on the left is a beach at sunset, on the write is a map noting New Orleans, Louisiana

22 Beaches Within 4 Hours of New Orleans, LA

22 Beaches Near New Orleans: Your Ultimate Gulf Coast Guide

Believe it or not, there are 22 beaches within 4 hours of New Orleans. You’ll learn about quick escapes just 30 minutes away to stunning white-sand destinations worth the 4-hour drive. The Gulf Coast offers a wide variety of beaches that'll satisfy every type of beach lover. 


I’ve organized these gems by drive time, so you can pick the perfect spot based on how much time you've got and what kind of vibe you're after. Ready to trade those city streets of NOLA for sandy shores?

 

Quick Getaways - Within 1 Hour

1. Fontainebleau State Park Beach - Mandeville, LA

Drive Time: 45 minutes
Parking: Free parking at park entrance
Fee: $3 per person (free for kids 3 and under, seniors 63+)
Website: lastateparks.com

This Lake Pontchartrain gem is hands-down the closest real beach experience to New Orleans. The sandy shoreline stretches along calm, shallow waters that are perfect for families with young kids. What makes this place special? You're surrounded by 2,800 acres of natural beauty, including ancient oak trees and walking trails.

People love: The safe, shallow water, beautiful sunsets over the lake, and the water playground for kids. It's also a great spot for fishing and has cabins if you want to extend your stay.

 

Lake Pontchartrain beach near New Orleans

 

Watch out for: The water can get choppy on windy days, and the beach gets busy on summer weekends.

Amenities: Clean restrooms, showers, picnic areas, fishing pier, nature trails, and a splash pad. The nearby Tammany Trace offers great biking and walking paths.

Food nearby: Head into Mandeville for excellent restaurants like The Chimes or grab supplies at nearby grocery stores before arriving.

2. Bay St. Louis Beach - Bay St. Louis, MS

Drive Time: 1 hour
Parking: Free street parking along Beach Boulevard
Fee: Free

This charming Mississippi coastal town offers everything you'd want from a beach getaway without the crowds. The wide, sandy beach faces the Mississippi Sound, and the laid-back downtown area is just steps away from the water. It's got that small-town charm that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile.

 

Sign on beach reading Welcome Mississippi Gulf Coast with pelicans

 

People love: The uncrowded beach, historic downtown area with local shops and galleries, and the friendly atmosphere. The harbor area is perfect for sunset watching.

Watch out for: The water can be murky (typical for Gulf Coast), and jellyfish occasionally show up in summer months.

Amenities: Public restrooms, picnic areas, and easy beach access. The town has a fishing pier and boat launch.

Food nearby: Don't miss The Reef for seafood or Bacchus on the Beach for waterfront dining. For coffee, Cat Island Coffeehouse has an amazing view of the Mississippi Sound.

3. White Sands Lake Day Beach - Franklinton, LA

Drive Time: 1 hour
Parking: Free on-site parking
Fee: Varies by season, check website
Website: whitesandslake.com

This is Louisiana's answer to a tropical resort, right in your backyard. It's a spring-fed lake with incredibly clear water and soft, white sand that feels like you've been transported somewhere exotic. The whole place is designed for maximum fun with inflatables, activities, and that perfect Instagram backdrop.

People love: The crystal-clear water, floating obstacles course, beach volleyball courts, and kayak rentals. It's like a mini water park meets natural swimming hole.

 

sunset on lake pontchartrain

 

Watch out for: It gets crowded on summer weekends, so arrive early. Also, this is a private facility, so prices can be higher than state parks.

Amenities: Restrooms, changing areas, picnic tables, umbrellas for rent, and various water sports equipment rentals.

Food nearby: There's a snack bar on-site, but options are limited. Consider packing a cooler or stopping in Franklinton for supplies.

4. Coconut Beach - Kenner, LA

Drive Time: 30 minutes
Parking: Free parking lot
Fee: Court rental fees apply

Okay, so this one's a bit different – it's a massive sand volleyball complex, not a traditional beach. But with 22 courts of pristine sand and a fun, beachy atmosphere, it totally counts! It's perfect for groups who want to stay active and social.

People love: The competitive volleyball scene, well-maintained courts, and the social atmosphere. It's a great place to meet people and join leagues.

 

closeup of map of louisiana with pin in kenner

 

Watch out for: No swimming here (obviously), and you'll need to rent court time. It's more about sports than relaxation.

Amenities: On-site bar and restaurant, equipment rentals, and tournament facilities.

Food nearby: The on-site restaurant serves decent bar food, and you're close to plenty of Kenner dining options.

