If you’re looking for peaceful beaches, great food, with a bit of gambling mixed in, then the Mississippi Gulf Coast is the place for you. There are plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation along this “Secret Coast,” which is located just over an hour East of New Orleans, LA. You can explore via jet ski or fishing charter, eat your way through some of the freshest seafood, or test your luck at the numerous casinos. Coastal Mississippi has all that and more
In this travel guide, I’ll share with you the best things to do, see, and eat during your vacation to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I’ll also recommend some great places to stay as well. The majority of these things I’ve experienced myself or learned about over the two years that I’ve lived in Biloxi, MS.
While the Southern US is predominantly known for its beaches, there are a number of other features that make this region special. For one, the South is also home to a large variety of wetlands (think swamps, bayous, and marshes). In addition, the Southern culture has been shaped by American history including the Civil War, the original French settlers of the Gulf Coast, and African American populations. In other words, you can expect flavorful Cajun and Creole cuisines, hospitality, and vibrant music throughout the Secret Coast. In particular, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has a quaint small town vibe with shorelines that stretch for over 60 miles.
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Things to Do
The best part about the Mississippi Gulf Coast is the abundance of small communities that dot the shoreline, and each one has something unique to offer. Not to mention, a Plethora of events happening at all times!
The larger towns of Biloxi and Gulfport have tons of attractions, shopping, dining, and opportunities for adventuresome fun. The more artsy towns of Ocean Springs and Bay St. Louis are charming with their intimate restaurants, handmade wares, antique shopping, and welcoming residents. On the other hand, the eastern towns of Gautier, Pascagoula, and Moss Point feature plenty of hiking trails and ways to connect with nature.
Outdoor Recreation
Soak up the Southern sunshine with a variety of outdoor recreation. The different terrains and waterways make Coastal Mississippi an exciting place to explore.
- Beaches – There are 26 miles of white sand beaches to lounge on and enjoy, and rental companies throughout the coastline offer anything from jet skis to aqua-cycles and kayaks. Just drive up to the beach and take your pick! The most luxurious way to unwind on the beach is with Coastal Cabanas, a picnic with Coastal Picnic & Co., or a bonfire with Belly Up Beach Chairs.
- Ship Island Excursions – Take a ferry ride to the pristine and private beaches of Ship Island, a national preservation under Gulf Islands National Seashore. Walk for miles around the island, play in the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or explore Civil War era Fort Massachusetts.
- Kayaking – From rivers and bays to the Mississippi Sound, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is a kayaker’s paradise. You can even kayak to Deer Island for the ultimate kayaking adventure. South Mississippi Kayak Rentals will deliver a kayak to any location in Coastal Mississippi for very reasonable prices so that all you have to do is enjoy! The Pascagoula River Audubon Center is also a hugely popular kayaking spot for its proximity to the Pascagoula River.
- Biking – There are a handful of biking trails scattered throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but the most accessible rental bikes can be found at the Biloxi Visitors Center. I recommend biking alongside Highway 90 (Beach Blvd) for the best views of the coastline. Another great option is the Waveland-Bay St. Louis Bike Trail, which runs parallel to the beach on Beach Boulevard – rentals available at Bodega Adventure Rentals.
- Wind & Kite Surfing – One of the coolest ways to enjoy the Mississippi Sound is with lessons from Gulfport Boardsports. I didn’t get the chance to do it myself, but you can try a variety of boardsports including windsurfing, kiteboarding, foiling, and more – regardless of your skill level. It’s the perfect activity for the action-loving soul.
- Hiking Trails – With options like the Davis Bayou Area, the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, Buccaneer State Park, and more, you have a variety of options for hiking trails. However, be aware that hiking in the Mississippi Gulf Coast is typically in forest/swampy areas. You’ll need to bring bug spray and sunscreen, and to stay alert for snakes and other critters.
Art Museums
Believe it or not, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has a deep connection to ceramics and fine arts with historic artists such as George Ohr, Watler Anderson, and Peter Anderson. You can experience their unique artistic styles and coastal culture at any of these popular art museums.
- Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art – Marvel at the ceramic pieces made by the “Mad Potter of Biloxi,” George Ohr, in addition to a handful of revolving exhibits from other artists. They also hold pottery classes and special events for an even more immersive visit. (Highly recommended – I love their events.)
- Walter Anderson Museum of Art – Walter Anderson created art in a variety of mediums including oil, watercolor, pen, pottery, and wood carvings, and earned many awards starting at a young age. He was even featured at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. He has a beautiful and distinctive style of art that is really intriguing. You’ll especially enjoy some of his full-room murals.
- Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum – This museum is perfect for getting into the carnival spirit all year-round with its collection of extravagant costumes, doubloons, and crowns. You won’t want to miss the selfie room in the back where you can try the capes and headdresses on yourself and take photos in front of the massive, sequined backdrop.
- Peter Anderson Arts & Craft Festival – While this is not a museum, it’s a massive art festival that draws in uncountable art vendors from all over the southern region. You’ll find plenty of awe-striking ceramics, handmade jewelry, woodwork, presentations, and more at this event in early November. Check it out if you’re visiting during the same time! It’s one of the largest festivals in the state.
