Gulf Islands National Seashore

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Gulf Islands National Seashore banner Fort Pickens.jpg

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a United States National Seashore|National Seashore along the Gulf of Mexico in the United States.

Gulf Islands National Seashore Halal Travel Guide

This 12-unit National Park protects barrier islands along the Gulf Coast of the states of Mississippi and Florida; islands in Alabama are not included, and are part of state parks instead. The two state units are about a two hour drive apart. Gulf Islands National Seashore offers historical exploration, camping, recreational options and some of the finest white sand beaches. Many areas are closed with storm damage - the list changes frequently, so check right before you plan to visit.

  • Park Headquarters +1 850-934-2600

History of Gulf Islands National Seashore

The Gulf Islands National Seashore includes many areas of historical interest. In Florida, Don Tristan de Luna founded the first attempt at a Spanish settlement in the mainland U.S. on Santa Rosa Island; this later became the city of Pensacola. Fort Pickens, Fort Barrancas, and the ruins of Fort McRee are all part of the National Seashore, and all were important during the Civil War. The Naval Live Oaks Reservation on the mainland is a relic of the perioid of wooden ships. This forest of curvy live oaks was purchased in 1828 by the U.S. government during the Adams administration, in order to ensure a continuous supply of the wood for the navy who preferred the hard, curved wood for ship hulls. In the 1970s and the U.S. government reasserted its right to the forest in court after Florida attempted to sell the land to private citizens. This led to the authorization of the Gulf Islands National Seashore on January 8, 1971, in order to protect the forest and all the government-owned islands nearby for future generations. The Mississippi islands were added to the park later, in 1978, in order to protect the pristine natural habitats from development.

How is the Landscape of Gulf Islands National Seashore

With the exception of the Naval Live Oaks Preservation in Florida and Davis Bayou in Mississippi, which are on the mainland and the Gulf Islands National Seashore is located on barrier islands. These islands are famous for their natural, bright white sand, which is composed of quartz and washes down from the Appalachian Mountains. Sand dunes form naturally near the coast, and further inland, scraggly pine tree forests make a living among the sandy soil.

Flora and fauna

Of the seven species of sea turtles, four nest at Gulf Islands National Seashore. Human development on the islands scared away many of the sea turtles, but conservation efforts have increased the number of nests in the park almost tenfold. There are twenty endangered species that live in the park. The most well-known is the Perdido Key beach mouse, a tiny mouse that lives in the sand dunes, and which was the cause of arguments and lawsuits between developers, residents, environmentalists, and the park service. Today and the lack of condominiums on Perdido Key can be attributed to the beach mouse.

The islands host a unique dune habitat; wind and waves blow sand into large piles, which are held in place by the root systems of beach grass and sea oats. Before this relationship between grass and dunes was understood and the plants were treated as a weed and were removed, leaving the dunes vulnerable to hurricanes. Hurricanes Erin and Opal in 1995 destroyed most of the dune habitat on the islands in Florida, but replanting efforts of sea oats and grass have slowly started to bring the dunes back. It's now illegal to remove plant life from the sand dunes.

How is the Climate in Gulf Islands National Seashore

The Seashore is sunny and warm most of the year. June through September are the most humid months and afternoon thunderstorms are common. The Seashore has been hit by numerous hurricanes throughout the years. Hurricane season is June through November.

Travel to Gulf Islands National Seashore

Gulf Islands National Seashore is in Florida and Mississippi and both neighborhoods are south of Interstate 10. In Mississippi use Exit 57 or 50 to US Highway 90 to Ocean Springs. In Florida use Exit 12 to I-110 or Exit 22 to the Garcon Point Bridge to US Highway 98.