Mississippi Gulf Coast - Within 1.5 Hours

5. Pass Christian Beach - Pass Christian, MS

Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Parking: Free along scenic Beach Boulevard
Fee: Free

"The Pass" is one of Mississippi's best-kept secrets. This quiet beach town has gorgeous white sand, historic charm, and a much more relaxed vibe than its busier neighbors. The beach faces the Mississippi Sound, offering gentle waves and beautiful sunsets.

People love: The peaceful atmosphere, historic downtown area, and some of the most beautiful oak trees you'll ever see. It's perfect for a romantic getaway or quiet family time.

 

pass christian beach mississippi with a shrimp boat in the distance

 

Watch out for: Limited dining options compared to larger beach towns, and the water quality can vary.

Amenities: Public beach access, restrooms, and picnic areas.

Food nearby: Pass Christian Books & Coffeehouse is charming, and there are several local restaurants in the small downtown area.

6. Biloxi Beach - Biloxi, MS

Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Parking: Free beach parking available
Fee: Free

Biloxi gives you the full Gulf Coast experience with beaches, casinos, and plenty of entertainment. The beach stretches for miles along Highway 90, and while the water isn't crystal clear, there's no shortage of things to do nearby.

People love: The casino scene, variety of restaurants, and the historic lighthouse. It's great for people who want beach time plus nightlife.

Watch out for: Can get very crowded, especially during events. Traffic can be heavy, and the casino crowds aren't for everyone.

 

biloxi beach on the Gulf of Mexico in harrison county mississippi

 

Amenities: Multiple access points, restrooms, and the nearby casinos offer every amenity you could want.

Food nearby: Endless options from casino buffets to local seafood joints. Hard Rock and Beau Rivage offer upscale dining.

7. Ocean Springs Beach - Ocean Springs, MS

Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Parking: Free street and lot parking
Fee: Free

This artsy beach town is absolutely charming, with a vibrant downtown full of galleries, shops, and restaurants. The beach itself is lovely, but the real draw is the cultural scene and small-town atmosphere with big-city amenities.

People love: The arts district, fantastic restaurants, and the Walter Anderson Museum. It's perfect for couples who want culture with their beach time.

 

Biloxi Bay Bridge viewed from Ocean Springs Beach

 

Watch out for: Parking can be challenging during festivals and peak times. The beach can get busy on weekends.

Amenities: Beach access, restrooms, and Fort Maurepas Park offers additional facilities.

Food nearby: Exceptional dining scene including Aunt Jenny's Catfish Restaurant and The Reef Biloxi.

8. Gulfport Beach - Gulfport, MS

Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Parking: Free beach parking
Fee: Free

Mississippi's second-largest city offers a great mix of beach and urban amenities. The beach is wide and sandy, and downtown Gulfport has been revitalized with the cool Fishbone Alley art district and plenty of dining options.

People love: The Mississippi Aquarium, Jones Park, and the variety of activities. It's very family-friendly with lots to do beyond the beach.

 

Sunset over Gulfport and Pass Christian Mississippi

 

Watch out for: Can be crowded, and the water quality varies. Hurricane damage is still being repaired in some areas.

Amenities: Multiple beach access points, restrooms, picnic areas, and nearby attractions.

Food nearby: Great variety from casual beachside spots to upscale restaurants downtown.

9. Waveland Beach - Waveland, MS

Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Parking: Free parking along Beach Boulevard and at Buccaneer State Park
Fee: Free for public beach; $5 for Buccaneer State Park
Website: waveland.ms.gov

Waveland offers over 5 miles of white sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, plus the bonus of Buccaneer State Park with its amazing water park. The public beach stretches along Highway 90, while the state park offers a more structured experience with camping and activities.

People love: Buccaneer Bay water park (4.5 acres of aquatic fun!), the Garfield Ladner Memorial Pier for fishing, and the Veterans Memorial Monument. The combination of free public beach and paid park amenities gives you options.

 

American Elm (Ulmus Americana) City of Long Beach, Harrison County, Mississippi USA

 

Watch out for: The water park gets packed in summer, and parking near the pier can fill up quickly on weekends. Hurricane recovery is ongoing in some areas.

Amenities: Public restrooms, the fishing pier, picnic areas, and if you pay for the state park: water park, disc golf course, nature trails, and camping facilities.

Food nearby: More limited than larger beach towns, but you'll find local seafood spots and convenience stores. The state park has a camp store for basics.

