{"ok":true,"data":{"id":2931,"slug":"clermont-harbor-beach-bay-st-louis","name":"Clermont Harbor Beach","country":"USA","state":"Mississippi","city":"Bay St. Louis","coords":{"lat":30.2968,"lng":-89.4049},"beachType":null,"tags":["hidden"],"article":{"hero":"Clermont Harbor Beach occupies a quiet bend where Bay St. Louis curves toward the Mississippi Sound, a sliver of sand and grass where the water laps so gently you can hear rigging clink on anchored boats. The beach itself runs narrow and unmanicured, edged by residential lawns and live oaks dripping Spanish moss, the kind of place where neighbors launch kayaks from their backyards and pelicans perch on dock pilings within arm's reach.\n\nThe water stays shallow for dozens of yards, warm and murky with tannins from upstream bayous, better suited for wading and watching fiddler crabs than diving headfirst. You'll spot shrimp boats motoring past in the early morning, their outriggers folded like sleeping wings, and if the tide's right, sandbars emerge far enough out that you can walk to them barefoot. The shoreline smells like marsh grass and diesel fuel in equal measure—a working waterfront, not a postcard.\n\nCome at dusk when the harbor fills with amber light and the temperature finally breaks. Local families set up folding chairs in the shallows, coolers wedged in the sand, while paddleboarders glide past the sailboat moorings. There are no lifeguards, no concession stands, no volleyball nets—just a neighborhood beach that happens to welcome visitors who don't need anything polished.","teaser":"You'll wade into bathwater shallows where herons stalk between moored sailboats and the scent of salt marsh mixes with blooming magnolias. This tucked-away crescent in Bay St. Louis feels more like a local fishing harbor than a resort, and that's precisely the appeal.","uniqueAngle":"A residential harbor beach where working shrimp boats and backyard kayak launches outnumber tourists, offering an unvarnished view of Gulf Coast life.","accessType":"Drive-up","thingsToDo":[{"icon":"kayak","title":"Paddle the Harbor","subtitle":"Launch near moored sailboats"},{"icon":"camera","title":"Shrimper Sunrise","subtitle":"Catch boats heading out"},{"icon":"sun","title":"Wade the Shallows","subtitle":"Warm water, soft bottom"},{"icon":"food","title":"Dockside Picnic","subtitle":"Grab local boiled shrimp"}],"audience":{"surfer":"The Mississippi Sound doesn't deliver surfable waves—this is a harbor beach with barely a ripple on calm days. Occasional boat wakes provide the only disturbance, and the shallow, silty bottom extends so far that even hurricane swells dissipate before reaching shore. If you're chasing rideable breaks, head east toward Alabama's Gulf Shores or west to the Louisiana barrier islands. Clermont Harbor is for paddleboarding and floating, not carving.","couples":"Spread a blanket near the live oaks at sunset when the harbor glows rust and violet, and shrimp boats motor back trailing gulls. The Blind Tiger in downtown Bay St. Louis serves Gulf oysters and craft cocktails two miles away, walkable if you're staying at one of the shotgun-style guesthouses along Beach Boulevard. Morning walks along the residential shoreline feel private and unhurried—you'll pass maybe three people and a dozen herons. Skip Valentine's weekend; come in October when humidity breaks and the water still holds summer warmth.","backpacker":"Free parking and beach access make this an easy Gulf Coast stop. Camp twenty minutes north at Buccaneer State Park for under twenty dollars, or ask about weekly rates at the Harbour Oaks Inn if you're lingering. Shaggy's Pass Harbor serves fried catfish baskets for nine dollars, and you can fill a gallon jug with boiled shrimp from roadside stands for twelve. The Greyhound stops in Gulfport; from there, catch the Coast Transit Authority bus toward Bay St. Louis and walk the final mile along Beach Boulevard.","local":"Skip weekends and arrive before seven on weekday mornings when the harbor belongs to crabbers checking traps and retirees walking retrievers through the shallows. The sandbar east of the sailboat moorings appears only during moon tides—wade out at low water for unobstructed views toward the bridge. Locals