8 Of The Most Captivating Small Towns On The Gulf Coast
The Gulf Coast of the United States is one of the country’s most beautiful natural attractions, and the opportunity to spend time near this unique destination is certainly not one to be missed by any traveller. Including the states of Florida, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas, a number of wonderfully charming towns can be found along the Gulf of Mexico, where stunning vistas, fascinating history, and loads of relaxation and fun await guests of all ages. Indeed, whether one is looking to simply unwind or discover genuine Southern charm, the American Gulf Coast is the place to be. Wait no longer and come see these awesome Gulf Coast communities where the most memorable vacation experience awaits.
Cedar Key, Florida
Situated in Levy County along Florida’s Gulf Coast, the community of Cedar Key may be small, but it abounds in splendid natural beauty. Featuring an abundance of beaches where one can enjoy activities like sailing, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing under the Florida sun, Cedar Key truly delights with its laid-back vibe, not to mention the chance to spot local wildlife, like the many migratory bird species that populate the area.
Meanwhile, history-minded visitors can also appreciate Cedar Key, where several preserved landmarks are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With a modern foundational history dating to the mid-1800s, amongst the sites of note are Island Hotel and Cedar Key Museum State Park. Learn about the lives of Florida’s Indigenous peoples before contact and explore Florida's economic, social, and commercial development over the course of the 19th century. To cap the day, head to The Tipsy Cow Bar and Grill for happy hour and Steamers for classic American cuisine on their waterfront patio.
Grand Isle, Louisiana
When spending time along Louisiana’s Gulf Coast, Grand Isle is a must. Situated on the island of the same name, this charming town of just over 1,000 inhabitants is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors in the “Bayou State”. Go sailing, sunbathing, swimming, and fishing throughout the year in Grand Isle, where relaxation and Southern charm are always the order of the day. Anglers can book a fishing charter at the Bridge Side Marina and spend a day on the water casting lines for everything from tuna to snapper.
To sample the local flavors for yourself, there is plenty of seafood on offer at hot spots like Hurricane Hole and Starfish Restaurant. If you can make it for a visit in the spring, the Migratory Bird Festival is a sight to behold. Marvel at some of Louisiana’s most beautiful avian species in a picture-perfect ambience that will definitely leave a memorable impression on all who experience it.
Venice, Florida
Also known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World”, tourists will love the opportunity to search for fossilized shark teeth among Venice’s golden beaches, making for quite the special vacation experience. And with the inviting Florida climate, coastal breezes, and pretty sparkling waters, Venice will quickly become a favorite of any visitor to the Gulf Coast. Enjoy swimming, sailing, fishing, suntanning, surfing, golf, and many more recreational activities in this bustling town that is perfect for all ages and interests.
To learn about Florida’s past, head to the Venezia Park and Eagle Point Historic Districts, where you can explore such landmarks as the Triangle Inn, a local landmark since 1927. Marvel at the special Italian-style architecture, the wide boulevards lined with palm trees, and loads of welcoming shops and restaurants, and it is easy to see what makes Venice such a favorite destination for many. For some great seaside views while you sample culinary delights, consider dining under the tiki hut at Dockside Waterfront Grill or Sharky’s on the Pier, and let the Southern charm work its magic.
Breaux Bridge, Louisiana
One of the best places in Louisiana to enjoy traditional Cajun cuisine, it is no wonder that the town of Breaux Bridge is called the “Crawfish Capital of the World”. The largest town in St. Martin Parish, Breaux Bridge was founded by French settlers in the mid-1700s, and today, just over 7,500 call this lively place home. Come for the annual Crawfish Festival in the spring and be immersed in fun for all ages, where vendors, live music, street performers, and of course, Cajun-style seafood can be found in abundance. And with great dining options like Chez Jacqueline and Poche’s Market, a unique culinary experience is never far away, no matter the season.
Additionally, enjoy the town’s special bayou geography and easy access to the Gulf Coast in a hot climate. Book a tour of Lake Martin, a beautiful cypress swamp managed by the Nature Conservancy, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including alligators and a wide range of nesting birds.
Pass Christian, Mississippi
Beautifully situated along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the town of Pass Christian is an awesome destination to unwind and enjoy the pleasant Southern climate. With a modern history dating all the way back to the 17th century, a modest population of just over 5,600 residents call Pass Christian home today. A great place to start your adventure in "the Pass" is with a visit to one of the many vibrant, coast-side eateries like Shaggy’s Pass Harbor, where some of the best in Southern cooking can be enjoyed in tandem with some of Mississippi’s most extraordinary coastal views.
Do not forget about the Pass Christian Scenic Drive Historic District, featuring an assortment of preserved mansions and other landmarks from the last two hundred years. And if one visits during the Yuletide season, be sure to catch the Christmas in the Pass Festival featuring a parade, tree lighting, decorations galore, fireworks, and of course, the arrival of the guest of honor, Santa Claus!
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores is Alabama’s southernmost town, located right along the Gulf of Mexico. Home to just over 15,000 residents and featuring a hot year-round climate, this popular resort town has been attracting attention for years with its truly splendid natural ambience. Relax and spend time in Gulf Shores’ beaches where sunbathing, swimming, sailing, and fishing never go out of style. One can even hit the fairway at several panoramic golf courses in the area, like Kiva Dunes, where the game can be enjoyed against a most extraordinary backdrop of endless ocean views.
Furthermore, the entire family will love the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, where close encounters with wildlife and a variety of plant species will fascinate the young and old alike. Finish the day by browsing the beachfront stores, then toast a great day with cocktails and classic Southern fare at The Hangout.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Located on the barrier island of the same name, the town of Dauphin Island is affectionately known as the “Sunset Capital of Alabama." Originally settled by French and Spanish colonists, today it is a haven for outdoor leisure and recreation. Go swimming, sailing, and sunbathing, and check out the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Aquarium to feed the stingrays and sharks in their indoor and outdoor touch tanks.
For the history lover, Fort Gaines provides fascinating insights into Alabama’s role during the Civil War as the site of the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864. Once you've worked up an appetite, Pirate’s Bar and Grill is a casual waterfront spot for cocktails on the patio, and Islanders Restaurant and Bar serves all the local favorites fresh off the boat.
Tarpon Springs, Florida
Tarpon Springs is part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, where it maintains a population of just over 25,000 residents. With the tropical climate and loads of attractive shopping outlets, restaurants, galleries, and museums, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Amongst the eateries of note are Dimitri’s On the Water and Hellas Restaurant for authentic Greek cuisine, while The Sponge Exchange is a great place to find the perfect gift.
Meanwhile, numerous historic buildings can be found in Tarpon Springs, which traces its modern history back to the 1880s. These include the Old City Hall (1915) and the Safford House (1883), among others, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Finally, do not forget about the Greektown Historic District, where the town honors and celebrates its Greek heritage and an era during which immigrants were drawn to the region for its sponge diving industry.
The American Gulf Coast is one of the finest natural attractions in the nation, and for visitors lucky enough to find themselves in any of the states that surround it, a breathtaking vacation is sure to follow. From the beaches of Florida to the bayous of Louisiana, the captivating towns along the Gulf Coast are some of the finest gems in America. Indeed, whether one is looking for historic landmarks, natural beauty, or the old-fashioned allure of Southern charm, spending time in these Gulf Coast towns will not disappoint. So come see the American Gulf Coast in these vibrant communities and see firsthand why this part of the country has long been a favorite for many.
