Waterfront Restaurants on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
Discover waterfront restaurants and seafood dining along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. From Biloxi to Pass Christian, find locally-owned seafood shacks, waterfront bars, and dining with views of the Mississippi Sound.
McElroy's Harbor House
Biloxi, MS
McElroy's Harbor House sits above Biloxi's Small Craft Harbor with a covered balcony that puts you front-row to bobbing boats and the sparkling Mississippi Sound. Known for hearty seafood platters, Gulf shrimp, and thick gumbo, McElroy's has been a Biloxi institution for locals and visitors seeking an authentic Gulf Coast dining experience.
Services
- Waterfront harbor dining
- Fresh Gulf seafood platters
- Gumbo and chowder
- Covered balcony seating
- Lunch and dinner service
Where is McElroy's Harbor House located in Biloxi?
McElroy's sits directly above Biloxi's Small Craft Harbor, with waterfront balcony seating overlooking the marina and the Mississippi Sound beyond.
What is McElroy's most popular dish?
The seafood platters and Gulf gumbo are long-standing favorites. Fresh Gulf shrimp prepared multiple ways — fried, boiled, or chargrilled — are a staple of the menu.
Is McElroy's good for groups?
Yes, McElroy's accommodates groups and offers a classic Gulf Coast atmosphere that works well for family gatherings, casual dinners, and visitors looking for an authentic local seafood experience.
The Reef
Biloxi, MS
The Reef stands tall on Biloxi's beachfront, offering Gulf of Mexico views from three distinct levels of dining. The restaurant's elevated position gives every table a quality view of the water, and the menu leans heavily on fresh Gulf catches served in classic Mississippi Coast fashion.
Services
- Multi-level waterfront dining
- Fresh Gulf seafood menu
- Full bar service
- Outdoor deck seating
- Gulf views from every level
Does The Reef have outdoor seating with Gulf views?
Yes, The Reef has multiple levels of seating including outdoor deck areas with direct views of the Gulf of Mexico from the Biloxi beachfront.
What kind of seafood does The Reef serve?
The menu features fresh Gulf seafood including shrimp, fish, oysters, and crab prepared in Southern Gulf Coast style. Expect classic dishes alongside seasonal specialties.
Is The Reef a good spot for a sunset dinner in Biloxi?
The Reef's western-facing beachfront position makes it an excellent choice for sunset views over the Gulf. The upper levels offer especially good vantage points as the sun goes down.
Shaggy's
Pass Christian, MS
Shaggy's is a Mississippi Gulf Coast institution with three waterfront locations — Pass Christian, Biloxi, and Gulfport — all serving the same Gulf-to-table menu of fresh shrimp, mahi-mahi tacos, fried seafood platters, and signature po'boys. The laid-back atmosphere, waterfront decks, and consistent quality have made Shaggy's one of the most recognized names on the Coast.
Services
- Gulf-to-table seafood menu
- Shrimp and mahi tacos
- Po'boy sandwiches
- Waterfront deck dining
- Full bar and cocktails
Where are Shaggy's locations on the MS Gulf Coast?
Shaggy's has three waterfront locations: Pass Christian Harbor, Biloxi beachfront, and Gulfport. Each has outdoor deck seating overlooking the Mississippi Sound.
What is Shaggy's known for?
Shaggy's is famous for fresh Gulf shrimp, mahi-mahi tacos, and hand-battered seafood platters. The laid-back Gulf vibe and waterfront views keep it a local and tourist favorite.
Does Shaggy's have a happy hour?
Yes, Shaggy's typically offers happy hour drink specials and appetizer deals. Hours vary by location — check with the specific location for current times.
The Chimneys Restaurant
Gulfport, MS
The Chimneys Restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored white mansion on the Gulfport waterfront, blending Southern hospitality with upscale Gulf Coast dining. Indoor and outdoor seating options give guests a choice between elegant dining room ambiance and fresh air waterfront views of the Mississippi Sound.
Services
- Upscale Gulf seafood
- Southern hospitality dining
- Indoor and outdoor seating
- Event and private dining
- Full bar service
What type of food does The Chimneys serve?
The Chimneys offers upscale Southern Gulf Coast cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood, quality meats, and local produce prepared with a gourmet touch.
Can I have a private event at The Chimneys?
