Looking for coastal charm, artsy vibes, and Gulf Coast sunshine? Head to Ocean Springs! This laid-back beach town on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast blends white sand beaches, live oaks, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you’re gallery-hopping downtown, kayaking bayous, or enjoying seafood with a sunset view, Ocean Springs delivers Southern hospitality with a creative twist.

Ocean Springs, MS Highlights:

  • Explore downtown Ocean Springs: Walkable streets filled with art galleries, boutiques, music venues, and sidewalk cafés.
  • Relax on Front Beach: Sandy shoreline with calm waters, picnic spots, and beautiful Gulf views.
  • Visit the Walter Anderson Museum of Art: Celebrate the life and work of one of Mississippi’s most beloved artists.
  • Hike or paddle in Gulf Islands National Seashore: Explore bayous, nature trails, and historic sites just outside town.
  • Catch a sunset at the Ocean Springs-Biloxi Bridge: Walk or bike across this scenic span with panoramic coastal views.

Best Time to Visit Ocean Springs, MS

The best time to visit Ocean Springs is in spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and outdoor festivals. Summers are hot and humid but great for beach days. Winters are quiet, mild, and ideal for relaxing escapes.

How to Get to Ocean Springs, MS

  • By Car: Ocean Springs is just off I-10, about 10 minutes from Biloxi and 1.5 hours from New Orleans.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT), about 30 minutes away.

Where to Stay in Ocean Springs, MS

  • The Roost Boutique Hotel – Stylish, upscale retreat just a short walk from downtown and the beach.
  • The Inn at Ocean Springs – Intimate bed & breakfast with coastal-chic decor and personalized hospitality.
  • Gulf Hills Hotel & Conference Center – Classic hotel on a quiet bayou with golf, tennis, and a storied history.

Best Things to Do in Ocean Springs, MS

⮕ Immerse Yourself in Coastal Creativity at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art

Immerse Yourself in Coastal Creativity at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art

© Walter Anderson Museum of Art

The Walter Anderson Museum of Art is located in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. The museum was dedicated in 1991 to preserve the works of Walter Inglis Anderson, known for his paintings of animals, plants and people, and his brothers Peter Anderson, a potter and James McConnell Anderson, painter and ceramist. The museum was the result of the initiative of the Friends of Walter Anderson, an organization chartered in 1974. The museum was built on Washington Avenue in Ocean Springs. The land was leased from Jackson County. The architect Edward Pickard designed the building in the style of the Shearwater compound. The Museum includes the public side that showcases Walter Anderson's artwork, the Ocean Springs Community Center Murals, and the private Little Room, which showcases art treasures discovered after the artist’s death in 1965.

510 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564, Phone: 228-872-3164

⮕ If You Crave Beachside Adventure, Explore Gulf Islands National Seashore

If You Crave Beachside Adventure, Explore Gulf Islands National Seashore

© Teressa L. Jackson/stock.adobe.com

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a protected area along the Gulf of Mexico barrier islands of Florida and Mississippi created to provide recreation opportunities and to preserve area’s natural and historic resources The protected areas include mainland areas and certain parts of seven islands. The Mississippi District of the seashore includes natural beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, historic sites, islands that are accessible only by boat, bayous, picnic areas, nature trails and campgrounds. The Davis Bayou Area is the only part of the Mississippi part of the National Seashore that is accessible by cars. Petit Bois, Horn, East Ship, West Ship, and Cat islands are only accessible by boat. The 4,080 acres Gulf Islands Wilderness, located within the seashore, has additional protection for parts of Petit Bois Island and Horn Island, Mississippi.

3500 Park Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564, Phone: 228-230-4100

⮕ Honor Heroes and Reflect at the Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Honor Heroes and Reflect at the Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial

© Gabriel/stock.adobe.com

The Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a magnificent black granite memorial built in 1996 as a tribute to the men and women who served in the Vietnam War. Located on the grounds of the Ocean Springs Civic Center, the monument consists of two black granite walls that face each other, engraved with the names of the 668 Mississippian soldiers killed in the war. There are also photographic images of many of the listed soldiers that are laser-etched into the granite. The memorial is surrounded by concrete limestone walls. The Memorial Site also includes the main mast of the USS Mississippi CGN-40.

3704 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564, Phone: 228-392-7190

Where to Eat in Ocean Springs, MS

  • The Tatonut Donut Shop – A local institution serving one-of-a-kind potato flour donuts since 1960.
  • Mosaic Restaurant & Bar – Global fusion cuisine, vibrant patio, and live music downtown.
  • Government Street Grocery – Casual spot for burgers, beer, and local music in a funky dive bar atmosphere.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival (November) – One of the largest fine arts festivals in the South.
  • Ocean Springs Mardi Gras Parade (February) – Family-friendly parade filled with floats, beads, and festive spirit.
  • Heritage Festival (Spring) – Celebrate local culture with music, food, crafts, and community fun.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes to 2 Hours of Ocean Springs, MS:

  • Biloxi (10–15 min) – Visit casinos, the Biloxi Lighthouse, or take a shrimping trip on the bay.
  • Gulf Islands National Seashore barrier islands (1–2 hrs by boat) – Catch a ferry to Ship Island for pristine beaches and historic forts.
  • Bay St. Louis (45 min) – Art-filled beach town with galleries, restaurants, and Old Town charm.
  • Pascagoula (30 min) – Explore marsh trails, visit the Round Island Lighthouse, or kayak the Pascagoula River.
  • New Orleans (1.5 hrs) – Take a day trip to the Big Easy for music, beignets, and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Ocean Springs located?
    • Ocean Springs is a city in Jackson County, Mississippi, about two miles east of Biloxi. It is part of the Pascagoula, Mississippi Metropolitan Statistical Area.
  • What is Ocean Springs known for?
    • It is known as an arts community. It has a charming historic downtown area, where streets are lined by live oak trees and are home to art galleries and shops.
  • What museums and cultural sites can visitors explore in Ocean Springs?
    • The Walter Anderson Museum of Art was established in 1991 to preserve the works of painter Walter Inglis Anderson.
  • What outdoor and historical attractions are in Ocean Springs?
    • The Gulf Islands National Seashore was created to provide recreation opportunities and to preserve natural and historic resources of mainland areas and certain parts of seven islands.
  • What memorials are in Ocean Springs?
    • The Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a tribute to the men and women who served in the Vietnam War.
    • Pershing Square, located in front of The Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center, consists of scores of engraved bricks honoring the Veterans who have served the country for the past 100 years.

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