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Welcome to Coastal Mississippi!
Known as The Secret Coast, the charming communities tucked along the Mississippi Gulf Coast feature so much more than simply 62 miles of stunning shoreline. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of the arts, history, outdoor adventures, natural attractions, and, of course, that one-of-a-kind culinary experience for which the Magnolia State is hospitably known.
Ready for an adventure along the Mississippi Coast? Whether you’re looking to take in the sights on a stern wheel paddleboat cruise, enjoy a good book on the beach, or simply enjoy the culinary scene, here are three authentically Coastal Mississippi towns you don’t want to miss.
Bay St. Louis
You may not have ever heard of Bay St. Louis, but that hasn’t stopped the accolades from rolling in to this quaint coastal community. Bay St. Louis has been named one of the coolest small towns in America and a top 10 small beach town, as well as one of the best places to live in Mississippi. After one visit, it’s no surprise as to why. The town features beautiful white sand beaches the whole family will enjoy. A popular experience is catching a ride abord the Betsy Ann Riverboat, a stern wheel paddleboat with the best upper deck views of the Mississippi Sound to spot dolphins, pelicans, and herons.
There’s also plenty to experience off the sand as well. Downtown Bay St. Louis is home to a number of boutiques, art galleries, and antique stores. Perusing the one-of-a-kind shops is also a great way to work up an appetite for one of downtown’s many culinary options, such as Ruth’s Roots, The Blind Tiger, Trapani’s Eatery, Field’s Steak and Oyster Bar, and Cuz’s Oyster Bar.
Pass Christian
Known by locals as “The Pass,” Pass Christian is the quintessential Mississippi Gulf Coast destination thanks to its majestic old oak trees, natural coastal beauty, and beautiful historic homes.
The slower pace of life here encourages visitors to slow down, relax, and enjoy all the community has to offer, whether it be action-packed adventure while deep see fishing on a private charter boat, hitting the links at one of the local golf courses, lounging on the pristine white sand beach, or even taking a scenic drive through the historic district. A fun family activity is a visit to the Enchanted Nature Trail. On this walk through the woods, visitors will spot bug hotels, a butterfly garden, outlook points, a vine tunnel, and even a “faerie house.”
The exploration of Pass Christian continues with a visit to its many locally-owned boutiques, gift shops—like Thou Art Gallery & Gifts, which features work by many local artists—and antique stores—be sure to check out Iron Magnolia Antiques & Collectibles for those truly can’t-find-it-anywhere-else pieces. On the way to a morning or afternoon of shopping, be sure to stop by Cat Island Coffeehouse, where in addition to a freshly brewed coffee you can also pick up your next favorite beach read (and enjoy an incredible view of the Mississippi Sound!).
Ocean Springs
Coastal charm meets the arts in Ocean Springs. This small town—known as the “City of Discovery”—offers all of the natural appeal you’d expect from a Coastal Mississippi destination, including quaint cottage communities and centuries-old live oaks.
But here (living up to its well-known nickname), you’ll also discover all sorts of experiences dedicated to the creative arts. For more than three decades, downtown Ocean Springs has served as home to the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. A favorite of both locals and tourists alike, the Museum showcases the work of Walter Inglis Anderson and other prominent artists. The town is also home to the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, the largest arts festival in Mississippi and the Gulf Coast. Now in its 45th year, the annual event takes place each November and was created to honor master potter Peter Anderson and celebrate the local arts community.
