From party destinations to quaint hideaways, the Gulf Coast is home to a variety of enticing beach towns.
When you ’ve had your filling of NOLA’smany wonderment , there ’s no proficient way to escape than to attempt refuge at one of the many stunning beaches located a curt effort out . Long held as a favored getaway for local families , the Gulf Coast ’s gorgeous beach have been hear by a growing figure of leisure visitors , many of whom number from across the body politic to enjoy super soft , ashen Amandine Aurore Lucie Dupin beach and the warm , calming urine of the Gulf of Mexico .
Best of all , once you ’ve had your fill of beachy sport , you could still get back in fourth dimension for a recent dinner party at one of novel Orleans’sbest restaurantsor a nightcap at a greatbar . Or possibly you ’ll want to make a weekend out of it by spending a night or two at one of these worthy destination , enjoying the locally - inspired food and swallow , not to cite a big older dose of southerly cordial reception . Just about every beach lay title to being the Gulf ’s best and most inviting , so get out there , down some drinks while working on your tan , and choose your favourite from this list of the best beaches near New Orleans .
Bay St. Louis
Distance from New Orleans : One hourRecognized as one of the best pocket-size beach towns in the state , this unique destination embraces the inheritance of the Coastal Mississippi realm . The public beach has free parking and offers calm , warm body of water and white Amandine Aurore Lucie Dupin .
There ’s only a fistful of charge options , the most notable of which might beThe Pearl , a dress shop hotel with 59 luxury suites and an acclaimed eating place , Thorny Oyster . TheBay Town Innprovides a charming seam and breakfast experience with a coastal vibe .
Dining standouts execute the gamut fromStarfish Cafe’shealthy transportation andSycamore House’sfine dining toThe unreasoning Tiger’sbreezy outside setup . Be sure to checker outThe Mockingbird Cafe , celebrated for its homemade brunch menu and eclectic gallery .
Pensacola Beach|Photo courtesy of Visit Pensacola
Pass Christian
length from New Orleans : One hour and 15 minutesKnown by some as “ The Pass , ” this quaint beach is a good option for escaping the crowds and find out some peace and quiet by the Gulf . The small , walkable town is filled with historic homes , old oak tree Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree , and magical local businesses .
Fun and quirkyCat Island Coffeehouseis a must - visit for its curated pick of books and nice view of the Mississippi Sound . Located in the nub of the harbor is the originalShaggy ’s , popular for its island - trend atmosphere , water views , and deep ocean fishing charter . Bacchus on the Beachserves up impudent oysters , muffulettas , and other mouthpiece - watering fare .
This being a diminished Ithiel Town , lodging selection are modified . Hotel Pass Christianis a ten - room boutique option overlooking the harbor , andHotel Whiskeyis a comfortable , low-priced choice with a modern steakhouse on its land degree .
Photo courtesy of Coastal Mississippi CVB
Biloxi Beach
Distance from New Orleans : One 60 minutes and 30 minutesMississippi has 62 miles of shoreline lined with unequalled community — but none are better known than Biloxi . The soft blank sands along Biloxi Beach are idealistic for family unit , as roadblock islands help keep the waters calm , shallow , and perfect for swim . While the beaches are nice enough , it ’s Biloxi ’s refuge life and action that lures the majority of visitors . If you ’re up for a party weekend with a pocket billiards smash , concert , or bountiful - ticket dinner , follow the gang to theBeau Rivage CasinoorHard Rock Hotel and Casino , both of which are located on the beachfront .
Biloxi is packed with notecase - friendly counter and fast food options , but the unspoiled chuck can be find at berth likeHalf Shell Oyster House , notable for its New Orleans - inspired dishes;White Pillars , which serves a crew - pleasing mix of coastal cuisine from the Gulf and New American dishes in a high-flown Hellenic resurgence - style mansion ; andMcElroy ’s Harbor House , a favorite for seafood with water views .
A handful of recently launched attractions and experiences have helped bestow new visitant to the sphere . In junction with theMaritime & Seafood Industry Museum , Biloxi Schoonerstakes the public on a journeying through 300 eld of chronicle — Biloxi was once known as the “ Seafood Capital of the World”—including a seafaring excursion in a historic huitre schooner . Margaritaville Resort Paradise Pier Fun Parkis a theme common with 15 maritime - themed ride and three restaurants all located on top of a monumental pack of cards with scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico . euphony lovers are discoveringGround Zero Blues Club , which showcases both national turn and local talent , and is co - owned by Mississippi - native Morgan Freeman .
