Long Beach, MS

Long Beach, Mississippi, is a city located in Harrison County on the Gulf Coast. Its history dates back to the early 18th century when it was originally settled by the indigenous Biloxi and Pascagoula tribes. The area was later explored by French colonists in the 1690s, and eventually came under Spanish rule in the second half of the 18th century.

In the early 19th century, Long Beach became a popular destination for wealthy plantation owners from surrounding states who built summer homes along the coast. The area was known for its scenic beauty, pristine beaches, and mild climate. Many of these affluent visitors were attracted to the area's tranquility and the therapeutic benefits of the sea and saltwater.

In 1881, Long Beach officially became an incorporated town, and the population began to grow. The arrival of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in 1884 further bolstered the city's development, allowing easier access for tourists and goods.

Over the years, Long Beach suffered setbacks and endured natural disasters. In 1906, a major hurricane destroyed many of the town's buildings and caused significant damage. However, the community quickly recovered and rebuilt.

Long Beach experienced further growth and development in the mid-20th century. The construction of Highway 90, which stretches along the Gulf Coast, helped improve accessibility to the city, attracting more visitors and residents. The city became known for its vibrant tourism industry, with numerous motels, restaurants, and attractions.

In 1969, Long Beach faced yet another challenge when Hurricane Camille, one of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history, struck the Gulf Coast. The storm caused extensive damage to the city, including many of the beachfront structures. However, Long Beach once again demonstrated resilience and rebuilt itself.

In recent years, Long Beach has undergone revitalization efforts to enhance its appeal as a residential and tourist destination. The city has invested in modernizing infrastructure, improving public spaces, and creating a more vibrant downtown area. Today, Long Beach is cherished for its beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation opportunities, and quaint small-town charm while still being conveniently located near larger cities like Gulfport and Biloxi.

Overall, Long Beach, Mississippi, has a rich history of both triumphs and challenges, with an enduring spirit of resilience. The city continues to evolve while preserving its unique coastal heritage.

Long Beach Harbor

A beautiful harbor offering boat rentals, fishing charters, and waterfront dining options.

Prime Outlets at Gulfport

A nearby shopping destination with a wide range of designer and brand-name outlet stores.

Friendship Oak

A famous 500-year-old live oak tree located on the University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park campus.

Gulf Islands Water Park

A family-friendly water park featuring water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.

Ship Island Excursions

Ferry rides to the nearby Ship Island, known for its white sand beaches and historic Fort Massachusetts.

Buccaneer State Park

A coastal park with camping facilities, trails, a water park, and a picturesque beachfront.

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies

A research and education facility dedicated to the conservation and study of marine animals.

Long Beach Historic District

A walkable historic area with charming storefronts, restaurants, and galleries.

Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum

A museum showcasing an extensive collection of model trains and railroad memorabilia.

DeSoto National Forest

Located just north of Long Beach, this forest offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring nature trails.

The climate of Long Beach, Mississippi is classified as a humid subtropical climate. This means that it experiences hot, humid summers and mild, relatively wet winters.

Summers in Long Beach are typically long, hot, and humid. Average temperatures in July and August, the hottest months, range from the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 29-32 degrees Celsius). The area also experiences high levels of humidity during this time, which can make it feel hotter than the actual temperature. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer months, and tropical storms or hurricanes occasionally affect the area.

Winters in Long Beach are usually mild with cool temperatures. Average temperatures in December and January range from the low to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 15-18 degrees Celsius). While snowfall is extremely rare in this area, frost can occur on some winter mornings. Overall, the winter season is relatively wet, with occasional rainfall.

Spring and autumn in Long Beach bring pleasant temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Average temperatures during these transitional seasons range from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 18-27 degrees Celsius). These seasons see less rainfall compared to summer and winter, with generally mild and comfortable weather conditions.

It's worth noting that Long Beach, Mississippi is located along the Gulf of Mexico, which can influence its climate. The proximity to the warm waters of the Gulf can lead to higher humidity levels and the increased likelihood of tropical storms and hurricanes during hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November.

Long Beach, Mississippi is a coastal city located in Harrison County. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant community. Here are some of the neighborhoods that make up Long Beach:

Downtown Long Beach

This is the heart of the city, offering a mix of commercial and residential areas. The downtown area has a charming small-town atmosphere with local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It is also home to many historic buildings and landmarks.

The Peninsula

Located in the southernmost part of Long Beach, the Peninsula is a narrow strip of land surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and the Bay of St. Louis. It offers stunning beachfront properties and waterfront views. The Peninsula is a popular area for fishing, boating, and enjoying outdoor activities.

Oak Gardens

Situated in the northern part of Long Beach, Oak Gardens is a residential neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and spacious homes. It is a family-friendly community with excellent schools and parks. Oak Gardens provides a suburban lifestyle while still being within proximity to the city's amenities.

West Long Beach

This neighborhood stretches along the western portion of Long Beach and is mostly residential. It is characterized by a mix of historic homes and newer subdivisions. West Long Beach offers a quiet suburban setting with easy access to schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.

Long Beach Estates

Located near the University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park campus, the Long Beach Estates neighborhood offers a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It is a diverse community with a variety of housing options, making it an attractive area for students, young professionals, and families.

East Long Beach

This neighborhood is situated in the eastern part of the city, close to Gulfport. It is primarily residential, featuring a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. East Long Beach offers easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options in Gulfport while still enjoying the benefits of a quieter residential area.

Overall, Long Beach, MS, offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Whether you're looking for beachfront property, suburban living, or a small-town atmosphere, Long Beach has something to offer.