7 Things to Bring Back From Your Gulfport Vacation

Gulfport has gorgeous beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of activities. Searching for souvenirs is one of the most enjoyable activities for visitors. Everyone wants to bring something home that will remind them of the special places they visit. A lot of creative options exist in the Gulfport area, and these suggestions should inspire you to start your search.

1. A Special Sauce

Travelers may find comeback sauce in some of the other places they travel, but Mississippi is the birthplace of the delicious dipping sauce. Served with fried foods, it is a local favorite and many restaurants in the area offer custom versions. You can ask for a bottle of sauce to take home, if available, or hope the chef is willing to pass along their recipe.

2. A Local Brew

Craft breweries of all sizes have opened around the state and offer many unique brews. Some breweries have tasting rooms on-site, and others sell solely through bars and retailers. Sample a variety of local flavors to find what you love.

3. A Unique Selfie

The Friendship Oak stands 50-feet tall and has foliage that spreads to 156 feet. A lot has changed since the elderly tree was just a sapling in about 1487. Over the years the oak has stood as Columbus first arrived in the Americas, has outlasted hurricanes, and has survived the building of a platform within its branches for wedding ceremonies.

The live oak is one of the most photographed attractions on the Gulf Coast. Guests are welcome to stop by The University of Southern Mississippi-Gulf Coast Campus and see the tree and the 16,000 feet of shelter under its branches. Capture a selfie with the magnificent tree during your visit. 

4. A Few Peanuts

You can easily find peanuts anywhere in the United States. However, in Mississippi, the peanuts to buy are not the roasted pre-packaged ones sold in the grocery store. Bags of boiled peanuts appeal to the residents of this state. You can be even more adventurous and follow the custom of dropping a few into your bottle of coke. Look for the legumes at food carts and small shops.

5. A Different Pickle

Koolickles is another name for Kool-Aid pickles. The local treat is exactly what the name describes. Locals soak dill pickles in glasses of Kool-Aid until the color turns the same shade as the drink mix. The treat is sweet and sour and sold as singles in many local shops. Try a sample and take the recipe home to share with friends.

6. An Enviable Tan

The Gulf Coast has miles of stunning beaches and about 219 days of sunshine each year. Take advantage of this pleasant combination and soak in the rays. Gulfport is one of the most popular ocean-side resort areas in the country. In addition to the miles of coastline on the mainland, there are also barrier islands to explore.

7. Some Favorite Blues

Many blues music greats have come from or spent time in Mississippi. The musicians drawn to the Gulfport area influenced the local music scene as well as international music. The blues and jazz tradition in this part of Mississippi dates to the early 1900s and remains strong today. Find a club that highlights today's local talent and add some favorite tracks to your next playlist.

Gulfport offers something fun for every visitor. Look for the unique items that make it special, so you can remember the magic of Mississippi after you return home. During your vacation, learn more about southern hospitality with a stay at Bed, Breakfast and Beyond. We offer great food, comfortable rooms, and a warm atmosphere. Contact us today for a reservation.