The 8 Friendliest Little Towns In Gulf Coast
When someone conjures up a tropical holiday without leaving the United States, they have the Gulf Coast in mind. Stretching from Texas to the west coast of Florida, this region is packed with white sandy beaches, emerald colored water, and fun and vibrant coastal towns. The area is also filled with friendly communities, matching their window on the world with classic Southern hospitality.
Though some of these hamlets do not have a designated downtown hub, each has a central meeting spot where most of the local vendors and restaurants are located. Residents and visitors alike converge on these districts to catch up on local gossip, grab a cup of coffee, or people-watch. Check out the eight friendliest little towns along the Gulf Coast.
Venice, Florida
Historic Venice is a friendly and charming town on Florida's southwest coast. It is famous for its abundance of shark teeth on Venice Beach, but it also has a Mediterranean-style historic district, reminiscent of days gone by. The locals are just as lovely and make each visitor feel at home. Walk around the district and discover the vintage architecture for a truly unique view of Florida culture.
Locals and visitors alike pack the compact streets to explore the architecture, restaurants, and shops in the historic district. The heart of the area is Centennial Park, where free concerts are often held, providing a prime opportunity to socialize with residents. Amble down Tampa Avenue to see Hotel Venice, San Marco Hotel, and other landmarks that developed Venice into what it is today. This area is a nod to yesteryear, and one of the best to visit on Florida's Gulf Coast.
Destin, Florida
Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin could also be classified as one of the friendliest fishing villages. The upbeat community largely revolves around boating and fishing, but there is much more to this village. Much of this activity is found along the famed Destin Harbor Boardwalk, where you will find charter boats and rentals so you can head out to the popular Crab Island sandbar.
Hanging out at one of the seafood restaurants and beach bars is an excellent opportunity to dine like a local. If you head out to Crab Island, pull the boat to Dewey Destin's for fresh, local seafood and curated cocktails or Dewey's Brewery for local craft beers. Either way, Destin is a fun town to play in, and the friendly atmosphere makes it even more inviting.
Rosemary Beach, Florida
Rosemary Beach is a planned community on the Emerald Coast and a dream destination for those seeking retail therapy with an European flair. The New Urbanist architectural style is right off Scenic Route 30A, a perfect pitstop on any road trip through the area. For those seeking a more extended stay, book a room at the Rosemary Beach Inn on Main Street to be near the shops and Barrett Square.
And if you are going to Barrett Square, stop in at The Hidden Lantern, a cozy bookstore that is a necessity for every beach town. Afterward, head to one of the eateries with outdoor dining options, like the Havana Beach Bar and Grill, to soak in the sun and enjoy the atmosphere. Or, check out Cowgirl Kitchen Feed and Supply to pick up wine and cheeses for a beach picnic.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Ocean Springs is known for its charming downtown district and hospitable community along Mississippi's Gulf Coast. Take a Slow Pedal Tour through the area to soak in the sights and learn some of the area's history. Afterward, take your time and explore downtown on foot and discover one of the many galleries, like The Walter Anderson Museum of Art.
Walking around hte area is the perfect way to get to know the community, especially at landmark eateries such as Pleasant's BBQ. This is the oldest restaurant in town, and it continues to serve up excellent barbecue with friendly service and a Southern touch. Visiting the historic district is like going back in time, with cozy venues and an affable community, making this area one of the best to visit on the Gulf Coast.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Bay St. Louis may be known for its casinos, but it is also one of the friendliest communities along the Gulf Coast. One of the best ways to get to know the community is by visiting the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum. Ms. Alice, as she was known locally, started painting at 65 and became a kind of folk hero. The museum, housed in the historic L&N Train Depot, holds over 100 of her works and is considered one of the top five museums in the state according to Mississippi Magazine.
Another prime opportunity to immerse yourself in the friendly culture is by dining at one of the local seafood restaurants like Cuz's Old Town Oyster Bar and Grill. Establishments like this are more than a place for dinner. It is part of the community's fabric and offers a way to better understand the local culture and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere.
Foley, Alabama
Foley, Alabama, is a fun place to visit, known for its OWA Parks and Resort and many museums. The 520-acre theme park includes a water park, arcade, retailers, and much more. The town also exudes hometown charm, typical of many cities in Alabama, and is a quaint destination for many. Another fascinating glimpse at the community's fun side is Lambert's Cafe, where you can get your dinner rolls tossed across the restaurant to your table.
Main Street is the place to be to hang out with the local community. Attractions like Heritage Park and Stacey's Drug Store are not only unique finds, but they showcase the charms and values of this small town. Stacey's is an authentic throwback, founded in 1929, where visitors can still enjoy handmade shakes, malts, and ice cream at the soda machine.
Fairhope, Alabama
Fairhope's French Quarter is one of the most charming and unique districts on the coast, and the friendly community adds to its mystique. This is the ideal location for taking in the best features of the South. The area includes a cobblestone courtyard, the largest crepe myrtle, and 12 local shops that embody the authentic spirit of Fairhope.
Panini Pete's is a popular lunch spot in the French Quarter. It has been featured on top culinary programming like Food Network and uses in-house ingredients for an authentic taste of the French Quarter. After lunch, head down to the pier to take in the sights. The Fairhope Municipal Pier is the de facto "town square," and is an excellent way to combine views of the water with landscaped rose gardens, a marina, and other amenities.
Port Aransas, Texas
Port Aransas is a small coastal town with pleasant venues and a friendly atmosphere on Mustang Island. Port A, in local parlance, is known as the "Fishing Capital of Texas, and offers plenty of charter boats and rentals to get out on the water. You can also explore the town's history at cultural venues such as the Port Aransas Museum, which feels like stepping back in time.
Renting a bike or a golf cart is the best way to get around the island and discover local hangouts like the Bluewater Cowboy and the Black Marlin Bar and Grill. The Bluewater Cowboy is one of the most interesting saloons in town. The bar is shaped like the transom of a sport fishing boat and offers views of the Gulf of America from its third-story perch. Gathering spots like these provide an ideal way to discover the fun side of the community and experience the best the coastal town has to offer.
These are the eight friendliest little towns on the Gulf Coast, each exuding Southern hospitality to match their unparalleled views of the Gulf of America. The laidback charm, stunning coastal views, and amiable locals make each one stand out as a singular destination for anyone looking for a relaxing beach getaway. Planning a trip around a festival or live event is an excellent way to get to know the community, and it is one of the best times to visit.
Although these towns have a lot in common, each one offers something unique that sets it apart. Strolling through the entertainment districts and rubbing shoulders with locals makes these towns more appealing and among the best to visit in the region. If a friendly coastal vacation is on your radar, these towns should be at the top of the list.
