Ocean Springs, Mississippi: The Gulf Coast’s Best Hidden Gem

Nestled along the vibrant Gulf Coast, just east of Biloxi, lies the enchanting coastal town of Ocean Springs, Mississippi. With its irresistible charm and picturesque appeal, this quaint gem serves as an idyllic destination for a delightful weekend retreat or a memorable stopover on a longer journey through the captivating US Gulf Coast region.

Enjoy culinary delights, explore the many art galleries and museums, and peruse the charming boutiques that line its streets. Ocean Springs proudly exudes a small-town allure that is sure to captivate and leave you with fond memories of this truly exceptional destination.

(Updated Sept 25, 2023)

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, a quaint small town, is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. It offers just the right amount to explore without overwhelming you. The leisurely pace of life provides a much-needed escape from a hectic workweek. For me, seeking a rejuvenating getaway, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, exceeded all expectations!

This charming town boasts numerous adorable cafes and boutiques, making it an ideal spot for a memorable girls’ trip. Whether you fancy a relaxing weekend of brunching and shopping with your best friends or prefer to explore art museums and the natural beauty of the coast, Ocean Springs has something to offer year-round.

Getting to Ocean Springs, Mississippi: 

Coming from New Orleans, Ocean Springs is just a quick one hour drive away along I-10. Ocean Springs makes for a great weekend road trip destination from many cities in the Gulf Coast region.

Coming from further away?  No worries, Ocean Springs is only a 30 minute drive from the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport.

Staying at The Beatnik

After a very busy month at work, my sister and I were both ready for a little girls’ trip.  We craved an escape from our daily stressors, and luckily, we found the perfect solution at The Beatnik. 

The property holds four charming cabins. Our home for the weekend was Cabin 1. Inside, we discovered a spacious king-size bed and two cozy built-in bunks, catering perfectly to our small group.

Entering our private cabin felt like stepping into a serene boutique hotel and offered something beyond a typical glamping experience. The modern and spa-like ambiance immediately relaxed us, accompanied by the harmonious melodies of soft instrumental music playing in the background.

Our main bedroom surpassed our expectations, with its king-size bed and magnificent full-length windows that revealed breathtaking views. A glass door opened onto a private screened-in porch, offering us a serene haven overlooking the refreshing plunge pool.

The luxurious spa bathroom of our cabin was the highlight of the stay. No need to book a spa appointment here—the bathroom itself is a sanctuary. Adorned with beautiful white marble and featuring a bright, airy design, it exudes pure luxury. But the true gem lies just outside – the outdoor shower! There’s an indescribable sense of freedom in showering amidst nature’s embrace. Don’t worry, privacy is assured with enclosed walls on all sides. On a chilly fall morning, the steamy shower was truly invigorating.

What set the Beatnik apart was their commitment to safety. With a contactless check-in, I felt secure throughout my stay. Prior to arrival, the hotel reached out to provide me with a personalized check-in code. I appreciated the freedom to choose a code that I could easily remember, avoiding the hassle of memorizing a new door code. It’s the little touches like this that truly made my experience exceptional.

The cabin is equipped with a convenient kitchenette, complete with a sink, glassware, dishes, and a mini fridge. It was the perfect arrangement for saving some leftovers to enjoy as a late-night snack!

Additionally, they provide an electric kettle, a chemex coffee maker, and locally roasted coffee. Personally, I can’t start my day without a cup of coffee, so I loved the fact that I could prepare my own coffee right in the comfort of my room. I had never used a chemex before, but the Beatnik thoughtfully provided an instructional card and filters. It turned out to be a simple and enjoyable new experience!

The Beatnik is an exquisite and one-of-a-kind boutique hotel. It offers an ideal setting for a luxurious and rejuvenating staycation.

Things to do in Ocean Springs, Mississippi: 

Explore downtown Ocean Springs

The Beatnik is conveniently situated just a 15-minute walk from downtown Ocean Springs, Mississippi with ample free parking available in the main downtown area for those who prefer to drive. Take a leisurely stroll around Ocean Springs, allowing yourself ample time to soak in the charming atmosphere. The area boasts an array of delightful homes and buildings, from retro storefronts to idyllic coastal bungalows, and even vibrant Victorian houses adorned with wrap-around porches and lush gardens. It’s the ideal setting to unwind after enjoying a delectable meal while basking in the scenic beauty.

Go shopping

Indulge in a delightful shopping experience at the numerous charming boutique stores. From exquisite home décor to luxurious bath products, and fashionable clothes and accessories, these hidden gems offer an array of unique pieces. Be sure to embrace the opportunity to support local businesses while exploring new places. Treat yourself to a delightful shopping spree during your visit!

