Best Beaches in Louisiana

Louisiana’s coast is a blend of Gulf Coast charm, rich culture, and hidden natural escapes. From sandy stretches along barrier islands to family-friendly state parks, the beaches here offer a more relaxed, authentic feel compared to busier tourist spots. Whether you want to enjoy fresh seafood by the shore, explore wildlife-rich marshlands, or simply soak up the sun in a laid-back atmosphere, Louisiana has something special to offer. Here are the best beaches I recommend, and I think you’ll love them too.

1. North Beach - in the heart of Lake Charles

I drove 1 hour 10 minutes west from Lafayette into Lake Charles, home to North Beach, one of the only white-sand inland beaches between Texas and Florida.

North Beach in Lake Charles was the kind of surprise that made me pause. A white-sand beach in the middle of Louisiana? Yes, and it came with its own skyline.

I discovered North Beach in the heart of Lake Charles as a rare stretch of white sand that felt like a peaceful coastal escape right in the middle of the city.

I loved that it’s the only white-sand inland beach in Louisiana, which made it feel unique and special compared to any other spot I’ve visited in the state.

My favorite part was how easy it was to get to—just off I-10—making it the perfect place to pull over, relax, and soak in the view of the lakefront.

I thought the atmosphere was ideal for a family day, with picnic areas, shaded pavilions, and gentle waves where kids could splash safely.

I enjoyed walking along the shoreline and watching the boats pass by, which added to the laid-back, coastal vibe without ever leaving Lake Charles.

I appreciated that the beach was clean, calm, and never felt overcrowded, which gave me the freedom to truly relax and enjoy the space.

I especially loved the sunsets here, when the sky turned shades of pink and orange, reflecting across the water in a way that felt almost magical.

I found it convenient that restaurants and downtown attractions were just minutes away, so I could easily combine a beach day with exploring the city.

I thought it was a hidden gem in Louisiana travel, offering both locals and visitors an unexpected place to enjoy sand, sun, and water.

For me, North Beach in Lake Charles was an underrated getaway—simple, scenic, and perfect for slowing down by the water.

2. Cypremort Point Beach - 65 miles south of Lafayette

I drove 1 hour 15 minutes south from Lafayette to Cypremort Point State Park. The park spans 185 acres right on Vermilion Bay, with a half-mile stretch of sandy beach.

Cypremort Point Beach is one of those rare Louisiana spots where I could enjoy sandy shores and Gulf breezes without leaving the state.

I loved how peaceful it felt, tucked along Vermilion Bay, where the water stretched out endlessly and the sunsets painted the sky in brilliant colors.

My favorite part was the simplicity—it wasn’t crowded or overly developed, which gave me space to just sit back, relax, and listen to the waves.

I thought the park itself was well set up, with shaded picnic areas, grills, and plenty of space for families or friends to spend the day together.

I enjoyed watching people launch boats and jet skis from the nearby access points, which brought an energetic feel to the otherwise laid-back beach.

I appreciated that fishing was a big draw here too—I saw anglers casting lines from the pier and along the shoreline, which added a local charm to the experience.

I especially loved strolling along the stretch of sand, feeling the warm breeze and spotting seabirds gliding across the water.

I found it convenient that it was just a short drive from New Iberia, making it an easy spot for a quick escape to the water.

I thought the atmosphere was an underrated gem—quiet, natural, and inviting—perfect for anyone looking for a slower pace and a true Louisiana coastal vibe.

For me, Cypremort Point Beach was a hidden treasure—simple, authentic, and full of the kind of beauty that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

3. Fontainebleau State Park - 40 miles north of New Orleans

I drove 50 minutes north from New Orleans across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway into Fontainebleau State Park (2,800 acres). Once the site of a 19th-century sugar mill, the park now features sandy beaches, oak-lined trails, and sweeping lake views.

This beautiful lakeside escape perfectly combines nature, history, and relaxation on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain.

I loved how spacious and scenic the park felt, with giant moss-draped oak trees providing shade and trails leading me through forests, marshes, and open water views.

My favorite part was the sandy beach along the lake—it gave me the chance to lounge, swim, or simply watch the gentle waves while soaking up the Louisiana sunshine.

I thought the park’s history was fascinating too, since the land was once the site of a sugar mill, and the ruins still add character and a sense of story to the landscape.

I enjoyed exploring the hiking and biking trails, especially the Tammany Trace, which connected me to even more of the surrounding area.

I appreciated the variety of activities here—whether it was picnicking under the oaks, fishing off the pier, camping, or spotting wildlife like herons and turtles along the water’s edge.

I especially loved sunset at the park, when the sky turned golden and reflected across the wide stretch of Lake Pontchartrain—it felt peaceful and unforgettable.

I found the cabins to be a great option too, perched right on the water with porches that gave me the perfect spot to sip coffee in the morning breeze.

I thought the location was ideal, just outside New Orleans, making it easy to escape the city without a long drive.

