Finding calm during spring and summer can seem impossible without going to some far-flung destination, or one of those woo-woo retreats in the middle of the jungle.
We all know how those turn out…
But finding your Zen doesn’t require an investment in crystals or taking out a loan to reserve a “limited time” special for that very last spot on said retreat.
You can just keep it simple and go to The Gulf.
No, not that Gulf where every country seems to be under tight security alerts.
We’re talking about the South. And it turns out you don’t even have to go to Florida like everyone seems to do this time of year…
A local report claims Mississippi specifically is bracing for a busy spring season.
Being the South’s trendiest beach getaway, our expert team at Travel Off Path did some hefty digging to uncover 3 unknown beach towns waiting to be discovered, while the rest of the state is expected to be jam-packed with tourists, especially with fun events on the docket, such as the Clash Coastal Mississippi triathlon, Gulf Coast Grand Prix, and Truckin’ the South.
Pass Christian: Mississippi’s New Resort Destination
When we say the Mississippi Coast will be “jam-packed”, we largely mean Biloxi.
That said, with Amtrak’s surging Mardi Gras route, there’s a handful of Mississippi stopping points that have become more popular as well, such as Bay St. Louis and Pascagoula, Jimmy Buffett’s hometown.
But certainly not Pass Christian, though it has made headlines for its latest attraction.
The Pass Bungalows put Pass Christian on southern travelers’ radar as a brand new ‘coastal retreat’, though not the kind we just touched on…
There are no gimmicks, just scenic harbor views, steps from white sand, and a pool and tiki bar to die for when you’re not cozied up in your spacious room of this all-suite resort.
Before the bungalows had their fabulous grand opening, Pass Christian was largely a pass-through town along the waterfront Highway 90 on the way to Biloxi.
Not anymore. It’s the destination, yet it still flies under the radar.
Whatever you do, book a stay at Pass Bungalows, spend a day at Henderson Park, and make time to feast at Kimball Seafood (near-perfect Google rating!).
Long Beach: Mississippi’s Most Laid-Back Beach Town
You may know the Long Beach Dr. Dre rapped about, but even some Mississippi locals aren’t aware of this hidden gem next door to Gulfport.
As Amtrak has planted more small towns on the map, Long Beach is now the pass-through town Pass Christian used to be.
And they have no problem being a sleepy coastal town. While locals may claim “there’s not much to do here”, that’s part of the appeal, being so close to Gulfport, Biloxi, and other up-and-comers.
But if you’re craving a quiet beach day, whether to work on your tan in peace or cast a reel and let your stress melt away, Long Beach is just the place.
Plus, it’s a little quirky (aren’t we all?).
Its claims to fame have been one of America’s Friendliest cities and the world’s Radish Capital, even holding an annual Radish Festival (April 18, 2026).
I guess there’s something for everyone…
Away from its gleaming white shoreline, you’ll find a quaint townscape brimming with delightful shops and down-home seafood eats without the touristy vibes.
It may not be home to swank new bungalows, but it’s home to The Inn Of Long Beach, a serene waterfront hotel with rave reviews and affordable rates throughout spring.
Waveland: Family-Fun Waterparks & Crowd-Free Beaches
Perhaps Mississippi’s least-known beach is Waveland, a town that lives up to its name in more ways than one.
First, this town is all but guaranteed not to have a crowd in sight along its blissful coastline.
And that leads to our second point — because they’re all likely having a blast at Buccaneer Bay Waterpark, offering a wave pool and thrilling slides to cool off on a fun day under the sun.
The waterpark is currently closed but reopens late spring — May 23rd to be exact.
Located within Buccaneer State Park, there’s arguably no place better in the state to catch a sunset or find hidden coves all to yourself.
But the best beach spot in town is undoubtedly Waveland Avenue Beach. Just be aware many reviews mention shark sightings, so this is a place best enjoyed at a distance since the trade-off to most of Mississippi’s white-sand coast tends to be cloudier waters — with the exception of Ship Island.
Stacie Harris is a local resident and reporter of the Maple Grove area. Stacie reports on medicine and science for the Maple Grove Report.
