As a traveler, you may be questioning if a vacation or a much needed getaway is the safest move while our society takes steps to get back to normal. We are here to assure you, that there are ways you can take a trip to Coastal Mississippi while staying safe! Our small, boutique hotel is perfect for exploring the wide open beaches of the Secret Coast. Featuring 100% self check-ins and an updated and thorough cleaning procedure, we are ready to welcome you all once again. And the state of Mississippi has recently entered Phase 2 of reopening, which allows restaurants and outdoor recreational activities to reopen as long as social distancing is still being practiced. If you are ready to come explore Coastal Mississippi again, we are here for you! If you’re wondering what to do when you visit while still practicing safe, social distancing, we’ve put together a few of our favorite recommendations:
Beach Days…
The beaches are open! Front Beach is walking distance from The Roost. With appropriate social distancing, you are sure to find relaxation in the sand and on the water. We would be happy to coordinate a beach chair and umbrella set up for you, just ask our front desk staff!
If you’re looking to explore further, be sure to check out the amazing Bridge Mosaic Mural. With over 120 feet of beautiful tiled art, it is a wonderful representation of the artistic style of the coast.
Photo by Coastal Mississippi
Photo by Coastal Mississippi
Biking Ocean Springs
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. Located a few blocks down from The Roost, 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.
Take a Hike!
Coastal Mississippi features some incredible hiking trails, or “greenways” tucked along the back bays, beaches, and bayous. Bring your camera and capture moments hiking among massive live oaks and along tidal marsh habitats. Some of our favorite local trails include the Twelve Oaks Walking Trail, the Weeks Bayou Nature Trail, and the shorter hikes in Davis Bayou.
Be sure to visit the state’s longest, steel-cable extension bridge at the Marine Education Center as well!
Paddlesports
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.
Charter Fishing Trip
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.
If you would be interested in one of these excursions, let our Front Desk know and we would be happy to take care of booking the trip for you! Prices vary based on trip type and number of people.
Try Local Cuisine
All restaurants are continuing curbside pickup and to-go ordering, but can now open with indoor and outdoor dining as long as the appropriate social distancing is practiced. And the best part? Several downtown favorites have started incorporating live music once again, so go grab a drink, enjoy your meal and listen to some great music!
For a full list of local favorites, click here.
Ride Like A Local
Explore Downtown Ocean Springs like a local! Golf carting is a popular way to get around. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or beaching, you’ll love carting through our little, coastal town!
Downtown Cart Rentals offers up to 24 hours of golf cart rentals which is the perfect addition to any stay at The Roost! Be sure to book your ride well in advance, due to limited availability.
Photo by Downtown Cart Rentals
Opening Soon…
The Walter Anderson Museum is a hidden treasure that you won’t want to miss during your travels. It has been closed temporarily due to COVID-19, but it is opening back up at the end of June. Be sure and check out the website, here, to see the latest update on the status of reopening.
During your travels, we want to encourage you to continue practicing appropriate social distancing, as well as wearing a mask and washing your hands! We want you to stay safe, while also enjoying the luxuries of a new adventure. Ocean Springs has so much to offer, and we hope that when you stay, you get to experience the true essence of the Mississippi Gulf Coast!