Long Beach, MS
Long Beach is a friendly, walkable city on the Mississippi Gulf Coast known for its beautiful beaches, historic Friendship Oak, and fresh local seafood.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Long Beach, Mississippi
- Administrative Role: Long Beach is a city within Harrison County, Mississippi, United States. It is a principal city of the Gulfport–Biloxi–Pascagoula Metropolitan Statistical Area .
- Region: Located in the state of Mississippi, the city sits on the Gulf of Mexico in a region known as the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This area is famous for its sandy beaches, casinos, seafood industry, and as a historic vacation destination in the American South .
Historical Names and Nicknames
Long Beach is officially nicknamed "The Friendly City," a reflection of its welcoming community and small-town atmosphere . Informally, it is recognized as a key part of the Mississippi Gulf Coast's "bedroom community" network, offering a quiet, residential alternative to the neighboring resort cities of Gulfport and Biloxi .
Date of Foundation and Age
The area was first developed as an agricultural town, but Long Beach was officially incorporated as a municipality on August 10, 1905 . This makes the city 120 years old as of 2025. Its early identity was so tied to farming that it was once proclaimed the "Radish Capital of the World" .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 30°21′9″N 89°9′35″W / 30.35250°N 89.15972°W .
- Setting: Long Beach is situated on the shore of the Mississippi Sound, a lagoon-like body of water that is part of the Gulf of Mexico. It lies on a coastal plain, characterized by low elevation and sandy soil.
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 8 meters (26 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Originally a truck-farming community specializing in radishes, Long Beach's economy has shifted to a mix of residential and tourism-based services . Today, it functions primarily as a:
- Residential/Commuter Town: Many residents work in the larger neighboring cities of Gulfport and Biloxi.
- Tourist Destination: It attracts visitors with its quiet beaches, parks, and local dining scene, acting as a more relaxed coastal alternative to its neighbors .
- Educational Hub: The city is home to the Gulf Park campus of the University of Southern Mississippi, a significant local institution and employer .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the city had a population of 16,780 .
- City Classification: Long Beach is a small city. Its population is significantly smaller than the major cities in the region, offering a small-town feel while being part of a larger metropolitan area.
- Demographic Note: The community is tightly knit and has shown remarkable resilience, particularly in its recovery from the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 .
The City's "Visiting Card" (In Brief)
Long Beach is the Mississippi Gulf Coast's "Friendly City," offering a laid-back escape with stunning waterfront views, a charming downtown, and the legendary 500-year-old Friendship Oak. Here, you can enjoy fresh Gulf seafood and tranquil beaches, with the world-class casinos and entertainment of Biloxi just a short drive away .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Long Beach has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, very hot, and oppressive summers and short, mild winters . The area receives abundant rainfall throughout the year and is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes, most notably during the late summer and fall .
Average Monthly Temperatures
The city experiences a wide range of temperatures between seasons .
- Hottest Months: July and August, with average daily highs of 32°C (90°F) and average lows of 26°C (79°F) .
- Coldest Month: January, with average daily highs of 16°C (61°F) and average lows of 8°C (46°F) .
- Annual Average: The mean average temperature over the entire year is 21°C (70°F) .
| Month | Avg. High (°C/°F) | Avg. Low (°C/°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 16 / 61 | 8 / 46 |
| February | 18 / 64 | 10 / 50 |
| March | 21 / 70 | 13 / 55 |
| April | 24 / 75 | 17 / 63 |
| May | 28 / 82 | 21 / 70 |
| June | 32 / 90 | 24 / 75 |
| July | 32 / 90 | 26 / 79 |
| August | 32 / 90 | 26 / 79 |
| September | 31 / 88 | 23 / 73 |
| October | 27 / 81 | 18 / 64 |
| November | 21 / 70 | 13 / 55 |
| December | 18 / 64 | 10 / 50 |
*Source: *
Precipitation and Humidity
- Annual Rainfall: Long Beach receives significant precipitation, averaging about 1283 mm (50.5 inches) per year .
