Although Florida, Alabama, Texas, and Mississippi’s Gulf Coasts are famously popular tourist destinations, many overlook what the Louisiana Gulf Coast offers. Let’s look at some aspects that make Louisiana’s Gulf Coast a can’t-miss tourism destination.
Gorgeous Natural Settings
Louisiana’s Gulf Coast comprises numerous small peninsulas and barrier islands, with bodies of water feeding into the Gulf of Mexico. The region is defined by wetlands, rivers, and marshes. For those who love spotting incredible wildlife, it is a one-of-a-kind place to explore.
Visitors can expect stunning wetland environments in wildlife refuges such as the Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge and Pass A Loutre State Wildlife Management Area. These areas are home to rare migratory birds, shellfish and fish, alligators, deer, bobcats, and more.
Pleasant Towns and Cities
Unlike other Gulf Coast settings, you won’t have to fight off crowds in much of the Louisiana Gulf Coast area. In this tranquil region, visitors can enjoy serene natural settings and charming small towns and cities. Some particularly appealing towns are listed below:
Vinton: Vinton is a community with a small-town atmosphere. It is convenient to scenic waterfront settings and a superb racetrack.
New Iberia: New Iberia is a quaint town near Lafayette known for its fascinating history, which is reflected in its cultural traditions and cuisine. New Iberia’s downtown area has a historic main street and hosts many famous festivals. And Avery Island, nearby, is the famous setting where Tabasco sauce was created.
Grand Isle: For the most classic Gulf Coast setting, visit Grand Isle. This scenic, remote community has gorgeous sandy beaches and endless waterfront fun.
An Array of Recreational Activities to Enjoy
There are countless ways to spend your time on Louisiana’s Gulf Coast. For many, the thrill of visiting this area will lie in engaging in outdoor adventure. At Grand Isle and the many other settings on the water, visitors can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, water sports, and swimming. This area is phenomenal for anglers, as it has an abundance of aquatic life, including marlin, tuna, and an array of shellfish.
Louisiana is one of the most unique culinary capitals in the U.S., and the food scene around the Gulf Coast is exceptional thanks to the abundance of fresh seafood caught just off the coast. In communities such as New Iberia and many others in the area, lively events throughout the year create a festive atmosphere. New Iberia hosts a major Mardi Gras celebration and the World Championship Gumbo Cookoff.
