Bay St. Louis

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bay St. Louis's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Downtown
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in historic downtown Bay St. Louis, where you can savor fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll down Main Street to admire the beautifully preserved historic buildings and unique boutiques. Don’t forget to visit the Bay St. Louis Museum for a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

afternoon
:

For lunch, stop by one of the waterfront restaurants and enjoy local seafood dishes while overlooking the beach. Afterward, spend the afternoon exploring the local galleries and art studios featuring works from local artists and craftsmen. You can also take a walk along the scenic beach promenade, soaking in the views of the Gulf of Mexico.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a waterfront dining experience at one of the charming restaurants, known for their fresh seafood and Southern hospitality. After dinner, take a leisurely walk on the beach to witness the beautiful sunset, a perfect end to a day spent in this enchanting coastal town. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local bar or music venue for some live entertainment.

day 2
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to the nearby journey to the lovely Gulf Islands National Seashore for a morning of exploration. Enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing on the pristine beach surrounded by natural beauty. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

After a morning of outdoor activities, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within the national seashore. Spend your afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters, where you might encounter dolphins or sea turtles swimming nearby. If you prefer, take a guided boat tour to explore the coastal ecosystem.

evening
:

Return to Bay St. Louis in the evening for a casual dinner at a local seafood shack, indulging in a plate of fish tacos or shrimp po'boys. After dining, visit the local shops for some unique souvenirs or artwork that captures the essence of your adventures. Conclude your day with a sunset walk on the beach, enjoying the evening breeze.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy local diner, sampling traditional Southern fare. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Bay St. Louis Little Theater or checking their schedule for any morning performances or rehearsals. This is a great way to engage with the community and understand its artistic side.

afternoon
:

For lunch, seek out a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights seasonal ingredients and local flavors. Post-lunch, explore the local history by visiting the historic train depot and learn about its role in the development of the area. Take some time to walk through the local artisan shops, where you can find handmade crafts, jewelry, and other unique items.

evening
:

As dusk falls, head to a restaurant that features live music, where you can unwind and enjoy a meal while listening to local musicians. Try some classic Southern dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of the region. To cap off your evening, take a scenic drive along the coast to enjoy the night views of the Gulf.

day 4
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with an energizing breakfast at a café that boasts local ingredients. Prepare for a day of nature exploration by heading to the nearby Fontainebleau State Park, where you can hike along picturesque trails. The park is home to diverse wildlife, making it a great opportunity for birdwatching and photography.

afternoon
:

After a fulfilling hike, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park's serene setting amongst the pines and magnolias. Spend your afternoon engaging in nature activities like fishing or biking along the scenic trails. Alternatively, relax at one of the park's many picnic areas, soaking in the natural beauty around you.

evening
:

Head back to Bay St. Louis for dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where the tranquil views enhance your seafood meal. As the day winds down, consider attending a guided night tour at the park to explore the nocturnal wildlife and natural nightscape. End your day with a peaceful evening stroll along the bay, keeping an eye out for twinkling stars.

day 5
Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café, listening to the gentle waves while enjoying your coffee. Once energized, make your way to the beach for a morning of relaxation, soaking up the sun and reading a good book. You can also take a dip in the warm Gulf waters to start your day in the most refreshing way.

afternoon
:

For lunch, indulge in a beachside BBQ picnic, with local friends or family, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Spend the afternoon swimming, beach volleyball, or even trying out some water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing for an adrenaline rush. Don't hesitate to collect seashells along the shore as a reminder of your fun day.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, settle down with a beach bonfire if permitted, enjoying s'mores as you chat with loved ones. Alternatively, head to dinner at an oceanfront restaurant, savoring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Conclude your laid-back day with some beachside stargazing, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Kickstart your day with a family-friendly breakfast at a local pancake restaurant, where you can enjoy fluffy pancakes paired with delicious toppings. After breakfast, head to the nearby Buccaneer State Park, where the kids can enjoy the splash pad and playground. The park also has bike trails, perfect for families to explore together.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy in the park, or return to Bay St. Louis for a meal at a family-friendly pizzeria. Spend the afternoon at the park engaging in fun activities like mini-golf, fishing, or relaxing on the beach, while parents can take turns unwinding or joining in the fun. Ensure the kids partake in organized nature programs, which can provide educational experiences.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant that caters to families, offering a relaxed atmosphere and children's menus. After dinner, visit a local arcade or bowling alley to keep the fun going with some friendly competition. End the day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, creating lasting family memories.

day 7
Arts and Entertainment
morning
:

Start the day sipping coffee at an artsy café that doubles as a gallery, showcasing local artists' work on the walls. After breakfast, visit the local arts market, where you can interact directly with artists and learn about their creative processes. This vibrant atmosphere offers insight into the cultural heartbeat of Bay St. Louis.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a casual burger joint before heading to the St. Louis Community Center for any scheduled workshops, from painting to pottery-making. Participate in an art class to get hands-on creative experience while learning from local experts. This engaging afternoon combines artistry with meaningful interaction with the community.

evening
:

As night approaches, return to downtown and enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features live performances. Experience the local music scene by attending a concert or theater show to immerse yourself in the performing arts. To wind down, grab drinks at a nearby bar known for its artsy vibe and live local musicians.

day 8
Gulf Coast Road Trip
morning
:

Set out early from Bay St. Louis after a hearty breakfast, embarking on a scenic road trip along the Gulf Coast. Enjoy the stunning coastal views, and make your first stop at Pass Christian for some local shopping and exploration of its charming downtown. The picturesque scenery along the way will make the morning drive an enjoyable experience.

afternoon
:

For lunch, stop in Gulfport to enjoy a meal at a popular eatery with delicious local specialties. Continue your road trip by visiting the Gulfport Aquarium or relaxing at the beach, where you can soak up the sun while watching the boats go by. The excitement of discovering new places will keep your spirits high.

evening
:

As dusk sets in, return to Bay St. Louis for dinner at a rooftop restaurant that offers stunning views of the shoreline. Celebrate your day of adventure by trying a dish that showcases the flavors of the Gulf. After dinner, head to the bay for an evening stroll, reminiscing about the sights you experienced throughout the day.

day 9
Celebrating Local Festivals
morning
:

If your visit coincides with a local festival, begin the day with breakfast in the heart of the festivities, enjoying food stalls and local treats. Explore the festival grounds, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere filled with music, art, and family activities. Engaging with local vendors can offer insight into the traditions and culture of Bay St. Louis.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon enjoying the various entertainment options available at the festival, from live music to craft workshops. Engage in family-friendly games and activities, allowing the kids to create unforgettable memories with their friends. Take a break for lunch, sampling food from different cultural cuisines featured at the event.

evening
:

As the festival continues into the evening, find the perfect spot to enjoy the live entertainment, feeling the energy of the crowd around you. Delight in the local performances showcasing the talents of regional artists and musicians. Conclude the night with a fireworks display, ending the celebration on a spectacular note.

Discover Bay St. Louis

Read more in our Bay St. Louis 2025 Travel Guide.

Bay St. Louis Travel Guide