Searching for fun things to do in Biloxi, MS, or exploring Biloxi attractions for families, adults, and couples? Biloxi, Mississippi, is nestled on the Gulf Coast. This place is a hidden gem, offering entertainment, beachfront bliss, history, and culinary experiences. Whether you’re looking for free activities or luxurious weekend plans, this detailed guide covers all the top things to do in Biloxi and nearby areas. This coast boasts 11 casinos, pristine white-sand beaches, and a rich maritime heritage. The city is nowhere near as simple as most visitors think. My countless hours in this Mississippi treasure have shown me why it’s worth the one-hour drive from New Orleans or Mobile.
The destination ranks 9th among 72 local attractions with a solid 3.9/5 rating from over 1,100 people. The area looks more beautiful than ever after extensive restoration from Hurricane Katrina. The Biloxi Lighthouse rewards visitors with panoramic views while the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum tells the story of the region’s legacy as the Seafood Capital of the World. Tourists can join the popular Biloxi Shrimping Trip or marvel at Mississippi’s longest mosaic artwork along the Biloxi Bay Bridge. Each spot reveals something unique about this special destination.
Let me share my favorite hidden spots and activities that locals cherish but tourists often miss. You’ll soon experience Biloxi like a longtime visitor!
1. Start Your Day with a Sunrise at Biloxi Bay Bridge
The Biloxi Bay Bridge creates pure magic as the first light breaks over the horizon. This 1.6-mile marvel that connects Biloxi to Ocean Springs gives you one of the most breathtaking sunrise views along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. My regular morning walks here have shown me that nothing quite matches watching a new day begin from this elevated spot.
Best time to visit for sunrise views
The perfect sunrise at Biloxi Bay Bridge depends on timing. Local almanacs indicate a sunrise time of around 6:17 AM, although this time shifts throughout the year. My suggestion would be to get there about 25 minutes before the scheduled sunrise. This lets you reach the bridge’s highest point before the sun peeks over the horizon. The real show starts during “first light” around 5:52 AM. This pre-sunrise glow bathes the bay in ethereal blue and purple hues that photographers love to capture. You’ll see the complete transformation from night to day by arriving early.
Dawn’s vibrant colors create stunning reflections on the water below. The weekday mornings tend to be more peaceful with fewer visitors. Local regulars make this sunrise walk part of their daily routine, enjoying how each sunrise looks unique in color and intensity.
Your morning visit might reward you with some amazing sights. Watch for dolphins jumping in the water, shrimp boats heading out for their daily catch, and other early birds enjoying their peaceful morning start. The panoramic views stretch across the glistening waters toward the Gulf of Mexico, showing you Biloxi from an angle you can’t get anywhere else.
Where to park and access the pedestrian path
Starting your sunrise adventure becomes easy once you know where to go. Park on the Ocean Springs side of the bridge along Front Beach Drive. Look for spots between the Ocean Springs Yacht Club and the nearby convenience store. The city maintains a portable restroom in this area for added convenience. The pedestrian path showcases excellent design. After Katrina destroyed the previous structures, builders created a dedicated 15.5-foot-wide path for walkers and cyclists. A concrete barrier keeps pedestrians safe from traffic, making it secure despite being next to moving vehicles.
Starting from Ocean Springs means tackling an uphill climb first. This upfront challenge works in your favor since you’ll have fresh energy. The stunning bay view from the top makes every step worth the effort.
The bridge features three well-placed benches along the path. These spots let you rest or simply take in the sweeping views around you. Many people use these benches as photo spots or quiet places to reflect while watching the sunrise.
The path connects seamlessly to other pedestrian walkways being reconstructed along Highway 90, allowing you to extend your morning walk at your leisure. For those looking to explore beyond the bridge, the Coast Transit Authority’s Bike/Bus program offers added flexibility, with bike racks available on all fixed-route buses. Whether you’re a cyclist or planning a group outing, charter bus rental services in the area also provide a convenient option for exploring the Gulf Coast without the hassle of parking or traffic.
A few tips for your sunrise visit to the Biloxi Bay Bridge: wear layers since morning temperatures can surprise you with the bay breeze. Don’t forget your camera – these sunrise views rank among Biloxi’s most photographed scenes.
