Located in the southern part of the US between Texas and Mississippi, Louisiana has a fair share amount of coastline, with nearly 400 miles of it. It’s not all sandy beaches though, but there are a few stunning spots worth checking out. Although summertime brings the warmest temperatures on land and in the sea, it also brings significant rainfall, so the off-seasons better times to experience Louisiana’s seashores.
3 Best Beach Towns to Live in Louisiana
Instead of planning a vacation to Florida or the West Coast, consider a trip to one of the top coastal towns in Louisiana, home to some tucked away and incredible beaches. These sandy and salty retreats are beautiful in their own right and are often less crowded than other touristy beaches on the Gulf. The …
Top Beaches and Coastal Towns in LA
Well known for its marshy landscapes and alligator-filled swamps, the Bayou State boasts just a few beach towns and coastal communities. The biggest city of New Orleans actually has a few oceanside spots and plenty of lake beaches to hang out on. Other hot spots include the favorite Holly Beach, perfect for camping near the ocean, as well as Grand Isle, the only inhabited barrier island in Louisiana.
Guide to Visiting the Beaches in Louisiana
Despite its reputation for swamps, visitors to Louisiana will find several beautiful beaches. The Pelican State ranks in the top five states with the most shoreline at 397 mi (7,721 mi by the NOAA), and there are many coastal gems to be discovered.
Hurricanes often hit this part of the Gulf of Mexico, and southern Louisiana is known for its flood risk. Although airboat tours of the bayou are the more obvious way to experience the area, there are a few quiet beaches on par with any other Gulf Coast beach, without crowds and frills.
Grand Isle, the only inhabited barrier island two hours south of New Orleans, is one of the most beach town-like destinations in the state. Holly Beach in Cameron is a favorite of locals because it is farther away from where tourists typically go.
At Rutherford Beach, near the unincorporated community of Creole, people can canoe or kayak in the river and the Gulf of Mexico. Since this part of the coast stretches for miles, there should be no problem finding the perfect spot for a picnic. Beachgoers may spend days relaxing, birdwatching, or searching for the perfect seashell.
Louisiana Coastal Climate
The weather on the Louisiana coast is most pleasant from January through June, November, and December. The months of June to September have the most sunshine and the highest temperatures (an average of 87 °F in July), but they also have the most hurricanes and are the wettest of the year. The average temperature in January is about 61 °F, making it the coldest month of the year.
Due to its marine environment, the Grand Isle area has some precipitation throughout the year. Even though summer is prime swimming weather, August usually gets the most rain. At its warmest, the water is 91° F.; at its coldest, it may be as low as 66° F.
Alligators and Sharks
Alligators are uncommon to swim in the Gulf, but occasionally they can be spotted sunbathing on the beaches during the summer and warm months. Even though most will not attack unless provoked, it’s best to stay as far away from them as possible. Most gators in Louisiana spend their time in the swamp areas along the coast.
Sharks do swim in the Louisiana Gulf. While they aren’t very common, species such as great whites have been seen near Grand Isle’s shores.
Activities
Louisiana’s beaches are a prime place to go swimming in the Gulf’s warm waters at any time of the year. Other popular water activities include kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, and fishing. Visitors to the beachfront may also enjoy sunbathing and searching for seashells.
Before getting in the water at any beach, pay attention to animal encounter warnings and bacteria level signs. Some of these waters go through a lot of hurricane storms. When debris and warm temperatures come together, they can cause bacteria to grow.
Accommodations
Southern Louisiana has a wide range of hotels for beach vacations that can fit any budget or taste. Hotels, beach cottages, lodges, and vacation rentals are great places to stay on Grand Isle; many are right on the water.
There are several short-term rentals, a couple of RV parks, and quaint cabins near Holly Beach. Visitors may also choose to stay in one of the larger cities, where a wider variety of accommodations is offered, and then travel to the coast.
Check out the Louisiana shores for fun and a different beach experience. There may not be as many as in other coastal areas, but plenty of secluded and overlooked stretches of sand can be found and enjoyed.
