This Affordable Beach City Is The South’s Most Underrated Spring Getaway

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Here at Travel Off Path, we’re proud to have the best of the latest travel trends. The truth is, 2026 is a game-changer as more and more travelers are scoping out the lesser-known instead of household names.

In this case, even as Florida continues on a record-setting tear, it’s not just Orlando and Miami anymore leading the way.

Conversely, neighboring states are plucking vacationers away as well, with Gulf Shores’ fairly new airport and Mississippi’s rise to stardom as a top 5 most visited state (yes, really!).

But where are people really going?

One such city might be confused for a gateway, but it’s really a getaway, as the only commercial airport along Mississippi’s gleaming white coastline, anchored by flashy Biloxi among up-and-coming, charming coastal towns.

To get here, you either have to fly into Gulfport (GPT) and hop aboard Amtrak’s new Mardi Gras route — and we’re here to tell you this isn’t just a springboard — it’s the destination.

The Gulf’s Most Convenient White-Sand Escape

Like crowds? That question always ends with a hard “no”.

That’s one of many reasons why Gulfport is so appealing.

With GPT (not AI) connecting numerous major U.S. airports and being a major stop for Amtrak, there’s no reason to keep Gulfport on the down low anymore (do kids still say down low?).

There are budget airlines like Breeze and Sun Country (now owned by Allegiant) and all the big dogs of the industry that fly here, likely whisking passengers to nearby Biloxi or even Mississippi’s newest waterfront resort in little-known Pass Christian.

Gulfport, though? It’s largely skipped over for neighboring beach towns, yet it offers virtually crowd-free beaches, impeccably fresh seafood eats, multiple casinos, and more city vibes with an underrated arts scene like Fishbone Alley.

Easy to reach and arguably more enjoyable since you can snag a seat at a slot machine or a barstool at a local-favorite seafood shack, you can put Siesta Key and Destin in the rear-view mirror and give Gulfport a chance with its own miles-long stretches of vibrant shores.

Gulfport Won’t Dent Your Bank Account

No matter your profession, Gulfport is a worthwhile vacation that can be budgeted for all income levels.

With low-cost airlines to get here, Amtrak’s $15-and-up fares, and affordability on arrival, this city is truly a gem in terms of value.

Wanna know what I am most jealous of as a Californian?

Both downtown parking and beach parking are entirely free!

Do you know how many quarters I’ve burned through?

But that’s only scratching the surface. No matter if you visit one of downtown’s numerous museums, dine at a hole-in-the-wall seafood restaurant like top-rated Shrimp Basket, or book a room under $100 at Gulfport’s posh Island View Casino Resort, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing vacationing is possible without sticker shock.

According to the expert team at Islands, they crunched numbers and found:

• Accommodations average $123 to $146
• Food costs 4.6% below the national average
• Transportation costs 7.7% below the national average

Additionally, Gulfport’s cost of living is significantly lower than the rest of the nation, just in case you love this city so much and become tempted to pack up a U-Haul and move here.

What Are Gulfport’s Beaches Like?

You know by now, Gulfport boasts beautiful white sand that makes your photos pop, but what about the water conditions?

That’s the lone negative mark for Mississippi’s sprawling coast.

There’s no beach here that rivals Florida’s Caribbean blue or emerald green waters, as they’re more tea-colored hues, yet still suitable for swims and sunny days to unwind in a lounger.

That said, many of Gulfport’s beaches still receive rave reviews. A beachgoer from last spring stated, “Absolutely gorgeous. This was my first time visiting Gulfport, and I’ll definitely be back. The beaches here are stunning, and the view is dreamy.”

While brackish waters aren’t exactly a selling point, there is one exception in March: Ship Island.

One of Gulfport’s most popular excursions carries travelers by ferry roughly 12 miles offshore to a barrier island operated by the National Park Service for even whiter sand, clear water, and historic tours of Fort Massachusetts.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.