2. Morning Walks and Quiet Moments at Secret Beach Spots
The spectacular sunrise at the bridge sets the perfect mood to find those secret beach spots where locals start their morning rituals. These quiet hideaways showcase Mississippi’s coastline’s authentic charm, far from the tourist crowds.
Front Beach in Ocean Springs
Front Beach lies just beyond the Biloxi Bay Bridge. This beautiful stretch remains a hidden local gem that most visitors haven’t found yet. The beach pulses with a special energy as residents begin their day. Local life unfolds each morning as dog walkers and joggers create a steady rhythm along the 2.1-mile paved trail next to the shoreline. The wide concrete walkway gives everyone plenty of space. Anyone can enjoy this flat, easy terrain that takes about 36 minutes to walk both ways.
The water puts on quite a show during these early hours. Pelicans swoop down for their breakfast, dolphins play offshore, and shore birds dart along the water’s edge. Your eyes can feast on the Biloxi Bay Bridge, Deer Island, and the Mississippi Sound that stretches toward the horizon.
Fort Maurepas Park sits right on the path and has:
- A shaded pavilion (you’ll appreciate this since the trail has no coverage)
- Clean restrooms
- Plenty of comfortable benches
Early risers can grab delicious breakfast burritos and bagels from Lil Market nearby and enjoy them on the park’s benches. Nothing beats watching the coastal world wake up while you enjoy your morning meal. Ocean Springs welcomes dogs on Front Beach, making it perfect if you’re traveling with your four-legged friend. The beach keeps its relaxed vibe, unlike the busier commercial spots.
Henderson Point for peaceful strolls
Henderson Point sits between Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian as one of the coast’s best-kept secrets. The beach stays quiet most days, giving you an almost private slice of paradise. Soft white sand spreads wide enough to give everyone their own space. Even on busier days, you’ll feel like you have the beach to yourself. The summer water feels as warm as a bath, perfect for a morning swim.
Henderson Point gives you that real coastal peace you’re looking for. The beach welcomes you to:
- Take quiet walks along the shore
- Have family picnics away from crowds
- Fish right from the beach
- Check out nearby nature trails
The peaceful atmosphere at Henderson Point helps you slow down and unwind. Visitors often say they’ve found “the perfect place to unwind, relax and reload”.
You’ll find everything you need close to Henderson Point. Many places to stay sit within walking distance, so you won’t worry about parking. People love how this spot feels “close to everything needed” while staying peaceful and quiet. Henderson Point shows you why locals call this the “Secret Coast.” Beautiful natural spots wait for visitors who step off the usual tourist path. Starting your day here lets you experience a Mississippi Gulf Coast that most tourists never see.
3. Mid-Morning Exploration: Art, History, and Hidden Museums
Mid-morning gives you the perfect chance to head over to Biloxi’s rich artistic and historical heritage through its exceptional museums. The coastal temperature rises, and these cultural havens provide air-conditioned comfort while teaching you about what makes this Gulf Coast gem special.
Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art
The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum celebrates George E. Ohr’s legacy (1857-1918), nicknamed the “Mad Potter of Biloxi.” This museum stands out from others along the Gulf Coast with its stunning architecture, designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The campus showcases bold, intriguing structures that seem to “dance” with the ancient live oak trees across the 4-acre site.
The museum grounds feature five distinctive buildings that create separate yet connected experiences. Gehry’s stainless steel structures with twisted, flowing forms complement Ohr’s innovative artistic approach. The museum’s design thoughtfully incorporates majestic Live Oaks, which creates a seamless blend of nature and architecture.
The museum houses an impressive collection of Ohr’s pottery, known for its thin walls, metallic glazes, and twisted, experimental forms, which were groundbreaking for the late 19th century. The rotating exhibitions showcase contemporary artists who share Ohr’s innovative spirit. New visitors should check out the pottery classes at the City of Biloxi Center for Ceramics, which opened in 2012. The state-of-the-art ceramics studio lets you create your masterpiece.
