Ocean Springs, Mississippi: 10 Short Road Trips for Coastal Getaways

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10 Easy Road Trips From Ocean Springs, MS: Fun Things To Do Nearby

If you’re based in Ocean Springs, Mississippi and itching to explore a little farther than your usual spots, you’re in luck. Within about an hour or so, you can find beaches, small towns, forests, and even one of the South’s most historic port cities. In this guide, we’ll look at 10 short, out‑of‑county road trips from Ocean Springs in Jackson County, focusing on nearby spots in:
  • Mobile County, Alabama
  • George County, Mississippi
  • Harrison County, Mississippi
  • Stone County, Mississippi
These make perfect day trips or easy weekend getaways from Ocean Springs, whether you’re a local or just using it as your home base on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

1. Explore History and Seafood in Downtown Mobile, Alabama

Mobile, Alabama is about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive from Ocean Springs, depending on traffic, and it feels like a whole new world. Stroll around Downtown Mobile and you’ll find brick streets, historic buildings, and plenty of seafood joints. If you love history, this is an easy win. Don’t miss:
  • USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park – Walk through the World War II battleship, climb around the aircraft, and wander the submarine. It’s like a giant playground for history buffs and kids alike.
  • Dauphin Street – Lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. Grab a plate of Gulf shrimp and people-watch from a sidewalk table.
  • Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception – Even if you’re not religious, the stained glass and architecture are beautiful.
If you’ve ever wondered what New Orleans might feel like on a smaller, calmer scale, Mobile has a bit of that energy—minus the chaos.

2. Enjoy Sun and Sand in Gulfport, MS (Harrison County)

When you think of road trips from Ocean Springs, chances are the Gulf Coast beaches pop into your mind. Gulfport is roughly a 35–45 minute drive west and is packed with classic coastal fun. Things to do in Gulfport:
  • Gulfport Beach – Long stretches of soft sand perfect for walking, picnicking, or just zoning out while you stare at the water.
  • Jones Park & Harbor – Great for a sunset walk, watching boats, or letting the kids run around.
  • Ship Island Excursions (from the Gulfport harbor) – Hop on a ferry out to Ship Island for a full beach day with clear water and fewer crowds.
If your idea of a good day is flip‑flops, a cooler, and a beach chair, Gulfport is your spot.

3. Hit the Casinos and Boardwalk in Biloxi, MS (Harrison County)

Just over the county line in Harrison County, Biloxi is about a 20–30 minute drive from Ocean Springs and makes a great quick escape. Even if you’re not into gambling, Biloxi is worth a visit. Ideas for your Biloxi road trip:
  • Biloxi Lighthouse & Beachfront – One of the most photographed lighthouses on the Gulf Coast. The nearby beach is nice for a short walk.
  • Casino resorts – Check out the restaurants, buffets, and shows. You don’t have to touch a slot machine to have fun.
  • Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum – Learn how the local seafood world works and see boats and exhibits tied to the Gulf.
If you want a night out with bright lights, live music, and good food, Biloxi is an easy win.

4. Slow Down in Wiggins, MS (Stone County)

If you feel like getting away from the coast for a change, head north to Wiggins in Stone County, about a 1-hour drive from Ocean Springs. Wiggins has a small-town feel that’s perfect when you’re tired of traffic and crowds. What to do in Wiggins:
  • Browse local shops downtown – Antique stores, small cafés, and local businesses give the town its charm.
  • Grab some Southern comfort food – Think fried catfish, barbecue, and sweet tea.
This is a “roll the windows down, turn up the music, and take the back roads” kind of drive. It’s not about big attractions—it’s about a slower pace and a change of scenery.

5. Go Hiking and Camping in De Soto National Forest (Stone County)

Not far from Wiggins, you’ll find parts of the De Soto National Forest, one of the best places near Ocean Springs for outdoor lovers. Depending on where you enter, it’s roughly 45–75 minutes away. Highlights in De Soto National Forest:
  • Hiking trails – Try stretches of the Tuxachanie Trail or other marked paths through pine forests and wetlands.
  • Camping – Set up a tent or bring a small camper for a weekend under the stars.
  • Creek time – Some areas offer spots to cool off in the water or just sit and listen to the forest.
If you’ve ever thought, “I need a break from screens,” this is your answer. Pack snacks, bug spray, and plenty of water, and you’re good to go.

