Elmer's Island Beach
Grand Isle, LA
A wildlife refuge beach next door to Grand Isle that locals favor for its open, undeveloped shoreline and reliable surf fishing. It took years to reopen after storm damage, and the community's patience in waiting for it says something about how much it is valued.
Facilities are limited, so treat this one like a wildlife refuge outing as much as a beach day.
More Gulf Coast beaches
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key, FL · Gulf Coast
Fine quartz sand that stays cool underfoot even in summer, sloping gently into calm Gulf water, and consistently rated among the best family beaches in the country.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater, FL · Gulf Coast
A lively Gulf-front strip with a fishing pier, a nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60, and calm, shallow water that makes it an easy family favorite.
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach, FL · Gulf Coast
Sugar-white sand within the Gulf Islands National Seashore, with dunes protected from development and water clear enough for snorkeling near the jetties.
