Who says you need to travel hundreds of miles for a great vacation? The beauty of the Coast is that each town has its own personality and attractions, so within a 20- to 30-minute drive, you can find yourself somewhere that feels totally fresh. And whether you want a restful overnight stay or a convenient getaway for a long weekend, you’re spoiled for choice.
Check out these three unique stay-cation spots that prove local can be luxurious — and get ready to rest, recharge and rediscover the beauty in your own backyard.
HOTEL VELA AND SIREN SOCIAL CLUB
Acclaimed chef Austin Sumrall and his wife, Tresse, already are renowned for White Pillars — their award-winning Biloxi restaurant that prides itself on farm-to-table freshness. With their latest venture, Hotel Vela and Siren Social Club in downtown Gulfport, Tresse says, their goal was to evoke the feeling of a tropical getaway.
“We are really proud of this project because it not only adds an extremely unique stay and dining option on the Coast, but the building itself was born out of piece of Gulfport history that sat empty for many years,” Tresse says.
Working with their partners at the Thrash Group, the couple curated an immersive, sultry experience; lush interiors and retro-style décor give a nod to the building’s speakeasy spirit. Guests can check into one of 16 unique rooms before heading downstairs to the co-located Siren Social Club, a buzz-worthy restaurant featuring a tiki-inspired cocktail list and refined, European-style menu; think caviar, beef wellington and handmade pasta.
“We wanted to blend luxury, relaxation and fun with a place that we would like to visit if we had a night out,” Tresse says, “and I think we did just that!”
THE DRIFTWOOD MOTEL
A piece of Bay St. Louis history is back and better than ever with The Driftwood Motel — a fully restored 1960s-era motor court that reopened last July.
“We originally purchased the property as the Economy Inn,” says Eugene Schmitt, managing director with SVN Urban Properties, “but once we uncovered its original name, Driftwood Motel, we knew we had to bring it back. It was a chance to revive the spirit of vintage coastal travel and honor the charm of Bay St. Louis in the ’60s and ’70s.”
The revamped Driftwood blends vintage flair with modern comfort, harkening back to the golden age of American road trips. After settling into one of the boutique motel’s 26 rooms, guests can kick back in the central courtyard, which features a pool, outdoor movie screen, grilling area, badminton court and free beach-cruiser bicycles.
In a playful twist on tradition, the former check-in office has been transformed into a cozy guest lounge and kitchenette offering weekend breakfast, espresso drinks, a self-serve cocktail station and a rotating selection of complimentary local beers.
“It’s retro hospitality with a modern twist,” Schmitt says, “unforgettable, independent and unmistakably Bay St. Louis.”
HOTEL WHISKEY AND WHISKEY PRIME
Located just steps from the shore in picturesque Pass Christian, Hotel Whiskey was established in 2017 and quickly has become a favorite retreat among Coast visitors and locals alike.
“Our hotel features eight spacious king rooms and two double-queen rooms — each with a balcony — and a generously-furnished balconied suite, perfect for any coastal getaway,” says Alli Silva, general manager of Whiskey Properties. A contactless check-in process lets guests skip the front desk and head straight to their rooms.
The brand’s emphasis on elegance and comfort extends to its restaurant, Whiskey Prime, which is located on the hotel’s first floor. Guests are invited to enjoy happy hour Thursday through Sunday and stay to indulge in a dinner of steak and fresh seafood.
Silva says from the moment guests walk through the doors, “We’re here to make your visit unforgettable.”
“At Hotel Whiskey, you’re not just a guest — you’re family,” she adds. “Our warm Southern hospitality and exceptional customer service ensure every stay feels like coming home.”