By Kara Kimbrough
Lounging under shady palm trees with a tropical drink watching the waves roll in. Feeling the cool breeze floating in from the water. Standing under the refreshing waterfall of an infinity pool while gazing at the shimmering water. Sound like an island paradise vacation in another country? You might be surprised to learn these and other accoutrements of a beachfront resort are found in Mississippi – Bay St. Louis, to be exact.
The Silver Slipper Casino Hotel has been somewhat of a well-kept secret (for some, anyway) since opening eight years ago. That’s quickly changing as more and more travelers are discovering the perks of slipping away to the Gulf Coast and enjoying a night (or several) at the property located literally on the beach.
I’ve written several times about my love of Bay St. Louis, specifically the feeling of being in a separate state after crossing the majestic Bay Bridge and arriving in Hancock County. There is a separateness from the hustle and bustle of larger cities on the Coast that makes even a brief visit to the gulf-front area a great idea when decompression from life’s stressors is in order.
I’d planned to visit the Silver Slipper a couple of times since it opened, but approaching hurricanes and other factors got in the way. Recently, clear skies and an open schedule allowed me to experience for myself what many have told me – you truly feel like you’re visiting a remote, private island when you’re at “The Slipper.”
Driving up the palm-tree lined entrance of the property at the end of Beach Boulevard, 7-8 miles from U.S. 90 and the bridge, it’s somewhat surprising to look to the left and see the Gulf of Mexico a few feet away. As mentioned, cool breezes ruffling the palm fronds and sea gulls flying overhead offer the first clues that this is as close to an island experience in Mississippi as we’re likely to get.
Upon entering the well-appointed, modern property, it’s evident this is not the largest casino in the state. However, with 30,000 feet dedicated to the casino, there are plenty of gaming options for guests. Like most, the casino is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
A top-level of penthouse suites almost defies description. Suffice to say, every modern convenience has been added, ranging from spacious bedrooms, baths with multi-colored flowing water, modern kitchens, large meeting rooms and gulf front views.
When it’s time for a relaxing meal, Silver Slipper’s restaurants satisfy every taste. Offerings include a buffet, casual dining spot and a more upscale dining experience, as well as a small oyster bar and an outdoor bar and grill.
Indoors, the popular Jubilee Buffet offers an amazing all-you-can-eat experience courtesy of a dizzying array of dishes and cuisines. The Blue Bayou Bar and Grill serves prime steaks and local seafood specialties with scenic gulf views. And, the 24-hour Palm Court Café serves a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas and beverages for those in search of a quick, yet delicious meal.
I wasn’t sure if I was up for a sumptuous buffet experience, but after a little encouragement from hotel staff, I entered the sprawling Jubilee Buffet restaurant. After sampling the salad bar filled with over 30 fresh vegetables, soups and fruit, it was on to the main event.
My first stop was the prime rib station. The thick slice handed to me by the attendant was seasoned and cooked to perfection, as were both the fried and boiled shrimp I chose to accompany it. I couldn’t just end the meal there, though.
Sampling from adjacent stations filled with Southern, Cajun and Creole, Asian, Mexican and Italian cuisines provided the chance to enjoy smoked ribs, spaghetti and meatballs, fried rice and perhaps my favorite dish of the night, Asian dumplings, or pot stickers.
Sides like hush puppies, fries, pasta, steamed vegetables and fresh bread rounded out a delicious dining experience. Although it sounds like a lot of food ended up on my plates - yes, that’s plural- choosing small portions made it possible for me to top off the evening with a visit to the dessert area.
Desserts includes freshly made cakes, pies, fruit cobblers, specialty pastries and a popular area with guests, the funnel cakes. The slice of key lime pie I selected was delicious, but I still refer turning down a hot-from-the-fryer funnel cake topped with powdered sugar and whipped cream. A return visit is definitely on my list.
To learn about the buffet’s many offerings, prices and specials, including all-you-can-eat crab and shrimp and a weekend champagne brunch, make sure to check Silver Slipper’s website before visiting.
And, popular activities such as charter fishing and the area’s championship golf courses can be booked as hotel packages, with all details arranged by staff.
Driving away from the oasis headed back to “real life” wasn’t easy. However, knowing that the Silver Slipper is only a short drive away made my departure a little easier. If You Go: What: Silver Slipper Casino Hotel Where: 5000 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, MS Smoking: Smoking is allowed in gaming areas; non-smoking guest rooms can be requested. No smoking in dining areas. Contact: (228) 469-2777 Website: silverslipper-ms.com