Local Events
As I mentioned before, there are uncountable events that take place all year round. I compiled a list of The 9 Best Events on the Mississippi Gulf Coast – check to see if you’ll be visiting during the same timeframe! However, there are always more events, so be sure to also check each region’s chamber of commerce calendars and gulfcoast.org.
If you don’t consider the local events in your things to do, I promise you will miss out on one of the best parts of the area.
Arts & Antique Shopping
The Mississippi Gulf Coast’s unique artistic style has perpetuated into the local shopping districts as well. You can find acrylic paintings of coastal wildlife, ceramics made by local artists, glass blown sculptures, and other pieces inspired by the coastal life.
- In Downtown Ocean Springs, Coastal Magpie is my favorite store to shop. They’re definitely “not your average stuff and antique store.” I always want to buy everything! Hillyer House has plenty of beautifully-curated glass blown pieces and dainty creations. Lastly, Shearwater Pottery is a historic and cultural marvel as the workshop has been creating original ceramic pieces since 1928 (they’re the same family as Walter and Peter Anderson whom I mentioned under Art Museums).
- In Biloxi, I think Gallery 782 has the best collection of a variety of art mediums. From New Orleans style paintings to handmade ceramics, wood/metal etchings, and photography prints, the gallery is highly stimulating for the creative soul. But if you’re looking for ceramic everything, I recommend checking out the Ohr O’Keefe Museum Gift Shop (no admission fee required). It features unique ceramic pieces from many of the local potters from the community.
- In Old Town Bay St. Louis, The Shops of Century Hall is an absolute dream for antique and art lovers. With three stories of booths abounding with intricate pieces, it is difficult to leave without purchasing several items. Handmade jewelry, paintings, and pottery are just some of the things you’ll find there.
Attractions
Unique to the local area, these are some of the most well-known and signature things to do on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
- Ground Zero Blues Club – This blues club features live music performances every Wednesday through Saturday night, and Delta-inspired coastal eats for lunch and dinner. It’s a truly immersive and thrilling experience as you uncover the history of Southern culture and the Mississippi Delta through blues music.
- Mississippi Aquarium – While it’s not the largest aquarium you can find, the Mississippi Aquarium has one of the most beautiful indoor/outdoor campuses for an interactive experience. With a massive touch tank, bottlenose dolphins, aviary, and the fresh water river exhibit, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about local and exotic marine life.
- Lighthouse Tours – Climb into history as reach the top of the Biloxi Lighthouse and the Round Island Lighthouse. The Biloxi Lighthouse, which is often used as a symbol for the Coastal Mississippi region, was erected in 1848 and withstood many storms including Hurricane Katrina.
More
What to Eat
With the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s prime location, bordering the Gulf of Mexico, you can expect to find a large variety of the freshest seafood, in addition to a mix of cajun and creole cuisines. As is expected in many parts of the Southern US, you can find great food almost anywhere, including in gas stations!
Seafood
If you like shrimp, then you Have To try Royal Reds, a shrimp variety that is more brighter orange and that many claim tastes just like lobster. One of the best locations to harvest Royal Reds is right in the Mississippi Sound, so you know you’ll be eating some of the freshest you can get.
Places to Try Royal Reds – One Thirty One on Lameuse, Thorny Oyster
Another coastal delicacy that has deep ties to the origins of the Secret Coast are oysters. The nutrient-rich waters of the Mississippi Sound provide the perfect habitat for oyster farming. As a result, you can find oysters made every way while dining in Coastal Mississippi – raw, chargrilled, Rockefeller, and more.
Did you know that Biloxi was the Seafood Capital of the World in the early 1900s?
Places to Try Oysters – Half Shell Oyster House, Charred: A Steak & Oyster Bar
Gumbo
Not gonna lie, I didn’t know what gumbo was until I moved to Mississippi, and now that I’ve tried it, I understand the hype. It’s a rich and delicious stew-like dish made with the holy trinity (bell peppers, onions, and celery), a roux, and stock. Proteins can include anything from shrimp and andouille sausage to chicken, alligator, or pork. The possibilities are truly endless, and no chef makes it the same. You’ll just have to try it to understand.
Places to Try Gumbo – One Thirty One on Lameuse, Thorny Oyster
Shrimp and Grits
A staple soul food item that everybody knows and loves, shrimp and grits is a can’t-miss dish while on the Mississippi Gulf Coast! It sounds simple, but the flavors are warm and comforting.
Places to Try Shrimp and Grits – White Pillars Restaurant and Lounge, One Thirty One on Lameuse
King Cake
While king cake is traditionally only available during Mardi Gras season, some bakeries sell it year-round. It is used to celebrate the indulgence leading up to the religious observance of Lent, in which Catholic followers commemorate the life of Jesus with fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. However, you don’t have to be Catholic to join in on the carnival revelry. There are plenty of king cakes to go around.
