Amazing what a two hours’ drive from the city can do! The park, which is really a giant beach, is definitely one of the best beaches near New Orleans for a short getaway. The gates are closed at around 9 PM, so plan your arrival earlier than that!
Bring your own tent if you are not interested in renting any of the vacation homes - most days you are allowed to camp right on the beach and start bonfires. Beach camping sites are around $20 to $30 depending on the spot you pick. The facilities and the beach itself are really clean. There are public showers, bathrooms, a laundry and they even provide WiFi.
If staying for a few days make sure to bring everything you might need, as there’s only one grocery store nearby. That includes warm clothing as it gets really chilly during nights, although it can get hot as hell during the daytime. Mosquitoes are a problem so bring a repellent, too.
Besides sunbathing, you can go for other activities like fishing and hiking. Enjoy the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival in April, if you are around. What else? Crabbing, bird-watching, and taking perfect Instagram-worthy sunset pictures. Amazing wild fauna - dolphins (who are swimming really close!), crabs, dragonflies, butterflies, lots of different birds. You can find more information about the park and the beach on the official website.
What we loved
- Fishing experience
- Surfing!
- Wildlife: dolphins were amazing! 🐬
- Romantic sunsets and energizing sunrises
- Friendly campers
- The spirit. This place has a soul!
Driving Time
- 2 hours 10 minutes from New Orleans, LA
- 2 hours 55 minutes from Baton Rouge, LA
- 4 hours 25 minutes from Jackson, MS
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's another beach near Grand Isle Beach (Grand Isle State Park) which you can visit:
- Shell Beach (44 miles)