Explore the best beaches near New Orleans, such as Gulfport Beach, Dauphin Island Beach, and Pensacola Beach. Find the closest beach to New Orleans and plan your next beach getaway.
Best Beaches near New Orleans
If you’re in New Orleans and looking for the best beaches to visit, you’re in luck! Just a short drive away, there are several stunning coastal destinations that offer sun, sand, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, clear waters for snorkeling, or just a secluded spot to unwind, there’s a beach near New Orleans that’s perfect for you.
Gulfport Beach
Gulfport Beach is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. With its soft, white sand and calm, warm waters, it’s no wonder this beach is a favorite among families. The beach stretches for miles, providing plenty of space for everyone to spread out and enjoy the sun. You can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, build sandcastles with the kids, or simply relax under an umbrella and soak up the coastal vibes.
Dauphin Island Beach
For a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, head to Dauphin Island Beach. This barrier island is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach is known for its pristine beauty, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers, as the island is home to several bird sanctuaries and nature trails. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline and keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the surf.
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach, located just across the state line in Florida, is another top-notch beach near New Orleans. With its emerald-green waters and sugar-white sand, it’s no wonder this beach has been voted one of the best in the country. The beach offers a range of activities for all ages, from swimming and sunbathing to fishing and watersports. After a day in the sun, you can explore the vibrant boardwalk area, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and live entertainment.
These three beaches near New Orleans each offer a unique beach experience. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly outing, a peaceful escape, or a lively beach town atmosphere, you can find it all within a short drive from the Big Easy. So grab your beach towel, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, and get ready to enjoy the best beaches near New Orleans.
Beaches with Clear Waters near New Orleans
Destin Beach
When it comes to beaches with crystal-clear waters near New Orleans, Destin Beach is a top contender. Located in Florida’s Emerald Coast, this stunning stretch of coastline offers powdery white sands and turquoise waters that are sure to take your breath away. The clarity of the water at Destin Beach is thanks to the absence of rivers flowing into the Gulf of Mexico in this area, allowing for unparalleled visibility in the water. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, swimming, or snorkeling, you’ll be able to see the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs beneath the surface. Destin Beach truly lives up to its reputation as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” offering not only pristine waters but also fantastic opportunities for fishing enthusiasts.
Gulf Shores Beach
Just a short drive from New Orleans, Gulf Shores Beach in Alabama is another fantastic destination renowned for its clear waters. With its soft, sugar-white sands and inviting emerald-green waters, this beach is a true gem along the Gulf Coast. The expansive shoreline provides plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf. Whether you’re swimming, boogie boarding, or simply strolling along the shore, you’ll be mesmerized by the clarity of the water at Gulf Shores Beach. The calm waves make it an ideal spot for families with young children, as well as for those looking to relax and unwind in a serene coastal setting.
Navarre Beach
Navarre Beach, located in Florida’s Panhandle, is yet another hidden treasure near New Orleans that boasts pristine, clear waters. This tranquil beach offers a more secluded and peaceful experience compared to some of the more popular tourist destinations along the Gulf Coast. The powdery white sands and turquoise waters create a picture-perfect backdrop for a day of sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk along the shoreline. Navarre Beach is also known for its abundance of marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, Navarre Beach is a must-visit destination for those in search of clear waters and natural beauty.
Family-Friendly Beaches near New Orleans
Orange Beach
Located just a short drive from New Orleans, Orange Beach is a popular destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing beach getaway. With its pristine white sand and clear waters, this beach offers the perfect setting for building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or simply soaking up the sun.
What makes Orange Beach particularly family-friendly is its array of amenities and activities. There are plenty of picnic areas and pavilions where families can enjoy a beachside lunch or host a barbecue. The beach also boasts clean restrooms and convenient shower facilities, making it easy for families to clean up after a day of fun in the sun.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, Orange Beach offers various water sports and recreational activities. From jet skiing and parasailing to paddleboarding and kayaking, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins swimming in the distance!
Biloxi Beach
Situated along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Biloxi Beach is another fantastic option for families near New Orleans. This beach is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it ideal for young children to splash around and play safely.
