Hotels, Beach Vacation Rentals, RV Resorts, and Waterfront Lodging

The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers a wide range of accommodations for visitors, from beachfront casino resorts and national hotel chains to vacation rental homes, boutique inns, and luxury RV resorts. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway, a fishing trip, a festival, or an extended stay, there are lodging options available across the entire coast.

Communities such as Biloxi, Gulfport, Ocean Springs, Bay St. Louis, Pass Christian, and Long Beach offer accommodations near beaches, downtown districts, marinas, and major attractions.

image of Beau Rivage Hotel in Biloxi
Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino in Biloxi

Hotels and Casino Resorts

One of the unique aspects of lodging on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is the number of casino resort hotels. 11 casinos are operating along the coast, most of them located in Biloxi.

These properties combine hotel accommodations with restaurants, entertainment, and resort-style amenities. A notable benefit for visitors is that Mississippi casino hotels generally do not charge resort fees or parking fees, which can make them more affordable compared with casino resorts in other destinations.

In addition to casino hotels, the Mississippi Gulf Coast also features many national hotel brands, including properties operated by Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and other major chains. Many of these hotels are located along Highway 90 directly across from the beach, particularly in Biloxi and Gulfport.

Travelers will also find additional hotels located near Interstate 10, which can be convenient for visitors passing through the region or attending events throughout the coastal counties.

image of the mississippi gulf coast

Boutique Hotels and Historic Inns

Smaller boutique hotels and historic inns are becoming increasingly popular along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Several boutique properties have opened in recent years, especially in Ocean Springs and Bay St. Louis, where walkable downtown areas, art galleries, restaurants, and waterfront views create a more intimate coastal experience.

Boutique hotels often offer:

  • Unique architecture or historic buildings
  • Walkable locations near restaurants and shops
  • Smaller and quieter environments compared to large resorts
  • A more personalized guest experience

Visitors who prefer a relaxed and locally inspired stay often choose boutique hotels when visiting the coast.

Vacation Rentals and Beach Houses

Vacation rentals are extremely popular on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and are widely available throughout the region.

Options range from one-bedroom beachfront condos to large four- and five-bedroom houses with swimming pools, with many properties located near the beach or waterfront.

Vacation rentals are especially attractive for several reasons.

Lower cost per person

For groups and families, renting a house or condo often costs less per person than booking multiple hotel rooms.

More space

Vacation homes typically provide living rooms, outdoor decks, yards, and additional space for guests to relax and spread out.

Full kitchens

Travelers can prepare meals rather than eating every meal at restaurants.

Great for fishing trips

Visitors who come to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for fishing often prefer vacation rentals because they can clean and cook their catch.

Parking for boats and trailers

Vacation rentals are particularly useful for guests attending vehicle events such as Cruisin the Coast, Scrapin the Coast, and Jeepin the Coast, where parking space for trailers can be important.

Vacation rentals can be booked through platforms such as:

  • Airbnb
  • VRBO

Visitors can also book directly through local vacation property managers, such as Christies Gulf Beach Rentals, which manages many properties ranging from small condos to large vacation homes with private pools.

Luxury RV resort near the beach on the Mississippi Gulf Coast with motorhomes parked at large sites, palm trees, pool, and lazy river beside the shoreline.
A modern RV resort along the Mississippi Gulf Coast offering spacious RV sites, resort-style pools and lazy river amenities, and easy access to the beach.

RV Resorts and Coastal Campgrounds

RV travel is very popular along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and several RV resorts offer excellent facilities close to the beach and major attractions.

Some casinos even operate their own RV parks, including:

  • Silver Slipper Casino
  • Hollywood Casino
  • Boomtown Casino

The Hollywood Casino RV park includes a popular lazy river feature.

One of the newest properties is the Gulfport Luxury RV Resort, located directly on Highway 90 near the beach. This resort also includes a lazy river and modern resort-style amenities.