10. Henderson Point Beach - Henderson Point, MS

Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Parking: Free street parking along residential areas
Fee: Free

This quiet residential beach area sits between Pass Christian and Bay St. Louis, offering a more local, less touristy experience. It's basically a neighborhood beach where you can enjoy the Mississippi Sound without crowds or commercial development.

People love: The peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere and beautiful residential architecture nearby. It's perfect for people who want to feel like locals rather than tourists.

Watch out for: Very limited amenities and facilities. Parking is along residential streets, so be respectful of locals. Can be hard to find specific access points.

 

Long pier on a beach in Gulfport, Mississippi during golden hour

 

Amenities: Minimal - this is basically a neighborhood beach. Some areas have small access paths to the water.

Food nearby: You'll need to drive to Bay St. Louis or Pass Christian for dining options. Bring snacks and drinks.

11. Long Beach - Long Beach, MS

Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Parking: Free parking along Jeff Davis Avenue and beach access points
Fee: Free
Website: longbeachms.org

Long Beach lives up to its name with a gorgeous stretch of sand that's part of the longest man-made beach in the United States. This bicycle-friendly town of about 15,000 has been beautifully rebuilt since Hurricane Katrina and offers an authentic Gulf Coast experience with great local restaurants.

People love: The bike-friendly infrastructure, Long Beach Harbor views, and excellent local restaurants like Harbor View Café. The Friendship Oak on the Southern Miss campus is over 500 years old and worth seeing.

 

Brown Pelican in Mississippi Sound

 

Watch out for: Can get busy during festivals and events. The beach faces the Mississippi Sound, so water isn't as clear as ocean beaches.

Amenities: Public beach access, restrooms, picnic areas, fishing opportunities, and bike paths throughout town.

Food nearby: Don't miss Harbor View Café for shrimp po'boys with a harbor view, Steve's Marina Restaurant for crab claws, and Bankhouse Coffee in a converted bank building.

12. Fort Morgan Beach - Fort Morgan, AL

Drive Time: 2 hours
Parking: Free parking at Fort Morgan State Historic Site
Fee: $5 per person for historic site (beach access included)
Website: fort-morgan.org

This is Alabama's best-kept secret - a gorgeous, uncrowded stretch of Gulf Coast beach at the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula. You get those famous Alabama white sand beaches without the crowds of Gulf Shores, plus fascinating Civil War history. The beach faces both the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay, giving you different water experiences.

People love: The pristine, less crowded beaches, crystal-clear Gulf waters, rich Civil War history at the fort, and excellent fishing. The Mobile Bay side is perfect for families with calmer water, while the Gulf side offers waves and classic beach fun.

 

Fort Morgan Beach, Alabama

 

Watch out for: It's a bit of a drive down the peninsula, and amenities are more limited than resort beaches. The ferry to Dauphin Island can have wait times if you want to island-hop.

Amenities: Historic fort museum, clean restrooms, picnic areas, fishing pier, nature trails, and beautiful beaches on both the Gulf and bay sides.

Food nearby: The Hangout Grill at The Wharf (about 20 minutes away) or pack a picnic. Limited dining options right at Fort Morgan, but Gulf Shores restaurants are a short drive.

Special features: You can tour the Civil War fort where Admiral Farragut famously said "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!" The peninsula location gives you stunning views and some of Alabama's most pristine beaches.

Bonus: You can take the Fort Morgan-Dauphin Island ferry for a scenic 45-minute ride to explore another beautiful barrier island!


Day Trip Destinations - Within 2.5 Hours

13. Grand Isle State Park Beach - Grand Isle, LA

Drive Time: 2 hours
Parking: Free parking at state park
Fee: $3 per person
Website: lastateparks.com

Louisiana's only inhabited barrier island offers the real Gulf of Mexico experience. This is where serious anglers and nature lovers come to play. The beach stretches for miles, and you might spot dolphins playing in the surf.

People love: World-class fishing, bird watching, and the feeling of being at the "end of the road." The 900-foot fishing pier is legendary.

 

Fishing - Grand Isle, Louisiana beach on the Gulf of Mexico

 

Watch out for: Can be windy, and facilities are more basic than resort beaches. Weather can change quickly.

Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, fishing pier, and camping facilities.

Food nearby: Local seafood shops and restaurants, but bring supplies for a full day.

14. Dauphin Island Beach - Dauphin Island, AL

Drive Time: 2 hours
Parking: Free beach parking
Fee: Free (except for specific attractions)

This Alabama barrier island feels like a hidden paradise. The beaches are gorgeous, the bird watching is incredible (it's on the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail), and Fort Gaines offers a dose of Civil War history.

People love: The pristine beaches, excellent fishing, and The Estuarium aquarium. It's perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.

