Mother & Daughter Itinerary
Mother & Daughter Retreat
A restorative 4.5-day stay in Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Designed for mothers and daughters, sisters, and lifelong friends, this itinerary is thoughtfully paced for travelers who value ease, beauty, conversation, and comfort. Expect coastal views, cultural depth, gentle movement, and moments of intentional rest — all from your home base at NERV Haven.
Before You Travel: Prepare for Ease
A few simple steps before departure will ensure your stay begins in a calm, unrushed way.
Getting Around
Renting a car is recommended. Car pickup at Gulfport–Biloxi International Airport is straightforward, with options like Hertz and Avis.
- Estimated cost: $55–$75/day depending on season
Your Pre-Arrival Download Packet
We’ll send a digital packet before arrival, including:
- Scenic driving directions from 298 Porter Avenue to downtown Ocean Springs (we recommend the coastal route — 10 minutes longer, worth every view)
- Directions from the airport to NERV Haven
- A curated Spotify playlist for your coastal drive
- A gentle packing guide for relaxed, elegant days
What to Pack
Think polished comfort and breathable fabrics:
- Two elegantly casual dinner outfits with supportive sandals
- Comfortable sneakers for boardwalks and museum strolling
- Linen pants, three-quarter trousers, and lightweight tops
- A floppy sun hat or head covering for boat days
- Swimsuit & water shoes
- Matching accessories
- Sand-proof slippers or Crocs
- Pajamas for slow mornings
Arrival Day: A Soft Landing
Check-in at 4:00pm
Early Arrival Plan
- Drop bags in the garage and pick up your golf cart
- While the home is being prepared, enjoy a short walk to The Collective
- Relax with small plates and a drink at The Wilbur Bar
- Browse and enjoy coffee at Porter Books
That Evening
- Expect welcome contact to ensure that you’ve settled in well
- Casual dinner nearby at Eat Drink Love or Maison de Lu for a relaxed evening (See our recommendations on the Dining page)
Day One: Ship Island & the Gulf Breeze
A day shaped by open sky and soft movement.
Take the ferry to Ship Island (running between March and November), where history and nature meet.
- Explore Fort Massachusetts with a guided or self-paced tour
- Walk the flat perimeter trails at your own pace
- Take along your NERV Haven beach chairs, wade in warm shallow waters
- Grab lunch at the island snack shack
Perfect for history lovers, Civil War enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys wide, uncrowded beaches.
Evening
Return home for a relaxed seafood dinner or comforting gumbo — simple, nourishing, and unrushed. If you feel like going out, consider Phoenicia (Mediterranean comfort) or Pleasant’s BBQ.
Day Two: The Spirit of Ocean Springs
Morning: Antiques & Treasures
Stroll through downtown and explore antique and artisan shops, including:
- Hillyer House
- The Pink Rooster
- Realizations
- Spice & Teas
Lunch
A light, leisurely lunch downtown at Blue Dog Bistro or Government Street Grocery.
Afternoon: Arts & Craftsmanship
Visit local galleries and coastal artisans that reflect the town’s creative soul.
Evening: A Special Night Out
Dinner at Vestige, Ocean Springs’ most celebrated fine-dining experience — intimate, thoughtful, and quietly elegant. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. We’d also recommend Mary Mahoney’s for an unforgettable evening.
Day Three: Walter Anderson & Coastal Heritage
Morning
Visit Shearwater Pottery — a living studio and gallery deeply tied to the region’s artistic history. Casual dress recommended.
Midday
Walk the grounds of Twelve Oaks, a historic estate tied to the Anderson family. While there is no formal daily tour, interpretive signage and occasional docent-led programs are available seasonally.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch nearby before continuing the day. If you are planning to go to Walter Anderson Museum of Art, you can get a coffee and meal at The Traveler, located next to the museum.
Afternoon
Explore the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, then treat yourselves to ice cream downtown at Kilwins afterward.
Evening Options
- Cook a relaxed meal together at home
- Dine out locally
- Arrange an in-home chef and private mixologist experience (reach out directly for more information)
Day Four: Pamper Me Day
Morning
Enjoy breakfast in town or at home, followed by a scenic golf-cart ride and beach walk. Bright Eyed Coffee or Lil’ Market are good options. If you want to head a little further, consider Greenhouse in Biloxi.
Midday
- A private beach picnic arranged with Coastal Picnics
- Return home to refresh and relax
Afternoon Wellness
Choose your own path to restoration:
- In-home massage services
- We highly recommend ethOS Wellness Spa, one of our partners. They offer infrared therapy or their own Cellar Beer & Wine Experience.
- Alternatively, the salt therapy rooms are also available at Zen Den
Day Five: A Gentle Goodbye
- Quiet morning in the library with a book
- Leave a message on our living room inspiration wall
- Please place used towels in the washing machine as a courtesy
- Check-out at 10:00 a.m.