Top Cool Down Treats in Coastal Mississippi

By Natalea Thomson on Apr. 16, 2021

With a year-round temperate climate and long summers, we relish our time outdoors in Coastal Mississippi. Though, all of the time spent outdoors beckons the need to cool down. And what better way to get cool than with cold, sweet treats? We've made a list of the Top Cool Down Treats here on The Secret Coast. From custards to cones and shakes to sundaes, get ready to visit them all because summer just began! The Yard Milkshake Bar The D'Iberville branch of this Gulf Shores chain consistently wows customers with its indulgent ice-cold treats of…

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A Gulf of Options: The Definitive Dining Guide to Coastal Mississippi

By Natalea Thomson on Apr. 06, 2021

As a coastal destination, the abundance of seafood is seenin the likes of fish, crab, shrimp, and oysters provided in droves by the generous freshwater tributaries of the Mississippi River and the salty waters of the generous Gulf of Mexico. The seafood industry plays an integral role in our regional cuisine, with over 200 species of fish and nationally-recognized oyster and domestic shrimp industries. But the tri-county region of Coastal Mississippi also boasts layers of flavor and influence distilled from the international communities who call its 62 miles of coastline home. Plus, our restaurant scene is a culinary roulette wheel, from fine dining to casual eateries, providing an intriguing pilgrimage for your palate. Discover the diverse restaurant scene that every visitor needs to experience…

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Coastal Mississippi: An Ideal Family Spring Break Destination

By Natalea Thomson on Mar. 22, 2021

No plans for Spring Break just yet? No problem! Coastal Mississippi is a family's paradise, providingpristine beaches, interactive attractions, and thrilling outdoor excursions the entire family can enjoy. Enjoy the week off from work and school exploring our 62 miles of scenic coastline.  …

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The Ultimate Guide to the Crawfish Music Festival

By Natalea Thomson on Mar. 09, 2021

Heading to the Crawfish Music Festival? A five-day festival with more than a dozen acts can be a bit overwhelming, especially when considering a crowd. Don’t worry, we’ve listed everything you need to know beforehand to make sure you have an enjoyable and safe time enjoying headline entertainment, hot boiled crawfish, and exciting mid-way rides at Coastal Mississippi’s premiere spring event! The Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center has established COVID-19 protocols, including limited capacity, to ensure the health and safety of all…

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Coastal Cravings: Find the Best Boiled Crawfish

By Natalea Thomson on Feb. 23, 2021

Crawfish, Crayfish, Crawdads, Mudbugs...different names for thesame delicious food. Here in Coastal Mississippi, we like our crawfish boiled, served by the pound, with an extra set of napkins; spicy or mild; with potatoes, corn, and often times sausage, onions, peppers, and the occasional green beans and brussels sprouts. As soon as crawfish season opens in February, lines form out the doors of restaurants with hungry mouths waiting to "pinch the tails and suck the heads" of the bright red crustaceans. To let you in on one of our secrets, we've compiled a list of the best restaurants in Coastal Mississippi for fresh, boiled crawfish. As of 3/4/21, masks are no longer mandated by the state, but following safety guidelines outlined by the Mississippi State Department of Health such as wearing masks and practicing social distancing is still recommended. Before visiting, we encourage you to check with individual businesses on any potential changes to their availability and/or hours, but rest assured Coastal Mississippi is working diligently with our partners to ensure your safety and health is the top priority. Find out how in our Destination Promise of health and safety. ​…

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Extend Your Stay on The Secret Coast

By Natalea Thomson on Feb. 09, 2021

As the meetings industry begins to reopen its doors to conferences and events, Coastal Mississippi is keeping the health and safety of all of our visitors top of mind. In addition to the protocols outlined in our Destination Health Promise, the 62 miles of scenic shoreline found on The Secret Coast beckon you to explore, safely, with plenty of room to roam and endless possibilities for discovery. And with twelve coastal communities, 24/7 gaming, 26 miles of sandy beaches, and a variety of attractions, you'll *have* to extend your stay after…

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Best Al Fresco Dining in Coastal Mississippi

By Natalea Thomson on Jan. 11, 2021

What pairs best with authentic coastal cuisine? Outdoor ambience! In addition to the best fresh-caught seafood and the most innovative menus you’ll find in the Southeastern United States, Coastal Mississippi boasts a variety of restaurants with incredible al fresco dining experiences. Al fresco dining, or dining outside, is the preferred method of eating on the coast, whether it be a quick solo lunch or a shared family meal. Enjoy a shrimp po-boy as you watch the waves roll in from the Gulf of Mexico, or savor chargrilled oysters over…

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Date Night Ideas

By Natalea Thomson on Jan. 10, 2021

Looking to get away with your sweetheart this Valentine's Day? Consider Coastal Mississippi as your backdrop for rest, relaxation, and romance. And maybe some adventure thrown in! With 62 miles of coastline to explore, we have enough to see and experience to keep your itinerary booked and your passion kindled. Our breadth of beaches, boating, and fishing excursions are perfect for adventure seekers, while our history trails, birding opportunities, and eco-tours suit our nature enthusiasts. If it’s a weekend of leisure you seek, our list of…

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Coastal Mississippi's Guide to The Peter Anderson Festival

By Natalea Thomson on Oct. 14, 2020

Are you planning on attending the South’s premiere arts and crafts festival? You should! Mark your calendars for November 7-8, 2020 for the 42nd Annual Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival presented by Blue Moon. We’ve crafted our own How-To guide to ensure you navigate Coastal Mississippi’s biggest festival like a pro. Before visiting, we encourage you to check with individual businesses on any potential changes to their availability and/or hours, but rest assured Coastal Mississippi is working diligently with our partners to ensure your…

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Work Hard, Play Harder in Coastal Mississippi

By Natalea Thomson on Aug. 25, 2020

Working from home is the new normal for many of us. We’ve traded our office desks and watercooler chats for Zoom meetings from the kitchen table. And though this new work environment has its benefits, staying in one space day in and day out has delivered a big dose of quarantine fatigue. Solution? A new, exciting workspace! Coastal Mississippi has 12 charming coastal communities spread across 62 miles of scenic shoreline – plenty of room to roam in between those virtual meetings. Easily accessible by car, you can enjoy the elements of The Secret Coast while increasing your work productivity and shedding your monotonous routine. You can work hard and play even harder, and no one needs to know that you are technically on vacation. We won’t tell if you won’t. Before booking, we encourage you to check with individual businesses on any potential changes to their availability and/or hours, but rest assured Coastal Mississippi is working diligently with our partners to ensure your safety and health is the top priority. Find out how in ourDestination Health Promise. …

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