Travel Photo Collection

Island beaches, sparkling waters, sleepy bayous, and historic forts are plentiful in Gulf Islands National Seashore, which is located in both Florida and Mississippi. Open year-round, the park offers camping, fishing, picnicking, boating, birding, swimming, and hiking—the famed Florida Trail goes through the Florida section. Parts of the seashore are reached by car, while the most spectacular sections are accessible only by boat. Water-taxi service is one option, though many people have their own boats for island hopping. November ends the hurricane season, and the temperatures are pleasant, if a little cool.