Pleasant Reed Interpretive Center
Next to the Ohr-O’Keefe campus stands the Pleasant Reed Interpretive Center, which shows evidence of African American history in Biloxi. The center recreates the original house built by Pleasant Reed, a formerly enslaved man who built his own home in 1887. Reed’s original house stood for over 100 years until Hurricane Katrina destroyed it in 2005. The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum’s Board of Trustees voted in 2006 to rebuild the house and preserve Reed’s legacy. The exterior matches the original “shotgun” style home, while the interior now accommodates tours and exhibitions.
Reed’s story fascinates visitors. After emancipation, he brought his family to Biloxi looking for better chances despite facing prejudice during the Jim Crow era. His determination led him to build this home with his own hands, creating a lasting symbol of resilience. The exhibits show how an African American family with limited means lived in early 20th-century Biloxi, complete with period furnishings.
Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum
The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum tells Biloxi’s relationship with the sea. This 19,000-square-foot building preserves the maritime history that shaped this coastal community.
The museum’s grand atrium showcases the Nydia, a well-preserved 30-foot wooden vessel from the late 1800s. The exhibits cover:
- Shrimping and oystering traditions that made Biloxi the “Seafood Capital of the World”.
- The development of boat-building techniques unique to the Gulf Coast.
- Hurricanes affected the region, especially Camille (1969) and Katrina (2005).
The sort of thing I love about this museum is its connection to living history. They’ve built exact replicas of two 65-foot two-masted Biloxi Schooners, the Glenn L. Swetman and Mike Sekul. These vessels were crucial to oyster harvesting along the Gulf Coast from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Today, they sail daily and let visitors experience maritime heritage firsthand. The current museum building opened in 2014, replacing the previous one that Hurricane Katrina destroyed in 2005. This comeback reflects Biloxi’s strength in facing natural disasters.
Families with children can join engaging programs like the Sea and Sail Adventure Camp. Kids aged 6-12 learn about sailing, fishing, and maritime crafts. These three cultural treasures make mid-morning in Biloxi perfect for artistic inspiration, historical reflection, and maritime discovery – key experiences among all the things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi.
4. Lunch with a View: Local Eateries Near the Water
Feeling hungry after exploring Biloxi in the morning? The waterfront restaurants here are a great spot to take a midday break. You’ll find amazing local flavors and stunning views. The Mississippi Gulf Coast brings together traditional seafood with different cultural influences to create food experiences you won’t want to miss during your Biloxi visit.
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House takes you back in time the moment you walk in. This restaurant sits in one of America’s oldest buildings from 1835 and shows off beautiful Creole and Greek Revival architecture. Mary Mahoney, her husband Bob, and her brother Andrew Cvitanovic opened this gem on May 7, 1964, after they fixed up the historic Brunet-Fourchy House.
The elegant New Orleans-style courtyard makes this place special. A centuries-old live oak tree stands at its heart. You can eat under natural shade in the same space where presidents, celebrities, and millions of others have dined over the last 60 years.
The menu showcases local seafood and prime steaks. Their signature dishes are:
- Queen Ixolib
- Fresh Fish of the Day topped with Lump Crabmeat
- Sisters of the Sea Au Gratin
- Shrimp and Lump Crabmeat Gumbo
The food tastes amazing, but the warm service makes this place truly special. Mr. Mahoney himself often stops by tables to chat with guests. Mary Mahoney’s isn’t just a restaurant – it’s part of Biloxi’s culture that has helped shape the local food scene since day one.
Mikey’s on the Bayou
Mikey’s on the Bayou in Ocean Springs gives you a more laid-back lunch option with equally beautiful views. The restaurant sits right on Fort Bayou, and you can eat inside or under covered outdoor seating. The views will take your breath away. You might catch glimpses of local wildlife or watch boats drift by while you eat. This natural setting pairs perfectly with their fresh seafood menu. Locals call Mikey’s one of the area’s best-kept secrets for fresh catches. The waterfront spot means seafood goes straight from boat to kitchen. The staff treats everyone like family, which makes first-time visitors feel right at home.
