Title: Visit Gulf of Mexico: Best of Gulf of Mexico Tourism | Expedia Travel Guide - Expedia.com [Hotels in Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Of-Mexico-Hotels.d553248635989303400.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Vacation Rentals in Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Of-Mexico-Vacation-Rentals.d553248635989303400.Travel-Guide-VacationRentals)[Flights to Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Cheap-Flights-To-Gulf-Of-Mexico.d553248635989303400.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Things-To-Do-In-Gulf-Of-Mexico.d553248635989303400.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Car Rentals in Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Gulf-Of-Mexico.d553248635989303400.Car-Rental-Guide)[Gulf of Mexico Vacation Packages](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Of-Mexico.d553248635989303400.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Gulf of Mexico ## Travel Guide ![The crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico surround Civil War Historic Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635989303400/2363522f-2e51-4e19-90bf-e9db449072dd.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![The crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico surround Civil War Historic Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635989303400/2363522f-2e51-4e19-90bf-e9db449072dd.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![The famous pink lakes of Mexico, Rio Lagartos. A magical sight! Pink waters and blue sky, It was like sunset reversed; a feast for eyes! There are plenty of colorful salt lakes near Las Coloradas/Rio Lagartos in the Yucatan peninsula. It is just 2 hours drive away from Chichén Itzá and around 3 hours from Cancun. Public transport is scarce in this part of Mexico. We took a rental car and it was an easy and comfortable journey for us :) Once we reached Las Coloradas, we were welcomed by giant white salt mountains. After driving around the salt mountains for some time, we finally found someone local who took us to this beautiful private salt lake. #nature](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6320352/6e633f4c-84fa-43b3-bec4-0bb91d0fb29a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![This is where wild manatees come to spend the winter months. You can even go swimming with them!](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6085423/20c46ff2-d01b-4626-8074-cba43173f67b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![This "Before I Die..." Wall has lots of good bucket list ideas!](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/2434/5ed1b97e-0a4b-4ce0-a4fd-a4dfc6858d6d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Gulf of Mexico Where to stay Things to do ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-us-ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh) ## The Annual Vacation Sale Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. [Book now](https://expedia.com/deals?rfrr=DX_SPRING_PROMO_553248635989303400) ### Where to stay in Gulf of Mexico ![Beach Living at Rosemary Beach, Florida; Shutterstock ID 432580411; Purchase Order: -](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6139932/09b32d32-bffd-47f7-bf0e-a99766ec0476.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Rosemary Beach 4.5/5(40 area reviews) Experience European Colonial charm in this Gulf Coast community, offering warm waters, beach activities, and a mixed-use town center with shops, restaurants, and live music at Peddler's Pavilion. Explore nearby parks and trails for a dose of nature. [](https://expedia.com/Panama-City-Beach-Rosemary-Beach.dx6139932) ![R3YH4J Vacation townhomes, Seacrest Beach, Florida, USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635077613214/4faccbc9-74c2-4419-9d8f-38e0e3d1101c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Seacrest Seacrest is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Alys Beach and Seacrest Beach. [](https://expedia.com/Panama-City-Beach-Seacrest.dx553248635077613214) ![Vibrant atmosphere in the French Quarter showcasing culture and community on a sunny day](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/800072/d97dfdd9-81f2-4601-a10e-054fee1acd4f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### French Quarter 4.5/5(9,221 area reviews) Historic buildings and lively atmosphere entice tourists and locals alike, offering live music, street performances, and vibrant nightlife. Must-see spots include Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Café du Monde. [](https://expedia.com/New-Orleans-French-Quarter.dx800072) ![Okaloosa Island which includes a sandy beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6065716/9c643978-58cc-4053-802f-593ff2fa5f9d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Okaloosa Island A noteworthy feature of Okaloosa Island is its stunning beaches. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Wild Willy's Adventure Zone and Okaloosa Island Beach. [](https://expedia.com/Fort-Walton-Beach-Okaloosa-Island.dx6065716) ![Seaside which includes a coastal town and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/183119/cd77d373-abdd-4889-919c-5bcd5e98845f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Seaside 4/5(1 area review) This unincorporated area on Florida's Panhandle boasts a Seaside Farmers Market and a picturesque interfaith chapel. Explore the town center and stroll along pedestrian alleys radiating from the heart of the community. [](https://expedia.com/Santa-Rosa-Beach-Seaside.dx183119) ![Fort Walton Beach which includes a sunset and a sandy beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/156147/691999ec-be31-4710-80cc-b6711724df8f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Seagrove Beach 4.5/5(27 area reviews) Travelers come to Seagrove Beach for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Seaside Beach and Seagrove Beach East while you're in town. [](https://expedia.com/Santa-Rosa-Beach-Seagrove-Beach.dx156147) [See our Where To Stay guide](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Of-Mexico.dx553248635989303400.Where-To-Stay?rfrr=TG.LP.Dest.Neighborhoods) - Gulf of Mexico Hotel Deals - Vacation Rentals in Gulf of Mexico ![Kompose Boutique Hotel](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/39000000/38220000/38215400/38215316/e948f2e5_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Kompose Boutique Hotel 965 University Pkwy Sarasota FL $144 nightly $163 total Mar 22 - Mar 23 Total with taxes and fees Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Sarasota. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast ... 9.2/10 Wonderful! (5,087 reviews) Overall, we found the hotel to be cute. The staff was very welcoming. The beds were very comfortable. The decor was contemporary and funky unfortunately, they have one sliding door that either doubles as the shower door or the bathroom door so you can’t use both at the same time and have privacy ... Reviewed on Mar 3, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=3%2F22%2F2026&endDate=3%2F23%2F2026&selected=38215316&PinnedHotelID=38215316&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=553248635989303400) ![Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/16000000/15920000/15914400/15914352/3e998290_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach 100 Coronado Drive Clearwater Beach FL $326 nightly $368 total Mar 25 - Mar 26 Total with taxes and fees Book a stay at this beach hotel in Clearwater Beach. Enjoy a full-service spa, 3 restaurants, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (3,054 reviews) Amazing few! The staff were so nice Reviewed on Mar 3, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=3%2F25%2F2026&endDate=3%2F26%2F2026&selected=15914352&PinnedHotelID=15914352&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=553248635989303400) ![RumFish Beach at TradeWinds](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/8600/8544/37eb40ec_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### RumFish Beach at TradeWinds 6000 Gulf Blvd St. Pete Beach FL $352 nightly $397 total Mar 5 - Mar 6 Total with taxes and fees Book a stay at this beach resort in St. Pete Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, 4 outdoor pools, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ... 8.2/10 Very Good! (1,654 reviews) A little dirty and dated in area but overall a lot of fun Reviewed on Mar 2, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=3%2F5%2F2026&endDate=3%2F6%2F2026&selected=8544&PinnedHotelID=8544&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=553248635989303400) [See all 172,833 properties in Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=3%2F5%2F2026&endDate=3%2F6%2F2026®ionId=553248635989303400) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![Sailport Waterfront Suites](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/50000/49600/49550/d9daabd7_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Sailport Waterfront Suites 2506 N Rocky Point Dr Tampa FL Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Tampa. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the pool ... 8.4/10 Very Good! (4,932 reviews) Great location. Enjoyed the pool. Could have used a notice of renovations in process. Reviewed on Mar 2, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Tampa-Hotels-Sailport-Waterfront-Suites.h49550.Hotel-Information) ![California Building](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/122000000/121060000/121055000/121054909/8df30f79_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### California Building 1111 Tulane Ave New Orleans LA Stay at this hotel in New Orleans. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Canal Street and Caesars Superdome are located ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (108 reviews) There is not food in the hotel WiFi is poor water is horrible Reviewed on Mar 3, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/New-Orleans-Hotels-California-Building.h121054909.Hotel-Information) ![Happy Travelers RV Resort](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/108000000/107100000/107095400/107095394/b8e63c52_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Happy Travelers RV Resort 9401 E Fowler Ave Thonotosassa FL Stay at this cabin in Thonotosassa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Seminole Hard Rock Casino Tampa and Busch Gardens ... [](https://expedia.com/Tampa-Hotels-Happy-Travelers-RV-Resort.h107095394.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=553248635989303400&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ## Check Gulf of Mexico hotel availability [Tonight ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=2026-03-04&endDate=2026-03-05)[Mar 4 - Mar 5](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=2026-03-04&endDate=2026-03-05) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=2026-03-05&endDate=2026-03-06)[Mar 5 - Mar 6](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=2026-03-05&endDate=2026-03-06) [This weekend ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=3%2F6%2F2026&endDate=3%2F8%2F2026)[Mar 6 - Mar 8](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=3%2F6%2F2026&endDate=3%2F8%2F2026) [Next weekend ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=3%2F13%2F2026&endDate=3%2F15%2F2026)[Mar 13 - Mar 15](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=553248635989303400&startDate=3%2F13%2F2026&endDate=3%2F15%2F2026) ### Popular places to visit ![Aerial photo Port of Tampa Florida](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6127884/01fb7c9f-75f0-485d-89b4-3ff16670be26.