Florida District

  • The Perdido Key Area is off Florida Route 292, southwest from Pensacola on Perdido Key; turn east on Johnson Beach Road.
  • Naval Live Oaks is on US 98 east of Gulf Breeze, Florida.
  • The Okaloosa Day Use Area is on US 98 east of Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
  • To reach Fort Barrancas and the Advanced Redoubt on board Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida, use the Blue Angel Parkway (Florida Route 173).
  • The Fort Pickens Area is west of Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island. The Fort Pickens Road extends all the way to the West end of the island for accessibility to the Fort, and to the re-built fishing pier. The speed limit varies from 15 mph in places (to protect endangered birds nesting by the roadside) to 35 mph.
  • The Santa Rosa Area is east of Pensacola Beach. The J. Earle Bowden Way (State Road 399) provides access. Opal Beach is in this area, and contains a lifeguarded beach, restrooms, a ranger station, and clusters of picnic pavilions on the Gulf side and the Sound side. Two pavilion clusters are available for rental.

Mississippi District

  • The Davis Bayou Area is on U.S. 90, east of downtown Ocean Springs, MS. Use Exit 50 or 57 south from I-10.
  • Islands. The islands are not accessible by automobile. Visitors to the Seashore's barrier islands can enjoy island camping on all the islands but West Ship Island. Other activities include beachcombing, birdwatching, swimming, and fishing. NPS list of boat operators.]
  • Horn Island, Petit Bois Island, and East Ship Island are open year-round to private boaters.
  • West Ship Island is open to private boaters from sunrise to sunset.
  • The two miles of the western tip of Cat Island are within the Seashore boundary and are open to private boaters.
  • A Pan Isles passenger ferry, Gulfport Yacht Harbor, ☎ +1-866-466-7386, . Takes visitors out to West Ship Island March through October.

Fees and permits

Entrance fees: Per Pedestrian/cyclist (7 days) $3; Per Vehicle (7 days) $8; GUIS Annual Pass $ 25.00. Fees also apply for camping. See Sleep section below.

{{USA national park passes

How to get around in Gulf Islands National Seashore

What to see in Gulf Islands National Seashore

  • Fort Pickens - Fort Pickens Road (closed to cars in 2006), western Santa Rosa Island ☎ +1 850-934-2600 Opening Hours: Daily 8AM Monday - sunset Built to defend Pensacola Bay in the 1830s. Self-guided tours open to hikers, bikers, and boaters. It saw heavy use in the Civil War and World War II.
  • Naval Live Oaks Center - ☎ +1 850-934-2600 - Off Highway 98, Gulf Breeze, FL. Daily 8:30AM to 4:30PM. An indoor hands-on exhibit on shipbuilding with Live Oak wood. Beaches and trails.
  • Fort Barrancas Area Visitor Center Taylor Road about a half mile east from the Museum of Naval Aviation ☎ +1 850-455-5167 Opening Hours: March–October at 9:30AM Monday - 4:45PM and November–February at 8:30AM Monday - 3:45PM This center shows a 15-minutes slide presentation on the history of Pensacola during the Civil War and has exhibits related to the fort. Bookstore, restrooms.
  • Fort Barrancas | Tours daily at 2PM. Constructed 1839-1844, it was one of four forts built to protect the Pensacola Navy Yard.
  • Bateria de San Antonio | Stands at the base of the barranca, or bluff, just below. It retains some of the Spanish ornamentation, and includes a rifle gallery and rear wall added by U. S. Army engineers. An underground passage connects the Water Battery to Fort Barrancas.
  • Advanced Redoubt | Opening Hours: Daily from November–February 8:30AM Monday - 3:45PM; March- October 9:30AM Monday - 4:45PM One hour tours Saturday 11AM. Reached by the half-mile "Trench Trail" from the visitor center. It was built from 1845 to 1870 to defend the northern side of the peninsula from land-based attack.
  • Fort Massachusetts | On West Ship Island twelve miles off the Mississippi coastline is reachable by boat or ferry from Gulfport, MS. Visitors must be prepared for sun and lack of water on the island. Bathrooms, a concession, and water are available on board the ferries. Visitors are required to pack out everything they bring to the island. A one-third mile trek is required to reach the Gulf beach on the island's south side. Large ice chests, wagons, bulky items, and glass containers are prohibited on the ferries. Ranger-guided tours are offered March–October.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Gulf Islands National Seashore

Take a Hiking Tour in Gulf Islands National Seashore

  • Naval Live Oaks has nine hiking trails including the Andrew Jackson Trail which, like numerous other trails in Northwest Florida, claims to be a trail that Andrew Jackson used during his military campaign here.
  • Florida Trail - Also runs between Santa Rosa Island and Big Cypress National Preserve.

