Are you ready for an unforgettable beach getaway? Look no further than the stunning beaches in Mississippi and Alabama. These coastal treasures offer miles of white sand beaches, luxurious lodging, and a plethora of activities.  Coastal Mississippi and Alabama promise to make your vacation truly spectacular.

Beaches in Mississippi and Alabama

Read on to find a beach summary and our restaurant recommendations for each sunny spot.  Then reference our map to find the best beach for your Southern United States Vacation. Our map will help you plan out lodging, restaurants and of course pristine beaches! 

Beaches in Mississippi

1. Bay St. Louis Beach: A true gem on the Mississippi coast, Bay St. Louis Beach offers a quiet beach experience with calm waters and beautiful scenery. It’s an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. Be sure to visit the Biloxi Lighthouse which is very close to the beach. Erected in 1848, this iconic cast-iron lighthouse is a symbol of Biloxi’s resilience, especially post-Hurricane Katrina. It offers public tours and stunning views of the Mississippi Sound.
   • Good eats: Trapani’s Eatery– Offers American cuisine and seafood with beautiful views of the Gulf. Don’t miss their crab cakes and tuna appetizer!
2. Biloxi Beach: In Mississippi, Biloxi Beach is a bustling destination with casinos, museums, and water activities. Visit the Biloxi Lighthouse or take a shrimping boat trip. Some attractions may have entrance fees, typically ranging from $10 to $20.
   • Good eats: The Reef– Offers fresh seafood with coastal views. Try the Fire Cracker Shrimp! Great for lunch and sunset dining.
3. Gulfport Beach: A popular spot on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Gulfport Beach offers miles of white-sand beaches, a splash pad, and picnic areas. It’s a perfect place for families to enjoy a day in the sun.
   • Good eats: Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach Restaurant – Shaggy’s offers seafood, American cuisine, and a bar & grill experience. The restaurant provides outdoor seating with water views, making it an attractive option for visitors to the harbor area.
4. Long Beach: Known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere, Long Beach is a great spot for a relaxing day by the sea. Enjoy the soft sand and clear water, perfect for a quiet beach day.
   • Good eats: Rusty Pelican– Stop here in the morning before your beach adventure! Known for its breakfast options like eggs, pancakes, and omelets- you’ll start your day properly fueled up!
5. Ocean Springs: This charming coastal town offers beautiful scenery, historic districts, and the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike. This beach offers white sand, fire pits, volleyball nets, and a playground. The beach is known for its shallow, calm waters, making it a popular spot for families.
   • Good eats: Ocean Springs Historic District– This area features 19th-century architecture, including Greek revival-style buildings. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk or drive through downtown to find the perfect spot to eat. Alternatively, you can pedal your way through Ocean Springs guided by Walter Anderson directional signs. Pick up your map at the Ocean Springs Visitor Center.
6. Pass Christian: This small town on the Mississippi coast is known for its beautiful beaches and charming coastal communities. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy fresh seafood.
   •  Good eats: Roberts Place Cafe– Fuel up at this great spot for breakfast before hitting the beach. A highly-rated American restaurant known for its fast service and great coffee.

Beaches in Alabama

1. Dauphin Island: Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Dauphin Island is a barrier island known for its natural beauty and wildlife refuge. Visit historic Fort Morgan and explore the bird sanctuary before or after a day at the beach.
   • Good eats: Pirate’s Bar And Grill– known for its casual beachside dining experience,  you will find a variety of Southern fare and seafood here. There is a great beer selection and live music, which contribute to its overall appeal.
2. Fort Morgan: Located at the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, this historic site offers scenic views and a glimpse into the past. It’s a great place for history buffs and nature lovers.
   • Good eats: Jesse’s by the Bay -This upscale restaurant cooks their steaks to perfection! Also try their oysters and blackberry margaritas!
3. Gulf Shores: Known for its sugar-white sands and turquoise waters, Gulf Shores offers activities like parasailing, jet skis, dolphin cruises, and deep-sea fishing. The Gulf State Park features a fishing pier, hiking and biking trails, and a nature center. Entrance to the park is free, but some activities may have additional fees.
   • Good eats: Ice House Tap Room–  A great spot to eat and grab a beer, this Gulf Shores hot spot has a “priceless view” and is situated near the water, allowing boats to pull up for drinks. Try the Cubano sandwich and the Boudin Egg Rolls!
4. Orange Beach: Just east of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The Wharf Entertainment Complex offers shopping, dining, and various activities that are fun for the whole family, like a Ferris wheel, train ride, cinema and arcade. Fishing charters are available for deep-sea and inshore fishing excursions.
   • Good eats: The Flying Harpoon– This seafood restaurant is a short drive from Orange Beach and Cunningham Beach. Try their homemade chips and shrimp po’boy.
5. West Ship Island: Accessible by ferry, West Ship Island is home to the historic Fort Massachusetts and offers some of the clearest water in the region. It’s a perfect destination for a day trip that kids of all ages will love. West Ship Island is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and are some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in the United States. The historic fort dates back to the Civil War era.
   • Pro Tip: There are no restaurants on West Ship Island itself, but there are restrooms. Check out Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach Restaurant after disembarking from the ferry.  This beachfront restaurant offers seafood, American cuisine, and a bar & grill experience. The restaurant provides outdoor seating with water views, making it an attractive option for visitors to the harbor area.

