Pontachartrain Beach

Near Pontchartrain Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Landry's Seafood House offers Gulf Coast seafood in a casual setting, perfect for family gatherings. The Blue Crab Restaurant and Oyster Bar is another lakeside spot, known for its homey seafood dishes. For a more pub-like experience, Lakeview Harbor serves burgers and colorful cocktails in a nautical-themed setting. Sala Nola provides a chic atmosphere with American small plates and a great selection of wine and cocktails.

These restaurants offer a mix of seafood, casual dining, and trendy settings, catering to various tastes and preferences.

For accommodations near Pontchartrain Beach, several top-rated hotels are available in New Orleans. The Hyatt Regency New Orleans offers upscale lodging with a rooftop pool. The Hilton New Orleans Riverside is a high-end convention hotel with river views. For a more luxurious experience, The Roosevelt New Orleans is an iconic hotel with a rooftop pool and renowned bar.

These hotels provide a range of amenities and settings, from modern facilities to historic charm.

Pontchartrain Beach is planned to include a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. These include restrooms, showers, picnic areas under the shade of Live Oaks, and rental equipment for water activities like kayaking and canoeing. The beach will also feature a renovated fishing pier and designated areas for swimming, non-motorized and motorized boats. Additionally, there will be spaces for food trucks and small event spaces, ensuring a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

The area is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, with provisions for dog parks and ample parking.

Pontchartrain Beach offers a diverse range of activities for visitors. Swimming and water sports are central attractions, with designated areas for swimmers and boaters. The beach also features volleyball courts and a dog park, making it suitable for families and pet owners. For those interested in nature, there are plans for a wetland and reef habitat for education and scientific study. Additionally, visitors can enjoy picnics under the shade of existing trees or participate in small events and gatherings.

The beach's scenic views and tranquil setting make it ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Pontchartrain Beach is designed to be accessible for all visitors. The planned facilities include wheelchair-accessible restrooms, showers, and parking areas. The pedestrian circulation spine along the shoreline ensures easy navigation for those with mobility needs. Additionally, the beach's amenities are intended to be inclusive, providing a welcoming environment for families and individuals with disabilities.

The focus on accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the beach's activities and scenic views.

Parking at Pontchartrain Beach is designed to be convenient and accessible. The area includes a curvilinear parking lot near the entrance, which preserves existing trees while providing ample parking space. Additional parking areas are being considered to accommodate more visitors. The parking lots are located near the main pedestrian circulation spine, ensuring easy access to the beach and its amenities.

The proximity of parking to the beach facilities makes it convenient for visitors to enjoy the various activities and attractions without worrying about transportation.

Pontchartrain Beach has a fascinating history as a former amusement park, operating from 1929 to 1983. It was known for its iconic rides like the Zephyr roller coaster and the Bali Hai restaurant, which was a popular spot for special occasions. The beach was also once segregated, with Lincoln Beach serving as an alternative for black residents from 1955 to 1965. Today, the area is being redeveloped to preserve its history while offering modern recreational facilities.

The beach's transformation reflects the city's efforts to revitalize its lakefront and provide a vibrant public space for residents and visitors.

Pontchartrain Beach itself is a major attraction, offering stunning views of Lake Pontchartrain and a rich history as a former amusement park. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic Milneburg Lighthouse, which once served as a centerpiece for the park's Kiddieland. The beach's proximity to New Orleans also makes it a great base for exploring the city's vibrant culture and historical sites.

The area's transformation into a modern recreational space will include iconic pavilions and sculptures, paying homage to its past as an amusement park.