Page 89 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2025

“Believe in yourself and your vision, even during uncertain times. Surround yourself with people
who uplift you, seek mentorship when needed, and see setbacks as opportunities to grow stronger.”
– Stacey Magnusen
Stacey Magnusen
Owner
Born and raised in Gulfport, Stacey Magnusen has built her career at the intersection of hospitality and coastal living. Her inspiration came early—watching her father launch the original Captain Al’s in the early 1990s and learning firsthand how food can bring people together. She carried those lessons
into her own ventures, first opening a waterfront restaurant and later expanding with opening a marina.
That move proved to be a turning point, giving
her the space to grow Captain Al’s Steak & Seafood and add Captain’s Wharf Marina and Boat Launch. Magnusen was recently honored with a local Lifetime Achievement Award for her enduring contributions to the Gulf Coast. Her businesses have earned accolades including Best Local Outdoor Venue, Best Local Seafood, Favorite Steakhouse, Best Local Lunch Spot, and recognition as an official Destination Point of Gulfport.
This year has brought personal milestones as well: purchasing her dream home, expanding marina operations, continuing to host live music, and community events that keep Captain Al’s a local favorite. She credits her daughter, Sayler—growing up in the same world she did—as her greatest motivation, and hopes to pass along the same values of hard work, connection, and love for the water.
Magnusen’s community impact extends far beyond her businesses. She serves as vice president of the One Gulf One Goal Foundation, which has restored more than six million pounds of artificial reefs,
and sits on the board of Carter’s Champions. She actively supports Toys for Tots, CASA, the Humane Society of South Mississippi, the Mississippi Center for Autism, the Coastal Conservation Association, and school-based community programs.
Her advocacy for autism awareness is deeply personal. As the mother of a daughter with Asperger’s, she champions understanding, acceptance, and expanded local resources. She
also supports cancer research and environmental conservation, driven by a commitment to protecting both her community and the coastal ecosystem for future generations.
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