With such a unique and diverse community of native flora and fauna, it is no wonder why the Louisiana coast is such a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. However, the marshland isn’t the only kind of coastal terrain – the state’s southern border has no shortage of sandy beaches perfect for a fun family outing.
So, what are the best Louisiana beaches for families?
- Rutherford Beach
- North Beach
- Grand Isle State Park Beach
- Cypremort Point Beach
- Fontainebleau State Park Beach
- Holly Beach
- White Sands Lake Day Beach
- South Toledo State Park Beach
- Bogue Chitto State Park Beach
- Port Fourchon Beach
The Best Beaches for Families in Louisiana
The following beaches are considered the best beaches for families in the state of Louisiana. While most of them lie along the Gulf of Mexico, a couple of them sit along the rim of the popular Lake Charles.
1. Rutherford Beach
A popular beach for catching fish and crabs, Rutherford Beach has a laid-back atmosphere due to being far from the big city. It sits near the mouth of the Mermentau River, providing the spot with a unique combination of salt and freshwater plants and wildlife.
Camping is permitted on the beach, and outhouses provide campers with basic amenities.
Pets are welcome on the beach, and the water is safe for swimming. Hunt for seashells, build sandcastles, and fly kites along the wide, sandy shore. Or simply relax beneath a beach umbrella and let the soft sea breeze chase away your stress.
2. North Beach
One of the entries on our list that borders Lake Charles, North Beach is best known for its soft white sand reminiscent of sugar.
After spending a day wading and splashing in the pristine waters and building sandcastles from the beautiful white sand, enjoy a laid-back family picnic in the grassy patches near the sand.
This beach is popular for both tourists and locals alike, and festivals occur nearby throughout the year. Keep in mind that the beach is often crowded, so if you don’t mind the crowds, this is a great beach for you. If not, consider one of the other entries on our list.
3. Grand Isle State Park Beach
Divided by a long, well-maintained dock that leads from the parking lot to the water, Grand Isle State Park Beach is one of the most popular Louisiana beaches for families.
Camping is permitted on the beach, which is the best way to view the breathtaking sunsets. The beach sits on one of Louisiana’s many barrier islands and is a short drive from New Orleans, making Grand Isle State Park Beach an ideal option for those vacationing in the city.
4. Cypremort Point Beach
This beach sits as part of a state park and stretches into Vermillion Bay. Unlike most of the other entries on our list, Cypremort Point Beach is a man-made beach that offers multiple activities for families.
Available amenities include grills, shaded picnic tables, showers, and restrooms. This beach has it all – come for a barbecue and spend the day splashing in the cool, pristine waters.
5. Fontainebleau State Park Beach
Located near Mandeville along the edge of the enormous Lake Pontchartrain, Fontainebleau State Park Beach is an ideal location for families.
RV hookups are available, as well as amenities for tent camping, which is great if you want to spend more than just a day trip at Fontainebleau State Park Beach. Restrooms and shower houses give all the modern amenities that will make you better enjoy your stay after a day in the water and sand.
6. Holly Beach
Marked by nearby stilt homes, Holly Beach offers a small-town charm with the extra warmth of a genuine community. Hunt for shells along the beautiful white sands.
Holly Beach is a great alternative for families hoping to avoid more crowded Louisiana beaches.
Keep in mind that the strong currents can pose a risk to small children, so make sure your children are supervised and wearing flotation devices.
7. White Sands Lake Day Beach
The waterpark, complete with water slides and rafts, sets White Sands Lake Day Beach apart from the other entries on our list. Attentive lifeguards provide extra reassurance for families of young children.
Beachgoers can rent kayaks, pedal-boats, paddleboards, and even a cabana.
Cabanas are the best option for shade during the hot summer and have grills where you can have a family barbecue. Because this beach is often crowded, the cabana also offers extra privacy.
8. South Toledo State Park Beach
This quiet beach sits on the edge of Toledo Bend Reservoir. Located far from the big city, it is a great location to unwind from the hectic pace of day-to-day life.
The relaxing sands are perfect for kite flying, building sandcastles, hunting for seashells, or simply stretching out under a beach umbrella. The waters are calm and perfect for children.
Perfect for overnight camping, cabins are available for rent, stocked with modern amenities such as showers, internet, satellite tv, refrigerators, microwaves, and more.
9. Bogue Chitto State Park Beach
This beach is unique for our list because it sits along the Bogue Chitto River. Located just south of Franklinton, LA, this beach is perfect for avoiding the crowds. As part of Louisiana’s state park system, camping is permitted in the campground, either by tent, RV, or rental cabin.
Fish, splash in the water, and enjoy the scenic beauty that inland Louisiana has to offer. Make sure to bring binoculars so you can catch a glimpse of the many bird species native to the region.
10. Port Fourchon Beach
Marked by soft beach grasses beside the enchanting white sands, Port Fourchon Beach is perfect for rest and relaxation. This pet-friendly beach is great for bringing along your furry companions, and the soft beaches are ideal for building sandcastles, hunting for seashells, or just relaxing under your beach umbrella.
Port Fourchon Beach is a great spot for surfing, so don’t forget to pack your surfboards so you can catch some waves.
