Venture far enough South, and it seems that everyone that you meet has stories tinged with loss and resilience about the hurricanes that have shaped the local land and livelihood. The citizens and business owners of Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian - two small cities located on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi - certainly do.
Every summer, my family and I spend time along this special stretch of the Gulf Coast. And during each visit, we are always inspired by the area’s indomitable spirit and determination to honor the past while celebrating the present.
In 2005, the eye of Hurricane Katrina tore through Bay St. Louis with a fury unmatched, leaving behind devastation beyond measure. The catastrophic storm shook the very foundations of the historic homes and buildings that had once stood as silent sentinels along the coastline.
Amid the wreckage, these coastal communities banded together to embark on a long journey of rebuilding and revitalization - in a place where the spirit of resilience flows as steady as the Mississippi.
Bay St. Louis:
As architects and builders descended upon the region, Bay St. Louis focused on its future while working to preserve its rich heritage and strong architectural influences from its early European, African, and Creole inhabitants.
Today, Bay St. Louis stands as a quaint and charming coastal town where time takes on a slower pace - making it the perfect place to stop before or after a full day of boating adventures on the bay.
The Bay:
Water from swampland, streams, and the Mississippi Sound converge in the Bay so depending on where you venture, its salinity and depths vary.
The Bay’s calm waters offer a haven for seekers of adventure and tranquility alike. Whether you find solace in paddle boarding or waterskiing, appreciate the peace and patience of casting a fishing line, or enjoy embarking on day trips to its small nearby islands, the Bay can be your oyster.
Pass Christian:
Located a few miles over the Bay St. Louis Bridge, stands Pass Christian- a city that earned an impressive architectural reputation during the 19th and early 20th centuries for its beautifully crafted vacation and permanent homes.
Take one trip down the live oak lined Scenic Drive Historic District in Pass Christian and you’ll see why the beachfront area is nicknamed the “Newport of the South.” The expansive lawns and wide porches (some of which are two-story) capture the laid-back elegance of this coastal town.
Local Recommendations:
Oysters: The Oyster Bar at 200 North Beach is a must-try in Bay St. Louis.
Ice Cream: For the best dessert in Bay St. Louis, head to The Creole Creamery for a treat - Their Cookie Monster flavor is my favorite!
Coffee: One of my family’s favorite places to stop in Pass Christian includes Cat Island Coffeehouse - a coffee shop sharing a space with independent bookstore, Pass Christian Books.
