8 Friendliest Towns to Visit in Gulf Coast in 2024
The Gulf Coast, a vast and sun-kissed stretch that spans Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, is dotted with a delightful array of small, beautiful, and slow-paced towns, most of which can make for lovely escapes. One thing that truly makes this area special is that most Gulf Coast towns are noticeably friendly and welcoming. But not to the same degree. From Pass Christian, Mississippi to Biloxi, Louisiana, discover below the 8 friendliest towns to visit on the Gulf Coast.
Pass Christian, Mississippi
“The Pass,” as this charmer is fondly referred to, is known to lure visitors with its temperate climate and culinary offerings, especially seafood. Pirate's Cove, for example, is known for melt-in-the-mouth Po' boys and root beer — and is known to exceed the expectations of foodies. Alternatively, Cook's Day Off is just a whisper away and is known for awesome gourmet food. A stroll through the streets will bring to view elegant historic homes, centuries-old oaks, and a delightful array of locally owned shops and boutiques. War Memorial Park, which honors locals who served in the Second World War, features a recreational walking track, a nice gazebo, and some unique tree sculptures. The beach, of course, is not to be missed.
Apalachicola, Florida
If a town in the Sunshine State is authentic, beautiful, and exudes Old-Florida vibes, it is Apalachicola. Gibson Inn is right off the bridge and right in the heart of the historic district. It was built in 1907 and, hence, will feel like stepping back in time. “Apalach” also tends to be less crowded and will offer enough elbow room, whether one wants to dip her toes in the water at the beach — or stroll through the downtown area — popping inside restaurants and locally owned shops. Browse the sea-inspired wood carvings at Tin Shed Nautical & Antiques, which claims to house "the most comprehensive maritime collection East of the Mississippi." Learn about the town’s storied past at The Raney House, a 19th-century home of a cotton trader now housing a museum of local historical artifacts.
Orange Beach, Alabama
The emerald waters that lap the sugar-white beaches of Orange Beach draw hordes of first-time visitors to this friendly Alabama treasure every year. The beaches here are sugar-white, however — certainly not orange. Years ago, locals tried growing oranges along the shoreline, and that is how the name stuck. If you have a thing for pulled pork or meaty ribs, work your way to Moe's Original BBQ. Alternatively, head to Zeke's, sit at a table outside — adjacent to the marina — and tingle your taste buds with a plate of fresh oysters. Stop in for info at the Orange Beach Welcome Center, especially to map what the town offers. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is paved and well-maintained. It has a nice level trail and boardwalk with many benches. If you have never seen an alligator up and close, this will be your chance. Then there is the Orange Beach Waterfront Park, a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic — and The Wharf, a vibrant entertainment district packed with shops and restaurants.
Carrabelle, Florida
Carrabelle is among the last vestiges of Old Florida, and its beautiful, slow-paced downtown will leave a lasting impression on the mind of a first-time visitor. This destination is on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, a stretch famous for raw beauty and unspoiled, pristine beaches. Carrabelle is called the Florida Panhandle’s Gateway to the Gulf and offers a world of outdoor fun and adventure. One can feast on seafood plucked right from the bay (check out The Fisherman's Wife Restaurant), sail off into the deep blue waters of the Gulf with many of the fishing charters in town, take a picture at the “world’s smallest police station,” or stop by the Carrabelle Bottle House, a one-of-kind spectacle created entirely out of glass bottles.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Although Gulf Shores is close to Orange Beach, so one can combine the two in a single trip, it still makes sense to have a separate plan for it. Do not rush it, however; Gulf Shores is slow and laid back, and a first-time visitor will need to adjust their pace accordingly. Waterville USA/Escape House — or simply Waterville — offers you 20 acres of day-long fun and allows patrons to leave and come back. Alternatively, one will want to brush shoulders with lemurs and sloths at the world-famous Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, a world of wonder and discovery. If hunger pangs begin to set in, work your way to LuLu's, an iconic eatery located right on the Intracoastal Waterway that also has a cool gift shop, arcade, and a couple of outdoor activities. There is also Fort Morgan, whose history goes back nearly two centuries — and Gulf Shores Museum, which tells the story of the town through interesting historical photos and artifacts.
Dunedin, Florida
Friendly weather and a friendly town is a combination any vacationer will find irresistible. Dunedin has a welcoming downtown environment — and while small — it is artsy, quaint, and beautiful. The Pinellas Trail, where raw beauty pours from almost every square inch, runs through the heart of downtown Dunedin. Work your way to the city pier, drop a line for some marine catch, or just inhale the heart-melting views around. For even more fun, get out on the water by paddleboard or kayak and float about on one of the clearest waters in the region. Other outdoor venues one can access on a whim include Caladesi Island State Park and Honeymoon Island State Park, where one can exchange smiles with dolphins, some of the most playful animals on the planet. Many consider Honeymoon Island the best state park in Florida.
Biloxi, Louisiana
Named for a Native American people who once inhabited the area—the Louisiana treasure of Biloxi seems designed to ensnare vacationers. The gambling scene here, once underground and illegal, is today one of the town’s well-known features. Need a proof? Spend a night at Beau Rivage Casino or Hard Rock Casino Biloxi, two of the town’s most sought-after entertainment sites. They are also perfect for feeling the pulse of the town and meeting with locals. The home of former Confederate president Jefferson Davis is just west of town. It is known as The Beauvoir Mansion and dominates a fifty-one-acre complex, including the Confederate Museum. Spend some time at the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, dedicated to the ceramics of George E. Ohr, the self-proclaimed "Mad Potter of Biloxi."
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Although it does not boast as many mentions as it should, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, is incredibly welcoming. It is all the more admirable because small towns may not typically score big on friendliness. Ocean Springs is home to about 18,600 residents. Live oaks create a canopy on the historic downtown’s main street, where dozens of art galleries sit side by side with antique shops and locally owned restaurants. The Roost Boutique Hotel, where one can tap one's feet to the melody of live music, is located within walking distance of the town’s main drag. From here, one can stroll to Front Beach, dip their toes in the water, and give the sun some skin to warm and soothe. The Walter Anderson Museum of Art — Ocean Springs’s main attraction — celebrates the legacy of Walter Anderson, arguably the greatest genius of Southern art.
Life is so short to endure an indifferent town, however big or beautiful. You want a place where you are welcomed with broad smiles, not just beautiful architecture. If this looks like something you want to experience, you will want to explore the many options along the U.S. Gulf Coast. These include Pass Christian, Mississippi, where eateries serve melt-in-the-mouth Po' boys; Apalachicola, Florida, where a gallery houses "the most comprehensive maritime collection East of the Mississippi," and Orange Beach, Alabama, where a scenic trail allows visitors to get up-close with an alligator.