RV travelers appreciate the ability to stay close to beaches, casinos, fishing charters, and local attractions while traveling with their own accommodations.

image of calendar showing peak visitor season on Mississippi Gulf Coast
Peak Visitor Season

Peak Travel Season

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a year-round destination, but the busiest travel season typically runs from:

May 15 through July 31

Additional busy travel periods include:

  • Mardi Gras season
  • Spring Break
  • Easter holidays

Major events can also cause accommodations to fill quickly, including:

  • Cruisin the Coast
  • Scrapin the Coast
  • Jeepin the Coast

Large festivals and community events in Ocean Springs and Bay St. Louis also attract many visitors throughout the year.

image calendar showing bargain season on Mississippi gulf Coast
Bargain Season for Visitors

Best Time to Find Lower Rates

Visitors looking for the best deals on accommodations often find the lowest rates during the slower seasons.

The best times to find bargains are typically:

  • Mid-October through January
  • September

During these months, hotels, vacation rentals, and RV resorts often offer discounted rates and longer-stay promotions.

Extended Stays and Monthly Rates

Travelers planning longer visits may benefit from negotiating extended stay rates.

Guests staying 30 days or longer can often receive reduced monthly pricing from vacation rental owners, RV resorts, or hotels offering extended stay options.

Mississippi also has a unique tax rule that benefits long-term visitors.

State lodging taxes generally range from 7% to 12%, depending on the location. However, lodging taxes are typically waived for stays lasting 90 days or longer, which can significantly reduce costs for long-term visitors.

Additional Travel Tips

Visitors planning accommodations on the Mississippi Gulf Coast should keep a few additional details in mind.

Military discounts

Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions offer discounts to active military members and veterans.

Pet policies

Many vacation rentals allow pets, while some hotels may have restrictions or additional fees.

Alcohol laws

The legal drinking age in Mississippi is 21. Alcohol is permitted on most beaches, but glass containers are not allowed.

Several coastal communities also allow open containers in designated entertainment areas, including:

  • Downtown Ocean Springs
  • Downtown Biloxi
  • Downtown Gulfport
  • Old Town Bay St. Louis

Open containers are also commonly permitted during street festivals and special events.

infographic showing cost of renting hotel rooms vs a vacation rental

Finding the Right Place to Stay

The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers accommodations for nearly every type of traveler.

Visitors can choose from:

  • Casino resort hotels
  • National hotel chains
  • Boutique hotels
  • Beachfront vacation rentals
  • Large family vacation homes
  • RV resorts and campgrounds

Whether you are planning a weekend trip, attending a festival, enjoying a fishing vacation, or considering a longer stay, the Mississippi Gulf Coast offers a wide range of lodging options along one of the most relaxed and welcoming coastlines in the United States.

Where to Stay by Mississippi Gulf Coast City

Each city along the Mississippi Gulf Coast has a slightly different character. Choosing where to stay often depends on what type of trip you are planning—whether that is beaches, casinos, festivals, fishing, or a quiet coastal getaway.

image historic Biloxi light house on Beach Blvd
Historic Bloxi Lighthouse

Biloxi

Biloxi is the largest tourism center on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and offers the widest variety of accommodations.

Visitors will find:

  • Casino resort hotels along the waterfront
  • Large national chain hotels near the beach
  • Beachfront condos and vacation rentals
  • Hotels near the Biloxi Marina and fishing charters

Biloxi is the best choice for travelers who want easy access to casinos, entertainment, charter fishing, and restaurants. Many hotels are located along Highway 90 directly across from the beach.

Gulfport

Gulfport offers a mix of beachfront hotels, vacation rentals, and family-friendly lodging options.

Accommodations in Gulfport are often close to:

  • Gulfport Harbor and Marina
  • Jones Park and the Gulfport waterfront
  • The Mississippi Aquarium
  • Shopping and restaurants

The city also features several new vacation rentals and condos, along with the modern Gulfport Luxury RV Resortlocated directly on Highway 90 near the beach.

Gulfport is a good location for visitors who want central access to the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Ocean Springs

Ocean Springs is known for its charming downtown district, art galleries, and waterfront parks. Many visitors choose Ocean Springs for a quieter and more walkable coastal experience.