Le Cafe Beignet for brunch lovers
Le Cafe Beignet brings Southern gourmet brunch with French flair to the old Biloxi Library building on Lameuse Street near City Hall. This historic landmark building shows off the area’s French roots. Real French Market beignets with café au lait steal the show here. The “King Cake” beignets are a must-try – they come filled with sweet cream and decorated with Mardi Gras-colored icing and sugar. These creative twists on the New Orleans favorite make great photos while you explore Biloxi Beach. The Southern breakfast menu will blow you away. They serve amazing dishes like shrimp and grits with smoked Gouda, tasty quiches, and flavorful omelets. High ceilings, archways, and bright spaces make the place feel more like an old Southern home than a restaurant. The restaurant announced they’re moving to a new spot as of April 2023. Finding their new location will be worth your time if you’re visiting Biloxi Beach Mississippi.
5. Afternoon Adventures: Kayaking, Shrimping, and Island Hopping
The water around Biloxi comes alive as the midday sun hits its peak. This coastal gem ranks among Mississippi’s top destinations, and the afternoon hours are perfect to experience the area’s maritime charm through activities that locals love all year.
Ship Island Excursions
Ship Island Excursions runs a passenger ferry service that takes you to one of America’s last untouched barrier islands, about 11 miles from the shore. The service runs from mid-March through October, and the beaches here are much more pristine than what you’ll find on the mainland. The hour-long boat ride is an adventure itself. Passengers often spot dolphins playing in the waves. The protected section of Gulf Islands National Seashore welcomes you with:
- Sugar-white beaches are perfect for swimming and shelling
- Emerald green Gulf waters with remarkable visibility
- Fort Massachusetts, a beautifully preserved Civil War-era brick structure
- Seasonal tours led by National Park Service rangers
Ship Island stands out because nature has kept it unspoiled and protected. Summer brings lifeguards to the swimming area, and you’ll find food service both on boats and the island. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent so you can relax in comfort.
Biloxi Shrimping Trip
The Biloxi Shrimping Trip lets you see how seafood makes its way from ocean to plate during an exciting 70-minute adventure. This marine experience happens in the calm waters between Deer Island and the Biloxi shoreline. The crew drops a 16-foot trawl to drag the bottom of the Mississippi Sound. Each net pull reveals the rich marine ecosystem that powers the region’s famous seafood industry. Besides shrimp, you might see blue crabs, flounder, stingrays, pufferfish, and squid in the catch. The guides make this trip special by sharing amazing facts about each creature they catch. You’ll learn that shrimp have 26 legs and come in white, brown, and pink varieties. The industry stays sustainable because fishermen catch only 9 percent of the available shrimp.
Kayak rentals from Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs offers great kayaking options for anyone wanting a closer look at the water. South Mississippi Kayak Rentals brings equipment right to boat launches in D’Iberville, Ocean Springs, and Biloxi. Wild Flier Paddle Board’s shop at 1018 Government Street rents both kayaks and paddleboards. They welcome walk-ins and provide guided paddles with local experts. A guide costs $50.00 plus regular rental fees. Everything Kayak Rentals works year-round and brings boats directly to your accommodation when you arrive. They’ll pick them up when you leave – perfect if you want to paddle whenever the mood strikes. Biloxi Back Bay’s calm waters make paddling easy for everyone. You can explore quiet inlets and watch coastal wildlife in their natural habitat. These kayak trips let you see Biloxi Beach, Mississippi, from angles most visitors never get to experience.
6. Golden Hour: Best Sunset Spots Along the Coast
The golden hues of sunset transform Biloxi’s coastline into a magical canvas as afternoon fades away. These enchanting moments rank among the most memorable things to do in Biloxi, Mississippi, for everyone who visits or calls this place home.
Biloxi Lighthouse area
The historic Biloxi Lighthouse has stood proud since 1848, creating one of the coast’s most iconic silhouettes at sunset. This 64-foot cast-iron structure symbolizes the city’s strength and serves as a perfect backdrop for photos. The beach near the White House Hotel gives you an unobstructed view that captures both the lighthouse and the colorful horizon. The lighthouse looks stunning as daylight fades, creating what locals call “a Kodak moment” against the vibrant sky. Camera enthusiasts can capture amazing shots from multiple angles. You should arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to find the best spot as the light changes. The visitor center’s parking lot across from the lighthouse provides easy access and excellent views.
