8 Must-Visit Islands in Louisiana

You know The Pelican State for its music, food, festivals, and cultural heritage. But there are some archipelagos in the southern region of the state worth exploring. Discover eight must-visit islands in Louisiana!

8 Must-Visit Islands in Louisiana

1. Grand Isle

Grand Isle is a dreamy getaway that has long served as a barrier island, protecting the Louisiana coast from the intensity of the hurricanes that roar through the Gulf of Mexico. The environment offers recreational opportunities, including fishing, camping, and hiking. This remote location is known as the “Sportsman’s Paradise,” and offers incredible views, abundant wildlife, and some tasty delights, including unforgettable seafood.

2. Palmetto Island State Park

On the Vermilion River sits Palmetto Island, inviting you to experience true outdoor living in this southern state. Access the river to enjoy boating or kayaking and wet your line to catch a variety of fish. There are a couple of cabins on the island, which allow for overnight guests. These are limited, however. For a more immersive experience, plan to stay over at one of the 95 available campsites. During the day, kiddos can cool off and explore the water playground — this state park combines modern amenities and nature beautifully!

3. Avery Island

It’s where live oaks, cloaked in Spanish moss meat subtropical flora. Avery Island spans a little over 2,000 acres and is situated just above solid rock salt deposits. This island offers a unique experience as it is home to the well-known pepper sauce: TABASCO,® which is often included in a tasty, spicy bloody Mary and makes adds a nice kick to shrimp creole and chicken gumbo. The factory along with the gardens are open if visitors would like to enjoy tours during their stay!

4. Marsh Island

Marsh Island is a wildlife refuge that has been losing acres over the years due to erosion. It sits between the Gulf of Mexico and Vermilion Bay and is home to a wide range of animals, including waterfowl, birds, of prey, and shorebirds. Commercial fish and crustaceans like blue crabs rely on this environment, which is why it is a protected environment. Visitors need special access permits to go fishing, crabbing, or shrimping.

5. Breton Island

Breton Island is a set of two adjacent islands and together they are three miles long. They’re less than a mile wide. These islands are managed by the Fish & Wildlife Service’s Breton National Wildlife Refuge. There are saltwater marshes along with several ponds and sandy beaches on the islands and though camping is not permitted, those who visit can enjoy surf fishing or birding. There are several waterfowl, shorebirds, seabirds, and wading birds in the area. It’s a bit of a challenge to reach Breton Island but if you make it, you can enjoy a remote escape filled with adventure.

6. Timbalier Island

These islands include the Last Island to the west, Timbaliar Island, and East Timbalier Island. They serve as a barrier against the crashing waves of the Gulf of Mexico and have endured years of erosion. You can find waterfowl, nesting shorebirds, and migratory birds in this habitat throughout the year. Efforts are underway to restore the beaches and marshes on the island to protect both people and birds.

7. Avoca Island

Avoca Island is home to abundant wildlife and has also been industrialized slowly over time. There’s a single ferry that takes people on and off the island. The primary investors on the island include oil companies and private hunting clubs. The island is owned by Avoca, LLC. North of the island is Morgan City, which is known throughout the globe for hunting and fishing as well as tasty Cajun cuisine. This is where you’ll find attractions like paddling trails, gulf fishing, and festivals.  

8. Chandeleur Islands

Chandeleur Islands are uninhabited and like other islands in the state, serve as barriers against the Gulf of Mexico. The islands form a crescent and are an angler’s dream. The fish are prolific and include hundreds of finfish. There are also bountiful crustaceans. You can book a charter to go light tackle fishing and fly fishing, which elevates the entire experience.

Summary of the 8 Must-Visit Islands in Louisiana