Winter Holiday Magic in Long Beach, Mississippi and Beyond
When the holiday season arrives on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Long Beach and its neighboring communities transform into a winter wonderland—albeit one where you might still need sunglasses alongside your Santa hat. This charming coastal region offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, beachside charm, and festive cheer that makes for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Long Beach: Small-Town Holiday Charm
Long Beach may be a quiet coastal town, but it comes alive during the holidays with that quintessential small-town magic. The city's beachfront location means you can enjoy holiday activities with stunning views of the Mississippi Sound as your backdrop.
Harper McCaughan Town Green becomes a focal point for holiday gatherings, often hosting community events that bring locals and visitors together. Take a stroll down Jeff Davis Avenue, where local businesses deck their storefronts with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The slower pace here is part of the charm—you'll have time to actually enjoy the season rather than just rush through it.
Don't miss the opportunity to take a holiday walk along the beach. There's something surreal and beautiful about seeing Christmas decorations while feeling the Gulf breeze and hearing waves lap at the shore. For more information about Long Beach events and activities, visit the City of Long Beach website.
Pass Christian: Victorian Holiday Elegance
Just west of Long Beach, Pass Christian (locals call it "The Pass") offers a more historic take on the holidays. This picturesque town is known for its stunning antebellum and Victorian architecture, and during the holidays, many of these historic homes participate in self-guided tours adorned with traditional decorations.
The scenic Harbor and the Pass Christian Yacht Club area create postcard-perfect settings for holiday photos. Take a drive down Scenic Drive to admire how residents transform their historic homes into holiday showcases.
Gulfport: Big City Holiday Festivities
Head east to Gulfport for more extensive holiday programming. The Gulfport Premium Outlets offer excellent holiday shopping opportunities, while Jones Park in downtown Gulfport typically hosts holiday events and festivals.
The Island View Casino Resort and other Gulf Coast casinos pull out all the stops with elaborate holiday decorations, special performances, and festive dining experiences. Even if gambling isn't your thing, the decorations alone are worth a visit. Check out Visit Gulfport MS for a complete list of holiday events.
Biloxi: Coastal Holiday Traditions
Continue east to Biloxi for even more holiday adventures. The Biloxi Lighthouse, one of the most photographed landmarks in Mississippi, gets its own holiday treatment and makes for spectacular seasonal photos.
MGM Park, home of the Biloxi Shuckers baseball team, often hosts holiday events, while the maritime-themed Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum offers a unique cultural perspective on Gulf Coast holiday traditions. Plan your Biloxi visit at Visit Biloxi.
Bay St. Louis: Artsy Holiday Vibes
West of Long Beach, Bay St. Louis brings an artsy, bohemian flair to the holidays. The charming downtown area along Main Street and Beach Boulevard features unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants that embrace the season with creative decorations and special events.
The Hancock County Historical Society sometimes offers historic home tours during the holidays, showcasing how the region celebrated Christmas in bygone eras.
Where to Stay: Perfect Holiday Accommodations
Make your Gulf Coast holiday even more special by staying in one of these wonderful properties:
Pelican's Perch - This delightful gulf beach rental offers the perfect home base for your holiday adventures. Imagine waking up to coastal views and having your own space to create holiday memories with family and friends.
Biloxi Belle - Charming Cottage - This whimsical beach cottage is available as a monthly rental, making it perfect for snowbirds looking to escape the cold and enjoy a milder winter season on the Gulf Coast. It's an ideal retreat for nurses on travel assignments, digital nomads seeking a peaceful work environment with coastal inspiration, or anyone wanting an extended holiday getaway. The property is dog-friendly with a big, fully fenced backyard—perfect for your furry family members to enjoy the mild Gulf Coast weather while you sip your morning coffee on the porch. This charming cottage provides comfortable accommodations right in the heart of the Long Beach area, putting you close to all the seasonal festivities while giving you the space to truly settle in and live like a local.
Both properties offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, giving you a cozy retreat to return to after a day of holiday exploring along the coast.
Outdoor Activities with a Holiday Twist
The Gulf Coast's mild winter weather means you can enjoy outdoor activities that wouldn't be possible in northern climates:
Beach bonfires and s'mores with a holiday twist
Kayaking or paddleboarding in the Sound (yes, even in December!)
Fishing trips for those who prefer their holidays on the water
Bike rides along the coastal trails while enjoying holiday decorations
For outdoor recreation information, check out the Mississippi Gulf Coast tourism website.
Holiday Dining, Gulf Coast Style
The culinary scene along the Coast doesn't slow down for the holidays—it gets better. Enjoy fresh Gulf seafood with holiday flair at local favorites. Many restaurants offer special holiday menus featuring Southern classics with a coastal twist: think oyster dressing, Gulf shrimp cocktails, and pecan pie that'll make you forget about fruitcake forever.
Planning Your Visit
The beauty of a Long Beach holiday getaway is the relaxed atmosphere. Unlike crowded tourist destinations, you'll find plenty of parking, friendly locals eager to share recommendations, and that rare commodity during the holidays: peace and quiet when you want it, and festive fun when you're ready.
The weather is typically mild—pack layers since temperatures can range from the 40s to the 60s, and you might experience everything from sunny beach days to cooler evenings perfect for bonfires.
For comprehensive planning resources, visit:
Whether you're looking for a quiet coastal retreat or festive holiday activities, Long Beach and the surrounding Mississippi Gulf Coast communities offer a refreshing alternative to traditional winter holiday destinations. Here, you can build sandcastles and snowmen (the sand variety), enjoy fresh seafood alongside holiday ham, and experience the unique magic of a Southern coastal Christmas.
Come discover why locals say the Gulf Coast is where the holidays meet the beach—and why you might just start a new family tradition of celebrating the season by the sea.