The bayou state may be better known for its swamps than its pristine stretches of sand — but make no mistake about it, there are some incredible beaches in Louisiana. From its interior lakes to its Gulf Coast shoreline, here are the most beautiful Louisiana beaches you don’t want to miss.
Top Beaches in Louisiana
Louisiana Beaches
Holly Beach
This stunning stretch of the Gulf Coast is sometimes known as the “Cajun Riviera.” A small coastal community surrounded by characteristic Louisiana swamps and marshes, Holly Beach is known for its shining white sands and gentle, soothing wake. Along with sunbathing and sand-castle building, this stretch of shoreline is also known for its wind surfing potentiality, and is a great place for those who spend their time on the beach searching for shells.
Things to do near Holly Beach
Just a short trip up 27, you’ll find the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, which is a great place to spot a variety of migratory birds as well as alligators. The nearby town of Cameron has all the resources you need for your trip.
North Beach
Be sure to add North Beach along Lake Charles to your list. Here, the soft white sands will make you feel like you’ve traveled to a tropical, oceanside location. On top of that, the waters are calm and shallow, making it a great place for those traveling with families and not-so-strong swimmers. Because it’s such a popular vacation zone, this beach has been developed with amenities like a volleyball net, picnic areas and more.
Things to do near North Beach
Be sure to save some time to thoroughly explore Lake Charles, which has plenty of great eateries, shops, and other attractions to peruse. Need to get away from the hubbub? Sam Houston Jones State Park is just outside of town, and offers spacious and generously appointed on-site camping.
Rutherford Beach
Considered by some visitors to be one of the very best beaches in all of Louisiana, Rutherford Beach is prized for its relatively quiet, private location as well as its stunning view of the Gulf. Soft, broad sands offer plenty of room to spread your towel, and the beach does allow pets, making it the perfect place to spend a day with your entire family in tow, including the four-legged members. Although there aren’t many developments, there are some outhouses along the shore to keep the beach clean and your family comfortable, and the serene seaside is dotted with shells and other interesting ocean flotsam.
Things to do near Rutherford Beach
Less than an hour away lies the Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, a beloved spot for bird-watchers and wildlife lovers. Further inland, unique ecosystems like the one at Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge and Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge await.
Cypremort Point Beach
Cypremort Point Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand set in Cypremort Point State Park. This marshland of just under 200 acres also features a fishing pier and a boat ramp. Swimming and sunbathing are common, but this area is especially well known as a fishing destination — which works out well, since the park offers a generous number of grills and picnic areas so you can whip up your very own dinner, fresh from the bay. Showers and washing stations are also available, as are restrooms.
Things to do near Cypremort Point Beach
Cypremort Point is a marshy and fairly remote stretch of land, with a variety of small towns dotting the road from the larger metro of Lafayette, which is only an hour away. Other area wildernesses, like the Attakapas Island Wildlife Management Area, make this swampy, sandy stretch a great place to while away a weekend.
Elmer’s Island Wildlife Refuge Beach
If you’re looking for a more remote place to spend a beach day in Louisiana, we recommend a trip to the Elmer’s Island Wildlife Refuge Beach. This beach offers a great proximity to a variety of local wildlife as well as the opportunity to wade, fish, swim, and sunbathe, all in the shadow of one of New Orleans.
Things to do near Elmer’s Island Wildlife Refuge Beach
Although not far from New Orleans as the crow flies, the roads leading through the marshy surroundings to this wildlife refuge does mean it’s two full hours of driving from the Big Easy, so plan accordingly. That said, the things to see and do in the city do make it worth the drive.
Fontainebleau State Park Beach
Situated directly across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans, Fontainebleau State Park Beach is sure to be well-populated by sun-seeking locals on any sunny Louisiana weekend. The shimmering lake beach is certainly one of the biggest draws, but this state park has plenty else to offer: a water playground adds another innovative way to splash around and cool down. Additionally, the park is criss-crossed with a few relatively easy, enjoyable hiking trails, including a nature trail with interpretive signage to help you get better acquainted with the park and its natural surroundings.
Things to do near Fontainebleau State Park Beach
Fontainebleau State Park is only an hour away from all of the big lights and beautiful sounds of New Orleans, from its world-famous Bourbon Street to its slightly-less-populated (but no less incredible) Frenchmen Street. Here are some incredible area campgrounds to in the area.
White Sands Lake Beach
At White Sands Lake Beach, soft, golden sands and beautiful, clear waters characterize this common family vacation destination. The resort-style amenities here include plenty of places to stay as well as opportunities for family fun such as a large trampoline, teeter-totters, floating mats for rent, a beach volleyball court, and many more. For older kids, teens, and adults, be sure to check out the nearby available paddleboard and pedal boat rentals, perfect for a day out on the water.
Things to do near White Sands Lake Beach
About equidistant from the small-ish towns of Franklinton and Covington, White Sands Lake Beach is simultaneously away from it all and relatively close to amenities, making it a popular vacation getaway destination.
Lake Claiborne State Park
Lake Claiborne State Park sits amidst beautiful southern pine forests, offering well-appointed and relaxing camping cabins, hiking trails, wildlife spotting opportunities, and more. Its beautiful stretch of freshwater beach is located along an inlet, which protects waders and sunbathers from the wake and noise of boaters. Once you’ve had your fill of sunshine and sand, grab your rod and reel and cast a line. The park has also got the #1 and #2 best-ranked disc golf courses in the state, so there truly is something to do here for everybody!
Things to do near Lake Claiborne State Park
Only a little more than an hour outside of Shreveport, Lake Claiborne State Park is relatively close to a variety of attractions and amenities. Here are some local campgrounds to explore, as well.
The Best Louisiana Beaches for RVers
South Toledo Bend State Park Beach
South Toledo Bend State Park has no shortage of worthwhile attractions, not the least of which is its shimmering beachfront. Along with its soft sands and beautiful clear waters, this state park also boasts some of the best bass fishing in the south, and is a known spot for wildlife and bird spotters.
Why This Beach is Perfect for RVers
On-site camping is available at this park. Additionally, there are many other campgrounds in the surrounding wilderness areas.
Things to do near South Toledo Bend State Park Beach
A short drive from other preserved wildernesses, such as Clear Creek Wildlife Management Area and the Peason Ridge Wildlife Management Area, this beach is surrounded by untouched countryside that will give you a whole new appreciation for Louisiana.
Grand Isle Beach
One of the premier destinations is Grand Isle State Park, which is best known for its multiple sandy stretches of waterfront. Along with its gorgeous beaches, Grand Isle State Park offers a short nature trail for those who want to stretch their legs and get a full sense of the park. This includes elevated boardwalks and an observation tower that offers endless views of the Gulf and the surrounding countryside. With its combination of developed amenities and untouched natural scenery, Grand Isle Beach is easily one of the most popular in the state.
Why This Beach is Perfect for RVers
Grand Isle Beach offers onsite camping. This is fantastic for RVers who like to park close to the action.
Things to do near Grand Isle Beach
This barrier island is one of the most popular destinations in all of Louisiana, so it’s populated by plenty of hotels, eateries, shops, and other vacation-town sorts of explorables. A variety of small islands are strewn across the waters and accessible by boat, and, of course, New Orleans is only a quick day trip away. Here are some local campgrounds to consider.
Planning an RV Trip to Louisiana
Louisiana has some incredible state parks and cities to explore, not to mention all the wonderful campgrounds.
