3 Reasons Why The Oasis Resort is a Dream for Special Needs Families
Our first visit to The Oasis Resort at Centennial Plaza in Gulfport, MS was one for the memory books! Just a scenic 1 hour and 20-minute drive from Mandeville along the Gulf Coast, this hidden gem is directly across from the beaches welcoming us with open arms, and a big smile at the Front Desk. Check-in was a breeze, and we were handed a colorful property map that sparked instant excitement. On the East side of the beautiful 49-acre property, we spotted a sneak peek of what’s to come…a new development called Hippie Fish that includes golf, games and grub. (Yes, we’re already planning our next visit.)
Once we unloaded and grabbed our wristbands, we made a beeline for the Water Playground, just 20 steps from our Building #8. I initially worried about Alana refusing to wear the wristband (sensory issues, anyone?), but the Front Desk reassured us: as long as we had it with us, she’d be allowed in. To my surprise, Alana joyfully joined in once she saw us putting ours on. A small win that felt huge.
A Safe and Sensory-Friendly Pool Area
We weren’t alone in loving the Water Playground—we met another sweet family whose sons are also on the spectrum. Their mom, Katie, couldn’t stop raving about how patient and helpful the staff were when answering her long list of questions pre-booking. One detail I loved: if your family needs to leave early, you won’t be charged for unused nights, as long as you notify the Front Desk and check out by 11:00 a.m. So thoughtful!
Every building, the Water Playground, and the pool area are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Security is top-notch, each building locks between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. but remains accessible with your key card. The pool area is fully gated, and a friendly staff member checks wristbands at the entrance/exit for safety. The lazy river (just 3 ft deep) wraps conveniently around the pool and Water Playground, which meant I could keep eyes on both of my kids at once…hallelujah! There are zero-entry points and steps throughout, making access a breeze for all abilities.
Alana started out shy with the slides, but after watching her brother zoom down over and over, she gave it a go, and loved it! By the end, she had tried every slide (I counted 8!) and even made a new friend who held her hand on the double slide. While Alana wanted to stay and play at the bottom of each slide, she would’ve held up the slide line. The lifeguards were amazingly calm, polite and always gave us a little extra time to navigate the space and her transitions. The views of the Gulf from the Water Playground were picturesque and the sounds of the seagulls gave that extra tropical vibe we were looking for. One thoughtful detail that really touched us: a chalkboard near the pool featuring the day’s weather, quote, events, and a heartwarming note, “April is Autism Awareness Month!”
Low-Stimulation Fun & Flexible Food Options
Right next to the Oasis Grill inside Building #6 is the Arcade, a dream for kids who love gaming and a win for parents needing peace of mind while waiting for their food order. It’s enclosed with a single entrance/exit, and for sensory-sensitive kids, there are a few quieter games in the hallway with lower lights and sounds.
The Oasis Grill is fully wheelchair accessible, with lots of seating for more private or spread-out dining. Best of all? The staff was more than happy to accommodate our picky eater. Next door, in Building #7, is the Sweet Shack. They serve up soft-served ice cream, both adult and kid-friendly refreshing beverages, and snacks to satisfy any craving while soaking in the sun. Smartly placed in its own building, reducing sugar temptations if needed (and potential meltdowns!).
Roomy Comfort with Kids in Mind
We booked a Kids Suite with Bunk Beds, and it couldn’t have been more perfect! A king bed for us, a bunk bed for the kids, plus a wall divider for privacy, a TV on each side, and storage shelves for all their treasures. The bath and shower combo gave us flexibility depending on who preferred what. All soaps are mounted to the wall, smart for safety and avoiding the dreaded shampoo dump. While the rooms don’t have microwaves (minor con), they do include a mini fridge for cold drinks and favorite snacks.
Inside the hotel and restaurant buildings, a mild, clean scent filled the air, not overpowering, just fresh. And the soundtrack? A chill yacht rock playlist called Fountain Playlist on Spotify that followed us all the way to the Lazy River thanks to outdoor speakers. It added such a calming resort style vibe.
We had the best Spring Break at The Oasis, and it’s comforting to know it’s just a short drive from NOLA. Thoughtful details, sensory-friendly fun, and an inclusive spirit … we can’t wait to go back!
Check out Rachael’s helpful post here that includes where else to eat close by and what to bring on your next vacay to The Oasis Resort in Gulfport, MS!
