Outdoor Excursions

 

 Outdoor Excursions

Lead your most adventurous life in Ocean Springs. Well known as the “City of Discovery,” you’ll delight in memories made both on & off the water.


On the Water

Schooner Sail

Watch the sail unfurl and your worries slip away during a memorable sunset or daytime sail on the Biloxi Schooner. Sponsored by the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, they bring to life the maritime heritage from the late 1800’s. Feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks for the 2-3 hour sail. Check their website, here, for up to date sailing information and the current walk-on sail schedule. Or reach out to them about booking the whole boat for your own, private party!

Image Courtesy of Coastal Mississippi

Charter Fishing

“Adventure awaits for those who fish.” Soak up the sun and go after “the big one” with family and friends on your very own charter ride! Coastal Waters Outfitters offers both inshore and offshore fishing trips in local waters as well as island tours and sunset cruises.

Prices vary based on trip type and number of people.


Image Courtesy of Coastal Mississippi

Paddle Sports

There is no better way to explore and experience the Secret Coast in Mississippi than by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle board. Paddle up the “blueways” (or water trails) and witness the many ecosystems and wildlife that make up the diverse and vibrant bayous, rivers, and marshes.

There are several places to rent kayaks and stand up paddle boards perfect for any waterway adventurer.

Island Time

Just a few miles off the mainland, you'll discover one of Mississippi's treasures, Ship Island. Forming a part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, this island is known for its pristine gulf water, sparkling-white beaches, and remoteness.

We recommend hopping on the Ship Island Ferry for a round-trip excursion. Swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, nature photography, bird watching, and exploring are just some of the activities enjoyed on Ship Island!


Swamp TOurs

As one of the last free flowing rivers in the United States, the Pascagoula River’s pristine state offers impeccable biodiversity within the river basin. This gives visitors a great chance to spot many different animal species that call the river their home. One of the best ways to explore these diverse and vibrant ecosystems is with a boat tour! There are several tour options along the Mississippi Gulf Coast including the Gulf Coast Gator Ranch & Airboat Swamp Tour, Eco-Tours of South MS, and, if you’re wanting some local lore, we’d recommend Mystic Ghost Ride Boat Tours!

Beachside Hangs

Nothing beats a day at the beach. Toes in the sand, listening to the soft sound of the waves, and relaxing with a good book. There really is nothing quite like it. Just down Washington Avenue, you’ll find Front Beach, complete with a small children’s park and beautiful views of Deer Island. Enjoy gorgeous sunset scenes and strolls along the water. We also have a partnership with a local company, Belly Up Beach Chairs and would be happy to coordinate a beach chair set up during your stay. Also, be sure to check out Coastal Picnic Co. for a romantic picnic idea for 2.


On the Land

Image Courtesy of NPS Photo/Breault

Davis Bayou

A quick drive from both The Inn & The Hemingway is Davis Bayou. As a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, it is home to a variety of fun, outdoor activities. It is easy to spend many beautiful mornings wandering the wide array of walking trails, picnicking in the park, and exploring the Visitor Center and the Marine Education Center which will tell you all about our coastal ecosystems. It is also home to the longest steel cable extension bridge in the state!

Image Courtesy of Coastal Mississippi

Hiking Trails

Coastal Mississippi features some incredible hiking trails tucked along the back bays, beaches, and bayous. Some of our favorite local trails include the Twelve Oaks Walking Trail (pictured above), the Weeks Bayou Nature Trail, Ruskin Oak, and the shorter hikes in Davis Bayou. A short drive north will take you to the longer Tuxachanie Trail which is a flat, 12 mile trail where hikers follow along an abandoned railroad and will see a large variety of local vegetation.


Bird Watching

Coastal Mississippi has some of the best "birding hotspots" in the state! The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge is known for their amazing conservation efforts for one of the rarest bird subspecies in the world - the sandhill crane. The Davis Bayou area of the Gulf Islands National Seashore has some great bird watching opportunities during all seasons. Trek along the Fontainebleu Trail and spend the day spotting ospreys, admiring blue herons and brown pelicans, and catching glimpses of the sandhill cranes!

Biking

Spend the day cruising through downtown and along the beach. Enjoy the sunshine on your face and wind in your hair as you experience the Ocean Springs in a new way! There is something so special about exploring this coastal town from a bike. It allows you to see things you normally wouldn’t while driving. TriHard Sports offers everything for local running, swimming, and biking enthusiasts. Head that way to rent one of their cruisers and get to riding- you’ll be surprised at all that you will discover.