Accommodations include:

  • Boutique hotels
  • Small inns and guesthouses
  • Vacation rentals near downtown
  • Homes close to Front Beach and the harbor

Ocean Springs is especially popular during festivals and art events, and many accommodations are located within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

map of The Mississippi gulf coast

Bay St. Louis

Bay St. Louis offers one of the most scenic and relaxed environments on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The historic Old Town district sits along the waterfront and features restaurants, art galleries, and local shops.

Visitors will find:

  • Boutique hotels and inns
  • Waterfront vacation rentals
  • Beach houses and cottages
  • RV parks nearby

Bay St. Louis is a favorite destination for travelers looking for a quiet coastal town atmosphere with great views of the Gulf and the harbor.

Pass Christian and Long Beach

Pass Christian and Long Beach provide a more residential coastal setting with beautiful beachfront views and historic homes.

Accommodations in these communities often include:

  • Beachfront vacation rentals
  • Small inns and guesthouses
  • Houses near marinas and fishing areas

These locations are ideal for visitors who want a relaxed beach setting while still being close to Gulfport and Biloxi attractions.

Pascagoula

Pascagoula, located on the eastern end of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, is known for its maritime history, shipbuilding industry, and waterfront parks.

Visitors can find:

  • Hotels near the Pascagoula River
  • Lodging near marinas and fishing areas
  • Quiet accommodations away from the main tourist areas

Pascagoula can be a good option for travelers interested in fishing, boating, and exploring the eastern Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Plan Your Mississippi Gulf Coast Trip
Not sure how to plan your visit? Our custom Mississippi Gulf Coast itinerary planner can help you build the perfect trip. Select activities such as beaches, casinos, fishing, restaurants, festivals, and family attractions to create a personalized travel plan for your stay.
Build Your Mississippi Gulf Coast Itinerary →

Choosing the Best Location

Because the Mississippi Gulf Coast is only about 60 miles long, visitors can easily travel between cities.

A visitor staying in Gulfport can reach Biloxi or Ocean Springs in 15–25 minutes, while Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian are also short drives along scenic Highway 90.

This means travelers can choose accommodations based on price, atmosphere, and available lodging while still enjoying everything the coast has to offer.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi Gulf Coast Accommodations
What types of accommodations are available on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
Visitors can choose from beachfront casino resorts, national hotel chains, boutique hotels, vacation rental homes and condos, and RV resorts located throughout Biloxi, Gulfport, Ocean Springs, Bay St. Louis, and other coastal communities.
Are there hotels located directly on the beach?
Yes. Many hotels along Highway 90 in Biloxi and Gulfport are located directly across from the beach or have beachfront views. Several casino resorts and major hotel brands offer convenient access to the shoreline.
Why are vacation rentals popular on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
Vacation rentals are popular because they often cost less per person than hotels when traveling with a group. Many homes include kitchens, yards, swimming pools, and parking space for boats or trailers, making them ideal for families, fishing trips, and large gatherings.
Where can I book vacation rentals on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
Vacation rentals can be booked through platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO, or directly through local property managers on the Mississippi Gulf Coast that manage beachfront condos and larger vacation homes.
Are there RV resorts near the beach?
Yes. The Mississippi Gulf Coast has several RV resorts and casino RV parks located close to the beach. Some properties include resort amenities such as pools, clubhouses, and even lazy rivers.
When is the busiest time for hotels and vacation rentals?
The peak travel season typically runs from mid-May through July. Mardi Gras, Spring Break, Easter, and major events such as Cruisin’ the Coast, Scrapin’ the Coast, and Jeepin’ the Coast can also cause accommodations to fill quickly.
When can visitors find the best accommodation rates?
The best lodging bargains are usually available from mid-October through January. September is also a good month to find discounted hotel rooms and vacation rentals.
Are taxes charged on lodging on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
Yes. Lodging taxes typically range from about 7% to 12% depending on the city. However, if a visitor stays for 90 days or longer, state lodging taxes are usually waived.
Are pets allowed at Mississippi Gulf Coast accommodations?
Many vacation rentals allow pets, while some hotels have restrictions or additional fees. Travelers should always check the pet policy before booking accommodations.

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