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A fort with water on an island

Gulf Islands National Seashore

warningPark Closure5 warnings calendar_monthMar–May, Sep–Novbest time schedule3 daysplan for directions_car4 h 12from New Orleans child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$15entry
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Park Closure Battery 234 Loop Road Closure

The Battery 234 Loop Road and Battery Cooper within the GUIS, Fort Pickens Management Area will be closed to all for vehicle, bicyclists, and foot (pedestrian) traffic until further notice for safety purposes until the park can correct the leaning and structurally unstable histor Details open_in_new

Caution Road workers on Park Road in Davis Bayou

Phase II of the Davis Bayou Bicycle and Pedestrian Path is in process. Visitors may encounter minor traffic delays and flaggers on Eagle Point and Park Road. Details open_in_new

Caution Rip Current Status

Review rip current status prior to visiting the park. Details open_in_new

Information Accessing Fort Barrancas

Fort Barrancas is open 9 am–4 pm Wednesday through Sunday. To access Fort Barrancas, visitors will need to enter the Naval Air station Pensacola through the west gate. Details open_in_new

Information No Dogs on Beach

Dogs and pets are not allowed on any of the beaches in Gulf Islands National Seashore. Visit the pet rules page for information. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a protected area along the Gulf Coast, spanning parts of Florida and Mississippi. It features barrier islands known for their historical significance, recreational activities, and beautiful white sand beaches. Visitors often explore sites like Fort Pickens, which played a role in the Civil War and World War II, and enjoy hiking trails that showcase the region's natural beauty.

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The park is also a place for camping and outdoor activities, but many areas may be closed due to storm damage. It's advisable to check for updates before planning your visit, as conditions can change frequently.

In pictures

White sand and green water
White sand and green water

Things to do

Watch the Sunrise/Sunset at Gulf Islands
15-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Forts, beaches, bayous, and batteries provide amazing views of both sunrise and sunset over the Gulf of Mexico...

Paddling in Gulf Islands
1-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

Canoe, kayak, or paddleboard in the beautiful blue-green waters and calm bayous of Gulf Islands National Seash...

Visit the Gulf Islands Park Store
5-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Purchase souvenirs and more pages for your passport at this bookstore located within historic Fort Pickens.

Get Your Passport Stamped at Gulf Islands
5-15 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Collecting stamps, also known as cancellations, is a fun way to commemorate your visit to a new place. Learn w...

Ride your Bike at Gulf Islands
30-180 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Ride your bicycle for miles up and down the scenic coastal roads of Gulf Islands.

Florida National Scenic Trail
2-5 Days · Winter/Spring

This 36-mile contiguous section of the Florida National Scenic Trail is the southernmost portion of trail. Thi...

View the Night Sky at Gulf Islands
30-90 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Come explore the dark side of Gulf Islands National Seashore!

Birdwatching at Gulf Islands
30-120 Minutes

More than 280 species of birds have been sighted in Gulf Islands National Seashore, which is featured on Flori...

Go Waterfowl Hunting
1-4 Hours · Winter/Fall

Learn about how and where to hunt for waterfowl at Gulf Islands.

Go for a Hike at Gulf Islands
30-120 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Find trails in all sections of the park to explore.

Ride the Ferry
30-60 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Ride the to Pensacola Beach, Fort Pickens, or Ship Island.

Fishing at Gulf Islands
1-6 Hours · Winter/Spring

Fishing is a great way to enjoy the waters of Gulf Islands National Seashore. Anglers may enjoy casting from s...

Practical

At a glance

Established
1971
Open
Daily 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Price
Per Person $15, Motorcycle $20, Private Vehicle $25
Accessibility
wheelchair accessible
Address
1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Opening hours
Daily 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Phone
850-934-2600
Price
~$15
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Check for area closures due to storm damage before visiting.
No food or drinks are available inside the park; bring your own supplies.
Primitive camping requires registration at the visitor station.
Alcohol and glass containers are prohibited in picnic areas.

Photo: NPS/Bernstiel