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New Orleans is truly captivating in all the best ways, but some are not so good. Take it from me, a multiple visitor.
One moment you’re blown away by the timeless architecture of the French Quarter and the next your nostrils are hit by a lingering memory of the aftermath of Bourbon Street.
Despite being the shining star of Louisiana, there is much more to this state than just exploring Swamp people of the Bayou and busy college football games.
For example, did you know that Louisiana is a beach destination? That’s right! This underrated state has much more to offer than seemingly endless crocodile-filled swamplands and Mardi Gras shenanigans.
Far away from the chaos of N’awlins lie lies Big islandLouisiana’s beautiful coastline, long overlooked in favor of more notable neighbors like Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.
New Orleans may be the ultimate place to let go, but Grand Isle is the ultimate place to unwind in the Bayou State!
Louisiana’s secret beach hideaway
Many South vacationers circle their calendars each year, ready for a road trip to Gulf Shores or one of Florida’s best beaches, but what’s probably unknown is that they’re driving past one of the South’s best-kept secrets.
Grand Isle is a barrier island along the scenic Gulf Coast, and no, it’s not ugly lined with oil rigs like you might expect.
It is a wonderful seaside resort that flies under the radar. Grand Isle’s only claim to fame is that it has been a victim of hurricane damage, including Katrina, but this hidden gem on the coast is on the rise again.
Being a small town with only 1,000 residents, there is no airport here like in other popular beach destinations in the south such as Gulf Shores and Biloxi.
That said, the trip from New Orleans is definitely worth it. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is about 40 miles away, much less than what many vacationers drive to reach the beaches of neighboring states.
And once here it is full of surprises!
Louisiana’s only inhabited island
Grand Isle has been a tight-lipped secret since 1781. Local Louisianans have been coming to relax and unwind in this relaxed community for centuries.
The people behind the island’s Tourism Board describe their beloved home as a ‘passport to adventure’, and I couldn’t think of a better way to describe it.
Louisiana has long been a haven for wildlife, both for tourists on the state’s famous fan boat tours and fishing excursions.
One thing you won’t have to worry about as much here is alligators, a common sight throughout the rest of the state.
But nature in its entirety is undoubtedly one of the biggest draws for visitors to Grand Isle, and has even been called a ‘Sportsman’s Paradise’.
While you might encounter dolphins or sea turtles along the extensive beaches, Grand Isle State Park ($3 admission) is your best bet for sightings.
Plus, there are a variety of scenic hiking trails to explore and campsites with great stargazing conditions, as this remote island is typically unaffected by city light pollution.
Grand Isle is warm during the fall months. In December, sunny temperatures start to drop from the 70s, so you can expect bathwater-like conditions through November, when swimming is encouraged.
Tip: Queen Bess Island is a nearby hidden gem for wildlife spotting. Read all about the remarkable work recolonizing brown pelicans here.
Stays on the water and a phenomenal kitchen
Sometimes the Gulf doesn’t have the best reputation for water conditions, but Grand Isle Beach will surprise you.
It even has an impressive 4.6 rating on Google and we all know how people like to complain these days!
One beachgoer boasted: ‘Beautiful, clean beach. It is not busy and the water quality is relatively clean.”
It’s not just the beach itself that will delight you; it is the place where you can also rest your head at night.
While there are certainly no Cancun-like all-inclusives here; there are some comfortable Mom & Pop style digs that won’t break the bank.
From the city B&Bs, hotels and cabins cost about $100 per night in the fall, which means more savings to spend on local cuisine!
No matter where you are in Louisiana, it is almost impossible to have a bad meal in “Cajun Country.”
On Grand Isle, fresh seafood and a cold beer are a way of life.
According to sources, these are the three best restaurants on Grand Isle TripAdvisor:
- Starfish restaurant
- Lighthouse restaurant
- Yums
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