know to bring mesh bags for collecting driftwood after storms; the best pieces wash up near the pier pilings where the current eddies.","family":null,"party":null,"diver":null,"explorer":null},"faqs":[{"a":"Clermont Harbor Beach is located on the calm waters of the Bay of St. Louis, making it generally safer for swimming than open Gulf beaches. The bay's protected nature means gentler waves and currents. However, always check local advisories before swimming, as water quality can be affected by weather events and runoff. The beach lacks lifeguards, so supervise children closely. Jellyfish can occasionally be present during warmer months. The shallow, gradual depth makes it suitable for families, but remain cautious of boat traffic in the harbor area.","q":"Is Clermont Harbor Beach safe for swimming?"},{"a":"Clermont Harbor Beach can be enjoyed year-round thanks to Mississippi's mild coastal climate. Summer (June-August) offers warm water and peak beach weather, though it brings humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) provide comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds, ideal for beachcombing and scenic walks. Winter remains relatively mild, with temperatures often reaching the 60s°F, perfect for peaceful beach strolls. Avoid visiting during hurricane season's peak (August-October) and check weather forecasts, as storms can impact the bay area.","q":"When is the best time to visit Clermont Harbor Beach?"},{"a":"Clermont Harbor Beach is located in Bay St. Louis, accessible via Highway 90 (Beach Boulevard). From I-10, take Exit 13 and head south toward the waterfront. The beach is on the bay side of town, near the Clermont Harbor area. Street parking is typically available along nearby residential streets, though spaces may be limited during peak times. The beach is in a quieter, less commercialized area compared to other Bay St. Louis beaches. Consider visiting the Bay St. Louis Visitor Center for detailed directions and parking recommendations.","q":"How do I get to Clermont Harbor Beach and where can I park?"},{"a":"Bay St. Louis offers numerous dining and lodging options within a short drive of Clermont Harbor Beach. Historic downtown Bay St. Louis, just minutes away, features local seafood restaurants, cafes, and casual eateries. Popular options include fresh Gulf seafood and Southern cuisine. Accommodations range from charming bed-and-breakfasts to vacation rentals and small hotels throughout Bay St. Louis. The beach itself has limited on-site amenities, so plan to bring supplies or visit nearby commercial areas. Many visitors combine beach time with exploring the town's galleries, shops, and waterfront dining.","q":"What food and lodging options are near Clermont Harbor Beach?"},{"a":"Clermont Harbor Beach stands out as a hidden, less-crowded alternative to Mississippi's more popular Gulf-facing beaches. Located on the protected Bay of St. Louis rather than the open Gulf, it offers calmer waters and a more intimate, residential feel. The scenic bay views provide different perspectives compared to traditional Gulf beaches, with opportunities to watch sailboats and harbor activity. Its quieter atmosphere attracts locals and visitors seeking a peaceful escape. The beach's proximity to Bay St. Louis's charming historic district allows easy combination of beach relaxation with cultural exploration and dining.","q":"What makes Clermont Harbor Beach different from other Mississippi beaches?"}]},"seo":{"title":"Clermont Harbor Beach: Bay St. Louis' Secluded Mississippi Coast Gem","description":"Sheltered waters meet pine-shaded shores at this quiet harbor beach in Bay St. Louis. Kayak-friendly shallows and sunset views over the Gulf await curious explorers.","ogImage":"https://live.staticflickr.com/7447/27037580224_68e61e84dc_b.jpg"},"images":[{"id":"525614","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/7447/27037580224_68e61e84dc_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/7447/27037580224_68e61e84dc.jpg","alt":"Cape May Hops Festival is June 25 New in 2016! This summer kickoff festival celebrates blues, brews and BBQ and features local and regional craft beers with live music on an outdoor stage at the Physick Estate"}]}}