Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Local Favorites Around South Mississippi: Ocean Springs
.svg/:/cr=t:0%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:100%25/rs=w:1280)
My Personal Guide to Ocean Springs
This Ocean Springs guide brings together some of my favorite local spots in one easy place. From restaurants and boutiques to beaches, bars, parks, and places to stay, this list highlights the locations I’ve personally visited and loved. It’s designed to make exploring Ocean Springs simple, whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or thinking about making this town home.
Clicking the photo takes you to a mapped list of all the featured locations, so you can see exactly where everything is and how close it all is. You can even save the map to your Google Saved Maps and use it to plan your own trip. If you want the local scoop or a guided tour of the area, just reach out. I’d love to show you around.
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
Little Children’s Park
A downtown playground perfect for toddlers and young kids. Features swings, slides, shaded benches, and plenty of space to run and play.
Fort Maurepas Park & Front Beach Area
This community green space sits right next to Ocean Springs Beach and Front Beach Park, making it easy to enjoy both sand and grass. The park has picnic tables, a playground, splash pad, restrooms, and open lawns for running around. A covered pavilion and outdoor stage host live music, performances, and special events throughout the year, creating a fun, family-friendly hub by the water.
Ocean Springs Beach & Front Beach Park
Open sandy areas ideal for building sandcastles, playing in the water, or relaxing by the shore. Often paired with Fort Maurepas Park, it’s a great spot for a full day of beach and park fun.
Weeks Bayou Nature Trail
A peaceful walking trail perfect for little adventurers to explore wildlife and enjoy a quiet stroll in nature.
Ocean Springs Harbor & Marina
Ocean Springs Harbor Pier & Public Docks
The harbor area is ideal for families who want to enjoy the water. Public piers and docks provide great spots for fishing or simply watching boats go by.
Ocean Springs Harbor Boat Launch & Marinas
Multiple marinas and boat launches make it easy to dock, refuel, or launch boats, kayaks, or jet skis. Some areas even allow short-term tie-ups if you just want to enjoy the waterfront.
Ocean Springs Harbor
The harbor blends practical boating access with scenic coastal charm. Families can stroll along walkways, watch the boats, drop a line for fishing, or just enjoy the sights and sounds of the Gulf.
Parades, Festivals & Local Events Worth Planning Around
Ocean Springs is known for doing events right. From Mardi Gras parades and the Witches Ride to art walks, farmers markets, and live music downtown, there’s always something happening that brings the community together.
📍  1000 Washington Avenue, Ocean Springs, MS, United States, Mississippi
📞 (228) 257-2496
The Ocean Springs Fresh Market is a weekly outdoor farmers market held right in the heart of downtown. It runs every Saturday morning from about 9 AM until 1 PM, rain or shine, in the parking lot near the historic L & N Depot on Washington Avenue.
Local farmers and artisans bring seasonal produce, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, flowers, honey, baked goods, cheese, handmade crafts, and more. The number of vendors can vary throughout the year, but you’ll typically find a lively mix of growers and makers each week.
It’s a wonderful spot for neighbors to gather, support local small businesses, and enjoy fresh local flavors right downtown.
Cruisin’ the Coast is the Gulf Coast’s largest classic car event and one of Mississippi’s most anticipated fall traditions. Held each October, this week-long celebration brings thousands of antique, classic, and custom cars from around the country to cruise scenic Highway 90.
With daily cruise-ins, car shows, live music, parades, and events stretching from Ocean Springs to Bay St. Louis, the heart of Cruisin’ is the relaxed, come-and-go atmosphere. It’s more than a car show. It’s a coast-wide celebration of community, nostalgia, and incredible rides by the water.
The Witches Ride of Ocean Springs is a favorite fall tradition that brings downtown to life each October. Adults in creative costumes decorate bikes, golf carts, and trikes, then parade through the streets tossing treats to families along the route.
More than just a parade, the event supports local animal welfare groups and often includes a full weekend of Halloween fun like a pub crawl and pet parade. It’s lively, family friendly, and one of the most magical ways to celebrate the season in Ocean Springs.
One of my favorite things about Ocean Springs is that everything is within golf cart or walking distance. Downtown, the beach, parks, bars, shops, and restaurants are all close by, so you can experience a full day without ever needing to drive. Let me show you the best route!
đź“Ť 1306 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 875-9922
A cozy, old-school steakhouse that locals swear by for perfectly cooked, juicy steaks. Great for a classic date night or special dinner — you’ll feel right at home with every bite!
