Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Ocean Springs
Travelers stroll through downtown galleries, kayak Bayou La Croix, or picnic under ancient oaks. Fresh oysters, jazz nights, and coastal breezes define the rhythm of each day. Live music spills from patios while pelicans fly overhead. Ocean Springs combines culture with coastline in effortless harmony.
Top areas to stay at in Ocean Springs
Downtown Arts District
This lively district features murals, artisan shops, and frequent festivals celebrating local talent. Airbnbs in Ocean Springs’ downtown district include lofts above galleries, charming apartments, and walkable guesthouses. Visitors enjoy a bohemian energy close to restaurants and boutiques.
Front Beach Area
Stretching along the Gulf, this sandy section offers swimming spots, fishing piers, and scenic views. Vacation rentals in Ocean Springs’ Front Beach area include beach cottages, breezy verandas, and family homes with coastal access. Morning jogs and sunset walks become daily rituals.
Government Street Corridor
A hub for dining and nightlife, Government Street blends old buildings with trendy energy. Rentals in Ocean Springs near Government Street include stylish condos, vintage homes, and short-term townhouses. Guests savor cocktails, live shows, and easy downtown access.
East Beach Neighborhood
Quieter than its western counterpart, East Beach features marsh views, shady trails, and fewer crowds. Airbnbs in Ocean Springs’ East Beach area include stilt homes, bayfront hideaways, and porched retreats. Travelers find relaxation beside the water and birdsong.
Fort Bayou Estates
This residential area north of town provides golf course proximity, winding creeks, and elegant homes. Vacation homes in Ocean Springs’ Fort Bayou Estates include spacious villas, landscaped gardens, and calm cul-de-sacs. The neighborhood suits families and longer stays.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Ocean Springs
Walter Anderson Museum of Art
Honoring a Gulf Coast legend, this museum showcases the bold, whimsical works of Walter Anderson. Visitors explore murals, prints, and artifacts inside a modern gallery space. The building reflects his love of nature and form.
Ocean Springs Beach and Fishing Pier
Front Beach offers a family-friendly shoreline with a long pier ideal for fishing or sunset viewing. Guests swim, sunbathe, or snap photos of Biloxi’s skyline across the bay. Evening brings light breezes and calm waters.
Shearwater Pottery
Founded by the Anderson family, this working pottery studio sells handmade pieces in coastal styles. Shoppers meet artisans, learn processes, or browse local collections. The studio feels timeless and authentic. Shearwater Pottery connects art to Ocean Springs' roots.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Nearby Davis Bayou Area offers hiking, wildlife watching, and ranger programs in lush surroundings. Vacationers paddle through brackish water or observe gators from boardwalks. The park emphasizes conservation and outdoor joy. Gulf Islands enriches Ocean Springs' landscape.
Crooked Letter Brewing Company
A local favorite, this brewery offers craft beer, food trucks, and live music nights. Visitors tour the facility or lounge under string lights with seasonal ales. The taproom blends Southern charm with creative energy.
Ocean Springs Fresh Market
Open on weekends, this open-air market features produce, baked goods, and handmade wares. Guests sip coffee, chat with locals, and support Gulf Coast growers. The event reflects the town’s community spirit. Ocean Springs shares abundance each Saturday.
Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center
A former school turned arts venue, this center hosts theater shows, gallery exhibits, and culinary events. Travelers catch plays, attend classes, or browse heritage displays. The building itself carries historic charm. The cultural center deepens Ocean Springs' creative pulse.
Where to find a vacation rental near Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Biloxi, Mississippi
Just 10 minutes west of Ocean Springs, Biloxi is known for its beachfront casinos, seafood restaurants, and rich maritime history. Visitors can explore the Biloxi Lighthouse, visit the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, or enjoy nightlife at popular resorts like the Beau Rivage. Settle into a vacation rental in Biloxi with water views to enjoy the city's vibrant coastal energy. Biloxi’s lively coastal scene and entertainment offerings make it a dynamic counterpart to Ocean Springs’ artistic and relaxed vibe.
Gulfport, Mississippi
Roughly 30 minutes west, Gulfport offers family-friendly attractions and a laid-back beachfront experience. Travelers can visit the Gulf Islands Waterpark, the Mississippi Aquarium, or stroll along the scenic harbor. Enjoy your stay in a house in Gulfport just minutes from the shoreline and local cafés. Gulfport’s welcoming atmosphere and range of activities create a well-rounded coastal experience alongside a trip to Ocean Springs.
Mobile, Alabama
About an hour east, Mobile blends Southern charm with deep-rooted history. Attractions include the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, Bienville Square, and the vibrant Mobile Carnival Museum. Experience the city’s character from an apartment in Mobile near its historic downtown or waterfront. Mobile’s cultural depth and proximity to Ocean Springs add a historical and festive twist to a Gulf Coast getaway.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Approximately an hour west, Bay St. Louis offers a quaint downtown with boutique shops, local art galleries, and sandy beaches. Guests can enjoy waterfront dining, walk along the marina, or visit the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum. Choose a vacation rental in Bay St. Louis for a peaceful escape that still puts you near the heart of coastal charm. Bay St. Louis’s relaxed elegance and creative spirit make it a perfect pairing with Ocean Springs.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Just under two hours southwest, New Orleans provides a dramatic cultural contrast with its world-famous music, cuisine, and historic neighborhoods. Highlights include the French Quarter, Garden District, and City Park. Stay in a vacation rental in New Orleans nestled in a historic district to fully immerse yourself in the city’s soul. A day trip or overnight stay in New Orleans adds excitement and depth to a coastal retreat in Ocean Springs.
Explore diverse coastlines and discover cultural treasures in North America
Ocean Springs captivates with its serene beaches and rich cultural vibe, offering a perfect getaway for those who seek the soothing sounds of waves lapping at the shore. You can extend your beach adventures by discovering the sunny shores of California with airbnb in Manhattan Beach. Embrace the gentle breezes and subtle charm of Florida through vacation rentals Palm Coast and vacation rentals in Key Largo, where oceanic views and marine wonders abound. Don't miss the quintessential coastal towns nestled in North Carolina, with options for rentals in Nags Head that promise endless beachside relaxation and picturesque sunsets.
Enrich your travels with cultural heritage experiences beyond what this destination has to offer. The storied town of airbnb in Trois-Rivières in Quebec invites you to explore a blend of French history and modern vibrance along the majestic Saint Lawrence River. Dive into the rich Southern history encapsulated in holiday accommodations in Cartersville, GA, where you can visit the Booth Western Art Museum for a glimpse of Western artifacts. To experience the heart of southern charm, look no further than vacation rentals in Charleston, famed for its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and the historic ambiance of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.