Best Beaches near New Orleans: New Orleans, also known as the Big Easy, is famous for its vibrant music scene, unique cuisine, and rich history. However, what many people don’t realize is that the city is also home to some of the best beaches in the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, take a dip in the refreshing waters, or enjoy some water sports, the beaches near New Orleans have something for everyone. From the soft sand and clear waters of Gulfport Beach to the lively boardwalk and charming town of Bay St. Louis, the beaches in the region offer endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best beaches near New Orleans and what makes them stand out.
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Best Beaches Near New Orleans
Find some of the Best Beaches Near New Orleans
Grand Isle
If you’re planning a family trip to New Orleans and looking to enjoy some fun in the sun, Grand Isle is the perfect destination. This charming island town is located just a short drive from the city and boasts some of the best beaches in the area. With its soft sand, clear waters, and breathtaking views, Grand Isle’s beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
One of the top beaches in Grand Isle is Elmer’s Island, which is accessible only by a short boat ride or hike. This secluded stretch of beach is perfect for families who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the water. Another popular option is Grand Isle State Park, which features a two-mile-long beach with picnic areas, playgrounds, and plenty of space for kids to run around and play.
For those looking to take a break from the sun and sand, Grand Isle has plenty of other family-friendly activities to offer. You can take a nature walk along the island’s trails, go crabbing in the bayou, or visit the Grand Isle Butterfly Dome to see hundreds of beautiful butterflies up close.
Overall, Grand Isle is a fantastic destination for families who want to enjoy some quality time together while soaking up the sun and enjoying the beauty of the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a lively day at the beach, you’re sure to find something to love in Grand Isle.
Fontainebleau State Park
If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach near New Orleans, Fontainebleau State Park is a must-visit destination. Located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, this beautiful state park offers plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
One of the highlights of Fontainebleau State Park is its stunning beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is spacious, clean, and well-maintained, with plenty of shaded areas to escape the sun on hot summer days.
In addition to the beach, Fontainebleau State Park offers a variety of other family-friendly activities. You can hike along the park’s nature trails, go fishing in the lake, or rent a canoe or kayak to explore the waterways. Kids will love the park’s playground and splash pad, and there are plenty of picnic areas and barbecue pits for families to enjoy a meal together.
One of the unique features of Fontainebleau State Park is its historic ruins, which date back to the early 1800s. You can take a self-guided tour of the ruins to learn about the park’s rich history and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Pontchartrain.
Overall, Fontainebleau State Park is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of fun in the sun. With its beautiful beach, wide range of activities, and historic charm, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
White Sands Lake Day Beach
White Sands Lake Day Beach is a unique and exciting destination for families looking for a beach experience with a twist. Located just outside of New Orleans in Franklinton, Louisiana, this man-made beach features crystal-clear freshwater lakes, white sand beaches, and plenty of water-based activities.
Kids will love playing in the shallow waters of the lake, which are perfect for swimming, floating, and splashing around. There are also several inflatable water toys and obstacles to climb on, including a giant water slide, trampoline, and climbing wall.
White Sands Lake Day Beach also offers a variety of other family-friendly activities, such as beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and kayaking. You can rent equipment on-site or bring your own. In addition, the beach has plenty of picnic tables and barbecue pits, making it a great spot for a family cookout.
One of the unique features of White Sands Lake Day Beach is its onsite bar and grill, which offers a range of delicious food and drinks. You can enjoy a cold beer, margarita, or daiquiri while soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Overall, White Sands Lake Day Beach is an exciting and fun-filled destination for families looking to enjoy a day of beach fun. With its white sand beaches, clear waters, and range of activities, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Holly Beach
Holly Beach is a charming coastal town located in Southwest Louisiana and is one of the best beaches near New Orleans. Known for its soft sand, clear waters, and vibrant community, Holly Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach.
The beach at Holly Beach is known for its spacious shoreline and gentle surf, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing, crabbing, and collecting seashells.
In addition to the beach, Holly Beach offers a variety of other family-friendly activities. You can take a stroll down the town’s boardwalk, visit the local gift shops and restaurants, or go on a nature walk in the nearby wildlife refuge.
Holly Beach is also home to several annual events that are perfect for families, such as the Holly Beach Seafood Festival and the Holly Beach Mardi Gras Parade. These events showcase the town’s unique culture and offer a fun and exciting way to experience the local community.
Overall, Holly Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea. With its friendly community, beautiful beach, and range of activities, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Biloxi Beach
Biloxi Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline located in Biloxi, Mississippi, and is one of the best beaches near New Orleans. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine white sand, and abundance of family-friendly activities, Biloxi Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a day at the beach.