 

DAUPHIN ISLAND BEACH SCENE in alabama

 

Watch out for: Limited dining options, so plan accordingly. The ferry to Fort Morgan can have wait times.

Amenities: Beach access, restrooms, and various island attractions.

Food nearby: Limited but good options including local seafood restaurants.

15. Ship Island - Mississippi

Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes + 1-hour ferry
Fee: Ferry tickets required (check Ship Island Excursions)

This pristine barrier island is only accessible by ferry, making it feel like a true escape. Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, it offers some of the most beautiful, undeveloped beaches in the region.

People love: The crystal-clear water, pristine beaches, and Fort Massachusetts. It's like having a private island experience.

 

Gulf Islands National Seashore Beach Access  in Mississippi

 

Watch out for: Weather-dependent ferry service, limited facilities, and you need to bring everything with you.

Amenities: Basic restrooms and picnic areas. Ferry departs from Gulfport Harbor.

Food nearby: Limited food available on ferry and island. Pack a cooler!

16. Holly Beach (Cajun Riviera) - Cameron, LA

Drive Time: 2 hours
Parking: Free parking along the beach road
Fee: Free

Welcome to the "Cajun Riviera!" This rustic stretch of Gulf Coast in Cameron Parish is as authentic as Louisiana beaches get. It's about 40 miles from the Texas border and offers a completely undeveloped, old-school beach experience where locals come to fish, crab, and camp right on the sand.

People love: The totally uncommercialized vibe, excellent fishing and crabbing, shell collecting, and the freedom to drive and camp on the beach. It's like stepping back in time to when all beaches were this natural.

 

holly beach louisiana at sunset

 

Watch out for: Zero commercial development means no restaurants, stores, or facilities - bring everything you need. Weather can be rough, and this area is hurricane-prone. The beach can be muddy after storms.

Amenities: Basically none - that's the point! Bring your own everything: food, drinks, shade, and bathroom supplies.

Food nearby: Stock up in Lake Charles or Cameron before heading out. The nearest gas station and supplies are in Cameron, about 10 miles away.

Special note: This is part of the Creole Nature Trail, and you might see incredible wildlife including alligators, birds, and marine life.

17. Cypremort Point State Park - Cypremort Point, LA

Drive Time: 2 hours
Parking: Free parking at state park entrance
Fee: $3 per person (free for seniors 62+ and children 3 and under)
Website: lastateparks.com

Cypremort Point is one of the very few places between Grand Isle and Cameron where you can drive directly to the Gulf of Mexico. This hidden gem sits on Vermilion Bay just miles from the Gulf, offering a unique Louisiana coastal experience with a half-mile man-made beach, excellent saltwater fishing, and incredible wildlife viewing.

People love: The excellent saltwater fishing without needing a boat, world-class bird watching, and peaceful atmosphere. The new quarter-mile boardwalk through the wetlands is perfect for spotting alligators, deer, and native birds. It's also popular with windsurfers thanks to its unique geography.

Watch out for: Water quality can vary - sometimes swimming may be restricted due to bacteria. The beach isn't like a typical Florida-style beach - it's more rustic and can be muddy. Wildlife includes alligators, so stay aware of your surroundings.

Amenities: Man-made beach with covered picnic pavilions, BBQ pits, restrooms, outdoor showers, fishing pier, boat launch, and fish cleaning station. Brand new RV campground with 22 sites, all with beach views. Six waterfront cabins are available for overnight stays.

Food nearby: Stock up in New Iberia or Jeanerette before arriving. The park has picnic facilities with grills, but no on-site restaurant. Nearby Avery Island (home of TABASCO) is worth a visit.

Special features: Excellent saltwater fishing for redfish, speckled trout, and sheepshead right from shore. The park is "a real hot spot for bird watching" with incredible opportunities along the entrance road and marsh boardwalk. You might spot nutria, muskrat, alligators, deer, black bear, and numerous bird species.



18. Elmer's Island Beach - Grand Isle, LA

Drive Time: 2 hours
Parking: Free parking in designated areas
Fee: Free
Website: elmersisland.org

Just west of Grand Isle, Elmer's Island offers a wilder, less developed Gulf Coast experience. This 2,000-acre barrier island is privately owned but open to the public, providing pristine beaches for those who want to get away from crowds and experience Louisiana's coast in its natural state.

People love: The pristine, undeveloped coastline, excellent surf fishing, bird watching, and feeling like you've discovered a secret spot. It's perfect for photographers and nature lovers who want dramatic coastal scenery.

