Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Washington Street Beach unfurls along the western edge of Bay St. Louis, where the town's historic district meets the Gulf. You'll park along Beach Boulevard, step over the seawall, and find yourself on a sandy stretch that belongs as much to the neighborhood as it does to visitors. Families spread blankets under the shade of pavilions, anglers cast lines from the adjacent pier, and toddlers chase hermit crabs in the shallows while parents watch from folding chairs. The water here is calm and muddy-bottomed, better suited for wading and crabbing than surfing. You'll notice the absence of resort towers—just a low skyline of renovated Creole cottages and the occasional church steeple. The beach extends for blocks, bordered by a paved walking path where joggers and dog-walkers pass beneath centuries-old oaks draped in Spanish moss. Come late afternoon and the light turns golden over the water, casting long shadows from the pier pilings. Local kids jump off the dock while their grandparents set up crab traps. You might catch the scent of boiling shrimp from someone's cooler or hear the crack of a cold can opened on a tailgate. This is a beach that operates on Gulf Coast time, where the appeal lies not in postcard perfection but in the unhurried rhythm of a town that rebuilt itself and kept its soul.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Washington Street Beach.
Photos
Washington Street Beach is generally safe for swimming, though conditions depend on weather and tides. The beach faces the Mississippi Sound rather than open ocean, so waves are typically calm and suitable for families with children. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise caution. Water clarity can vary, especially after storms or heavy rainfall. Check local advisories before swimming, and be aware of jellyfish during warmer months. The shallow, gradual slope makes it ideal for wading and young swimmers when conditions are favorable.
Washington Street Beach is accessible year-round, with peak season from May through September when temperatures range from 80-90°F. Summer offers warm water perfect for swimming, though it can be humid with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) provide milder weather with fewer crowds, ideal for beach walks and family outings. Winter months are cooler but still pleasant for strolling the beach. Avoid visiting immediately after hurricanes or tropical storms, as debris and water quality issues may affect the beach temporarily.
Washington Street Beach offers convenient free parking along Beach Boulevard (Highway 90), which runs parallel to the shoreline. Street parking is available directly across from the beach access points, with multiple spaces along the beachfront. Additional parking can be found on nearby side streets. The beach is easily accessible from downtown Bay St. Louis, just a short walk from Main Street. During peak summer weekends and special events, parking may fill up, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended for the best spots.
Bay St. Louis offers numerous dining and lodging options within walking distance of Washington Street Beach. Downtown Bay St. Louis, just blocks away, features local seafood restaurants, casual cafes, and coffee shops along Main Street and nearby areas. The historic district includes boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. For amenities, the beach has basic facilities but limited services directly on-site. Grocery stores and shopping centers are available a short drive away for picnic supplies and beach essentials.
While Washington Street Beach offers views of the Mississippi Sound, the current Bay St. Louis lighthouse is not located at this beach. The town's original lighthouse was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. However, the beach provides pleasant waterfront views and is part of Bay St. Louis's scenic beachfront along Highway 90. The area is known for beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the water. Visitors can enjoy the natural coastal scenery and watch boats passing through the sound from this urban beach setting.
