Discover the Beauty and Diversity of Louisiana's Coastal Region: Top Places to Visit

 

Louisiana's coastal region is a destination like no other. From the bustling city of New Orleans to the serene beaches and natural parks, this area has something for everyone. Whether you are a foodie, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, you will find plenty of attractions to enjoy. Here are some of the top places to visit in the Louisiana coastal region:

Beaches

Louisiana may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about beaches, but this southern state has a unique coastline that offers visitors a different kind of beach experience. From the wild and rugged stretches of sand to the calm and serene beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana has a lot to offer beach-goers.

Holly Beach

Also known as the "Cajun Riviera," Holly Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the beach is known for its calm waters and soft white sand. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or take a stroll along the shoreline. The area is also popular for crabbing and fishing.

Rutherford Beach

Rutherford Beach is a quiet and secluded beach located in Cameron Parish. The beach is known for its calm waters, making it a popular spot for families with young children. Visitors can relax on the sandy shore or go for a swim in the clear blue waters. The beach is also a great place for fishing and crabbing.

Johnson Beach

Located in Barataria Preserve, Johnson Beach is a secluded spot that offers visitors a unique beach experience. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation, and visitors can take a hike along one of the many nature trails before cooling off in the water. The beach is also a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Rip Van Winkel Garden 

Rip Van Winkle Gardens - This botanical garden is located on Jefferson Island and features a stunning collection of exotic plants and flowers. You can also tour the Joseph Jefferson Mansion, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Address:

5505 Rip Van Winkle Rd, New Iberia, LA 70560

Admission:

Home Tours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Tickets: $12.00 Sr. & Groups $10.00

Avery Island

Avery Island - Home to the famous Tabasco sauce, Avery Island is a must-visit destination for foodies. You can tour the factory and sample some of the spicy sauce, or explore the beautiful Jungle Gardens.

 

Address:

32 Wisteria Rd, Avery Island, LA 70513

 

Tabasco factory & Jungle Garden Admission:

$12.50 Adults

$9.50 Children (4 and under are free)

Grand Isle     

This barrier island is known for its pristine beaches and excellent fishing. You can also visit the Grand Isle State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities.

New Orleans

The Big Easy is one of the most popular destinations in the region. From Bourbon Street to the French Quarter, the city is full of historic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture.

 Fontainebleau State Park

Located on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. You can also explore the ruins of a historic sugar mill and a beautiful lagoon.

Address:

62883 Hwy. 1089

Mandeville, LA 70448

Admission:

$3 per person

Free for seniors (62 & older)

Free for children (3 & under)

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

 

 

Exploring the Charm and Beauty of Bay St Louis, Mississippi

Bay St Louis is a small coastal town between New Orleans, Louisiana and Biloxi, Mississippi. My first visit was just a stop over on a road trip to Florida. I have since been back two times. 

I love to walk along the coast and down the streets lined with colorful beach houses. It is so peaceful and relaxing.

We seem to always have bad luck with the weather during our stays, but it never fails to be clear the morning we are leaving. Lol  I took photos of some of our favorite spots on our last visit. Most were taken in the rain….   Hope you enjoy them anyway.

Bay St Louis Historic L & N Train Depot 

The Bay St Louis train depot, built in 1928, houses the visitors center and Mardi Gras Museum. The bottom floor had a display of Mardi Gras costumes as well as some historical timelines about the area.

Address:

1928 Depot Way, Bay St Louis, MS 39520

Hours:

Monday – Saturday 10am to 4pm 

Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum

Address:

1928 Depot Way, Bay St Louis, MS 39520

Hours:

Tuesday – Saturday 10am to 4pm

Admission:

Free

Serious Bread Bakery

This place has the best artisan breads and muffins. A must try!

Address:

131 Main St, Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520-4545

Hours:

Tuesday – Sunday  7:30am - 5:30 pm

St Rose De Lima Church

This beautiful catholic church dates back to 1855. Mass is still held almost every day of the week.

Address:

301 S Necaise Ave, Bay St Louis, MS 39520

Angel Trees

Remnants of beautiful live oaks are now works of art by Chainsaw sculptor, Dayle K. Lewis. The Angel trees stand as a monument to Hurricane Katrina.

Walking Tour of Filming Locations

Robert Redford’s 1966 movie "This Property Is Condemned" was filmed mostly in Bay St Louis. Take a walking tour to see some of the locations and building used. Get map here.

 Beaches 

Beaches run along Beach Blvd with parking on the shoulder across from the sand. A parking area and pavilion are located at the Garfield Ladner Pier.

Address:

125 N Beach Blvd, Waveland, MS 39576

Bay Saint Louis Municipal Harbor

We love just walking around looking at the boats and visiting with fishermen. This is also the best place to watch a sunrise!

Address:

100 Jody Compretta Dr, Bay St Louis, MS 39520

Bay Saint Louis Bridge

The Bay Saint Louis Bridge connects Bay St Louis and Pass Christian.

Address:

229 N Beach Blvd, Waveland, MS 39576

Shopping

Clothing and specialty shops are scattered through the historic area.

Bay Town Inn

 We always stay at the Bay Town Inn. The place is gorgeous and they love to pamper you!

Address:

208 N Beach Blvd, Bay St Louis, MS 39520

Phone:

(504) 421-0960

Pirates Day in the Bay Festival 

The Pirates Day Festival is held in the spring each year. It is so much fun and has a true small coastal town feel. It will be held May 15^th & May 16^th this year.

Address:

100 Jody Compretta Dr, Bay St Louis, MS   

Hope you enjoy this charming little town as much as we do!

Happy Travels!

Fontainebleau State Park: A Hidden Gem in Louisiana

Fontainebleau State Park is a 2,800-acre park located on the northern shore of Lake Pontchartrain. It is a beautiful place to spend some time with nature, yet close enough to New Orleans for some big city fun.

I have listed nine fun things to do and have include some winter and summer photos so that you can see that it is equally beautiful all year around.

1. Fishing is a popular activity at the park.  Check out the pier or cast from the shoreline for some redfish and trout action.

2. With white sand and beautiful blue water, the beach area is a great place for swimming and catching some sun rays.

3. Gathering shells along the shoreline is fun for the whole family. There are several different kinds and colors of shells, but I only collected the white ones.

4. Explore the cluster of cypress trees along the beach. 

 5. Take photos of and with the giant oak trees draped with Spanish.

6. Visit the brick ruins of a sugar mill built in 1829 by Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville, founder of the nearby town of Mandeville.

7. Stay in one of the 12 cabins that sleeps up to 8 people each for $120 - $150 per night.

8. Do some hiking at one of the two trails.

A 4.8-mile hiking trail and a 1-1/4 mile nature trail

Go Sailing.

Sailing is very popular on Lake Pontchartrain. Delaune YachtBrokerage is located just 9 minutes from the park and offers a couple of sailing options.

You can cruise with Captain Rick Delaune at the helm of the aboard the 42 ft. sailboat, "Windward Passage or sign up for private sailing lessons.

I have looked into the sailing lessons and it sounds like so much fun! I’m thinking about setting lessons up for my kiddos. They are all in their 20’s and I think they would have a blast!

Address:

1298 Madison St, Mandeville, LA 70448

Phone:

504-458-1013

Address:

62883 Hwy. 1089

Mandeville, LA 70448

Entrance Fees:

$2 per person

Free for Seniors (62 and older) and children (3 and under)

Happy Travels!