Visit the beach: 

If you’re visiting in the summer—or you get a warm sunny spring or fall day—why not spend an afternoon by the beach!  Downtown Ocean Springs is within walking distance of Front Beach with beach access to the Mississippi sound.  If you’d like to make a full day of the beach, I highly recommend driving about 30 minutes down the coast to Gulfport and catching the ferry to Ship Island for the day to experience the most pristine beaches in coastal Mississippi. 

Experience the artistic side of coastal Mississippi: 

Coastal Mississippi boasts two remarkable art museums. Just a short drive away in Biloxi, you’ll find the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, showcasing the works of the famed artist Georgia O’Keefe. In downtown Ocean Springs, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and immerse yourself in the world of this extraordinary local artist.

To be honest, I hadn’t heard of Walter Anderson until my weekend trip to Ocean Springs, Mississippi. As a history enthusiast, I always find visiting museums and delving into the history of the places I visit fascinating. Walter Anderson’s artwork beautifully portrays the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast region with vibrant pastel shades. The murals he crafted inside the Ocean Springs Community Center, which is part of the museum, particularly captivated me. These pieces eloquently depict the rich natural and human history of coastal Mississippi.

Today, Walter Anderson’s artistic legacy lives on in Ocean Springs through his family. His grandson, Matt Stebly, is a local artist renowned for his work as a tattoo artist and painter. He owns and operates the Twisted Anchor Tattoo and Fine Art Gallery. I was mesmerized by the vivid colors in his creations and couldn’t resist getting a print of one of his paintings for myself.

Where to eat in Ocean Springs, Mississippi

After day of exploring, you’re bound to work up an appetite! Take the time to savor the delectable culinary delights that Ocean Springs has to offer.

As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m always on the hunt for a weekend escape that satisfies my taste buds, and Ocean Springs did not disappoint.

Despite its small size, this charming town boasts an abundance of dining options that will leave you spoiled for choice. Unfortunately, a single weekend was not enough to sample all of the delightful restaurants and cafes, but the ones I did try were truly exceptional.

Biscuits at The Greenhouse on Porter

Start your day right with an exquisite breakfast/brunch! I was pleasantly surprised by the creativity and allure of biscuits at the Greenhouse on Porter. They have elevated this traditional southern breakfast staple into a true culinary masterpiece.

Their menu offers a delightful array of both sweet and savory biscuit options, as well as sandwiches and a comprehensive coffee and tea selection. Although the morning rain prevented me from enjoying their charming courtyard, the food was equally delightful when taken to-go.

For a perfect balance of flavors, I opted for their two daily specials: a delicious apple cinnamon biscuit, fitting for the autumn season, and a savory tomato, squash, and onion biscuit topped with flavorful mustard fluff.

A French panini at Mason de Lu

The inviting porch seating at Maison de Lu is an idyllic sanctuary downtown to unwind and appreciate the picturesque ambience of downtown Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

This delightful eatery boasts a fusion of French and southern culinary traditions. My ultimate selection was the exquisite French panini. Its harmonious blend of melted brie cheese, succulent ham, and zesty pepper jelly created a taste sensation that perfectly balanced sweetness with a touch of spiciness.

Pastries and coffee at French Kiss Pastries

Continuing my French-themed lunch, I indulged my sweet tooth and warmed up with a delectable cappuccino accompanied by irresistible pastries from French Kiss Pastries. The array of delectable treats left me spoilt for choice, compelling me to return for more after dinner. Among the numerous options, the chocolate mousse and chocolate cake with raspberry filling stood out, providing an absolutely delightful experience. I eagerly look forward to revisiting on a sunnier day to savor their homemade gelato.

Tacos Kiss Pastries definitely put at Rosie’s Cantina

Tacos are the ultimate way to win my heart. Mexican cuisine undoubtedly tops my list of favorites. Rosie’s Cantina is a haven for taco enthusiasts! Their street tacos boast freshness, authentic flavors, and rival even the best taco stands. Concluding my meal with a creamy horchata perfectly sealed the deal after relishing the barbacoa and chorizo tacos. It was truly a delightful experience!

Experience the allure of Ocean Springs, Mississippi – a picturesque coastal town that promises a delightful and rejuvenating weekend escape. Indulge in the many culinary delights this charming small town has to offer, bask in the serene beauty of Gulf Coast beaches, and be inspired by the town’s artistic influence. Whether seeking a leisurely shopping spree and a vibrant night out with friends or a romantic dinner followed by a cozy retreat in a boutique hotel, Ocean Springs offers an unforgettable getaway.