The beach at Biloxi Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The gentle surf and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with young children. The beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails while taking in the stunning views.
In addition to the beach, Biloxi Beach offers a range of other family-friendly activities. You can take a stroll along the beach promenade, go on a dolphin-watching tour, or visit one of the many nearby attractions, such as the Biloxi Lighthouse or the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum.
Biloxi Beach is also home to several annual events, such as the Biloxi Seafood Festival and the Cruisin’ the Coast classic car show, which are perfect for families. These events showcase the town’s unique culture and offer a fun and exciting way to experience the local community.
Overall, Biloxi Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea. With its beautiful beach, range of activities, and vibrant community, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Coconut Beach
Coconut Beach is a hidden gem located in Mandeville, Louisiana, and is one of the best beaches near New Orleans. With its soft sand, calm waters, and lush tropical scenery, Coconut Beach offers a unique and exotic beach experience that is perfect for families.
The beach at Coconut Beach is known for its gentle surf and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach is also home to several palm trees and other tropical plants, which provide plenty of shade and give the beach a tropical feel.
In addition to the beach, Coconut Beach offers a range of other family-friendly activities. You can take a stroll along the beach promenade, enjoy a picnic in the shaded areas, or go on a nature walk in the nearby woods. The beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the stunning views.
Coconut Beach is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events, thanks to its picturesque setting and romantic atmosphere. The beach provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and offers a unique and memorable way to celebrate your special day.
Overall, Coconut Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and tropical scenery. With its beautiful beach, range of activities, and exotic atmosphere, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach is a stunning coastal town located in Florida, just a short drive from New Orleans, and is one of the best beaches near the city. With its sugar-white sand, emerald-green waters, and range of family-friendly activities, Pensacola Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a day at the beach.
The beach at Pensacola Beach is known for its soft sand and gentle surf, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the stunning views.
In addition to the beach, Pensacola Beach offers a range of other family-friendly activities. You can take a stroll along the beach boardwalk, go on a dolphin-watching tour, or visit one of the many nearby attractions, such as the Gulf Islands National Seashore or the Pensacola Lighthouse.
Pensacola Beach is also home to several annual events, such as the Pensacola Beach Air Show and the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show, which are perfect for families. These events showcase the town’s unique culture and offer a fun and exciting way to experience the local community.
Overall, Pensacola Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea. With its beautiful beach, range of activities, and friendly community, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Bogue Chitto State Park
Bogue Chitto State Park is a hidden gem located in Franklinton, Louisiana, and is one of the best beach destinations near New Orleans. With its beautiful river beach, stunning natural scenery, and range of family-friendly activities, Bogue Chitto State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure.
The river beach at Bogue Chitto State Park is a perfect spot for swimming, tubing, and relaxing in the sun. The clear waters of the Bogue Chitto River provide a refreshing respite from the Louisiana heat, and the sandy riverbanks are perfect for building sandcastles and playing beach games.
In addition to the river beach, Bogue Chitto State Park offers a range of other family-friendly activities. You can hike through the park’s many trails, go fishing or kayaking in the river, or have a picnic in one of the park’s shaded areas. The park is also home to several campgrounds, where you can spend the night under the stars and experience the beauty of nature up close.
Bogue Chitto State Park is also home to several annual events, such as the Great Louisiana Birdfest and the Piney Woods Heritage Festival, which are perfect for families. These events showcase the area’s unique culture and offer a fun and educational way to experience the local community.
Overall, Bogue Chitto State Park is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With its beautiful river beach, range of activities, and stunning natural scenery, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
North Beach
North Beach is a charming coastal town located in Corpus Christi, Texas, and is one of the best beaches near New Orleans. With its soft sand, gentle surf, and range of family-friendly activities, North Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a day at the beach.
The beach at North Beach is known for its calm waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the stunning views.
In addition to the beach, North Beach offers a range of other family-friendly activities. You can visit the nearby USS Lexington Museum, go on a dolphin-watching tour, or take a stroll through the scenic Shoreline Boulevard.
North Beach is also home to several annual events, such as the Fiesta de la Flor festival, which celebrates the life and music of Selena, one of the most popular Latina singers of all time. This event is perfect for families and offers a fun and festive way to experience the local culture.
Overall, North Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea. With its beautiful beach, range of activities, and friendly community, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Ship Island
Ship Island is a stunning barrier island located off the coast of Mississippi, and is one of the best beach destinations near New Orleans. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and range of family-friendly activities, Ship Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea.
The beach at Ship Island is known for its soft white sand and clear blue waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The island is also home to several beachfront restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the stunning views.
In addition to the beach, Ship Island offers a range of other family-friendly activities. You can explore the island’s historic Fort Massachusetts, go on a nature hike, or take a guided tour of the island’s natural habitats.
