The South’s 3 secret beach escapes that are worth the trip this summer

Share the article

Whether you’re old-fashioned and call it the Gulf of Mexico, or you’ve succumbed to the updated moniker, the Gulf of America, there’s one stretch between Galveston and the ever-so-trendy coastal hotspots of Mississippi that you’ve probably never uttered:

The Gulf of Louisiana.

It’s true: the land of Mardi Gras, untamed swamplands and crawfish does indeed have beaches, and nice ones at that.

The Bayou State isn’t just lakes and rivers; there are hidden beach towns that are just as attractive, if not more so, than their neighbors to the east and west.

But anything’s better than Galveston, Amirite?

Local experts recently highlighted Louisiana’s best beach escapes. That’s why the Travel Off Path team dissected our favorites with a fine-tooth comb, and we believe these three Gulfside hideaways are a loud “Who dat?” earn. this summer.

Grand Isle: Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island

Be sure to check the latest travel warnings and entry requirements before your trip.

Grand Isle was put on my radar during my weekly binge That Louisiana life family traded their houseboat hideaway for Louisiana’s surprisingly clear water beach town – at least for that day anyway…

Like some Gulf cities, water conditions can be unpredictable, where one day you can see your toes and avoid getting your hermit crabs squashed, while others are more brackish, like those of Galveston and Mississippi.

But what makes Grand Isle special is that it is a vacation destination in its own right, fully equipped for a beach vacation with cozy accommodations and plenty of outdoor activities.

There are 11 kilometers of virtually footprint-free sand, except for the few locals who know.

But the truth is, not many people come from out of state. It’s not that they’re not welcome; it’s just that Louisiana isn’t often thought of as a beach destination, especially after it was hit hard by Katrina and overshadowed by the Superdome madness and the storm’s fallout.

Grand Isle has since been restored stays quiet for a relaxing holiday with less spice and more memorable days under the sunfishing from the 400-foot pier, camping, boating and eating way too much seafood.

Holly Beach: Welcome to “The Cajun Riviera”

You might think that certain parts of New Orleans or Baton Rouge feel like a ‘Cajun Riviera’ in their own right, but it’s actually the little-known Holly Beach that has adopted this name.

Not that there’s a laundry list of comparisons, but this slice of paradise is considered one of Louisiana’s most beautiful beaches.

For nature lovers, it is a great place for bird watching as it has pretty much become the new thing Pokémon Goas well as fishing and crabbing all day.

If there was ever a place along the Gulf where you could bring a metal detector, this is it. But maybe you can skip the crazy clothes.

You know who you are…

Holly Beach is best known for its small-town hospitality and virtually guaranteed coastline without crowds.

If you’re tired of spending your summers elbow-to-elbow in Destin, Panama City, or even whatever’s going on with Mississippi right now, Holly Beach is on the other end of the spectrum.

With the only “hotel” being one RV resortbooking one of the many holiday homes in a colorful stilt house is the best choice for a weekend getaway, unless you take your apartment on wheels for a road trip.

Speaking of getting there, this Gulf oasis is actually easier to get to from Houston than from New Orleans, since it’s just across the Texas-Louisiana line.

Fontainebleau Beach: New Orleans’ Secret State Park is a must-visit

The next time you dream of beignets and po’boys, hold off on eating because your day should be spent on the lakeshore at a secret beach that blew our minds.

Why?

Because when it comes to Louisiana in general, you think most waters are off limits because of the Jurassic swamp vibes.

Have we been lied to this whole time?

Not exactly, but that was one of the most surprising aspects of watching the healthy, nature-oriented lifestyle it portrays That Louisiana life as much as I do: swimming in rivers and lakes is considered normal.

That’s what our local sources claim Lake Pontchartrain has “white sand beaches”where you can sit back and relax or swim in the warm water as sailboats sail by.

Located indoors Fontainebleau State ParkFontainebleau Beach is one of Louisiana’s most beautiful hideaways, perfect for sunbathing and wading to beat the South’s infamous summer humidity.

That said, yes, alligators still play a vital role in the ecosystem, so you’ll want to keep your guard up, but the park is still promoted and described as a safe swimming spot.

The park is located across the vast Lake Pontchartrain on the other side of New Orleans, making for a fun, unexpected day trip that many tourists skimp on.

Take this quiz now to find your perfect Bayou Beach match!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego, has visited 44 countries and written more than 1,500 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.