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By Kara Kimbrough
It’s June, considered by many to be the perfect vacation month. And, it is technically summer, but without the oppressive heat that typically arrives next month. Even so, the thought of packing the car, unloading everything in a beach rental, then traveling to and from restaurants and entertainment can be overwhelming. Here’s a solution: head to Biloxi’s Beau Rivage Resort and Casino, where everything for the perfect summer beach vacation – including an entertaining, family-friendly musical production in June– is under one roof.
Beach access…a few steps away
Notice I included the word “beach” in my description of the perfect plan for a relaxing vacation. That’s because “The Beau,” as it’s widely known, is literally on Biloxi Beach. Guests are able to leave their hotel rooms and step right out onto the beach to relax on the sand, walk along the water’s edge to view mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets and engage in any number of water sports. But the real magic exists inside the cocoon-like exterior of the sprawling resort.
The Beau Rivage is literally at the water’s edge, with Biloxi Beach’s white sand beaches and the gulf waters located a few feet from its doors. Photo credit: Beau Rivage
Everything under one roof
Once you’re inside, there’s really no reason to leave. First, there’s the massive pool lined with palm trees, comfortable lounge chairs and cabanas for an even more luxurious experience. Lounging by the shimmering pool underneath the swaying palm fronds, it’s easy to forget you’re not on a tropical island. Pool access is limited to hotel guests, insuring a secure, private experience.
Beau Rivage’s pool area is filled with comfortable lounge chairs, covered pavilions and private cabanas that can be rented for the day. Photo credit: Beau Rivage
Back inside, everything needed for a leisurely vacation is at your disposal. After enjoying a comfortable night’s rest in one of the modern, well-appointed guest rooms or suites, many with stunning gulf views, there are opportunities for shopping, dining, nightlife, entertainment and relaxation.
If self-care and pampering are high on your list, a quick elevator ride whisks guests to a serene full-service spa and salon. In the breathtaking lobby, hundreds of fresh flowers and seasonal décor are perfect backdrops for family photos or selfies. Head down the spacious promenade, where a variety of boutiques and specialty stores offering a multitude of shopping opportunities.
Dining at its finest
When it’s time to dine, 12 restaurants representing a variety of cuisines at various price points are spread throughout the property.
One of my favorite restaurants is BR Prime. Each visit to this glamourous steakhouse has been better than the last. With elegant “Vegas glam” décor and ambiance, personal service and outstanding steaks, seafood and desserts, it’s a fine dining experience like no other.
While BR Prime may never loose it’s first-place standing in my mind, running a close second after last week’s visit is Coraline’s. Settling into a cozy leather booth next to massive curved windows offering stunning water views of boats lazily floating along the gulf as a massive orange sun sunk below the horizon was an unexpected treat. Equally impressive was the restaurant’s tasteful, elegant décor reminiscent of New Orleans’ French Quarter. Since its opening last summer, Coraline’s has quickly become a favorite dining destination for guests and it’s easy to understand why.
If you’re an oyster-lover, you’ve come to the right place. Coraline’s oysters are prepared at least a half-dozen ways, as are numerous fresh seafood offerings. Equally prominent are Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes, along with creative versions of nostalgic offerings like deviled eggs paired with pan-fried okra slices, moist cornbread loaves served with whipped butter and syrup and pork belly with apple and jicama slaw.
Coraline’s Redfish Court Bouillon is a delectable dish of fresh seafood prepared with New Orleans-inspired flair and flavors. Photo credit: Beau Rivage
Other popular dining spots are Jia, an award-winning Pan-Asian restaurant; Italian favorite Stalla and Salt & Ivy, known for Coastal-inspired dishes and weekend champagne brunch. Interspersed throughout the resort are eateries serving coffee and pastries, snacks, adult beverages and to-go meals, among other offerings.
One of the most frequent stops for guests is the Beau’s famous buffet. A multi-million-dollar refresh has increased the number of daily visitors who line up early for breakfast, followed by meals of fresh seafood, specialty meats and numerous dishes ranging from Southern favorites to ethnic flavors. The buffet opens for breakfast at 8 a.m. and offers lunch and, on most days, dinner until late in the evening.
‘Grease is the word!'
Experiencing the excitement of opening night of the hit Broadway rock n’ roll musical Grease was the crowning touch of last week’s mini-vacation. Based on the iconic film of the same name, Grease is playing Beau Rivage for a limited engagement through June 29. The show features legendary music, including the Academy Award-nominated song, “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” as well as “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” and “We Go Together.”
Performed with a live band, and high-energy choreography, the production is fun, entertaining and a pleasant escape from reality. Unlike many stage recreations of famous movies, this live rendition of the 1978 film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John exceeded my expectations. With a professional cast of actors, singers and dancers, many of whom bore a striking resemblance to original cast members, and colorful sets and props, Grease surpassed some Broadway plays I’ve seen in New York City.
Before planning a vacation that involves packed itineraries and activities requiring lots of travel time, consider everything the Beau has to offer. Like me, you’ll quickly realize everything needed for a relaxing summer break is at the Beau. In simple terms, everything about a visit to the Beau is enjoyable, memorable and here’s the important part: stress-free.
Make sure to check out Beau Rivage’s website for detailed information on room rates and special packages, Grease tickets and show times, restaurants, menus and much more.
If You Go:
Where: Beau Rivage Resort and Casino
875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, MS 39530
Contact: Guest Services: 228.386.7111
Reservations: 888.567.6667 or book online
Website: beaurivage.mgmresorts.com/en.html
Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at [email protected].
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