For me, Fontainebleau State Park was an amazing getaway—natural, serene, and full of the little moments that make Louisiana so special.

4. Grand Isle - 110 miles south of New Orleans via bridge

I drove 2 hours south from New Orleans down Highway 1 to Grand Isle, Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island. The state park here spans 140 acres along seven miles of Gulf shoreline.

Grand Isle barrier island felt both wild and welcoming, with miles of sandy shoreline stretching into the Gulf of Mexico.

I loved how the beach seemed to go on forever, giving me plenty of space to walk, collect seashells, and listen to the steady rhythm of the waves.

My favorite part was the fishing culture here—it’s known as one of the best spots in the state, and I saw anglers casting from the pier, charter boats heading out, and families setting up along the shore.

I thought the sunsets were unforgettable, with fiery colors melting into the water and pelicans gliding across the horizon as if putting on a show just for me.

I enjoyed exploring Grand Isle State Park, where I could camp near the beach, hike nature trails, and spot seabirds and wildlife unique to Louisiana’s coast.

I appreciated the laid-back atmosphere—it never felt crowded or commercial, which made it easy to relax and soak up the natural beauty around me.

I especially loved the sense of community on the island, where local seafood shacks and friendly conversations added to the charm of the stay.

I found it exciting that Grand Isle hosts events like the Tarpon Rodeo, which shows just how deeply fishing and coastal life are woven into the island’s identity.

I thought the mix of recreation and tranquility made it the perfect place to disconnect from busy routines and reconnect with the water.

For me, Grand Isle was a hidden gem on Louisiana’s coast—simple, authentic, and full of the Gulf’s natural magic.

5. Holly Beach - 60 miles from Lake Charles

I drove 45 minutes south from Lake Charles to Holly Beach, a tiny Gulf community with just a few hundred residents. Nicknamed the Cajun Riviera, this stretch of sand is laid-back and wide open.

Holly Beach had that DIY beach town energy. I admired the houses on stilts, ATVs on the sand, and a constant breeze from the Gulf. It wasn’t fancy, but it didn’t need to be.

I drove right onto the beach, windows down. The water rolled in and the air smelled like salt and barbecue. "This is how Louisiana does the coast," I said out loud, smiling. Holly Beach was the perfect coastal gem.

I loved how open and wide the beach felt, with miles of sand where I could drive right up, park, and set up for the day without any hassle.

My favorite part was the casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere—families barbecuing, kids splashing in the waves, and fishermen casting lines from the shoreline all created a friendly community vibe.

I thought the sunsets were truly amazing here, with endless skies turning brilliant shades of pink and orange while the Gulf stretched out in front of me.

I enjoyed walking along the beach looking for seashells and driftwood, which felt like little treasures scattered across the sand after each tide.

I appreciated how relaxed everything was—no big resorts or crowds, just the sound of the waves, the salty breeze, and the freedom to unwind.

I especially loved that I could camp nearby or rent a simple beach house, making it easy to stretch a day visit into a weekend escape.

I found the location convenient too, close to Cameron, yet remote enough that it felt like I had discovered an underrated slice of Louisiana’s coast.

I thought the resilience of the community made Holly Beach even more special, as it has rebuilt after storms and still offers a welcoming place to enjoy the Gulf.

For me, Holly Beach was a hidden gem—simple, authentic, and the perfect reminder of how beautiful Louisiana’s coast can be.

6. White Sands Lake Day Beach - 70 miles north of New Orleans

I drove 1 hour 20 minutes southeast from Baton Rouge to White Sands Lake Day Beach (near Franklinton, LA).

I discovered White Sands Lake Day Beach as a fun and family-friendly spot tucked away in Franklinton, Louisiana, that felt like a mini tropical getaway without the long drive to the coast.

I loved the clear, spring-fed lake with its white sandy shoreline that made it easy to forget I wasn’t at the Gulf but still had that same beachy vibe.

My favorite part was the giant inflatable water park floating on the lake—I spent hours climbing, sliding, and bouncing, and it truly brought out the kid in me.

I thought the setup was perfect for a family day, with shaded picnic areas, barbecue pits, and plenty of space to spread out and relax between swims.

I enjoyed lounging in the shallow areas with my feet in the sand, while watching kids splash around safely under the sun.

I appreciated how clean and well-kept the entire property was, from the sandy beach to the facilities, which made the day stress-free and comfortable.

I especially loved that I could rent paddleboards and kayaks, giving me the chance to explore the calm water beyond the play zone for a more peaceful experience.

I found the staff to be welcoming and attentive, always making sure everything ran smoothly and everyone felt at ease.

I thought the affordable entry made it one of the best values for a full day of fun, especially compared to bigger, busier attractions.

For me, White Sands Lake Day Beach was an awesome getaway—energetic, refreshing, and the kind of place that guarantees smiles all around.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. I'll help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences, anything from great sunsets to the best places to stay. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on abc6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USAToday. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX with my husband and son. Click for more.

 

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