Easy Gulf Coast Day Trip from Pensacola: Ocean Springs + Biloxi
Living on the Gulf Coast means we're always just a short drive from somewhere fun. A couple weekends ago, Matt and I took a day trip from Pensacola to Ocean Springs and Biloxi, Mississippi, and it was so easy and so good that I had to share it. We wandered Ocean Springs, checked out a few casinos, ate some great food, and soaked up the Gulf Coast sunshine. If you're looking for an easy day trip from Pensacola, here's exactly how we did it.
The drive
Ocean Springs is about 112 miles from Pensacola, roughly a 2-hour drive. Biloxi is just a few minutes farther west, so it's easy to do both in one day. We hit the road early to make the most of the day and stopped at Buc-ee's in Robertsdale, Alabama, to charge up and grab snacks.
Stop 1: Ocean Springs (morning)
We started our day in this charming little coastal town. Its walkable downtown has more than 200 independent shops, galleries, and restaurants, and the beach is only blocks away.
If you go, here are some great spots:
Washington Avenue: Stroll the boutiques, cafes, and galleries. It's a cute-shop lover's dream.
Tato-Nut Donut Shop: Known for fresh homemade donuts and specialty coffee, so it's a great way to start the morning.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art: A fun stop if you love art.
Front Beach: A short walk from downtown, and a pretty spot to enjoy the Gulf.
Stop 2: Biloxi (afternoon)
From there we headed to Beach Boulevard.
Biloxi Lighthouse: Built in 1848, it sits right in the middle of the road across from the beach. It's such an iconic photo stop, and it was fun to see in person.
Down by the water: We walked down to the Gulf for some fresh air and sunshine. Biloxi's beach stretches nearly 27 miles of sand, so there's plenty of room to kick off your shoes and relax.
Casinos: We played at Hard Rock and Beau Rivage. Even if gambling isn't your thing, the people watching and resort vibes are fun. Set a budget before you walk in and enjoy it as part of the day. Gamble only what you can afford to lose, and have fun.
Good food: We ate at Half Shell at Hard Rock, which was a great way to refuel in the middle of a busy day.
A sweet treat before heading home
We finished our day with ice cream at Ben & Jerry's at Hard Rock before the drive back to Pensacola. 🍦 Every good day trip needs a sweet ending!
My tips for your trip
Hours change, so check each spot before you go.
Casinos are 21+, so bring your ID.
Set your budget ahead of time.
Wear comfy shoes for walking, and bring sunscreen.
Fall is a great time to go, with the heat easing up.
Driving an EV? Plan a charging stop on the way. We charged at Buc-ee's, and it made a fun pit stop.
We're loving getting out and exploring more of the Gulf Coast, and this one is an easy yes if you're near Pensacola. Have you been to Ocean Springs or Biloxi? Tell me your favorite spots, and where we should go next, in the comments! 🤍
XO - Kari Lynn
Comments