is now the United States. The city was incorporated later as a township in 1838. The City considers its roots going back to 1699.
Can you buy alcohol in a store on Sunday in Biloxi?
Liquor stores are closed on Sundays in Mississippi. The state sells liquor to all outlets and controls when and where it is sold. Beer can be sold on Sundays. Liquor can be purchased at restaurants every day.
What is the water temperature in Biloxi Mississippi?
Gulf of Mexico Water Temperature at Biloxi Beaches by Month
| Month | Water Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| January | 55 |
| February | 58 |
| March | 63 |
| April | 70 |
| May | 77 |
| June | 84 |
| July | 86 |
| August | 87 |
| September | 83 |
| October | 75 |
| November | 67 |
| December | 59 |
Does Spring Break pack the beaches in Biloxi?
No, at no time have all of the beaches in Biloxi been packed with visitors. Fourth of July is the busiest time on the beach and even then they are not all packed with people.
What is the population of Biloxi Mississippi 2023?
51,069 people live in Biloxi, Mississippi which is considered a small-medium sized city. It’s the 868 largest city in the United States.
What are cheap things to do in Biloxi MS?
- Lay on the beach after swimming
- Have a fire on the beach roast marshmallows
- Walk the Biloxi Board Walk, have a refreshing drink on the beach
- Attend one of the annual events at no cost including Cruzin the Coast, Mardi Gras
- Fish from free public piers, the license is cheap
- Visit museums, discounts for seniors, military, and children
- Drive along U.S. 90 to view beautiful large homes on estate-sized lots
- Walk through the visitor’s center and see the history
- Walk across the Biloxi bay bridge in the morning and get a Starbucks at Golden Nugget casino
- Visit the Biloxi lighthouse
- View the flower displays at the Beau Rivage
- Walk through the Biloxi cemetery
- Ride your bike along the beach
- Much, much more
How expensive is it to live in Biloxi?
Biloxi is 15% less expensive than the national average. Most things cost less in Biloxi than in other areas of the country. The difference becomes much greater when compared to large metro areas in other states.
Which beach is better Biloxi or Gulf Shores?
Biloxi is less expensive for food and accommodations than Gulf Shores. The beaches are white sand and less crowded in peak periods in Biloxi. Gulf Shores have waves that Biloxi lacks because of the barrier islands.
Where can I fish for free in Biloxi?
You can fish in Biloxi from any of the public docks, beaches, or from a boat. All of the public docks are free and parking is free also.
Is Visiting Biloxi Mississippi expensive?
The cost to visit Biloxi is lower than most other beach areas in Florida, Alabama, and the U.S. East Coast. This includes food and accommodation along with fuel.
Where can I learn more about Biloxi, Mississippi?
Here are three sources for more information about Biloxi Mississippi:
The City of Biloxi‘s official website
Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce
RetireCoast.com – Biloxi Mississippi is a great place to Live/Visit
