The Gulf of Mexico

The Gulf of Mexico is a large body of water. It is part of the Atlantic Ocean. The gulf is shaped like a big bowl. It is surrounded by the United States, Mexico, and the island of Cuba.

Warm Waters

The Gulf of Mexico has warm, salty water. Many beaches sit along its coasts. People go there to swim, fish, and relax. The warm water also helps form big storms called hurricanes.

An old sea chart shows the Gulf of Mexico coast.
An old sea chart shows the Gulf of Mexico coast. (Richard Mount / Thomas Page / Wikimedia Commons)

Full of Life and Work

Lots of sea animals live in the gulf. Dolphins, sea turtles, and shrimp are common there. People also catch fish and oysters for food. Oil is pumped from under the seabed, which is important for energy.

Fun Facts

  • The Gulf of Mexico covers about 600,000 square miles.
  • It is the ninth largest body of water in the world.
  • The Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

Did You Know?

A warm ocean current called the Loop Current flows through the Gulf of Mexico and helps feed the Gulf Stream.