Craving sand and surf without straying too far from the city? I’ve been there—and let me tell you, the beaches near New Orleans are just what you need when you’re ready to trade jazz for gentle waves. I love how these beaches near New Orleans offer a mix of breezy escapes, warm Gulf waters, and that easygoing coastal vibe. If you're like me and need a quick reset, these spots are perfect for a relaxing day trip or a spontaneous weekend away.

Highlights (From My Time on the Sand):

  • Relax on the white sands of Biloxi Beach, Mississippi – I’ve laid out here more than once, and the calm, shallow waters always hit the spot.
  • Take a day trip to serene Bay St. Louis Beach – This one feels like a hidden gem. I love its quiet charm and cute downtown nearby.
  • Stroll the scenic shores of Gulfport Beach with a view – I’ve walked this shoreline during golden hour, and you will want your camera handy.
  • Swim and sunbathe at Fontainebleau State Park on Lake Pontchartrain – Great for a quick splash and a laid-back picnic. I’ve even spotted deer on the trails nearby.
  • Catch sunset views at Grand Isle State Park – It’s Louisiana’s barrier island gem, and when I caught the sunset here, I didn’t want to leave. You’ll understand once you see it.

Beaches Under 1.5 Hours From New Orleans:

Biloxi-Gulfport Beach - 1.5 hours from New Orleans

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Biloxi-Gulfport Beach - 1.5 hours from New Orleans - Walk along sandy shores and enjoy exciting waterfront attractions.                                     

Bogue Chitto State Park - 1.5 hours from New Orleans

Courtesy of ehaurylik - Fotolia.com

Bogue Chitto State Park - 1.5 hours from New Orleans - Kayak through scenic waterways and explore lush hiking trails.                                     

Dauphin Island - 2.5 to 3 hours from New Orleans

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Dauphin Island - 2.5 to 3 hours from New Orleans - Discover bird sanctuaries and relax on unspoiled beaches.                                     

Grand Isle - 2.5 to 3 hours from New Orleans

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Grand Isle - 2.5 to 3 hours from New Orleans - Fish from the pier and enjoy a quiet beach retreat.                                     

Navarre Beach - 3.5 to 4 hours from New Orleans

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Navarre Beach - 3.5 to 4 hours from New Orleans - Relax on soft white sands and swim in clear Gulf waters.                                    

Panama City Beach - 5 to 5.5 hours from New Orleans

Courtesy of Ruth P. Peterkin - Fotolia.com

Panama City Beach - 5 to 5.5 hours from New Orleans - Enjoy lively beachfront activities and explore scenic coastal views.                                     

Ship Island - 1.5 hours from New Orleans to ferry plus 1 hour ferry

Courtesy of claire - Fotolia.com

Ship Island - 1.5 hours from New Orleans to ferry plus 1 hour ferry - Explore historic Fort Massachusetts and enjoy pristine sandy beaches.                                     

Holly Beach - 4.5 to 5 hours from New Orleans

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Holly Beach - 4.5 to 5 hours from New Orleans - Collect seashells and admire peaceful Gulf Coast views.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)