On the Water

Ocean Springs sits right where Fort Bayou, Biloxi Bay and the Mississippi Sound meet, so the water is never more than a few minutes away. Spend the morning paddling past the shrimp boats, the afternoon walking the beach, and the evening watching the sun go down over the bay. These are the water moments we never get tired of, and the ones we hope you'll take home with you.

Allen & Christeen's Favorites

Dinner at Bacchus on the Bayou

Cajun and Creole cooking on a deck overlooking the water. Grab a table outside, order the oysters and stay for the light on the bayou.
705 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 · eatbacchus.com

Drinks and Bites at 701 Craft

Upstairs above Eat Drink Love, this cozy craft-cocktail bar has deck dining overlooking the water, plus shareable plates, pizzas and smash burgers.
701 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 · eatdrinklove701.com

A Stroll on the Front Beach Path

A long, easy walking path that runs along Front Beach, with breezes off the bay, views of the Biloxi Bay Bridge and plenty of spots to stop for a photo.
Front Beach Dr, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

Ocean Springs Marine Mart & Fresh Shrimp at the Harbor

Stop in for bait, ice and snacks, and ask how the fishing's going, because the Marine Mart folks always know. The shrimp boats usually tie up right next door, selling fresh Gulf shrimp straight off the boat when the season is on.
1320 Harbor Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

Sunset on East Beach

Head east along the water to East Beach for a quieter stretch of sand and one of the prettiest sunsets on the Coast.
East Beach Dr, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

Get Out on the Water

Paddleboard & Kayak Rentals at Wild Flier (Paddles Up)

Walk into the downtown shop, and they'll meet you at the harbor with a board or kayak. Look for dolphins off Front Beach or paddle the quiet waters of Fort Bayou.
1018 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 · wildflier.com

South Coast Sailing Charters

Sail Biloxi Bay aboard The Redwing, a beautifully restored sailboat for up to six guests. Daytime and sunset sails leave from the Ocean Springs Harbor.
Ocean Springs Harbor, Slip 46, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 · southcoastsailingcharters.com

Saltwater Therapy Custom Charters

Captain Marcus takes small groups out for inshore and barrier-island fishing, chasing speckled trout, redfish and flounder. It's great for kids too.
1320 Harbor Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 · fishingbooker.com/charters/view/7380

Ship Island Excursions

A one-hour ferry ride from Gulfport (watch for dolphins on the way) to Ship Island's white-sand beaches and Civil War-era Fort Massachusetts. Boats typically run mid-March through October.
Gulfport Yacht Harbor, Jones Park, Hwy 90 & Hwy 49, Gulfport, MS 39501 · msshipisland.com

Gulf Islands National Seashore – Davis Bayou

Marsh trails, a fishing pier, picnic spots and a visitor center, just minutes from downtown. It's a perfect place to spot herons and the occasional alligator.
3500 Park Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 · nps.gov/guis