The Gulf Coast climate is subtropical — hot, humid summers with afternoon thunderstorms and mild winters. The most pleasant time to visit is October through April, when temperatures are comfortable and the water is still warm enough to swim in early autumn. March and April bring spring-like conditions with lower humidity before the summer heat sets in.
Summers from June through September are very hot and humid, and this is peak hurricane season. The memories of Hurricane Katrina (2005) and Hurricane Camille (1969) are alive in local consciousness, and the casino strip's architecture reflects the need to survive major storm surge. Avoid travelling during named storm warnings. The Biloxi Shrimp Festival in June and the Cruisin' the Coast car show in October are the two biggest annual events.