Known as the City of Discovery by locals and visitors alike, this historic coastal town is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a whole host of experiences. A quaint, cottage Main Street community nestled amongst centuries-old live oaks on the scenic shore of Coastal Mississippi, Ocean Springs boasts a rich history, artistic flair, lush landscape and small town appeal. Colorful and sophisticated, the community is known for its arts and festivals. With over 200 independent shops, galleries, restaurants and nightlife, this community captures southern, small town charm with its walkability, white sand beaches, and year round activity. Several dining options include Mosaic (small plates/live music), Tatonut (potato donuts), Lazy Oak Bistreaux, Eat Drink Love (thoughtful salads/sandwiches), and Maison du Lu. Ocean Springs has three entertainment districts where patrons may leave restaurants and bars with “go-cups.”
In the mood for casual dining with a view? The Mississippi Gulf Coast has you covered. Almost every pocket of the Mississippi Gulf Coast has its own casual dining spot with gorgeous views of the water for some extra atmosphere. Here are just a few options, but know there are plenty more: The Blind Tiger (locations in Biloxi and Bay St. Louis) Shaggy's (locations in Biloxi, Gulfport, and Pass Christian) The Reef (Biloxi) McElroy's Harbor House (Biloxi) Bacchus on the Beach (Pass Christian) and Bacchus on the Bayou (Ocean Springs)
In 2005, the small seaside town of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, found itself in the eye of Hurricane Katrina. The process of recovery was long and slow, but the coastal Mississippi community worked to rebuild and resurrect this small town's spirit. Now, with its laid-back attitude, stunning waterfront, and funky, eclectic local culture, Bay St. Louis is one of the Gulf Coast's most underrated destinations. Our favorites? Breakfast/coffee at The Mockingbird Cafe Dinner at Trapani's or The Thorny Oyster The Blind Tiger for bar food and Bushwackers Check out the shops on Main Street Shopping at Dirt Cheap (only Phoebe's favorite...) Runs/bike rides across the Bay Bridge/along the beach (only Daniel's favorite...) Downtown Bay St. Louis is considered an entertainment district where patrons may leave restaurants and bars with alcoholic beverages.
While you are out and about, drive down Highway 90 and view dozens of once beautiful live oaks transformed into sculpted works of art. International award winning "chainsaw artist" Dayton Scoggins of Mississippi, award winning "wood sculptor" Marlin Miller of Florida, and Dayle Lewis of Indiana sculpted a variety of marine-related objects out of these dead trees, following Hurricane Katrina. The tree-sculptures are located all along scenic Highway 90. There are now approximately 50 sculptures throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast with the world's largest eagle sculpture standing 17-foot-tall and located in War Memorial Park on Highway 90 in Pass Christian!
It wouldn't be Daniel's website unless at least one brewery was mentioned... Chandeleur (“shan-duh-leer”) Island Brewing Company was started by Cammack Roberds and Cain Roberds from The University of Southern Mississippi. Their love of beer began in the 90’s, which eventually lead to homebrewing, and an endless pursuit of finding the best craft beers the World had to offer. They chose the name “Chandeleur” in honor of one of their favorite places, the Chandeleur Islands off the coast of Mississippi. The uninhabited island chain is approximately 50 miles long and is home to some of the best redfish and speckled trout fishing on the planet. For example, their Freemason Golden Ale, one of their core beers, is named after one of their best fishing spots, a shell island five miles from the main island. And Lil’ Smack IPA is named after the Little Smack Channel, a safe harbor nestled between North and New Harbor islands.
Here in the Gulf of Mexico, about 11 miles off Mississippi’s Coast, are some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in America. Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and protected by the U.S. Park Service, these exquisite sand islands offer visitors the first high-quality, natural beaches for swimming, birding and shelling. The island is also home to Fort Massachusetts, a beautifully preserved, brick structure used during the Civil War. Passengers are sure to spot dolphins while crossing the Mississippi Sound - for either an excursion to Ship Island or just a dolphin-watching ride! Boats operate typically mid-March through October. Many other sunset cruises/charters are available in the area!