Grand Isle Beach - Grand Island, Louisiana

Address:Grand Island, Louisiana

Louisiana is not blessed with beaches as nice as the other Gulf Coast states. Mississippi, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle have some the best white sand beaches in the United States and resort towns that go with the beaches. Texas has island beaches longer than several European countries and is known as one of the country's prime spring-break destinations. The exception is Grand Island in Louisiana, or more correctly, Grand Isle Beach in Louisiana's Jefferson Parish. Due south of New Orleans, the route to Grand Isle, Louisiana is kind of circular as it navigates the bayous and bays of the state in a trip that takes a bit over 2 hours to get to the Gulf of Mexico at Grand Isle.

Once in Grand Isle head to Grand Isle State Park. The park preserves a wild beach and marshland in this unique spot of land in Louisiana. Swim in the warm gulf waters almost year-round and fish off the bridge or in the surf – this is one of the best fishing spots in the states and home to the annual Tarpon Rodeo. Hike the wetland trails and observe the birds and other coastal wildlife. On a practical note, campsites are available with full hookups and boats are available for rent. The park has restroom facilities and picnic areas, as well.

Cleanup from BP's Deepwater Horizon ecological disaster will go one for years, but at least part of the beach has reopened, including the camping and fishing areas. Check beach status as a result of hurricanes as well. The area gets hit every few years and bore the brunt of Katrina in 2005 and Gustav in 2008.