Beyond the Beach

When you’ve had enough at the beach, or you just want to mix up the fun, there is plenty to do near the beaches in Mississippi and Alabama. Here are some great family fun options that aren’t too far from the sand!

Beyond the Beach in Mississippi

1. Mississippi Aquarium
   • Location: Gulfport
   • Features: Over 200 species of animals, interactive touch tanks, and dolphin encounters.
2. Big Play Entertainment Center
   • Location: Biloxi
   • Features: Mini-golf, Go-Karts, bumper cars, and an arcade.
3. Paradise Pier Fun Park
   • Location: Biloxi
   • Features: Amusement park rides, arcade games, and live performances.
4. Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
   • Location: Gulfport
   • Features: A children’s museum with interactive exhibits.
5. Biloxi Shrimping Trip
   • Location: Biloxi
   • Features: Educational boat tour showing shrimp fishing techniques.

Beyond the Beach in Alabama

1. Gulf State Park
   • Location: Gulf Shores, AL
   • Features: Scenic trails, pier fishing, tennis courts, golf course, zip line, and a butterfly garden.
2. Adventure Island
   • Location: Orange Beach, AL
   • Features: Amusement park with go-karts, bumper boats, laser tag, and kiddie rides.
3. OWA
   • Location: Foley, AL
   • Features: Theme park with rides, shops, restaurants, and an arcade.
4. Dolphin Cruises
   • Location: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
   • Features: Boat tours to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
5. Alligator Alley
   • Location: Near Gulf Shores
   • Features: Alligator sanctuary with educational tours.
6. Sea Lab Aquarium (Dauphin Island)
   • Location: Dauphin Island, accessible via ferry from Fort Morgan
   • Features: Marine life exhibits and educational programs

Accommodation Recommendations for visiting beaches in Mississippi and Alabama

Although there are plenty of mainstream hotels, we try to seek out a historic gem, or a property with unique character to the location’s culture when we travel. 

Accommodations in Mississippi

The White House Hotel is a refined seafront hotel housed in an 1890s building. It offers a sleek restaurant, a pool, and a sea-view roof terrace. It’s located directly on Biloxi Beach, making it easy to pop out for sunrises and sunset beach walks. 

The Roost Boutique Hotel in Ocean Springs, MS is another wonderful option. This polished boutique hotel offers chic quarters, a laid-back restaurant, and a covered terrace.

Accommodations in Alabama

Hotel Indigo near Orange Beach is a luxury boutique hotel with 62 spacious rooms offering views of Gulf State Park and the Gulf. Because it is so close to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach it makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby beaches.

Turquoise Place is a high-end beachfront property offering luxury condos with private balconies and hot tubs. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting direct beach access.

Helpful Hints for Your Beach Trip

What to Bring:

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Beach Towels: Essential for drying off after a swim.
• Hats and Sunglasses: Shield your face and eyes from the sun.
• Beach Umbrella or Tent: Create a shady spot to relax.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: Perfect for beach walks and exploring.

What Not to Bring:

• Alcohol: Not permitted on public beaches in Gulf Shores.
• Glass Containers: Avoid breakable items to keep the beach safe.
• Pets: Not allowed on the sand beaches in Gulf Shores.
• Tents/Canopies Larger Than 7’x7’x4′: Only allowed in designated areas.
• Motorized Vehicles: Not permitted on the beach.

Limitations and Costs

Parking: Many beaches have parking kiosks, with fees typically around $15 for all-day parking. Some areas offer free parking, so be sure to check ahead for your chosen beach location’s parking location and fees.

 Beach Access: Some areas may close during peak times or special events. Always check local regulations and beach flags for safety.

Let’s hit the beach!

It’s time to pack your bags and get ready for an adventure filled with sun, sand, and Southern charm. Alabama and Mississippi beaches await you with open arms!

Check out our blog about our visit to Gulfport, Mississippi and Dauphin Island, Alabama, then visit our Facebook page Curated Adventures to ask us how we can make your dream beach vacation come true!