Ship Island is also home to several annual events, such as the Ship Island Excursions Easter Egg Hunt, which is perfect for families with young children. This event is a fun and festive way to celebrate the Easter holiday and offers a range of activities and prizes for children of all ages.
Overall, Ship Island is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, range of activities, and stunning natural scenery, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Navarre Beach is a hidden gem located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, and is one of the best beach destinations near New Orleans. With its sugary white sand beaches, emerald green waters, and range of family-friendly activities, Navarre Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea.
The beach at Navarre Beach is known for its soft, powdery sand and clear, calm waters, making it perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and building sandcastles. The beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the stunning views.
In addition to the beach, Navarre Beach offers a range of other family-friendly activities. You can visit the nearby Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, go on a dolphin-watching tour, or take a stroll through the scenic Navarre Beach Pier.
Navarre Beach is also home to several annual events, such as the Navarre Beach Sand Sculpting Festival, which celebrates the art of sand sculpting and offers a range of activities for families to enjoy. This event is perfect for families and offers a fun and creative way to experience the local culture.
Overall, Navarre Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, range of activities, and friendly community, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi is a charming coastal town that boasts some of the best beaches near New Orleans. With its pristine white sand beaches, warm Gulf waters, and wide range of family-friendly activities, Gulfport is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled day at the beach.
Gulfport’s beaches offer a wide range of activities for families to enjoy, from sunbathing and swimming to kayaking and paddleboarding. There are also several beachfront restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while taking in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Beyond the beach, Gulfport offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, which is perfect for children of all ages. The center offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs that teach children about science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and interactive way.
Gulfport is also home to several annual events, such as the Gulfport Music Festival and the Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival, which offer a range of activities and entertainment for families to enjoy.
Overall, Gulfport is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, range of activities, and friendly community, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach, Florida is a world-renowned beach destination that offers some of the best beaches near New Orleans. With its crystal-clear emerald waters, sugar-white sand beaches, and range of family-friendly activities, Panama City Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled day at the beach.
Panama City Beach is home to over 27 miles of pristine coastline, which offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy. From swimming and sunbathing to kayaking and parasailing, there’s something for everyone. The beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning views.
Beyond the beach, Panama City Beach offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including the Gulf World Marine Park, which features interactive exhibits and live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life. You can also visit the Panama City Beach Conservation Park, which offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a range of wildlife viewing opportunities.
Panama City Beach is also home to several annual events, such as the Panama City Beach Seafood and Music Festival and the Panama City Beach Oktoberfest, which offer a range of activities and entertainment for families to enjoy.
Overall, Panama City Beach is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, range of activities, and friendly community, it’s sure to be a highlight of any New Orleans vacation.
Dauphin Island
Dauphin Island, Alabama is a hidden gem among the best beaches near New Orleans. This charming coastal town boasts miles of pristine beaches, calm Gulf waters, and a range of family-friendly activities that make it the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Dauphin Island’s beaches are known for their soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, which offer endless opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is also a prime location for bird watching, fishing, and crabbing. Families can also explore the nearby Dauphin Island Sea Lab, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs on marine life and coastal ecosystems.
Beyond the beach, Dauphin Island offers a range of family-friendly activities, including the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, which features several hiking trails and boardwalks that allow visitors to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. Families can also visit the Dauphin Island Estuarium, which showcases the unique coastal ecosystems of the Gulf of Mexico.
Dauphin Island is also home to several annual events, such as the Dauphin Island Regatta and the Dauphin Island Gumbo Festival, which offer a range of activities and entertainment for families to enjoy.
Overall, Dauphin Island is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, range of activities, and friendly community, it’s sure to be a memorable addition to any New Orleans vacation.
Cypremort Point State Park
Cypremort Point State Park is a hidden gem among the best beaches near New Orleans. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this state park boasts a mile-long stretch of sandy beach, calm waters, and a range of family-friendly activities that make it the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
The beach at Cypremort Point State Park is a haven for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The park’s pavilions and picnic areas provide the perfect spot for families to enjoy a picnic lunch or a game of beach volleyball. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding wetlands.
Beyond the beach, Cypremort Point State Park offers a range of family-friendly activities, including the opportunity to go crabbing and fishing. Families can also explore the nearby Avery Island Jungle Gardens, which feature exotic plants, wildlife, and walking paths.
Cypremort Point State Park is also home to several annual events, such as the Cypremort Point Christmas Boat Parade, which offers a festive atmosphere and fun for the whole family.
Overall, Cypremort Point State Park is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, range of activities, and friendly community, it’s sure to be a memorable addition to any New Orleans vacation.