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Port of Tampa 4/5(1,773 reviews) Explore the waterfront in Tampa with a trip to Port of Tampa. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area. [](https://expedia.com/Port-Of-Tampa-Downtown-Tampa.d6127884.Vacation-Attraction) ![Busch Gardens Tampa Bay showing rides](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6048135/88f298de-d898-4d9e-b3c3-63644981d741.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 4.5/5(1,674 reviews) Exotic animals and thrill rides all on the one site at this theme park and zoo designed for the whole family. [](https://expedia.com/Busch-Gardens-Tampa-Bay-Terrace-Park.d6048135.Vacation-Attraction) ![Gulf Shores Beach showing a coastal town, general coastal views and a beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6097624/2652f9ba-1a48-4359-ac9e-3306e9cdfb28.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Gulf Shores Beach 4.5/5(1,223 reviews) For the complete beach experience, visit this well-groomed swath of sand on the Gulf Coast, with thoughtful amenities and a convenient and central location. [](https://expedia.com/Gulf-Shores-Beach-Gulf-Shores.d6097624.Vacation-Attraction) ![Canal Street featuring signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6263842/f7d59059-0d9b-4c0e-89ca-d394a004164b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Canal Street 4/5(7,943 reviews) Start your exploration of New Orleans with the many attractions on this buzzing pedestrianized street, which is located right in the heart of the downtown area. [](https://expedia.com/Canal-Street-New-Orleans-Central-Business-District.d6263842.Vacation-Attraction) ![huge cruise liner stands off the coast of Vancouver Canada Place flag flying over the Pacific Ocean sails a beautiful view of the city on the water Canada 2023](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6257015/78176553-254b-4336-922f-29bf0914bba5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal 4.5/5(828 reviews) Explore the waterfront in Galveston with a trip to Port of Galveston Cruise Terminal. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area. [](https://expedia.com/Port-Of-Galveston-Cruise-Terminal-Strand-Historic-District.d6257015.Vacation-Attraction) ![Vibrant atmosphere of Bourbon Street with shops, crowds, and greenery in New Orleans](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6139836/75fad681-72ac-4154-b2e1-06b043b5b2bf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Bourbon Street 4/5(8,025 reviews) The birthplace of jazz is a vibrant city boulevard where the history and music of New Orleans comes to life. [](https://expedia.com/Bourbon-Street-French-Quarter.d6139836.Vacation-Attraction) ### Things to do ![Panama City: Sunset Dolphin Cruise in St. Andrews Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47706386/b18aed60-f561-4dfa-8163-13f58590d2ab.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Panama City: Sunset Dolphin Cruise in St. Andrews Bay $29 per adult **96%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/panama-city-sunset-dolphin-cruise-in-st-andrews-bay.a47706386.activity-details) ![CRUISIN’, SWIMMIN’, FLOATIN’, PARTYIN’. You decide! ](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/46372678/9f5a1e98-6ba4-4d16-a7d4-307f624e39f3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Original CRUISIN TIKIS 3 Hour Cruise, Snorkel, Swim/float Sandbar $80 per adult **84%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/original-cruisin-tikis-3-hour-cruise.a46372678.activity-details) ![Cheers to ...well any day on a tiki!](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/46191250/c2e50587-9830-4170-bd6c-28f197961cca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Original CRUISIN TIKIS 90 min Cruise - Grand Lagoon $54 per adult [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/original-cruisin-tikis-90-min-cruise-grand-lagoon.a46191250.activity-details) ![Panama City Beach: Sunset Sail on the Privateer Catamaran](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/44627398/1e56f1f9-f410-4aba-846a-6b48737c6e0c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Panama City Beach: Sunset Sail on the Privateer Catamaran $49 per adult **94%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/panama-city-beach-sunset-sail-on-the-privateer-catamaran.a44627398.activity-details) ![Picture 2 for Activity Panama City: Sunset Speedboat Tour with Dolphin Watching](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48017969/4e83045e-881e-4889-be5d-7f25448d0450.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Panama City: Sunset Tour with Dolphin Watching $64 per adult **80%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/panama-city-sunset-tour-with-dolphin-watching.a48017969.activity-details) ![The Big Kahuna ](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50938104/d0d701d3-d3eb-4cf6-99b4-66742e33b00d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Big Kahuna Sunset Dolphin Cruise Experience $55 per adult [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/big-kahuna-sunset-dolphin-cruise-experience.a50938104.activity-details) [See all activities in Gulf of Mexico](https://expedia.com/Things-To-Do-In-Gulf-Of-Mexico.d553248635989303400.Travel-Guide-Activities) - Places of interest - [Rio Grande ](https://expedia.com/Rio-Grande.d553248621532643072.Vacation-Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save even more - get up to 20% on select hotels when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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