Biloxi Beach offers a wide range of family-friendly amenities. There are designated picnic areas with barbecue grills, as well as playgrounds where kids can run, climb, and slide to their heart’s content. The beach is also equipped with well-maintained restrooms and outdoor showers, ensuring a comfortable experience for families.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Biloxi also offers plenty of family-friendly attractions. From the interactive exhibits at the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center to the thrilling rides at the Gulf Islands Waterpark, there’s no shortage of entertainment options for kids of all ages. And if you’re feeling lucky, you can even try your hand at the nearby casinos!
South Beach, Mississippi
If you’re looking for a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, South Beach in Mississippi is the perfect destination for your family. Nestled between Gulfport and Biloxi, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
South Beach is known for its untouched natural beauty, with its soft sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an excellent spot for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the serenity of nature. The beach is less crowded compared to other popular destinations, allowing families to have ample space to relax and enjoy quality time together.
While South Beach may not have as many amenities as other beaches, its lack of commercialization adds to its charm. Families can bring their own beach chairs and umbrellas and set up a cozy spot for a day of relaxation. It’s the perfect place to unwind, read a book, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
Secluded Beaches near New Orleans
Are you looking for a peaceful and tranquil beach getaway near New Orleans? Look no further than these secluded beaches that offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re in search of solitude or simply want to enjoy the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast, these hidden gems are sure to delight.
Grand Isle Beach
Nestled on the easternmost point of Louisiana’s coastline, Grand Isle Beach is a secluded paradise waiting to be discovered. With its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach offers a serene and peaceful escape from the crowds. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, soak up the sun, or simply relax and listen to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore. Grand Isle Beach is also a popular spot for fishing, so don’t forget to pack your fishing gear and try your luck at catching some fresh seafood.
Ship Island Beach
Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Ship Island Beach, located just off the coast of Mississippi. Accessible only by ferry, this hidden gem offers a secluded and untouched beach experience. As you step off the boat and onto the island, you’ll be greeted by miles of pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters. Explore the island’s natural wonders, from the historic Fort Massachusetts to the diverse wildlife that calls this place home. Whether you’re sunbathing, snorkeling, or simply enjoying a picnic on the beach, Ship Island Beach is an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.
Cat Island Beach
Tucked away in the Mississippi Sound, Cat Island Beach is a hidden oasis that offers a truly secluded beach experience. Accessible by boat or kayak, this untouched paradise is perfect for those seeking solitude and tranquility. As you arrive at the island, you’ll be greeted by powdery white sand, pristine dunes, and crystal-clear waters. Relax under the shade of the palm trees, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or explore the island’s natural wonders. Cat Island Beach is a haven for birdwatchers, with its diverse bird population, including herons, pelicans, and even the occasional bald eagle. Pack a picnic and spend the day immersing yourself in the beauty of this untouched paradise.
So, if you’re in search of a secluded beach getaway near New Orleans, look no further than Grand Isle Beach, Ship Island Beach, and Cat Island Beach. These hidden gems offer a peaceful retreat where you can relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature.
Beaches with White Sand near New Orleans
The beaches near New Orleans offer a diverse range of experiences, and if you’re looking for pristine white sand, you’re in luck! Here are some of the best beaches with white sand near New Orleans:
Perdido Key Beach
Perdido Key Beach is a hidden gem located along the Gulf Coast in Florida. With its soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s no wonder why this beach is often referred to as the “Lost Key.” Whether you’re looking to relax under the sun or engage in water sports like swimming, paddleboarding, or snorkeling, Perdido Key Beach has it all. The beach is also surrounded by beautiful nature preserves, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your beach day.
Holly Beach
Holly Beach, also known as the “Cajun Riviera,” is a charming beach located in southwestern Louisiana. This beach is known for its wide expanse of powdery white sand and gentle waves. It’s the perfect spot for a family-friendly day at the beach, with picnic areas, playgrounds, and even camping facilities available. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, collect seashells, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Holly Beach.
Johnson Beach
Johnson Beach is situated on the western tip of Perdido Key in Florida and is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. This beach offers a unique combination of white sand dunes, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. As you explore the area, you may come across a variety of bird species, turtles, and even dolphins. Johnson Beach is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful and secluded beach experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico.
In conclusion, if you’re in search of beaches with white sand near New Orleans, Perdido Key Beach, Holly Beach, and Johnson Beach are fantastic options to consider. Each beach offers its own unique charm and natural beauty, providing an unforgettable coastal experience. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and get ready to enjoy the soft sands and shimmering waters of these amazing destinations.
