Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Louisiana

South Toledo Bend State Park is located on the southern end of Toledo Bend Reservoir in Anacoco, Louisiana. It offers a serene and natural setting with opportunities for water sports, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park features a designated swimming area and beach, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, boating, and camping, with options ranging from primitive tent sites to cabins and glamping tents. The park is also known for its bald eagle sightings and scenic trails, providing a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
The park's proximity to the Toledo Bend Dam adds to its scenic appeal, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you're interested in exploring nature, engaging in water activities, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, South Toledo Bend State Park has something for everyone.
The park's facilities include an Interpretative Center, which provides insights into the local wildlife and ecosystem, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Grand Isle Beach, located in Louisiana, is a serene and natural haven that offers a unique blend of simplicity and adventure. It is the only inhabited barrier island in Louisiana, known for its pristine waters and soft sand stretching over seven miles. The beach is part of Grand Isle State Park, which provides opportunities for camping, fishing, and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful sounds of the Gulf of Mexico and witness a variety of wildlife, including porpoises and pelicans.
The island's laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil getaway from urban life. With its rich biodiversity and outdoor activities, Grand Isle Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The beach's rustic charm and the surrounding marshlands create a picturesque landscape that is both captivating and rejuvenating.

Fourchon Beach is located in Port Fourchon, Louisiana, offering a serene coastal experience. It stretches for miles with soft, white sand, ideal for sunbathing and beach activities. However, the beach is currently closed to public access due to ongoing disputes and erosion issues. The area is known for its rich birdwatching opportunities and proximity to oil rigs, making it a unique spot for nature lovers and industry workers alike.
The beach's surroundings are characterized by the vibrant coastal marshes of Louisiana, providing opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Despite its closure, the area remains a significant part of the local ecosystem and economy.
Visitors often explore nearby attractions like the Port Fourchon Marina and hiking trails, though direct beach access is limited.

Fontainebleau State Park, located on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain in Mandeville, Louisiana, offers a serene and natural escape. The park spans 2,800 acres, featuring a beautiful beach, nature trails, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The park's history dates back to the 19th century, with remnants of a sugar mill built by Bernard de Marigny, adding a layer of historical charm. The scenic views and diverse ecosystems make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

The park's beach is a highlight, offering a tranquil spot for relaxation and sunbathing. The nearby town of Mandeville provides additional amenities and attractions for visitors. Overall, Fontainebleau State Park is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from urban life.

With its rich history and natural beauty, the park is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Bogue Chitto State Park is located in Franklinton, Louisiana, offering a serene and natural escape with its diverse landscapes and activities. The park is situated along the Bogue Chitto River and features eleven lakes, providing ample opportunities for water recreation like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It also includes hiking trails, equestrian paths, and a splash park for families. The park's unique blend of upland forests, sandy river bottoms, and swampy areas creates a diverse ecosystem, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from tubing down the river to exploring the park's trails on foot or by bike. The park's scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure alike. With its well-maintained facilities and friendly staff, Bogue Chitto State Park is a must-visit destination in Louisiana.

The park's proximity to Franklinton and other nearby towns ensures that visitors have access to local amenities while still enjoying the peace of nature.

Lake Charles North Beach is a popular destination in Lake Charles, Louisiana, known for its white sand and picturesque views. The beach stretches over half a mile along the shores of Lake Charles, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy various activities like fishing and volleyball, and there are amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables available. The beach is also dog-friendly, but pets must be on a leash. It has been featured in several movies and television shows, adding to its charm.
The beach is part of a larger lakefront area that includes attractions like the USS Orleck Naval Museum and hiking trails at Sam Houston Jones State Park. The City of Lake Charles has initiated projects to enhance the beach experience, including new restroom facilities and lighting upgrades.
The area around the beach offers a vibrant scene with live music at the amphitheater and a variety of dining options, making it a great place for both relaxation and entertainment.

Holly Beach, affectionately known as the 'Cajun Riviera,' is a serene coastal community in Cameron Parish, Louisiana. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, it offers a tranquil escape with its expansive sandy shores and stunning sunsets. The area is famous for its laid-back vibe, rich marine life, and authentic Cajun culture. Despite being battered by hurricanes, the community remains resilient, with many residents rebuilding their homes and camps. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, crabbing, and shell collecting in this uncrowded and peaceful environment.

Holly Beach has a unique history, with its origins dating back to the early 1900s. It was named after a local cattle rancher and has since become a popular spot for those seeking a relaxed beach experience. The beach stretches for miles, providing ample space for driving on the beach and enjoying water activities.

The area's natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those interested in exploring the authentic charm of Louisiana's Gulf Coast.

Cypremort Point, located in St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, is a scenic destination known for its 185-acre state park situated on Vermilion Bay. The park features a half-mile man-made beach, offering stunning views and a variety of activities such as swimming, windsurfing, and fishing. The name 'Cypremort' translates to 'dead cypress' in French, reflecting the area's historical and natural significance. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, beachcombing, and exploring the surrounding marshes, which are home to diverse wildlife like alligators and deer.
The park is accessible by road, making it a unique spot on the Louisiana Gulf coastline. It attracts families and those seeking a day's escape from nearby cities like Baton Rouge and Lafayette. The park's cabins provide comfortable accommodations for overnight stays.
Cypremort Point State Park is also renowned for its excellent saltwater fishing, with species like spotted sea trout and red drum frequenting the waters.

Rutherford Beach is a serene and picturesque destination located in Creole, Louisiana. It stretches approximately three miles along the Gulf Coast, offering stunning white sand and a tranquil atmosphere. The beach is part of the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, fishing, and shell collecting, with the beach being particularly noted for its display-worthy shells. The area is also known for its sparse population, with alligators outnumbering humans in the surrounding swamplands.

The beach has faced significant challenges from hurricanes, which have left lasting impacts on the local community. Despite these challenges, Rutherford Beach remains a hidden gem for those looking to escape into nature. It offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for water sports and exploration of the nearby wetlands.

For those planning to visit, it's essential to be well-prepared, as amenities like supermarkets are about 40 miles away. However, the beach itself provides a peaceful retreat with minimal signs of civilization, making it ideal for those seeking a rustic experience.