Today is June 11, 2026, and Gulfport, Florida, is a bustling little town on the mend. After being battered by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the community is finally soaking up the sunshine again. It’s been a long, hard road, but residents and business owners are rolling up their sleeves and welcoming back visitors. After all, who doesn’t love a good slice of pizza by the beach?
Tommy’s Hideaway, a cozy pizza and pub shop owned by Thomas Lussiano and his wife Larisa, has opened its doors again after a three-week hiatus. They first set up shop nearly two years ago, just a stone’s throw from the sandy shores, and let me tell you, they’re eager to spread the word that Gulfport is open for business! Nearby, O’Maddy’s Bar and Grill is also up and running, though owner Joe Guenther, who has been in the game since 1989, admits they’re still rebuilding. With 85 employees to juggle, he’s not quite at full strength yet, but he’s optimistic about the future.
Community Spirit Shines Through
One of the most heartwarming aspects of this recovery is how the community has come together. There’s a palpable sense of unity among the locals, all hoping for more visitors to return to the area. Guenther has pointed out that while there’s still plenty of work ahead, the community is looking forward with hope. Even with the setbacks from the recent storms, which washed away part of the 1,400 tons of sand used in the beach restoration, the vibe is positive.
As if that wasn’t enough, Hurricane Eddie’s—a favorite waterfront bar—recently celebrated its reopening after a whopping 16-month closure! General Manager Michele Cognetti couldn’t contain her excitement. She mentioned that this reopening is a big deal for the waterfront area, which has seen its fair share of challenges. The city has invested about $200,000 in emergency stabilization and restoration of the beachfront, making strides to bring back that beautiful Gulfport charm.
Looking Ahead
On the horizon, there are plans for a veterans’ volleyball tournament on April 12, which should bring even more foot traffic to local businesses. And let’s not forget about the upcoming city-wide yard sale and a huge St. Patrick’s Day celebration—perfect opportunities for folks to come out and enjoy the local scene!
Meanwhile, city officials are working to repair the historic Casino, with hopes of reopening it by early 2027. They’re also looking for a contractor to tackle repairs to the seawall near Veteran’s Park. All these efforts are paving the way for a brighter future for Gulfport.
As Gulfport continues to heal, it’s embracing its identity as a vibrant community. With its shops, restaurants, and the beach beckoning, it’s clear that this town is ready for visitors once again. Who wouldn’t want to be part of the comeback story of Gulfport? For more details on their recovery effort, check out this source and this source.