Ocean Springs, Mississippi is one of the Gulf Coast’s most charming and family-friendly towns, known for its walkable downtown, beautiful waterfront, thriving arts scene, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Tucked just east of Biloxi, this vibrant community offers the perfect blend of history, nature, food, and fun. If you’re planning a family vacation, this guide answers the most commonly asked questions to help you make the most of your stay.
What Makes Ocean Springs a Great Place for Families?
Ocean Springs is often described as “small-town charm meets coastal adventure.” Families love the safe, walkable downtown district, quiet beaches, parks, and easy access to both outdoor attractions and cultural experiences. Unlike busier resort towns, Ocean Springs offers a peaceful environment while still being close to popular Gulf Coast vacation rental activities.
Where Should Families Stay in Ocean Springs?
Ocean Springs offers a variety of accommodations including:
- Vacation Rentals: Great for families who need extra space, kitchens, and privacy.
- Boutique Inns & Cottages: Located near downtown and perfect for walkability.
- Beachside Options: Some rentals and inns sit near Front Beach for easy beach access.
When booking through vacation rental platforms like ECBYO.COM, families can often save on service fees and enjoy direct communication with property owners.
What Are the Best Beaches in Ocean Springs?
While Ocean Springs is more known for its natural beauty and coastal charm than large beaches, there are several family-friendly shoreline spots:
Front Beach
Address: 399 Front Beach Dr, Ocean Springs, MS
A calm, scenic beach with shallow water, a fishing pier, paved walking path, and beautiful sunset views. Families love its quiet, relaxed atmosphere.
A calm, scenic beach with shallow water, a fishing pier, paved walking path, and beautiful sunset views. Families love its quiet, relaxed atmosphere.
East Beach
General Area: East Beach Dr, Ocean Springs, MS
Less crowded and great for long walks, birdwatching, and kayaking.
Less crowded and great for long walks, birdwatching, and kayaking.
Gulf Islands National Seashore – Davis Bayou Area
Address: 3500 Park Rd, Ocean Springs, MS
While there’s no swimming beach here, it’s a great place for trails, picnics, and wildlife viewing.
While there’s no swimming beach here, it’s a great place for trails, picnics, and wildlife viewing.
If families want a larger sandy beach day, Biloxi Beach is just a short drive across the Biloxi-Ocean Springs Bridge.
What Are the Best Family-Friendly Things to Do?
Ocean Springs offers a wide variety of activities for all ages.
1. Gulf Islands National Seashore – Davis Bayou
Families can explore hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and the William M. Colmer Visitor Center. Wildlife sightings are common, including wading birds, turtles, and even alligators.
2. Ocean Springs Railroad Depot & Historic Downtown
A walkable district filled with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and charming streets. Perfect for slow mornings, shopping, and grabbing local treats.
3. Walter Anderson Museum of Art
Address: 510 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS
This beautiful museum celebrates Mississippi’s coastal culture through the work of artist Walter Anderson. Kids enjoy the colorful murals and creative exhibits.
This beautiful museum celebrates Mississippi’s coastal culture through the work of artist Walter Anderson. Kids enjoy the colorful murals and creative exhibits.
4. Fort Maurepas Park & Splash Pad
Address: 191 Front Beach Dr, Ocean Springs, MS
A favorite for families. Features include a playground, splash pad, picnic tables, and views of the Gulf.
A favorite for families. Features include a playground, splash pad, picnic tables, and views of the Gulf.
5. The Ocean Springs Bridge Walking Path
Families love walking or biking across this scenic bridge, which connects to Biloxi. The views alone are worth the outing.
6. Local Charter & Nature Tours
Families can book:
- Dolphin-watching tours
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals
- Inshore fishing trips
These experiences offer a fun and educational way to explore Mississippi’s waterways.
What Are the Best Family-Friendly Restaurants?
Ocean Springs has an impressive food scene with plenty of family-friendly options.
The Tatonut Donut Shop
Address: 114 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS
A beloved local institution serving fresh donuts your kids will ask for every morning.
Address: 114 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS
A beloved local institution serving fresh donuts your kids will ask for every morning.
Aunt Jenny’s Catfish Restaurant
Address: 1217 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS
A classic Southern-style restaurant known for catfish, hushpuppies, and river views.
A classic Southern-style restaurant known for catfish, hushpuppies, and river views.
Leo’s Wood Fired Pizza
Address: 1101 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS
Great for families who want casual dining with consistently good pizza and pasta.
Great for families who want casual dining with consistently good pizza and pasta.
Pleasant’s BBQ
Address: 1415 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS
A local favorite for barbecue plates, sandwiches, and family-style meals.
Address: 1415 Government St, Ocean Springs, MS
A local favorite for barbecue plates, sandwiches, and family-style meals.
What Day Trips Are Near Ocean Springs?
Ocean Springs is perfectly positioned for family-friendly day trips:
- Biloxi – Casinos, large beaches, lighthouse, and the Mississippi Aquarium.
- Gulfport – Gulf Islands Waterpark, Ship Island Excursions, kids museums, and beaches.
- Pascagoula – Eco-tours and nature trails.
Everything is within 10–35 minutes, making Ocean Springs a great home base.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
For families, the best times to visit are:
- Spring (March–May) – Beautiful weather, blooming scenery, lots of events.
- Summer (June–August) – Peak beach season with warm water and long days.
- Fall (September–November) – Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, great festival season.
Winter is quiet but still enjoyable for mild-weather nature outings.
Final Thoughts
Ocean Springs, MS is a unique blend of coastal beauty, art, history, and outdoor adventure. Families will find plenty to explore, from calm beaches and wildlife trails to museums, parks, and delicious local dining. With its welcoming atmosphere and central location along the Gulf Coast, Ocean Springs vacation rentals offer an experience that’s both relaxing and full of discovery.