The Bayou Restaurant and Tiki Bar
The Bayou Restaurant and Tiki Bar in Ocean Springs is a worthy match for popular beach spots. This hidden gem at 2411 Beachview Drive lets you watch the sun sink behind the bayou. Grab an outside table about 30 minutes before sunset to get the best experience. The bayou creates a peaceful scene with light dancing across the water. Local residents call this spot one of Coastal Mississippi’s best-kept secrets for sunset viewing. The place stands out because it blends natural beauty with comfort. You can sip handcrafted cocktails and enjoy fresh seafood while nature puts on its nightly show. The tiki bar adds a relaxed coastal vibe that makes it perfect for Biloxi beach activities.
Henderson Point beach
Henderson Point sits between Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian, offering spectacular sunset views along the Gulf Coast. The wide, white sand beach stays peaceful with few crowds, making sunset watching feel intimate. The Mississippi sky sometimes creates amazing sunset colors that look like an artist’s palette. You’ll see unbroken views across the Mallini Bayou while the Bay St. Louis Bridge creates beautiful silhouettes in the distance. The beach faces west, making it perfect for sunset viewing. Light usually stays until around 7:55 pm during spring and summer. Henderson Point gives you a quieter sunset experience than busy Biloxi spots—perfect for romantic evenings or peaceful moments alone.
These three special spots show different ways to enjoy golden hour on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. Each place offers its take on nature’s daily show.
7. Evening Fun: Ghost Tours, Casinos, and Local Events
The Mississippi coastline comes alive at night as Biloxi turns into an entertainment hub with something for everyone. Night owls can choose between spooky adventures and gaming thrills that create lasting memories.
The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour
Ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts will love The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour in Bay Saint Louis. This spooky trip shows off the mysterious side of Mississippi’s coastal history. The adventure starts at The Butcher Block Steak House and Bar. Guests should arrive 30 minutes early to sign waivers and grab optional drinks for the walk.
The 90-minute trip lets you find:
- The phantom awaiting at Cedar Rest Cemetery
- Civil War soldiers and “The Ghost Town of The Bay”
- The portal at The Train Depot leads to other dimensions
The sort of thing I love is that 80% of group transportation service experience something paranormal during their visit. The guides have a great sense of humor about it, too. They suggest leaving a good tip “if you don’t want the ghosts coming home with you”.
Beau Rivage and Hard Rock Casino
Biloxi’s world-class casinos offer non-stop entertainment. The Beau Rivage Theater’s 1,595-seat venue amazes audiences with cutting-edge sound and lighting. Big names like Santana, ZZ Top, Boston, and Tony Bennett have graced this stage. Hard Rock Hotel Casino keeps everything under one roof with multiple venues. Music fills the 1,500-capacity concert hall, and live bands play every Friday and Saturday at 9pm. The Center Bar makes a perfect spot to hang out with friends while talented musicians perform.
Seasonal events like Cruisin’ the Coast
Car enthusiasts should plan their visit for early October to catch Cruisin’ the Coast. The next show runs October 5-12, 2025. USA Today named it America’s #1 car show, and it pulls in gearheads from over 40 states and beyond. Visitors can enjoy cruise-ins, classic rock bands, a swap meet, and the CTC/Vicari Auto Auction. The event’s popularity means smart travelers book their rooms a year ahead.
8. Late-Night Eats and Drinks by the Beach
Night owls looking for refreshment and entertainment will find Biloxi’s coastal nightlife buzzing with unique venues. The city offers memorable late-night spots along the beach that go far beyond casinos and tourist attractions.
The Wilbur Craft Bar
The Wilbur Bar sits quietly in Ocean Springs and welcomes guests with a speakeasy-style atmosphere. A secret, swinging bookcase door welcomes visitors into a different era. This craft cocktail and wine bar welcomes guests until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays – perfect timing for that sophisticated nightcap. You’ll find charm in every detail at The Wilbur. The space features salvaged wood from 1894 and showcases block prints from prominent artist Walter Anderson. A hidden room behind the swinging bookshelf adds mystery, along with a mural of Al Capone, who reportedly owned an estate in Ocean Springs. Wine lovers can choose from at least 18 wines by the glass. The selection ranges from Dom Perignon to more approachable options like Cotes Du Rhone. The craft cocktail menu shines with creative drinks that bartenders prepare with precision.
