Battery Bigelow — Attraction in Gulfport

Battery Bigelow at Fort De Soto Park stands as a haunting testament to Florida’s coastal defense history, its ruins now partially claimed by the Gulf. Once the secondary line of protection for Tampa Bay, Battery Bigelow was completed in 1902 and armed with two 3-inch rapid-fire guns designed to thwart fast-moving enemy vessels and defend underwater minefields. Named for 1st Lt. Aaron Bigelow, a hero of the War of 1812, the battery’s thick concrete walls and strategic position showcased early 20th-century military engineering. Nature, however, proved the greater adversary. In 1921, a powerful hurricane devastated Battery Bigelow, and by the 1930s, relentless erosion had swallowed much of the structure. Today, its remains can be glimpsed in the surf southwest of Battery Laidley, a stark, evocative reminder of both the ambitions and impermanence of human endeavors. Battery Bigelow’s story is impactful not only for its military significance but also for its transformation into a relic shaped by time and tide. Its ghostly presence invites reflection on history, sacrifice, and the ever-changing Florida coastline—a must-see for those who seek meaning beyond the surface...

Such a beautiful and well kept beach! I love that it’s kind of hidden and not overly popular. The water is super clean and somewhat “clear” (I’m used to the murky water on the East coast of Florida). There are a ton of awesome shells to collect as well! My 3 year old had a blast just searching through all the shells on the beach. Overall it was a great experience, I wish we had more time to explore more...

The beach is beautiful and maintained very well. The part that’s in the water is small and has very big signs for people not to climb right in front so you can’t really take good pictures of it. There’s families on the beach right in front also, which makes it hard to get a good view from farther away. If you’re just interested in the beach, it’s worth the $5...