The Gulf Islands National Seashore is one of the prime places to paddle along the Mississippi Coast and is headquartered in Ocean Springs. This route leaves from Ocean Springs Beach off of South Belle Fontaine Drive and crosses a gap of over six feet to reach Horn Island. The island is 13 miles long and up to ¾ of a mile wide and is home to a variety of wildlife. In addition to the wild hogs, ospreys, bald eagles, deer, rabbits, raccoons, and alligators there are fierce biting insects. The sandy beaches are long and beautiful, views out into the open sea are endless, and footpaths cross the island, allowing you to explore its lagoons, marshes, and thickets. Take caution as waves can build quickly and unexpectedly and other dangers of the open sea are prevalent.