Page 73 - Play Coastal Mississippi - Fall26 - Winter27

There’s something sweet about watching kids and dogs figure
each other out in the grass—one learning responsibility, the other
just thrilled to have a cheering section.
Then there’s the beach. Yes, you have to know where to go
(and always check local rules), but parts of the Coast welcome
leashed dogs on the sand—including stretches in Ocean Springs
and areas in Hancock and Jackson Counties. Early mornings and
late afternoons are especially magical. Kids collect shells. Dogs
investigate every scent like it’s breaking news. The breeze off
the water makes everything feel a little freer. Just remember—
leash up, clean up, and keep it respectful so everyone can enjoy
it. Not every stretch of shoreline allows pets, so do a quick check
before you unload the beach gear. A little planning keeps the day
smooth—and keeps the beaches welcoming for everyone.
If your crew prefers shade and picnic tables, the Coast delivers
there, too. Hiller Park, Popps Ferry Causeway Park and other
waterfront green spaces offer walking paths, open lawns and
spots to spread out a blanket. Pack sandwiches. Bring a Frisbee.
Let the dog sniff every tree while the kids burn off that endless
reserve of energy.
And when everyone’s worked up an appetite, you’ll find plenty
of Coast restaurants and local businesses that happily welcome
well-behaved pets on outdoor patios. From casual seafood spots
to coffee shops and neighborhood cafés, it’s not unusual to see a
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dog stretched out under a table while kids color on paper menus.
Many places even keep water bowls handy or offer the occasional
treat. As always, a quick call or glance at posted signage is smart,
but across the Coast, hospitality extends to four-legged guests,
too.
Want to stretch the adventure just a bit? Older kids—and well-
mannered pups who don’t mind a little splash—can even join
kayaking excursions on calm waters. Picture it: a dog perched
proudly at the front of a kayak, ears flapping in the breeze, kids
wide-eyed and laughing. It’s not complicated fun. It’s the best
kind.
What makes the Coast special isn’t just the scenery. It’s the pace.
It’s the way a simple Saturday can turn into something worth
remembering—no tickets required, no big production. Just
sunshine, salt air and the kind of easygoing atmosphere where
muddy paws and sandy toes are welcome.
So, lean into it. Take the dog. Bring the kids. Stay a little longer than
you planned. Because years from now, they won’t remember the
errands you ran or the laundry you folded. They’ll remember the
day the dog chased seagulls, the picnic that lasted until sunset,
and the way the Coast felt wide open and entirely theirs.
And that’s the magic of loving pets and raising kids—right here at
home.
OCT 26-MAR 27 I PLAY COASTAL MISSISSIPPI 73