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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…

2019 Mississippi Songwriter's Festival - Mosaic Ocean Springs

Monthly Events in Coastal Mississippi

By Patrick Clay on Mar. 23, 2021

We'realways celebrating something in Coastal Mississippi! From First Fridays to Second Saturdays and everything in between, you never have to look very hard to find a good time throughout our twelve coastal communities. As you plan your next escape to The Secret Coast, we've rounded up some of our favorite monthly events to keep your calendars full and your sense of discovery fulfilled…

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. …

Celebrate National Shrimp Day in Coastal Mississippi

Mar. 15, 2021

National Shrimp Day is May 10, and what better way to celebrate this bountiful delicacy than with a visit to what was once known as the seafood capital of the world ! Coastal Mississippi’s history, culture, and communities truly revolve around the Gulf of Mexico and its maritime and seafood industry. The Gulf Coast region produces 69% of the nation’s domestic shrimp, and 90% of species in the Gulf of Mexico nest in the Mississippi Sound. Where once stood rows of seafood processing plants and boat building facilities surrounded by endless mountains of oyster shells, you will now see attractions, excursions, and restaurants offering an opportunity to discover and devour The Secret Coast’s deep-rooted history with seafood…

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…

Discover the Mississippi Aquarium

By Patrick Clay on Mar. 07, 2021

Discover a world of natural wonders, right in your backyard! With the grand opening ofMississippi Aquarium in downtown Gulfport, immersing yourself in the incredible story of our state’s aquatic resources has never been more accessible or more fun. Located directly across from Jones Park on Beach Boulevard, the Aquarium offers an entertaining and educational experience for Coastal Mississippi residents and visitors alike…

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. …

Stay Safe and Shop Local

By Patrick Clay on Feb. 19, 2021

As we continue to prioritize health and safety, there's no reason why you can't protect yourself and others while still supporting local businesses - and lookgood while doing it! Stay safe and shop local by purchasing from any one of our partners listed below. …

Horn Island at Sunset, Oil on board, 1960. Permanent Collection, Gift of Mary Anderson Pickard

Meet the South's Most Elusive Artist in Coastal Mississippi

By Walter Anderson Museum of Art & Coastal Mississippi on Feb. 16, 2021

The Secret Coast is home to an abundance of hidden gems, rich culture, and an incredibly diverse natural world just waiting to be uncovered. If you’re looking to discover a place where nature, art, and history converge to offer a deep dive into what makes Coastal Mississippi such a special part of the world, look no further than the Walter Anderson Museum of Art (WAMA) in Ocean Springs…

Top Five Outdoor Adventures

Feb. 05, 2021

Feeling a little cooped up these days? We get it. Thankfully, nature trails, waterways, state parks,scenic campgrounds and more make Coastal Mississippi an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for safe, open-air experiences. Not to mention, the consistently warm weather allows for year-round exploration! Whether you enjoy kayaking, boating, hiking, biking, or just taking in the views of nature, there’s an adventure waiting for you on The Secret Coast. …

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