If you’re in search of a beach vacation that offers much more than just sun and sand, then you’ve got to check out one of the Southeast’s most beautiful hidden gems – the white sand beaches of Biloxi, Mississippi.
Biloxi is a popular beach destination that has been attracting tourists for decades. It is located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This region known for its vibrant culture and exciting recreational activities, in addition to its beautiful beaches.
In this post, we’ll give you an in-depth guide to Biloxi’s beaches, taking you on a journey of sun and sand so you can find the best places to dip your toes into the ocean.
East Beach
First, we’ll head to East Beach, located in Ocean Springs. Both locals and tourists love this beach, and for good reason. Unlike other Biloxi Mississippi beaches, East Beach is known for its quiet and serene environment. While it may not boast the same hustle and bustle as other beaches, it doesn’t lack in beauty or recreational activities.
East Beach stretches along the shoreline of Ocean Springs, giving you panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset or enjoy a quiet evening stroll. The beach is also a great spot for bird watching, with several species of shorebirds often spotted along the coast.
East Beach also offers various recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. You can also fish there, and the pier is a particularly popular spot for anglers.
If you’re there, be sure to check out Knuckleheads, a cool little local bar right near the beach.
Biloxi Beach
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and a plethora of activities, Biloxi Beach is one of the best beaches in the area. Whether you want to soak up the sun, enjoy water sports, or explore local attractions, Biloxi Beach has got you covered.
Biloxi Beach is a hub of activity. It offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. You can actually rent Jet Skis here, although it is a bit pricey.
You can also rent lounge chairs, and the beach is lined with beachfront restaurants, bars, and shops, adding to the lively atmosphere of the place.
If you’re a fan of history, the beach is home to the Biloxi Lighthouse, one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the US. It’s also just a short walk to Beauvoir, the historic post-war home of Jefferson Davis.
Moreover, the beach is just a short drive from the city’s vibrant, bustling casino scene.
Bay St. Louis Beach
Tiffany Bailey from New Orleans, USA, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away on the western edge of Biloxi, Bay St. Louis Beach is a tranquil getaway that offers a unique blend of relaxation and recreation. Known for its calm, shallow waters and wide sandy shores, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.
This beach is pet friendly, and many people love to take their dogs out for a walk here. There are volleyball courts and the water here is pretty clear overall.
The charm of Bay St. Louis Beach doesn’t end at the shoreline. Its quaint downtown area, just a short walk from the beach, is filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that boast some of the best seafood in the region. Spend your day exploring the local shops, then enjoy a sunset dinner right next to the ocean.
Harrison County Public Beach
Harrison County Public Beach, also known as Sand Beach, offers an unspoiled piece of paradise waiting to be discovered. This is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a quiet retreat, away from the noise and crowds. There is also a great boardwalk, as well as bon fire pits for rent.
One of the unique aspects of Harrison County Public Beach is its dedication to preserving the natural environment. The beach is home to a variety of wildlife, and it’s not uncommon to spot dolphins playing in the surf or pelicans diving for their dinner.
More recently, the county completed a Dune Grass planting project along 26 miles of coastline as well as along some other channels in the area. So overall this is one of the most unspoiled, natural beaches you’ll find here.
Waveland Beaches
Shawn Lea from Jackson, MS, US, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Waveland Beaches offer a unique blend of natural beauty and southern charm. Its quiet, clean beaches and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for families and those looking for a serene beach experience. There are over 5 miles of sand here to explore.
Waveland Beach is also home to the Buccaneer State Park, a popular destination for camping, hiking, and picnicking. The park features nature trails that wind through lush vegetation, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast. There is also a water park here you won’t want to miss.
If you’re looking for more great water parks in the area, check out my post on Family-Friendly Water Parks in Mississippi.
Front Beach
Next up on the list is Front Beach. This beach is located in Ocean Springs, which is just across the bridge east of Biloxi.
You can swim in the calm waters, sunbathe on the soft sand, or enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. The beach also offers water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. If you’re a fitness enthusiast, you can take a jog along the beach or practice yoga.
Ocean Springs also has a cool little downtown area you should check out while you’re there. They’ve got some great restaurants and little stores you can pop in for some local shopping. They’re also home to the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, dedicated to the 20th century painter Walter Anderson.
Jones Park
Jones Park is west of Biloxi, right on the main strip (Highway 90). It is kind of between Mississippi City and Long Beach. It is a beautiful, wide beach that’s great for spending a day on the sand.
Jones Park is also a family-friendly place. It has a boat-themed playground, picnic areas, and even a splash pad for children. The beach, with its soft sand and calm waters, is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. They’ve also got some volleyball courts for the older kids (or adults!).
Horn Island
Zach123abc, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The next stop in our journey is Horn Island. This untouched, rugged island has some great beaches that truly let you escape from the world. With no permanent inhabitants and few visitors, the island offers a tranquil retreat.
This island is only available via private boat, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Also, there are no facilities on the island, so come prepared. It’s best to bring plenty of supplies, like water, food, and sun protection.
The island is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sea turtles, birds, and even dolphins. You can spend your day exploring the island, bird watching, or simply soaking in the beauty of the place. The island is also home to some great fishing, so bring your gear if you’re an angler.
As the night falls, you can camp under the stars and enjoy the tranquility of the island.
The Bottom Line
Biloxi Mississippi beaches are truly hidden gems. With their pristine beauty, fun activities, and serene environment, they offer a perfect escape from the world. So pack your bags, put on your sunscreen, and get ready to explore these beautiful beaches. You’re sure to return with a treasure trove of good memories.
