Bay St. Louis, Mississippi Travel Guide: Coastal Charm Meets Creative Soul
Looking for a relaxing, artsy, and walkable coastal destination? A Bay St. Louis Mississippi travel experience offers all the beach-town vibes with a heavy dose of Southern charm. Nestled on the Gulf Coast just an hour from New Orleans, Bay St. Louis is known for its eclectic shops, vibrant arts scene, and scenic views.
It’s the ideal destination for romantic weekends, solo artist retreats, or small-town beach escapes.
Why Visit Bay St. Louis?
Bay St. Louis blends a relaxed pace with creative energy:
- Beautiful beaches and boardwalks
- Locally-owned shops and galleries
- Waterfront dining with fresh Gulf seafood
- A strong arts community with festivals and public art
Top Things to Do in Bay St. Louis, MS
1. Stroll Old Town Bay St. Louis
This walkable downtown is the heart of the town:
- Shops and boutiques featuring handmade art, antiques, and vintage finds
- Galleries like Gallery 220 and Mockingbird Café’s art wall
- Murals and sculptures tucked throughout side streets
- Second Saturday Art Walks: Live music, artist showcases, and extended hours every second Saturday
2. Relax on the Beach
Bay St. Louis offers a quiet alternative to busier Gulf beaches:
- Public beaches perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or sunset strolls
- Bay St. Louis Municipal Harbor: A scenic pier and marina
- Beachside bike rentals available nearby
3. Tour the Historic Depot District
The beautifully restored L & N Train Depot houses:
- Bay St. Louis Mardi Gras Museum
- Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum
- Visitor Center with maps, events, and history exhibits
4. Hit the Bay Trail
Walk, run, or bike the Bay St. Louis Beachfront Trail, a paved path that hugs the coastline and connects downtown to nearby neighborhoods and parks.
5. Take a Water Adventure
Try your hand at kayaking, boating, or fishing:
- Jourdan River and Bay of St. Louis
- Local outfitters offer rentals and charters
- Sunset and eco tours available
6. Visit Local Churches and Cemeteries
Discover the town's historic spiritual side:
- St. Rose de Lima Church: Known for its Afro-Creole history and stunning altar mural
- Old Town Cemetery: A peaceful, tree-lined site full of local stories
Where to Eat in Bay St. Louis
The food scene is coastal and creative:
- The Blind Tiger: Laid-back, open-air dining right on the beach
- Mockingbird Café: Great for breakfast, coffee, and art
- Thorny Oyster: Upscale Gulf Coast cuisine with a modern twist
Where to Stay in Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis has no shortage of charm:
- Bay Town Inn: Directly across from the beach
- The Pearl Hotel: Sleek and boutique near the harbor
- Beach cottages and Airbnb rentals: Great for families or couples
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and Fall: Ideal weather and fewer crowds
- Summer: Great for beach days and water sports
- Holidays and Second Saturdays: Fun local energy
Travel Tips for Your Mississippi Coast Vacation
- Park once, walk everywhere in Old Town
- Bring cash, many boutiques are local and small-scale
- Visit during Second Saturday for the full experience
Extend Your Coastal Journey
Tie Bay St. Louis into a larger Gulf Coast adventure:
- Head east to Ocean Springs, Biloxi, or Gulfport
Plan Your Trip
Explore events, maps, and travel tips at Coastal Mississippi Tourism.
Bay St. Louis invites you to slow down, breathe salty air, and connect with the artsy side of the South. Whether you want beach days, creative inspiration, or coastal cuisine, this charming town delivers it with a smile.
Start your Bay St. Louis Mississippi travel plans now and experience one of the Gulf Coast’s most creative and relaxing escapes.