đź“Ť 705 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 338-3189
Charming bayou-side restaurant with seafood, oysters, and southern classics. Perfect for an elegant evening with Gulf views and good conversation.
đź“Ť 1217 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 872-4564
A long-time favorite for seafood and steakhouses — I love this for date nights and special occasions because it feels like a celebration.
📍 2501 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 215‑3242
This is one of my favorite laid‑back spots to grab a brew and a bite. With dozens of beers on tap and a menu that hits all the comfort‑food notes (think fish tacos, shrimp and grits, burgers), it’s perfect for an easy dinner or a casual night out with friends. The outdoor seating makes it even better on warm Mississippi evenings.
📍 708 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 872‑8478
The Lady May is a beautiful blend of great food, stylish cocktails, and that special locals only know this place vibe. The indoor and outdoor seating are perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner — and the pet‑friendly patio is a huge plus. It’s casual enough for a long weekend lunch but classy enough for a date night.
đź“Ť 1107 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 334‑5708
A fun, laid‑back spot with Greek flavors, craft beer, and weekend live music. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with friends (or a lively date). Their loaded fries and hummus boards are always crowd‑pleasers.
đź“Ť 1010 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 818‑9885
Tapas, cocktails, and a great patio make this a vibe. Small plates are made for sharing and the live music scene is so neighborhood‑chic.
đź“Ť 1801 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 215-1689
Casual, outdoor-friendly spot for seafood and beer. Perfect with friends or family after a day exploring downtown!
đź“Ť 626 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 875‑0032
This is the date night spot in town — elevated food without pretension and one of my favorite places for a special dinner or anniversary night. Think fresh Gulf seafood, creative mains, and a cozy patio vibe.
đź“Ť 1801 Government St, Ste A, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 447‑4023
Classic brunch and breakfast done right. Their creative twists on southern favorites are perfect for relaxed weekend mornings — and the outdoor seating is chef’s kiss.
đź“Ť 1301 Government Street, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 215-1846
Best local coffee stop to kick off a weekend stroll, brunch date or casual meet-up. The vibe here is relaxed and welcoming, just like Ocean Springs itself. Great outdoor seating if you’re with your pup!
đź“Ť 1223 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 215-?
Mediterranean and coastal cuisine with lots of flavor and family style dishes. A unique pick that’s great for couples or group dinners.
đź“Ť 503 Porter Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 215-3311
A favorite for brunch and weekend meet-ups. Think big biscuits, hearty omelets, and a house-made vibe.
đź“Ť 701 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž (228) 217-7160
Great for a laid-back lunch, light dinner, or waterside cocktails. One of my go-to spots when friends are in town!
đź“Ť 604 Porter Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 285‑7989
This boutique gem feels like a cozy coastal hideaway. Steps from downtown and the beach, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway or staycation.
đź“Ť 604 Porter Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 217‑7160
Tucked inside The Roost, this speakeasy‑style bar is perfect for a nightcap or conversation‑level evening cocktails. Craft drinks in an intimate setting.
đź“Ť 13701 Paso Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 875‑4211
This historic waterfront hotel is classic Ocean Springs charm meets modern comfort. It’s one of the only spots where you can stay right on the bayou, step out to explore local boutiques and restaurants, and enjoy laid‑back poolside afternoons. Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway or visiting friends and family, Gulf Hills feels like a destination all on its own.
Sunset Lounge at Gulf Hills
đź“Ť 13701 Paso Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 875‑4211
Just steps from the lobby, the Sunset Lounge is one of my go‑to places for golden hour cocktails. The vibe here is relaxed and local — great for unwinding after a day of exploring downtown, listening to live music, or grabbing drinks before dinner. If you time it right, sipping a cold one while the sun dips low over the bayou might become your favorite Ocean Springs memory.
📍 1217 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
📞 (228) 875‑9928
This classic bar has old‑school charm and a feel‑good vibe that locals love. Live music, cold drinks, and a cozy atmosphere make it one of those places you just end up staying longer than planned after dinner downtown. A true Ocean Springs staple with stories to match the drinks.
đź“Ť 1213 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
đź“ž See website
A chic cocktail lounge with creative mixology. Great for date night or grabbing drinks with friends before you wander the rest of downtown.
Why Ocean Springs is Worth Exploring
Between downtown shops, Front Beach views, festivals, parks, and spots all within golf cart distance from our office, Ocean Springs feels like a Hallmark town come to life. Whether you’re here for date night, a family weekend, or dreaming about moving here, I’ll show you all the spots along with a local’s scoop on where to go first.
Call me and let’s spend a day touring the town. See for yourself why people fall in love with this Coast lifestyle.
