Developers have discovered most of this island chain that extends from Texas to Florida, but part of the coastline and some of the islands are protected by the Gulf Islands National Seashore, which measures 150 miles from West Ship Island in Mississippi to Santa Rosa Island in Florida. Ground cover on the islands ranges from white sand and sea oats to forests of hardwood and slash pine, and parts of both have been designated Wilderness. A section of Horn remains under private ownership, but the park service hopes to eventually claim the entire island. The surf fishing here is first-rate, definitely among the best in the Gulf, with plenty of pompano, ling cod, mackerel, and sea trout. No license is required for saltwater fishing.
Camping is permitted on the islands.
If you don't mind carrying in your gear, you can snorkel and watch a rich bird population that includes ospreys and other feathered fish eaters.