ABOUT GULFPORT
Welcome to Gulfport, Florida – where history meets hippie, and sunsets are a daily celebration.
Tucked along the sparkling Boca Ciega Bay, Gulfport isn’t your typical Florida beach town. Sure, we’ve got sunshine, waterfront views, and a fishing pier—but we also have art walks, tiki bars, historic charm, and a whole lot of soul.
A Little Bit Old Florida, A Whole Lot Original
Originally known as Disston City (yes, really!), Gulfport began in the late 1800s as a hopeful hub of commerce. The name didn’t stick, but the pioneering spirit sure did. Over the years, we’ve been known as Bonifacio, Veteran City, and finally, Gulfport—a name as laid-back and breezy as the town itself.
By the early 20th century, Gulfport was attracting vacationers, snowbirds, and artists who were looking for something different. They found it here: a waterfront town with bohemian flair, quirky locals, and a vibe that felt more Key West than cookie-cutter.
Artsy, Eclectic, and Proudly Unpolished
Gulfport is a haven for creatives, free-thinkers, and old souls. Our historic downtown is bursting with colorful murals, independent galleries, funky boutiques, and locally-owned cafés. The twice-monthly Art Walk transforms Beach Boulevard into an open-air gallery. And yes, we dance in the streets. Literally.
You won’t find big chains here—just big personalities. Locals greet you like old friends, and whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail or browsing vintage treasures, you’re part of the scene.
A Town That Honors Its Past
We’re proud of our roots. From Gulfport’s role as a fishing village and its contributions during wartime to the original casino ballroom that still hosts swing dances today, this city has stories to tell. Three new historical markers around town share those tales—with a modern twist and a nod to Gulfport’s eccentricity.
Want to learn more? Just ask a local. You’ll probably get a history lesson, a restaurant recommendation, and a hug.
Shopping & Dining
Unique, independent shops and boutiques offer the work of local artists as well as apparel, books, gifts, home décor, antiques, bath, body and wellness products and much more. Many choices are available to pamper yourself while you visit: spas, salons, skin care, massage therapy and more are available.
A concentration of more than a dozen restaurants in the village has made Gulfport a premier dining destination. A wide variety of foods in all price ranges is represented within just a few blocks, from sandwiches and burgers to fine dining. Live entertainment is featured in several locations throughout the week.
Accomodations
Overnight accommodations in the village are also of the unique variety, offered by two independent venues with great attention to Gulfport-style hospitality.
Individually furnished rooms and suites are offered with their own identity, such as the Marrakech or Serengeti at the Peninsula Inn, and the Jamaica or Aruba at the Sea Breeze Manor. Some locals also offer cottages or guest apartments for rent on an independent basis.
Exploring Nature
Our beach, overlooking Boca Ciega Bay, features white sand and calm waters. Picnicking, volleyball, kid’s areas, bocce ball and more are favorite pastimes here. Williams Pier is a favored fishing spot.
Visit Clam Bayou by canoe or kayak, or stroll along walking paths and overlooks.
Events For Everyone
Visit a selection of artists and crafters, from breathtaking to funky, on the first Friday and third Saturday of each month for our popular Art Walk. Beach Boulevard’s trees are lit up, shops and restaurants are open late, visitors and locals mingle on the street, and that “only-in-Gulfport” energy ebbs high.
Gulfport is conveniently located to many other destinations in the area.
Gulf Beaches and downtown St. Petersburg are minutes away. You can travel to Tampa, Ybor City and Busch Gardens in a half-hour, and a drive to or from Orlando is about two hours.
The Gulfport Merchants Chamber proudly represents local businesses, non-profits and other groups in the Waterfront District.
We meet on the first Monday of each month at locations throughout town. If you are a business owner or think you might like to open for business in Gulfport, let us know. We will be here to support you.
Come here tired and get revived.
- Come here scorned and be accepted.
- Come here misunderstood and find others like you.
- Come here rushed and get laid-back.
- Come here alone and make friends.
- Come here happy and stay here happy.