- Wettest Month: August is the wettest month, with an average of 186.6 mm (7.3 inches) of rain .
- Driest Month: October is the driest, with an average of only 59 mm (2.3 inches) of rain .
- Humidity: Humidity levels are very high during the summer months, making the heat feel even more intense. The city experiences oppressive, muggy conditions from April through October, with July having an average of 30.5 muggy days .
Best Time for Visiting
The best times to visit Long Beach for pleasant weather are during the spring and fall "shoulder seasons" .
- Spring (April to May): Temperatures are warm but not yet scorching, and the humidity is lower. This is an ideal time for beach walks and exploring outdoor attractions.
- Fall (October to November): This period offers the most comfortable climate, with cooler, drier air and plenty of sunshine. It is perfect for outdoor activities and avoiding the summer crowds .
- Summer (June to September): While the weather is hot and humid, this is the peak season for beachgoers and those who enjoy water sports. Be prepared for frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the possibility of tropical storms .
Landmarks
The Friendship Oak
Perhaps the most beloved symbol of Long Beach is the Friendship Oak, a majestic Southern live oak tree located on the front lawn of the University of Southern Mississippi's Gulf Park campus . Estimated to be over 500 years old, its immense, sprawling branches create a canopy of shade that has sheltered countless students and visitors. Local legend holds that those who enter its shadow will remain friends for life . The tree survived the devastating force of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, standing as a powerful testament to the endurance of both nature and the local community .
Long Beach Beaches and Harbor
The city's main natural attraction is its stretch of coastline along the Mississippi Sound. The beaches here are part of the longest man-made beach in the U.S., offering soft, white sand perfect for relaxation and picturesque views of the sound . The Long Beach Harbor adds a charming, functional element to the waterfront, providing a view of local fishing boats and serving as a gateway for fishing charters. The Harbor View Café, located nearby, allows visitors to enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the water .
Downtown Long Beach
The quaint, walkable downtown area, centered along Jeff Davis Avenue, is lined with a mix of historic and modern buildings that house cute stores, local restaurants, and welcoming parks. It's a hub of community life, hosting events like the annual Cruisin' the Coast festival—a massive block party where vintage cars line the streets, accompanied by live music and food, all just steps from the beach .
The Katrina Research Center
For a deeper understanding of the city's recent history, the Katrina Research Center, also located at the University of Southern Mississippi, serves as a sobering and educational archive . It holds a vast compilation of research materials, including books, photographs, videos, and personal accounts related to Hurricane Katrina, documenting the storm's impact on the Gulf Coast and the region's ongoing recovery .
Transport
Nearest Airports
Long Beach does not have its own commercial airport. The primary air gateway to the region is:
- Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT): Located just east in the city of Gulfport, this is the closest airport for commercial flights, situated approximately 15-20 minutes from Long Beach. It offers connections to major hubs in the southern U.S.
For a wider range of international and domestic flights, travelers can use:
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Located about 70 miles west of Long Beach, this major airport provides significantly more flight options and can be reached in roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes by car via Interstate 10.
Major Highways
The primary road artery serving Long Beach is U.S. Route 90, which runs along the coast and connects the city directly to Pass Christian to the west and Gulfport and Biloxi to the east. For longer-distance travel, Interstate 10 runs parallel to the coast just a few miles inland, providing high-speed access to New Orleans and points east into Alabama and Florida .
Public Transportation and Getting Around
Long Beach is a very walkable city, particularly the downtown and beachfront areas . For getting around without a car, options are present but limited:
- Ride-sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Long Beach, providing on-demand transportation within the city and to nearby destinations like the Island View Casino Resort in Gulfport .
- Regional Bus Service: Intercity bus connections, such as Greyhound, are available from the Biloxi Transit Center, linking Long Beach to other cities along the coast and to New Orleans .
- Bicycle: The city features bicycle paths, making it easy for visitors to cycle along the scenic coastline and between local attractions .