Last Updated on October 30, 2023
Gulfport, FL is a small town in the Central West Florida region. It is a hidden gem in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metropolitan area.
It’s known for its Village Courtyard and other charming and picturesque attractions and activities.
Gulfport, FL is home to the annual Floridania Fest, an event for people who collect Florida memorabilia. The next Floridania Fest is on April 27, 2024.
It is also home to The Gabber Newspaper (formerly known as the Gulfport Gabber), Florida’s oldest independent weekly newspaper.
There are many different things to do in the quaint City of Gulfport, FL.
We’ve compiled a guide covering the best places to go and the top things to do, including where to eat, shop, and much more.
Things to Do in Gulfport, FL
Whether planning a day trip to the area or an extended trip to the Gulf Coast, this guide inspires ideas on how to spend your time.
Table of Contents
Gulfport History Museum
The Gulfport History Museum is a free-admission museum operated by the Gulfport Historical Society. The quaint space is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.
It’s the perfect place to learn about local history. There is also a gift shop with a bookstore that features books by Florida authors.
The museum serves as a gathering place for the community and hosts special events outside of its operating hours.
Gulfport History Museum Address: 5301 28th Ave S, Gulfport, FL 33707
For more Florida museums, check out the 32 Florida Museums in the Time Travelers Network – 2023.
Clam Bayou Nature Park
Clam Bayou Nature Park (formerly known as Osgood Point) is a Gulfport nature park with different natural environments.
From upland natural vegetation to marsh and mangrove forests to beautiful Boca Ciega Bay waters, nature lovers enjoy this 10-acre preserve.
It’s full of nature, hiking, boardwalk trails, and local wildlife. The park’s observation decks and docks provide great views of Clam Bayou and Boca Ciega Bay.
Those who want to explore the water can utilize the canoe and kayak launch. You may even see some sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees.
Clam Bayou Nature Park Address: 29th Ave S & Miriam St S, Gulfport, FL 33711
Beach Waterfront Complex
The Gulfport Beach Waterfront Complex is an open beach recreation area.
The area includes 6.8 acres of sandy beaches on Boca Ciega Bay, free parking, public restrooms, a playground, and more.
The complex has volleyball courts for those interested in playing beach volleyball.
This family-friendly spot is fun to spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and playing different sports and games.
The Beach Waterfront Complex is also home to the Bert and Walter Williams Pier.
Initially built in 1907 and restored in 2001, Williams Pier offers a 521-foot extension over Boca Ciega Bay, allowing fishing in deeper waters.
Beach Waterfront Complex Address: 5730 Shore Blvd South, Gulfport, FL 33707
If you want to explore other great beaches, check out the 7 Best Florida Beach Towns.
Gulfport FL Casino
The Gulfport Casino is a historic building built in 1934. The building is steps away from the beach.
This venue hosts dance classes, including ballroom instruction, swing dance, and Argentine tango. Monthly dances allow you to show off your knowledge with ballroom dances, singles dances, and more.
Live entertainment is common for dances. The casino is also a venue for special events – hosting trade shows, concerts, seminars, and more.
Gulfport Casino Address: 5500 Shore Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
Where to Eat in Gulfport, FL
Neptune Grill
Neptune Grill is a Mediterranean and Greek restaurant in Gulfport.
Located by the beach, this family-owned restaurant has a gorgeous view of Boca Ciega Bay and is a great local food option.
They serve lunch and dinner, have indoor and outdoor seating, and a full bar.
Popular dishes include Gyro, Spanakopita, and traditional Greek salad.
Neptune Grill also hosts live music events. Check out their website for their event schedule.
Neptune Grill Address: 5501 Shore Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
Pia’s Trattoria
Another great place and popular Gulfport dining option is Pia’s Trattoria.
It’s a delightful Italian restaurant serving simple, fresh dishes with an Old Italy atmosphere.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, with a menu that includes delicious appetizers, salads, and plates of pasta.
Pia’s Trattoria Address: 3054 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
Where to Shop in Gulfport, FL
Gulfport Beach Bazaar
Gulfport Beach Bazaar has been many things over the years. Currently, the bazaar has vendors that sell re-purposed furniture, vintage décor, antiques, and plenty of other kitschy things.
This is the perfect destination to shop for fun souvenirs to remember your trip to Gulfport.
T-shirts, bags, books, art, jewelry, greeting cards, sunglasses, and more are there.
Gulfport Beach Bazaar Address: 3115 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
Red Hot Tiki Spicy Gourmet Market
Red Hot Tiki Spicy Gourmet Market is a must-visit for anyone who loves spicy food.
This small woman-owned, veteran-owned business sells approximately 900 spicy products, including various condiments, seasonings, and snacks.
Red Hot Tiki Spicy Gourmet Market Address: 2904 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
Gulfport Nightlife
Low Tide Kava Bar
Low Tide Kava Bar is a unique spot to check out in Gulfport.
The bar serves up kava – a root of a pepper plant native to the South Pacific Islands.
Kava is used for celebrating long life and good health.
Low Tide offers a selection of drinks in addition to kava, like coffee and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Low Tide Kava Bar Address: 2902A Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
The North End Tap House
The North End Tap House is a popular area restaurant and bar in Gulfport.
The beer menu includes locally brewed beers on tap, with a variety to choose from.
For food, North End serves up sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
They host events, including live music from local musicians and open mic nights.
The North End Tap House Address: 2908 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
Looking for other fun things to do in the Central West Florida region? Check out:
- 10 Authentic Things to Do in St. Petersburg & St. Pete Beach
- Our Top 10 Authentic Things to Do in Tampa, Florida
- Step into History at Heritage Village
- A Getaway to Culturally Savvy St. Pete
- Celebrate M.O.M: Museum of Motherhood in St. Pete, FL
- Shell Key: Wait, Wait, We Found Another One!
- Historic La Segunda Bakery Opens Third Location