Yes, The Chimneys accommodates private dining events and gatherings in their elegantly restored historic mansion setting. Contact them for event space availability and catering options.
Is The Chimneys dressy or casual?
The Chimneys tends toward upscale casual — dressier than a typical seafood shack but not a formal jacket-required restaurant. Smart casual attire is appropriate.
White Cap Seafood Restaurant
Gulfport, MS
White Cap Seafood Restaurant is a popular casual dining spot on the Gulfport waterfront, known for generous portions of fresh Gulf seafood and a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the water. The menu focuses on the staples of Mississippi Gulf Coast seafood — shrimp, oysters, catfish, and fresh Gulf fish — at unpretentious prices.
Services
- Fresh Gulf seafood menu
- Casual waterfront dining
- Fried and boiled seafood platters
- Gulf oysters raw and chargrilled
- Family-friendly atmosphere
What seafood is White Cap known for?
White Cap is known for fresh Gulf seafood including shrimp, oysters, fish, and crawfish in season. Expect generous portions at casual Gulf Coast prices.
Is White Cap good for families?
Yes, White Cap is a laid-back family-friendly restaurant without the formal atmosphere or higher prices of a fine dining establishment. Kids and casual groups feel right at home.
Does White Cap serve raw oysters?
Yes, Gulf oysters are a staple at White Cap — served raw on the half shell or chargrilled with toppings. Mississippi Sound oysters are in peak season in the fall and winter months.
White Pillars
Biloxi, MS
White Pillars in Biloxi is one of the Mississippi Gulf Coast's most acclaimed dining experiences, led by Chef Austin Sumrall who was crowned "King of American Seafood" in 2021. The menu blends authentic Gulf Coast flavors with innovative culinary technique, making it a destination restaurant for visitors seeking the best of the region's seafood artistry.
Services
- Chef-driven Gulf seafood cuisine
- Innovative seasonal menu
- Fine dining experience
- Private dining options
- Curated wine and cocktail program
Who is the chef at White Pillars Biloxi?
White Pillars is led by Chef Austin Sumrall, who was named "King of American Seafood" in 2021 — one of the highest honors in American seafood cooking competition.
What kind of food does White Pillars serve?
White Pillars offers creative Gulf Coast cuisine with a fine dining approach — locally sourced Gulf seafood, elevated Southern preparations, and an innovative menu that changes seasonally.
Is White Pillars the best restaurant in Biloxi?
White Pillars is consistently ranked among the best restaurants on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, particularly for travelers who want a chef-driven, upscale dining experience rather than a casual seafood shack.
Half Shell Oyster House
Gulfport, MS
Half Shell Oyster House in Gulfport is dedicated to Gulf oysters served every which way — raw on the half shell, chargrilled with garlic butter, Rockefeller-style, and more. The Mississippi Sound produces excellent local oysters, and Half Shell puts them front and center alongside fresh Gulf fish, shrimp, and cold drinks.
Services
- Raw Gulf oysters on the half shell
- Chargrilled oyster preparations
- Fresh Gulf fish and shrimp
- Full seafood menu
- Full bar service
What is the specialty at Half Shell Oyster House?
Gulf oysters are the star — served raw, chargrilled, Rockefeller-style, and in shooters. Mississippi Sound oysters in season are among the best in the Gulf.
Are Gulf oysters safe to eat raw in Mississippi?
Mississippi Gulf oysters are harvested under state regulations and are generally considered safe when consumed at reputable establishments. Seasonality and water temperature affect quality — fall and winter are peak Gulf oyster season.
Does Half Shell serve non-oyster seafood?
Yes, the menu extends well beyond oysters with fresh Gulf fish, shrimp, crab, and a full selection of Gulf Coast seafood preparations for guests who want variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best waterfront restaurants on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
The Mississippi Gulf Coast is known for fresh Gulf seafood served at waterfront restaurants in Biloxi, Gulfport, and Pass Christian. Local favorites include family-owned seafood spots and marina restaurants overlooking the Mississippi Sound.
Where can I eat fresh Gulf seafood near Biloxi?
Biloxi and the surrounding Gulf Coast offer numerous restaurants serving locally caught Gulf shrimp, oysters, and fish. Waterfront dining ranges from casual dockside seafood shacks to full-service restaurants with Sound views.