8 Beaches and Islands in Louisiana That Are Visit-Worthy (2024)

Although Louisiana is one of the coastal States, the coastline and beaches here still are not extensively known. Though if you have ever been to Louisiana beaches or Islands, you know they definitely are part of the appeal. The Pelican state may not have the prettiest western beaches, but they are surely visit-worthy. While some of the destinations offer white-sandy beaches, others offer warm and clear water. It is only about your interests, and you can live a beach day here similar to Florida and North Carolina.

The beautiful state of Louisiana is located on the Gulf Coast which means, offering quite a few barrier islands. From the ever-popular Grand Isle to Palmetto Island and many others, options here are endless. You can plan a weekend getaway or an afternoon picnic; Louisiana beaches and Islands will make your summers unforgettable. With that said, consider our choicest picks below and build your own Louisiana beaches and Islands itinerary.

8 Beaches and Islands in Louisiana That Are Visit-Worthy

Let’s begin:

1. Fontainebleau State Park Beach

Fontainebleau State Park is located in Mandeville, offering a getaway to a perfect Sandy beach. Though the 2,800-acre Park has only one beach, its access to the views of Lake Pontchartrain is worthy. For someone who wants a relaxing holiday, lying on the beach is a great option. However, if you are looking for some entertainment, you can Canoe and Kayak exploring Pontchartrain. Also, because the beach provides access to shallow water, kids and non-swimmers too can enjoy a dip. And before going back, enjoy the sunset views ending your trip with a warm note.

2. North Beach

Not all great beaches are of Oceans, and the North Beach in Southwest Louisiana proves the thought. It is a Lake Charles beach known for its numerous beach activities and lively festivals. It is also the only inland white beach between Florida and Texas and is easily accessible via I-10. One can play volleyball, beachcombing, or enjoy an afternoon picnic. Or head towards the boardwalk or the marina and enjoy the beautiful sunset views. The Broadwalk also connects three different Louisiana parks to the beach. The list includes Millennium Park, Veteran’s Memorial Park and the September 11th Park.

3. Holly Beach or Cajun Riviera

Another stop on the southwest of the state, Holly Beach, is a must-visit when in Louisiana. Also known as Cajun Riviera, Holly beach is located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and is a small community in itself. Unlike many other Louisiana beaches, it offers beach camping opportunities with RV areas, cabins, and tenting zones. Despite hurricanes destroying the site several times, locals have still managed to bring the charm of beaches. One can come here to enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, windsurfing and most popularly crabbing. Sand driving is another famous activity to enjoy at the beach. If you have kids along, or you too are an enthusiast, there are plenty of shells to collect.

4. Cypremort Point Beach

Cypremort Point is only 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and is a popular beach to visit in Louisiana. The beach is located in the 185-acre green space within the State Park, and there is so much to do around. From fishing to tubing, windsurfing, boating, swimming, and crabbing, everything is absolutely hit here. There’s a fishing pier, launcher for the sailboat, and several picnic tables lined close to the beach. For an overnight stay, the Park have some charming cabins nicely set atop stilts. For wildlife lovers, you name it, and you will spot it in some of the other surroundings nearby. Cypremort Point State Park also have a small beach nearby, ideally for non-motorized boats.

5. Port Fourchon Beach

The only surfing beach in Louisiana, Port Fourchon Beach, is worth a visit. After surviving hurricanes and Oil Spills in the last decade, the beach is again open for public access. Waves and water currents here are ideal for surfing enthusiasts; however, it is not at all fancy. Until one is professional and trained with the art of surfing, the activity is not made for them. There are no lifeguards or safety conditions around, and surfers are left on their own. Locals often visit here with their little canines and kids to enjoy sand activities.

6. Grand Isle

While talking about beaches and Islands in Louisiana, no expert can forget to mention Grand Isle. It is the one and only inhabited barrier island in Louisiana and is surely a must-visit. The absolute hits of the region include gorgeous sandy white beaches, deep-sea fishing and birding habitat. Enthusiasts can spend hours spotting a number of birds, butterflies and observe stellar views of the Gulf of Mexico. Grand Isle has several hotels and rental homes offering personal beach access. Beaches here have a gradual slope with warm waters, making them great for swimming. There’s also a 400-foot fishing pier and an observation deck offering spectacular views 360 degrees around.

7. Palmetto Island

Palmetto Island is located 6 miles south of Abbeville and is one huge State Park on its own. The site is filled with scenic beauty offering the natural side of Cajun County. One can plan a day trip; however, staying overnight or longer brings out the real fun. It is during the dark hours when wildlife is most active, making it easy to spot them. To stay here, one can choose from several cabins, all well maintained and family-friendly. Entering at Palmetto Island is like driving right into a swamp full of Flora, fauna and serene campgrounds. Consider planning your trip during calmer or colder weather as summers here means a lot of mosquitos following you.

8. Avery Island

Avery Island is basically a salt dome located in Iberia Parish, Louisiana. There’s a small population residing here on the island, and they are very welcoming. The island is only 3 miles from Vermilion Bay which further opens up into the Gulf of Mexico. Avery Island showcases the history of Tabasco and is surely one fun place to visit in Louisiana.

Guests can tour Tabasco Museum, Jungle Gardens, bird sanctuary, McIlhenny Company and Joseph Jefferson Plantation. From picturesque landscapes to moss-covered trees, flower beds and a lot f history, everything here attracts interested hearts.