Ocean Springs, Mississippi|Photo courtesy of Adventures of Matt and Nat
Ocean Springs
Distance from New Orleans : One minute and 30 minutesThis historic coastal town provides a far more relaxed ambiance than Biloxi , whose mega - casinos feel much further than just five miles away . The idyllic business district — less than a knot from Front Beach , a two - Swedish mile stretch of soft white Baroness Dudevant — is lined with one - of - a - kind store and C - old live oaks .
merry crowds arrive for annual events like thePeter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival , the largest all right humanities festival in the state . Other artsy highlights let in theWalter Anderson Museum of ArtandShearwater Pottery . James Beard Award - nominatedVestigesets a high culinary bar with its intricate , ever - changing tasting menus . eatable delights can also be find at the topically inspiredEvergreen — an exciting gain to the local dining fit — plusTatonut Donut Shop , Blue Dog Bistro(for breakfast and brunch ) , andMurky Waters BBQ .
The Hemingwayis a offbeat hotel nestled in the heart of downtown ; housed inside a historical bank building , each of the four guest room has its own flair and personality . Dating back to 1927 , theGulf Hills Hotel & Resortis known for having hosted the likes of Elvis Presley , Marilyn Monroe , and Al Capone . The Roostis an upscale boutique option within walk space of the beach and business district , andThe Springsis a charming , 15 - room newcomer to the local hospitality landscape painting .
Ship Island|Photo courtesy of Coastal Mississippi Tourism
Gulfport
Distance from New Orleans : One hour and 30 minutesThe second - large city in Mississippi extend nicely maintained beaches with soft lily-white sand and waters that are clean but a second darker than what you ’d find at the more famous beaches to the due east . Once you ’ve had your fill of beachtime , take a boat pleasure trip out to historic Ship Island — a roadblock island situate 12 mile off the coast that ’s part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore — or stick around and explore the eclectic downtown , have an ever - develop public art prospect in an old fishmonger ’s alleyway .
In go on with the water theme , key attractions let in theMississippi Aquarium(a recently open pedestrian bridge circuit over Highway 90 safely connect the fish tank to the beach),Institute for Marine Mammal Studies , andGulf Islands Water Park — the largest waterpark on the glide offer 11 dissimilar attractions , each incorporating regional landmarks . Myriad inexpensive chain hotels make up the bulk of the area ’s living accommodations option ; theCourtyard by MarriottandHoliday Inn Expressput you right across from the beach , whileThe Almanettis the best wager for a boutique arrest . For a more immersive stay powerful across from the beach , consider historicCentennial Plaza , a 48 - acre resort coordination compound housed in a former military initiation with an on - site waterpark .
Similar to NOLA , Gulfport ’s amusement district , which cover much of the waterfront , harbor , and downtown , allows patrons to leave a restaurant or bar with alcohol-dependent drinks in a go - cup . Popular berth for fresh seafood and good clip includeShaggy’s , The Chimneys , andPatio 44 .
Photo courtesy of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Distance from New Orleans : Three hours and 15 minutesDon’t sopor on the Alabama coast , 32 miles of soft livid sand made up of humiliated vitreous silica washed down over M of old age from the Appalachian Mountains . The most celebrated beaches can be found at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach , two communities that are situate six naut mi from one another , separated by family - favorable Gulf State Park . With their beautiful white-hot George Sand beaches — Gulf Shores is bombastic and bid more coastline than Orange Beach — both ordinarily extend a more relaxed ( and blue - price ) option than the Florida beaches nearby .
Gulf Shores Public Beach is by far the independent draw in town , close to scores of play bar and perfunctory restaurants . Longtime faves includeThe Hangout , Pink Pony Pub , andThe Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails . Over in Orange Beach , the possessor of the world - famousFlora - bamahave opened a novel beachfront dining choice , CoastAL Orange Beach , offering beautiful eyeshot and two disjoined dining option ( upscale and quick bar bites ) . Also popular : the huge patio atCobalt , The Restaurant , and just - caught seafood atThe Gulf , which is housed in shipping containers . For a taste of NOLA , Orange Beach has its very ownRuby Slipperoutpost , serving up brunch treats in flair .
combat-ready travelers are flocking to the nationwide - laudedHugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail , a 28.2 naut mi set of pedal trails through Gulf State Park that offers a free bike - share armed service for easy access . Another popular local pursuit is chartering a boat for some sportfishing or dolphin view .
Photo courtesy of Visit Pensacola
The destination is occupy with chain hotel spanning all price levels . Among the most pop alternative are thePerdido Beach Resortin Orange Beach and theBest Western on the Beachin Gulf Shores .