The oval-shaped confection is a brioche cake extravagantly decorated with green, purple, and gold sprinkles or icing. Common flavors include cinnamon, cream cheese, and/or fruit preserves, but my absolute favorite king cake on the Mississippi Gulf Coast has dark chocolate, toasted coconut, and caramel. It’s called the Sue-Moa King Cake from Le Bakery (named after the Girl Scout cookie and the baker). Be sure to call in your order at least 24 hours in advance, though, since the Sue-Moa is only made to order.
Trip Planning
How to Get There
The closest airport to Coastal Mississippi is the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT). However, airline tickets will likely be less expensive if you fly through Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which is about 1.5 hours from Biloxi, MS. For maximum affordability, I recommend booking with KAYAK.
If you prefer to drive, I highly recommend taking the 444-mile scenic drive known as the Natchez Trace Parkway, if possible. Even if you can’t drive the whole stretch, just seeing parts of it will make for a memorable road trip. The parkway features uncountable opportunities for natural and historical views in Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. As such, the Natchez Trace is a national scenic trail under the National Park Service. If you need help planning your road trip, check out Roadtrippers so you don’t miss any cool stops along the way.
When to Visit
In my opinion, the best time to visit the Mississippi Gulf Coast is during Mardi Gras season – January through the end of February. (Mardi Gras day is always the [Fat] Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.) The weather during these months is more tolerable than the sweltering summer heat. In addition, you’ll get to experience the French tradition more fully with parades, beads, and king cakes around every corner. Furthermore, everyone is just a lot more happier and festive during Mardi Gras, so why not join in?
If you’re not visiting for Mardi Gras, then the only other thing you’ll want to consider is peak hurricane season, Mississippi Gulf Coast Spring Break, and Cruisin’ the Coast. Hurricane season, which lasts from June to December, can bring unpredictable weather and may require last-minute changes in travel plans or itineraries. This is especially true in August and September, which are historically the busiest months for hurricanes.
On the other hand, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Spring Break (a weekend-long event in early April) and Cruisin’ the Coast (a week-long event in early October) can draw large crowds and heavy traffic to the beaches. This is important to keep in mind, because the price of accommodations will skyrocket during Cruisin’ the Coast.
The summer months (June, July, and especially August) can be unbearably hot and humid to anyone who is not used to Southern weather. For this reason, I recommend visiting in the spring or fall if this is the case for you.
Transportation
The Coast Transit Authority provides bus rides throughout Biloxi, the beaches and casinos, Ocean Springs, and Gulfport for $1.50 per ride or $14 for three days (accurate at the time of publication). See the routes and schedules here, and download the app Route Shout for help finding a bus.
Coast Transit is an excellent way to get around. However, in order to fully experience all that Coastal Mississippi has to offer, I’d recommend renting a car or RV if you don’t have access to one.
Where to Stay
The Mississippi Gulf Coast is relatively small, and most places take a max drive of only about 40 minutes depending on where you’re headed. As a result, you can book a hotel anywhere in Biloxi, Gulfport, or Ocean Springs and still be near the action.
- If you want to be close to the casinos and downtown Biloxi, then making accommodations in Biloxi Beach will be your best bet.
- If you want to be close to restaurants and shopping, book a stay near downtown Ocean Springs or Old Town Bay St. Louis.
- If you want to be close to the beaches, you don’t really have to try because everything is close to the beach.
Hotels/Accommodations I Recommend – The Hotel Beatnik, The Roost Boutique Hotel, Hotel Pass Christian, Pearl Hotel, The Bay Town Inn
Weather + What to Pack
The weather on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is famously known to be hot and humid. This is mostly true the closer it is to summer. July and August are the hottest months with heat indexes maxing out at 110F. I highly recommend packing lots of breathable summer/athletic clothes, bathing suits, shorts, sunglasses, sandals, and sunscreen during this time of year, but also during the majority of the rest of the year as well.
The month of June has the longest days with daylight hours averaging around 14 hours. This means you’ll have plenty of daylight to explore during your vacation. However, the weather changes frequently especially during hurricane season. Scattered thunderstorms can appear at any moment on the Secret Coast, and you can expect a lot of flood warnings (but don’t fret, it usually passes fast). As a result, I also recommend packing a rain jacket, close-toed (preferably water-resistant) shoes, and whatever clothes that you feel most comfortable in during rainy weather. For instance, I like athletic leggings, a baseball cap, t-shirt, and sometimes a hoodie depending on the season. Keep in mind that when it rains in Coastal Mississippi, it is usually still hot with even more humidity.
The winter months can get surprisingly cold in Mississippi, and that’s coming from someone who has lived in the far Midwest. I’ve had to wear my heavy parka for a decent amount of days in December and January. However, with that being said, it will never be as cold as it is in the Midwest since the windchill does not get as bad and the sun often still shines on the Secret Coast. I still recommend packing warmer clothes during the winter months: a winter jacket, hoodies, long sleeves, beanies, and pants.
In the Spring and Fall, you could wake up to relatively cold weather in the mornings, then experience warmer weather by noon. For this reason, I would recommend packing a mix of both cold and warm weather clothes – jeans with short sleeve tops, and a hoodie would be good.
I hope this travel guide answered all the questions you could possibly have about the Mississippi Gulf Coast. If you have any further questions or would like to mention something I missed, feel free to leave them in the comments below!
Happy Adventuring 
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