Watch out for: Very limited facilities - bring everything you need. The road can be rough, and beach conditions can change rapidly. No lifeguards or emergency services readily available.

Amenities: Minimal - some portable toilets and trash containers. This is essentially wilderness camping and beach access.

Food nearby: Stock up in Grand Isle before heading over. There are no food services on Elmer's Island itself.

Special features: Part of important bird migration routes, and you might see dolphins, sea turtles, and incredible sunrises/sunsets. The island provides a crucial nesting habitat for sea turtles and shorebirds.

Access note: The bridge to the island is privately maintained, and access can occasionally be restricted during extreme weather or for environmental protection.


Premium Beach Destinations - Within 3-4 Hours

19. Gulf Shores Beach/Gulf State Park - Gulf Shores, AL

Drive Time: 3+ hours
Parking: Paid parking at most beach access points
Fee: Varies by location
Website: gulfshores.com

Now we're talking about the good stuff! Gulf Shores offers those postcard-perfect white sand beaches and emerald waters that make Alabama's coast famous. Gulf State Park alone has over 6,000 acres of coastal beauty.

 

aerial shot of Gulf Shores, Alabama on the Gulf of Mexico

 

People love: The sugar-white sand, clear water, and endless activities. The Hangout and The Wharf provide entertainment and dining.

Watch out for: Crowds in summer and spring break, higher prices, and traffic getting on/off the island.

Amenities: Full resort amenities, multiple beach access points, fishing pier, and nature trails.

Food nearby: Endless options from casual beachside to fine dining.

20. Orange Beach - Orange Beach, AL

Drive Time: 3+ hours
Parking: Paid parking at beach access points
Fee: Varies

Orange Beach is Gulf Shores' slightly quieter neighbor, offering the same beautiful beaches with a bit more of a family focus. The Wharf entertainment district and excellent fishing make it a complete destination.

 

sand dunes and beach at orange beach alabama

 

People love: Great fishing charters, beautiful condos and resorts, and proximity to Gulf State Park.

Watch out for: Similar crowd and pricing issues as Gulf Shores.

Amenities: Resort-level amenities, fishing charters, and water sports rentals.

Food nearby: Excellent restaurants including The Gulf and LuLu's.

21. Pensacola Beach - Pensacola, FL

Drive Time: 3+ hours
Parking: Paid parking required
Fee: Various
Website: visitpensacolabeach.com

Welcome to Florida's Emerald Coast! Pensacola Beach consistently ranks among America's best beaches, and once you see that crystal-clear water and pure white sand, you'll understand why.

 

Pensacola Beach Pier Aerial

 

People love: World-class beaches, the Blue Angels air shows, and excellent restaurants. The sugar-white sand literally squeaks when you walk on it.

Watch out for: Crowds, higher prices, and parking can be challenging.

Amenities: Full beach resort amenities, fishing pier, and nearby attractions.

Food nearby: From beachside bars to upscale dining, Pensacola Beach has it all.

22. Navarre Beach - Navarre, FL

Drive Time: 3.5+ hours
Parking: Free and paid options available
Fee: Free beach access

Florida's "most relaxing beach" lives up to its name. Less crowded than Pensacola but equally beautiful, Navarre Beach offers that perfect balance of stunning scenery and peaceful vibes.

 

sunset and pier at navarre beach florida on the gulf coast

 

People love: Less crowded than other Florida beaches, the longest fishing pier in the Gulf, and sea turtle conservation center.

Watch out for: Fewer dining and entertainment options than larger beach towns.

Amenities: Beach access, restrooms, fishing pier, and nature trails.

Food nearby: Good local options but fewer choices than major beach destinations.

Planning Your Perfect Beach Day

The best time to visit most Gulf Coast beaches is spring through fall, with shoulder seasons offering the best combination of good weather and smaller crowds. Always check local conditions before heading out, pack plenty of sunscreen and water, and remember that Gulf Coast weather can change quickly.

Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon escape or planning a full beach vacation, these 22 destinations offer something for every taste and timeline. From the peaceful shores of Lake Pontchartrain to the world-famous beaches of Florida's Emerald Coast, your perfect beach day is just a drive away from the Big Easy!

 

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Meet the Author & Artist

Drawing inspiration from countless summers on the Gulf Coast and beaches from Maine to Southern California, Cherie creates coastal artwork and designs that capture the peace and joy of the ocean.

Cherie combines her digital art mastery with a deep understanding of what makes the beach so restorative—the way it strips away everyday stress and fills you with calm. Every piece is created with the intention to bring that same coastal serenity into your daily life, helping you take a relaxing mental stride on the beach wherever you are.

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