The Gulf Coast's Best Small Towns for a Weekend Escape

After an exhausting work week, it's understandable that you're looking for an escape. More than 20 million people with the same idea visit the five Gulf states of Mississippi, Texas, Alabama, Florida, and Louisiana and their respective coasts in the United States annually. Yet, people aren't only visiting the big cities on the coast.

With so many small towns along the Gulf Coast worth visiting, if one is looking to rest, relax, and unwind, you're spoilt for choice when it comes time to choose your weekend getaway. The Gulf coastal small towns are known for their pristine beaches, historic downtowns, cultural attractions, wildlife, and quaint shopping, so you'll have more than enough to explore during your weekend vacation.

So get packed, program your GPS or Google Maps, and pick one of these small towns on the Gulf Coast as your weekend getaway destination.

Bradenton, Florida

Known as the 'Friendly City,' Bradenton, along the Manatee River in Florida, is a one-stop weekend getaway for nature lovers. With beautiful beaches, parks, and wildlife preserves, outdoor enthusiasts can participate in all sorts of outdoor activities. From light hiking and biking to swimming and fishing, there's something on offer for everyone.

When visiting, you can explore the Riverwalk along the Manatee River, play a round of golf at one of the local golf courses, or sun tan at the infamous Siesta Key Beach. If you get tired of the outdoors, why not learn something new at the South Florida Museum? And let's not forget about immersing yourself in local culture at the Village of the Arts, with its galleries, studios, and street performers.

Some of the best restaurants in this small town include Pier 22, with its delicious seafood cuisine; Eleni's Pizza Works, which consistently serves some of the best gyros in town; and the Maison Blanche, for those looking for a romantic fine dining experience. In terms of accommodation, you won't go wrong with booking at America's Best Value Inn Bradenton or Compass by Margaritaville.

Breaux Bridge, Louisiana

"The crawfish capital of the world," otherwise known as Breaux Bridge, is a town in Louisiana that has been famous since 1959 when its crawfish farming and cooking became a sensation. The town has a bustling historic downtown district with unique shopping and dining opportunities.

Those visiting can look forward to experiencing one-of-a-kind Cajun culture, and the best place to start is with a visit to the bayous and swamps. You can sign up for a guided tour with the Bayou Teche Experience or enjoy a self-led tour. Depending on how you tour the swamps, you might work up an appetite, but don't worry—there are plenty of places to grub down.

With its authentic music, cuisine, culture, and history, this small town serves traditional food you won't experience elsewhere. Some of the best restaurants in Breaux Bridge include Buck and Johny's, with its mouthwatering desserts; Cafe Sydnie Mae, with its scrumptious steaks, seafood, and drinks; and the romantic Pamplona Tapas Bar & Grill.

After a delicious meal, you can head on over to Pont Breaux. There, you can dance the evening away to live Cajun music before relaxing at the Holiday Inn Express or Country Charm Bed and Breakfast. Then, before you leave, be sure to tour the town and admire the Creole Arcadian cottages and Queen Anne homes alongside old brick storefronts. Not only can you snap a few pictures, but you can also buy souvenirs.

Saint George Island, Florida

If you're planning a weekend getaway to Saint George Island in Florida, there is no reason to leave your furry friends at home. This small island town is largely pet-friendly, with its accommodations, beaches, restaurants, and cultural and historical attractions welcoming pets.

As one of the last inhabited but unspoiled barrier islands on the Gulf coast, you can look forward to 22 miles of uncrowded beaches. St George Island Public Beach is the best, offering sunning, shelling, fishing, swimming, peaceful walks, and an unforgettable view of Apalachicola Bay.

Besides the beach, you can also visit Dr Julian G. Bruce Saint George Island State Park if you enjoy bird and ocean watching. For shoppers, there is the Saint George Island Lighthouse, Gift Shop, and Museum or the Island Dog Beach and Surf Shop. St George Inn and Gibson Inn are also accommodations near these places, so try to book a room at either location to easily drop off your bought goods.

While visiting, don't forget to try out some of the best food spots in the area. Those eager to feel the salty breeze and have dinner with a view should enjoy a meal at the Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe. However, if you're only looking for something sweet, Webers Little Donut Shop is the place to be.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Found in the southernmost part of Alabama is Gulf Shores on the Gulf of Mexico, a small resort town. It is often visited by those interested in immersing themselves in outdoor activities like swimming in the Caribbean blue ocean or sunbathing on soft sand. It's also home to Gulf State Park, where one can find the stunning Lake Shelby, believed to be one of the only freshwater lakes in the world to be closely situated next to a body of saltwater. When visiting, you can enjoy a day of fishing or walking along the water's edge.

Then, there is the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, which is the perfect place for animal lovers or families to visit. This zoo was featured in the Animal Planet docu-series "The Little Zoo That Could," which is unsurprising considering that it is home to more than 500 exotic animals that you can see when visiting. After a trip to the zoo, there are plenty of hiking, biking, and bird-watching trails to venture out on around the town.

Of course, it is natural for all the exploring to work up an appetite, and there is no better place to grab a bite to eat than Iconic LuLu's. Serving more than 4,000 guests a day during the summer - their food is that good - this restaurant owned by singer Jimmy Buffett's sister is worth the time of day. But don't forget about booking where to stay in advance, with places like The Lodge, Kiva, Eagle Cottages, the Hampton Inn, and the Luxury RV resort filling up fast.

Fort Myers, Florida

Lore enthusiasts will love visiting Fort Myers, a small town encroaching on big city territory in Florida. This town's name comes with a charming story, often shared as local lore. It is said that a General in charge of the small fort on the Caloosahatchee River had a daughter who fell in love with one of his officers, Colonel Abraham Myers, whom she married. Admiring his son-in-law, the General supposedly named the town after him. This tale, while popular, remains part of the region's folklore.