Wilbur’s small but carefully selected food menu hits the spot late at night. The pimento and cheese burger (USD 13.00) comes on a jalapeño cheddar bun and ranks as a local favorite. Groups often opt for the build-your-own charcuterie platter that’s perfect for sharing.
Sharkheads and Souvenir City for quirky night stops
Sharkheads souvenir shop on Highway 90 offers a different kind of late-night adventure. The shop’s iconic 32-foot-tall shark mouth entrance draws visitors in. This Gulf Coast staple has grown since 1977 to become Mississippi Gulf coast’s largest gift shop. The three-floor emporium amazes shoppers with everything from beach merchandise to homemade fudge treats made right on the third floor. Locals call Sharkheads a must-visit spot, even during evening hours. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino rounds out the late-night scene. Sugar Factory stays open until 2:00 AM Sunday through Thursday and welcomes night owls until 4:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. The Mermaid Dive Bar also serves food and drinks until 4:00 AM.
Exploring Biloxi: Beyond the Tourist Trail
Biloxi is a coastal treasure that waits quietly beyond its famous casinos and main beaches. My time in this Gulf Coast gem showed me spots that locals love but visitors rarely see. You can watch dolphins play at sunrise near the Biloxi Bay Bridge or enjoy fresh seafood with water views at Mary Mahoney’s. These real moments create memories that last.
The magic of Biloxi flows through each day naturally. Front Beach welcomes early walkers, while the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum draws art lovers with its stunning Gehry design by midday. The sparkling waters beckon afternoon adventurers to Ship Island excursions and shrimping trips. The historic lighthouse area becomes a photographer’s paradise as golden light bathes the coastline.
The night scene fits every taste. Ghost tours reveal spooky tales, world-class casinos buzz with energy, and The Wilbur serves craft cocktails behind a hidden bookcase. This mix draws people year-round, no matter what they love to do.
Biloxi stands out from other beach towns because it stays real. This Mississippi gem keeps its soul through deep ties to sea life, food traditions, and southern warmth. The way it bounced back after Hurricane Katrina shows just how strong this coastal community is.
The next time you plan a Gulf Coast trip, look past the usual spots. The hidden gems and local favorites in this piece will make you feel like a longtime visitor to Biloxi. In addition, if you plaaning a group tour with friends or family rent a charter bus in Mississippi is the most convenient, safe & reliable option.
FAQ’s
Q1. What are some unique attractions in Biloxi beyond the casinos?
Biloxi offers diverse attractions like the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art featuring Frank Gehry architecture, the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum showcasing local maritime history, and Ship Island excursions for pristine beaches and Fort Massachusetts tours.
Q2. Where can I find the best sunset views in Biloxi?
For stunning sunset views, head to the Biloxi Lighthouse area, the Bayou Restaurant and Tiki Bar in Ocean Springs, or Henderson Point beach between Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian. Each spot offers a unique perspective on the Gulf Coast’s golden hour.
Q3. Are there any hidden beach spots locals recommend in Biloxi?
Locals favor Front Beach in Ocean Springs for its 2.1-mile paved trail and quieter atmosphere. Henderson Point is another secluded area known for its expansive white sand beaches and peaceful environment, perfect for morning walks or family picnics.
Q4. What unique dining experiences can I find near the water in Biloxi?
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House offers elegant dining in a historic setting with a beautiful courtyard. For a more casual experience, Mikey’s on the Bayou provides scenic views and fresh seafood. Le Cafe offers a unique Southern gourmet brunch with French influences.
Q5. What evening activities are available in Biloxi besides gambling?
Biloxi offers diverse evening entertainment, including The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour in Bay Saint Louis for paranormal enthusiasts, seasonal events like Cruisin’ the Coast in October, and unique nightlife spots such as The Wilbur Craft Bar with its speakeasy atmosphere and hidden room behind a bookcase.