Bicycling

  • Naval Live Oaks - A paved 2.5-mile section of the 40-mile bike loop that runs alongside US Highway 98.
  • Fort Pickens - The Fort Pickens Road, extends from the entrance gate to the West end of the island - a 14-mile round-trip. There is a well-marked bike trail on both sides of the road, extending about 4 miles in from the entrance of the park.
  • Perdido Key - A 5-mile route runs from the entrance gate to the end of the Perdido Key Road.
  • Davis Bayou Area - Mississippi's 15.5-mile round-trip Live Oaks Bicycle Route connects to the town of Ocean Springs at the Old Louisville and Nashville Train Depot. Green and white bike-route signs on the right side of the city streets mark the route. Maps are available at the Gulf Islands Visitor Contact Station and the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Gulf Islands National Seashore

Halal Restaurants

There is no food or drinks available inside park boundaries, so you'll need to find other options. In Florida, all parts of Gulf Islands National Seashore are near coastal beach communities, which will have restaurants, if you don't feel like bringing your own food. This option isn't available at the Alabama islands, which aren't accessible by car, so be sure to bring your own food, and lots of water!At all Gulf Islands parks, picnickers are welcome, but and glass containers are prohibited.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Gulf Islands National Seashore

Gulf Islands National Seashore - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Gulf Islands National Seashore, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Gulf Islands National Seashore. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Gulf Islands National Seashore and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Gulf Islands National Seashore. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Gulf Islands National Seashore. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Gulf Islands National Seashore: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Gulf Islands National Seashore: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Gulf Islands National Seashore, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Gulf Islands National Seashore, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Gulf Islands National Seashore, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Gulf Islands National Seashore and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Gulf Islands National Seashore, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Gulf Islands National Seashore, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Gulf Islands National Seashore without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Gulf Islands National Seashore is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Gulf Islands National Seashore.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Gulf Islands National Seashore is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Gulf Islands National Seashore, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Gulf Islands National Seashore Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Gulf Islands National Seashore

eHalal Group Gulf Islands National Seashore is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Gulf Islands National Seashore. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Gulf Islands National Seashore.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Gulf Islands National Seashore ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Gulf Islands National Seashore. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Gulf Islands National Seashore, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Gulf Islands National Seashore are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Lodging

There are no hotels inside the national park, but you can easily find rooms or condo rentals in nearby communities, at Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Gulf Breeze, and Perdido Key in Florida, and at Biloxi and Ocean Springs in Mississippi.

Muslim Friendly Camping Places in Gulf Islands National Seashore

Primitive camping is allowed at the east side of the Perdido Key park. Primitive campers must sign up at the visitors station at the front of the park, and must travel at least a half mile past the end of the park's paved road.

  • Naval Live Oaks Campground |
  • Fort Pickens Campground | Fort Pickens Road Campground loop "A" is open to hikers and bikers, $10 a night payable at the campground registration station. Potable water, cold showers, bathrooms, picnic table, cook grill and fire ring.
  • Davis Bayou Group Campground Ocean Springs, MS ☎ +1 228-875-3962 It is available to groups of 10 or more people, with a maximum limit of 40. $16

Stay Safe

  • Sharks are present in the Gulf of Mexico. Do not swim at dawn, dusk or night when sharks are active or feeding. Do not swim in murky waters. Beware of jellyfish and stingrays. If stung by a jellyfish apply vinegar and Meat tenderizer. Do not touch irritated skin or wash with fresh water. Shuffle feet lightly while wading to scare stingrays away.
  • It is not safe to climb on fortifications.
  • Beware of fire ants and be sure to bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months (May-Sept).

News & References Gulf Islands National Seashore


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To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates. Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates. Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.