7 family friendly beaches near New Orleans

If you've been dreaming of open-water breezes, sandcastles and picnics, there’s a mix of inland lakes and Gulf Coast shores within driving distance from New Orleans. 

With car hire readily available in the city, even a spontaneous day trip is easy to pull off. Whether you're travelling with toddlers, bringing along your pets or planning an outing with grandparents, each of these destinations offers something special for different kinds of families. You might be organising a day trip or a longer stay – either way, these spots promise great memories.

Pensacola Beach is about a three-hour drive from New Orleans and it’s well worth the trip. Powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters make it great for swimming, paddling and playing. Along the beachfront, you’ll find arcades, shops and family friendly places to eat. 

The beach is well-equipped with everything you need – lifeguards, outdoor showers and umbrella rentals. There are even designated areas that allow pets. 

To really make the most of your time on this coast, it’s a good idea to:

• Arrive early in the summer to get a good parking spot. 
• Look for the shallow side beach with calmer water. It’s perfect for younger kids or those who paddleboard.
• Consider booking an overnight stay at one of the many hotels in Pensacola Beach to maximise your time at the beach.

Just over three hours by car from New Orleans, Gulf Shores has long been a family favourite. With its wide stretches of soft sand beaches, gentle surf and public parks, it’s a great choice for younger children or multigenerational trips.

Gulf Place – the main public beach area – has shaded pavilions, clean bathrooms and walking paths. Lifeguards are often present in peak months and there’s easy access to shops and restaurants. For families who want even more water-based fun, add Waterville USA to your itinerary – a nearby water park packed with slides and splash zones.

Biloxi Beach is less than one-and-a-half hours from the city by car, making it one of the most convenient beaches close to New Orleans. 

The beach itself is spacious and flat, with calm, shallow waters perfect for paddling. The area is home to kid-approved attractions, including the Biloxi Lighthouse and the Mississippi Aquarium, as well as many casual dining options. To make the most of your day, rent a shaded beach cabana from a local vendor. That way, you'll have a sheltered spot for the family, perfect for activities and resting.

On the northern shores of Lake Pontchartrain lies Fontainebleau State Park. Just about a one-hour drive from the city, it’s a favourite with families, thanks to its shallow, kid-friendly lakefront and picnic areas. Beyond the open-water views, the lake has a few added attractions for visitors of all ages, including:

• A small playground and splash pad that young children love.
• The ruins of a historic sugar mill for older kids and adults to explore.
• An accessible boardwalk that trails through the marshland, which families can enjoy together.

Grand Isle (Louisiana's only inhabited barrier island) sits at the southern end of the state and feels like a true coastal escape. It’s about two hours from New Orleans, and the drive takes you through scenic marshland and past shrimp boats and bayous. The beach itself is long and wild, making it perfect for shell collecting, birdwatching or surf fishing. 

Tips from regulars

• Bring along your own shade and settle in for the whole day.
• Pack bug spray, especially in summer months. 
• This beach is ideal for older children who want to explore or swim, but it doesn’t have flat, paved access, which is important to bear in mind when it comes to accessibility.

For an adventurous family outing, take the ferry to Ship Island from Gulfport (a 90-minute trip from New Orleans). The ferry ride is an experience in itself, with dolphin sightings often a bonus.

Ship Island offers soft, white sand, gentle Gulf waters and even the historic Fort Massachusetts to explore. There are food and drink stands, but they're only open during the high season and options are likely to be limited, so make sure you pack a picnic lunch and plenty of drinks.

Overnight stays are not permitted as the island is only open for day visits. So, it’s worth considering booking a hotel in Gulfport or Biloxi if you’d like to stay nearby.

Also known as the Cajun Riviera, Holly Beach is situated along Louisiana’s southwest coast, approximately four hours from New Orleans. 

It’s one of the few beaches in the state where you can drive directly onto the sand, making it easier for families to unload gear, set up camp and stay close to the car. The beach has a rugged, open feel – think driftwood forts, seashell collecting and wide views over the Gulf.

From simple pleasures like spotting pelicans and watching the tide roll in, to beach camping and spectacular sunsets, this spot suits families who are looking for more of a nature-led experience.

Whether you're heading to Biloxi for a half-day or road-tripping to Pensacola, a bit of prep can make your beach day smoother.

What to pack

• Water, snacks and a cooler bag
• Sun protection (hats, sun cream, umbrellas)
• Refillable water bottles
• Towels and spare clothes
• Insect repellent (especially for lakefront parks)

Tips for travelling with kids

• Leave early to beat traffic and midday sun
• Check beach conditions and flag warnings in advance
• Look for beaches with facilities like toilets, food options and shaded areas

From calm lakeside waters to lively boardwalks and quiet Gulf shores, these beaches near New Orleans are ideal for a family day out. Whether you’re in town for the day or planning a longer stay, these spots promise sand, sun and memories to last.

Does New Orleans have a beach?

New Orleans borders Lake Pontchartrain, which offers beaches such as Fontainebleau. For seaside experiences, you’ll need to drive to the following coasts:

• Mississippi
• Alabama
• Florida

How far is New Orleans from the ocean?

Depending on where you go, most beaches near New Orleans are 1–4 hours away by car. Lake Pontchartrain is the closest body of water with a beach, while Gulf Coast favourites like Biloxi or Gulf Shores are popular for seaside beaches.

Are any of the beaches pet friendly?

Yes. Pensacola Beach has a designated dog friendly zone. Gulf Shores and Holly Beach also allow pets in certain areas, but always check local rules first.

What’s the closest beach to New Orleans with blue water?

Pensacola Beach is often considered the closest beach to New Orleans with blue water. It’s just over three hours away by car and is known for its soft, white sand and family friendly facilities.

What are the best beaches near New Orleans for young children?

Biloxi Beach, Gulf Shores and Fontainebleau State Park are all popular choices for families with young kids. The water is calm, there are play areas and plenty of shady spots that are ideal for midday naps.