New Orleans may be best known for its jazz and Cajun cuisine, but it also offers some great beaches. Whether you are looking for a place to relax or to get active, there is a beach near New Orleans that will fit the bill.
Grand Isle
The closest beach to New Orleans is Grand Isle. This barrier island offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, white sandy beaches and plenty of recreational activities. Visitors can kayak through mangrove forests, bike along the beach or hunt for seashells in the sand. Grand Isle is located about 30 minutes from New Orleans in Jefferson Parish.
Cypremort Point State Park
Another option is Cypremort Point State Park, which is located about an hour and a half from New Orleans. This park offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Louisiana’s coastline. There are miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a nature center where you can learn about the plants and animals that call this area home. The park also has a campground, so visitors can stay for a few days and enjoy everything the park has to offer.
Fort Pike State Historic Site
The Fort Pike State Historic Site is located about two hours from New Orleans. Visitors can tour historic Civil War forts, fish in Lake Pontchartrain or stroll along the beach. The beach at Fort Pike isn’t as nice as others in the area, but it does offer visitors a chance to see a different side of Louisiana.
Mandeville Lakefront
If you are looking for a place to swim, Mandeville Lakefront is a great option. This beach is located just north of New Orleans in St. Tammany Parish. It offers a large, sandy beach and plenty of recreational opportunities. Visitors can fish, canoe or kayak in the lake, play volleyball on the beach or attend special events throughout the year.
Chester Harding Jr. Memorial Park
Another popular swimming beach is Chester Harding Jr. Memorial Park in Westwego, which is about 15 minutes from New Orleans and in Jefferson Parish. This beach offers a large, sandy area and plenty of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. There are even concession stands on the premises to provide food and drinks for visitors.
Our Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a great beach to visit near New Orleans, these are just a few of the options available. Whether you are looking for a place to relax or to get active, there is a beach near New Orleans that will fit the bill. So, pack your sunscreen and head on out to enjoy all that Louisiana’s beaches have to offer.