6. Paddle and Fish at Flint Creek Water Park (Stone County)

Also near Wiggins, Flint Creek Water Park is a family‑friendly spot built around a 650‑acre lake. From Ocean Springs, you’re looking at about a 1-hour drive, and it’s a simple one for a full day outside. Things you can do at Flint Creek:
  • Rent a boat or kayak – Get out on the water for a peaceful paddle.
  • Fish – The lake is stocked, so it’s a good place to try your luck.
  • Swim or picnic – There are picnic tables and swim areas that are great for kids.
If your perfect day involves a cooler, a fishing pole, and a lakeside picnic table, this spot checks all the boxes.

7. Discover Rural Mississippi in Lucedale, MS (George County)

Head northeast from Ocean Springs for about 45–60 minutes and you’ll reach Lucedale in George County. It’s a small town, but that’s exactly the charm. Why Lucedale is worth a road trip:
  • Downtown Lucedale – Walk the main streets, pop into local shops, and support small businesses.
  • Local diners – Stop in for a plate lunch: meat, sides, and dessert that taste like somebody’s grandma cooked them.
  • Seasonal events – Depending on the time of year, you might catch a fair, festival, or farmers market.
If you’re curious what life is like a little farther inland, Lucedale gives you that “real Mississippi” feel.

8. Cast a Line on the Pascagoula River Near George County

While Ocean Springs sits near the coast, heading up toward George County brings you closer to quiet stretches of the Pascagoula River, often called one of the last large “wild” rivers in the lower 48 states. From Ocean Springs, spots along the river can be 45 minutes to about an hour away, depending where you go. On and around the river:
  • Fishing – Bass, bream, catfish—there’s plenty to catch if you’re patient.
  • Kayaking and canoeing – Glide along calm water, watch for birds, and soak up the peace and quiet.
  • Scenic drives – Even if you never leave your car, the ride through the countryside is relaxing.
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped away from busy life without driving all day, this is a great choice.

9. Walk the Beach and Pier in Long Beach, MS (Harrison County)

Just a bit past Gulfport, Long Beach offers a quieter version of the Mississippi Coast. From Ocean Springs, it’s about a 45–55 minute drive. What makes Long Beach special:
  • Calmer beaches – Fewer crowds than some other spots, which is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful walk.
  • Long Beach Harbor & pier – Great for fishing, photos, and watching the sunset.
  • Local eats – Small cafés and restaurants serving everything from po’boys to fresh seafood.
If you want the beach vibe without the noise, Long Beach is a solid pick.

10. Step Back in Time in Bay St. Louis, MS (Harrison County)

On the western edge of Harrison County, Bay St. Louis is roughly a 1 to 1.25-hour drive from Ocean Springs and feels like a laid‑back coastal art town. Things to check out:
  • Old Town Bay St. Louis – Art galleries, boutiques, and colorful buildings make it perfect for a slow afternoon of browsing.
  • Bayfront views – Walk along the waterfront and enjoy views of the bay, especially nice around sunset.
  • Local festivals – This little town loves events, from art walks to music weekends.
Bay St. Louis has a creative, relaxed feel that makes it ideal for a day of wandering with no fixed schedule.

Tips for Planning Road Trips From Ocean Springs

To get the most out of these short road trips from Ocean Springs, a little planning goes a long way:
  • Check drive times – Most of these are under 1.5 hours, which makes them easy day trips.
  • Pack a small bag – Water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and a light jacket can save the day.
  • Watch the weather – On the Gulf Coast, storms can roll in fast, especially in summer.
  • Have a loose plan – Know your main stop or two, but leave room to explore side roads and small towns.
Some of my favorite memories from coastal Mississippi aren’t from any big attraction—they’re from pulling off at a random roadside stand, trying boiled peanuts for the first time, or finding a tiny shop that sold the best pie I’ve ever had. Leave space for those surprises.

Share Your Favorite Day Trips From Ocean Springs

There are so many things to do near Ocean Springs, MS that you could spend every weekend exploring a new town, forest, or beach within a short drive. Have you taken any of these road trips from Ocean Springs?
  • Which nearby town or beach is your favorite?
  • Did I miss a must‑see spot in Mobile, Harrison, Stone, or George County?
Drop your tips, stories, and favorite stops in the comments—your experience might help someone else plan their next getaway. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends, family, or anyone planning a trip along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The more ideas we trade, the better our road trips get.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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