Things To Do
in Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs is a charming coastal town located in Mississippi, United States. Known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant arts scene, Ocean Springs offers a laid-back atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. The town features a historic downtown area with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in the surrounding natural beauty of Ocean Springs.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Ocean Springs Beach, basking in the sun and enjoying the beautiful coastline. Relax on the sand or take a stroll along the shore while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Grab lunch at a local beachside café where you can savor fresh seafood dishes. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waters around the beach.
End your day with a sunset picnic on the beach, watching the sky change colors over the horizon. Enjoy a peaceful evening with the sound of the ocean as your backdrop.
Visit the Ocean Springs Museum of History for a glimpse into the city's past and cultural heritage. Explore exhibits that showcase local artistry and history.
Head to the local galleries like the Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center to view stunning artworks by regional artists. Take a moment to appreciate different forms of creativity as you wander through the exhibits.
Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant that features local art installations. Check if there are any evening art events or live music performances happening in town.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich cultural history and artistic community
- Pleasant climate for outdoor activities
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals
- Proximity to major cities like Biloxi and Gulfport
- Vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Higher humidity levels in summer months
- Variable public transportation options
- Potential for tourist overcrowding during peak seasons
Best Activities in Ocean Springs
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball at Ocean Springs Beach. The scenic coastline is perfect for relaxing or engaging in various water sports.
Explore the picturesque Back Bay of Biloxi on a bike. The scenic trails offer beautiful views of nature, wildlife, and the water.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters of the bay. It's a great way to see local wildlife and enjoy the outdoors.
Try your hand at fishing from the shore or book a local charter for deep-sea fishing. The area is known for its diverse marine life.
Spend a day at Ocean Springs Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or collect seashells along the shore.
Hike or walk the trails at the nearby Gulf Islands National Seashore, where you can enjoy stunning views and observe local wildlife.
Stroll around the city on designated art walks, where local artists showcase their works outdoors, blending culture and nature.
Participate in local beach cleanup events to help preserve the natural beauty of Ocean Springs while enjoying the fresh air and community spirit.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ocean Springs with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ocean Springs
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views of Shearwater Pottery, historic ocean springs, and the surrounding landscape.
Provides stunning panoramic views of the Biloxi Bay and Ocean Springs harbor, with picturesque photo opportunities.
Scenic location with diverse wildlife and tranquil landscapes, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic dish featuring fresh Gulf shrimp, typically served in a French bread with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a choice of dressing. Best enjoyed at The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint.
Must-Try!
A rich and flavorful stew made with a variety of seafood, okra, and traditional Creole spices, often served over rice. Don't miss trying it at Vestige, known for its creative take on Southern cuisine.
Ocean Springs' take on this beloved dish involves generous lumps of locally sourced crab meat, seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection. Head to Charred for a delightful rendition of this coastal favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market, held on Saturdays, is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local street food and indulge in the lively atmosphere.
A charming spot offering an array of delicious homemade pastries, soups, and sandwiches made using locally sourced and organic ingredients. It's a perfect stop for a quick and wholesome bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ocean Springs, it's common to greet people you encounter, whether you know them or not. A simple 'hello' or a friendly wave can go a long way in promoting a sense of community.
Ocean Springs has a rich cultural heritage, including arts and festivals. It's important to show respect and interest in local traditions, such as attending community events and engaging with the local art scene.
The community in Ocean Springs tends to embrace a laid-back lifestyle. While casual attire is acceptable, it's still important to be neat and respectful, especially in restaurants and public places.
Safety
Tipping in Ocean Springs
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ocean Springs, as in much of the United States, tipping is commonly practiced in service industries. Generally, it is customary to tip servers in restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill. For other services, such as taxis or barbers, tips typically range from 10-20%, depending on the quality of service. In bars, it’s common to tip $1-2 per drink. Tipping is considered a way to show appreciation for good service.
Payment practices in Ocean Springs reflect broader American trends. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular. Cash is still accepted, but some places may prefer electronic payment methods. Sales tax is added to the price of goods and services, which should be considered when budgeting for expenses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Hot and humid weather, perfect for beach activities and water sports.
Cooler temperatures, beautiful foliage, and ideal for fall festivals and outdoor events.
Mild to cool temperatures, fewer crowds, and great for enjoying holiday celebrations.
Ocean Springs at Night
Hiking in Ocean Springs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque park featuring hiking trails through wooded areas and along the Pascagoula River, ideal for nature lovers.
Offers trails and paths suitable for hiking, with scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Surrounding the Gulf Coast, this offers hiking trails with stunning views of the beach and marine life, perfect for adventurers.
Features a network of trails that explore diverse coastal ecosystems, with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Offers easy walking trails along the river, providing a great environment for birdwatching and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Aiports
How to reach Ocean Springs by plane.
Located approximately 18 miles from Ocean Springs, this is the closest international airport serving the area.
Situated about 70 miles away in Mobile, Alabama, this airport offers several domestic and international flights.
Located roughly 90 miles from Ocean Springs, this major airport serves the New Orleans area with extensive domestic and international connectivity.
Approximately 95 miles from Ocean Springs, this airport provides access to various domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 75% of the population identifies as White.
Roughly 20% of the residents identify as Black or African American.
About 4% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
Approximately 1% of the residents identify as Asian.
Around 2% of the population identifies as being of two or more races.
Less than 1% identify as other races.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is very popular in Ocean Springs, with high school teams competing at a high level and community support for local games.
Youth and adult baseball leagues are common in Ocean Springs, providing opportunities for local players to engage in the sport.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, with various youth teams and leagues forming in the area.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers, with local leagues and tournaments held throughout the year.
Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular pastime, with many residents participating in recreational fishing both offshore and in local waters.
Running events and community races are common, with residents participating in organized runs that promote fitness and community involvement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ocean Springs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Ocean Springs offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from hearty salads to plant-based versions of Southern classics. Notable places include The Greenhouse on Porter and Vestige.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can explore gluten-free options at various eateries in Ocean Springs. Vitality Bowls and Mosaic Tapas Restaurant and Bar are known for their gluten-free offerings.