Pensacola Beach
Distance from New Orleans : Three hours and 15 minutesAs part of theGulf Islands National Seashore — the large protect stretch of seashore in the US — Pensacola feature more than 18 mi of winding , pristine coastlines of emerald waters and Akko of preserved forestry . These beaches , which have been rank among the best in the country , appeal a varied mix , from grizzled beach tramp and fishing enthusiasts to wildlife fan and environmentalists . The sugar - clean sand and clear piss offer endless opportunities for purdah , especially when enjoyed as part of a bike ride or kayak trip .
chronicle buff have stack to explore , as Pensacola was established in 1559 , making it one of America ’s oldest settlement . The area ’s Creole influence can be discover in architecture throughout the historic downtown , which boasts a thriving cultural scene . After a almost three - yr stoppage , Naval Air Station Pensacolahas reopened to the public , once again allowing access to popular destinations such as the National Naval Aviation Museum and Fort Barrancas . In 2024 , visitant can feel thePensacola Beach Air Showfeaturing the Blue Angels on July 10 - 13 , or beguile one of the practice on various dates in June , July , and August .
The epicenter of the party fit can be found at historicCasino Beach , which is well-fixed to find — just look for the giant water column painted to look like a beach musket ball . There ’s stack of spare parking , plenteousness of vital eat and drinking spots ( Shaggy’s , Crabs on the Beach , Casino Beach Bar ) , and it ’s BYOB . ( Head to the alcohol - devoid geographical zone just slenderly west for more of a low - key , family - well-disposed vibe . ) For the full experience , arrange up a al-Qaeda camp at one of the beach ’s large - scale hotels , most notably the recently rebrandedPensacola Beach Resort(formerly cognise as the Margaritaville Beach Hotel ) or the unexampled $ 75 millionFairfield Inn & Suites , which features the Gulf Coast ’s largest slothful river .
Photo courtesy of Destin-Fort Walton Beach
Navarre Beach
Distance from New Orleans : Three hour and 45 minutesLong overshadowed by Pensacola — its better - known neighbour around 20 miles to the Rebecca West — Navarre Beach has been discovered by a uprise number of leisure travelers in recent years . The small , unincorporated residential district bills itself as “ Florida ’s Most Relaxing Place , ” and with the area ’s pristine natural beauty and compass of year - round outdoor activities , it ’s concentrated to indicate .
From water activeness in emerald gullible weewee to sportfishing , biking , and hiking , Navarre has something for every nature lover , without the sort of crowds found at the Gulf ’s busier beaches . In addition to the 12 miles of shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico , there are several naut mi of beach within theNavarre Beach Marine Sanctuaryand theGulf Islands National Seashore .
Eco - tourism has become a key number one wood among visitant who have been draw to the legion wildlife sanctuaries , conservation centers , and rehabilitation heart that have open in the country this century . Highlights include theEmerald Coast Wildlife Refuge , Navarre Beach Marine Science Station , Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center , Panhandle Butterfly House , and theSandspur Wildlife Sanctuary .
No sojourn is complete without a amble along theNavarre Beach Fishing Pier , and if the mood hit you could rent a perch and join the crowd on the longest ( 1,545 feet ) angle dock on the Gulf of Mexico and in the nation of Florida .
When it comes to accommodations on or near the beach , visitors can choose from a handful of chain hotel ( Best Western , Hampton Inn , SpringHill Suites by Marriott ) as well as a range of vacation rental .
Dining highlights — all casual and feature new , locally caught seafood — includeTC ’s Front Porch , Scooter ’s Fish House , Dewey Destin ’s Navarre , andEast Bay Crab House .
Destin-Fort Walton Beach
Distance from New Orleans:4 hoursThose who trek all the way to the Destin - FWB area are rewarded with more than 20 miles of whitened backbone beaches and emerald green Ethel Waters occupy with all form of wonders . For beach access in Destin , correspond out admittance point such as James Lee Park , Henderson Beach State Park , and Norriego Point , which has shallow tide pool to explore . TheBoardwalk on Okaloosa Islandoffers live entertainment , fun eateries , and beach access .
The destination is home plate to more than 400 artificial reef and is bang for its boating , water sports , snorkeling , and dive . Billed as the “ World ’s Luckiest Fishing Village , ” Destin boasts the largest commercial charter sportfishing fleet in the country , guaranteeing memorable seaward experiences that go beyond simply get one of the 20 type of edible fish available from its weewee . Among land - based attractions , theGulfarium Marine Adventure Parkis debuting its novel Dolphin Oasis addition , a multi - million dollar mark home ground for seven Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins .
Enjoy the apprehension of the day at places likeBrotula ’s Seafood House & Steamer , Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House , Dewey Destin ’s , andOvide , the first eating place in Florida by James Beard Award - winning chef Hugh Acheson . If you recover yourself bayside , stop by one of the destination ’s sweetest newbie , Pink Coyote , for a well - earned dainty after dinner party .
stick highlights admit theBeal HouseandThe Island Resort(both in Fort Walton Beach ) , as well as theHilton Sandestin Beach , Henderson Beach Resort , andHotel Effie , an upscale hideaway nestled between the Gulf and Choctawhatchee Bay .