We might never know the whole story behind the town's name, but what is known is that the small town is a seashell hunter's dream destination. It is believed that Fort Myers has one of the largest collections of shell varieties on its beaches, more than anywhere else in North America. So it might be worth visiting Fort Myers Beach with your bucket in tow to collect the different shells that strike your fancy.

Yet, if you're not a shell collector, never fear—there is so much more to see and do. From the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, with its award-winning gardens and inventions museum, to the six-mile Cypress Slough Preserve and its 2,200 acres, you'll have much to explore.

Should any of your exploring work up your appetite, you can dig into a risotto at Terra Nostra Ristorante or a spicey curry at the Masal Mantra Indian Bistro. If you haven't yet booked your accommodation, you might be lucky enough to snag a room at the Latitude 26 Waterfront Boutique Resort, Lovers Key Resort, or the Hibiscus House of Fort Myers.

Biloxi, Mississippi

Those seeking a captivating blend of southern charm and coastal beauty should consider the Gulf Coast Biloxi in Mississippi as their next weekend getaway. Biloxi is renowned for its delectable seafood - to no one's surprise -rich maritime history, glitzy casinos, and picturesque beaches. It's a town that balances excitement and relaxation effortlessly.

You might think there are other coastal towns better suited to rest, relaxation, and fun, but Biloxi gives most small towns a run for their money. From kayaking, paddle boarding, motorboating, and swimming to surfing, there are plenty of water activities to keep you busy.

Visitors interested in maritime history shouldn't forget to tour the Biloxi Lighthouse. Built in 1848, this cast iron lighthouse was routinely maintained by female keepers for more years than any other American lighthouse. It's also close to many restaurants like Patio 44, Mary Mahoney's Old French House, and White Pillars.

You can also tour Beauvoir, which belonged to the ex-Confederate president of the Confederate States of America. In addition, those looking for excitement can enjoy a night of games at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, which is also home to dining, accommodation, charter boat fishing, and championship golf courses—so don't forget your golf sticks! If you don't want to stay at the casino, try booking at the Margaritaville Resort Biloxi or the White House Hotel.

Fairhope, Alabama

As a resort town, Fairhope, Alabama, attracts many visitors, and you might be next. With its temperate climate, beautiful scenery, peaceful surroundings, and charming small-town feel, it's a memorable destination.

A simple walk down South Section Street or Fairhope Avenue will let you see the town's friendly pelicans and pigeons, and there are dozens of shops and restaurants to explore. Not to mention, the town's downtown district will give you a taste of New Orleans.

There is creole and French-inspired architecture lining the streets, and you can even get a melt-in-your-mouth beignet at one of the local restaurants that serve creole-french cuisine. Plus, if you have a hankering for something a little more 'deep south,' your tastebuds will thank you if you pick up some fresh-picked crab meat or tasty barbeque at Pirates Pit.

On your last night in the town, before making your way to your accommodation, whether it be at Jubilee Suites Boutique Hotel, the Hampton Inn, or somewhere else, remember to visit the local historical and cultural attractions. From Fairhope Municipal Pier and its award-winning rose garden to Fairhope Museum and Tolstoy Park, former residence of the 'Hermit of Montrose,' the town has many hidden gems worth exploring.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Known by locals as the "City of Discovery," Ocean Springs, Mississippi, is a small southern town that is a paradise for art lovers. No matter where you turn in the town, you'll be greeted by flamboyant, meaningful, and interesting art. Prepare to see everything from vibrant graffiti like the saying "Keep O.S. Weird" on a town wall to the more discrete artworks found in the galleries and museums.

Walking through the town's historic streets from your accommodation at the Cottages of Rosetti Park will be an enjoyable experience—and free! You'll see exactly why Ocean Springs has a thriving arts scene. Be sure to make a stop at Washington Avenue, which is lined with quirky, cute, and sophisticated shops and restaurants that are thriving and welcoming to all.

Ocean Springs is also somewhat of a culinary destination since it is home to more than 100 restaurants. The Sapphire Supper Club is a steakhouse you'll never want to leave, and the Lady May is a cocktail bar that is perfect for celebrations. Attractions-wise, you won't want to miss visiting the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, Front Beach, Charnley-Norwood House, or the Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial site.

Fulton, Texas

When visiting Fulton in Texas, you'll get more than just sand and surf. Unlike other small towns in the state, Fulton is unique in that it offers visitors a funky downtown, a vibrant festival scene, and excellent birding.

It might be a far more popular tourist destination now than ever before, but you'll still enjoy the town's charming small-town feel if you time your weekend getaway correctly. When you do visit, be sure to visit Fulton Harbor in downtown Fulton to learn more about the town's commercial fishing history, or put on your walking shoes and tour Fulton Mansion State Historic Site. This Empire-style building - the second of its kind in Texas - is beautifully restored and gives a glimpse into what life was like years ago.

Once the hunger pangs settle in, you can make your way to Paradise Key Dockside Bar and Grill, the Old Fulton Seafood Cafe & Steakhouse, or The Boiling Pot. Whichever you choose will serve you a plate of food you'll enjoy before you hit the hay at the Inn at Fulton Harbor, which happens to be the best accommodation in town.

Discover the Gulf Coast's Hidden Gems

The Gulf Coast is a spectacular haven for those seeking a weekend getaway in a small town. Although all of the towns listed might have their size in common, they offer unique experiences to visitors. From outdoor adventures and art tours to fine dining and swam sleuthing, there is something for everyone. So pack a suitcase, grab your significant other, and start planning your trip!