The Quiet Fishing Town In Mississippi That Seems Frozen In Time

Quiet towns in Mississippi may seem like part of the good ole days, but every once in a while you come across a place that can take you back to a much simpler time. Ocean Springs is definitely one of those places. At more than 300 years old, the town is loaded with history and teeming with charm, making it easy to see why it’s known as the "gem of the Gulf Coast."

Small towns in Mississippi may not be as abundant as they once were but they do still exist, and Ocean Springs definitely fits the bill of a quaint fishing town.

The picturesque coastal community was established by the French in 1699, and seafood has been a huge part of the city ever since.

In fact, it was Ocean Springs’ location on the Gulf of Mexico that initially attracted explorers and settlers, while the abundance of seafood is what caused them to stay.

By the late 19th century, ice plants began popping up all over the region and greatly increased seafood sales.

Today, the seafood industry is still thriving, making Ocean Springs the perfect place to get fresh shrimp, fish, crabs, and oysters.

But it is still one of the more quiet places in Mississippi.

Of course, great seafood isn’t the only thing you’ll find in Ocean Springs. The city’s quaint downtown area is home to more than 150 independent shops, eateries, and art galleries.

Shearwater Pottery was founded in 1928 and is still producing fabulous art, such as figurines, decorative tiles, and other pottery pieces.

The perfect mix of old and new, downtown Ocean Springs also includes plenty of places reminiscent of days long gone, such as the picture-perfect candy shop, The Candy Cottage.

Sadly, the historic Lovelace Drug Store and Soda Fountain was closed, but we can still admire the cool vintage sign in one of the best Mississippi small towns.

Speaking of days long gone, Ocean Springs is a city deeply influenced by its rich heritage and history - a fact that’s celebrated with annual reenactments on the beach and year-round art, music, and food festivals.

Beautiful beaches and access to the Gulf Islands National Seashore only add to Ocean Springs’ appeal.

Not to mention Deer Island is less than a mile from the coastline. The 400-acre island is perfect for a secluded getaway and since it’s so close, anyone with a small boat, canoe, kayak, or paddle board can access it.

Whether you plan on just hitting the beach or taking in all the town has to offer, a trip to Ocean Springs should definitely be on your bucket list.

Ready to venture to one of the most quiet towns in Mississippi? Find some fishing gear to pack on the REI website. And read another story about this picturesque seaside town that was recently published in Southern Living.