Grand Isle is an outdoor adventurer’s dream located about 108 miles from New Orleans that's touted as “Sportsman’s Paradise.” This little barrier island with a geographical area of only about 8 miles is one of the islands that stand between the Gulf of Mexico and the city of New Orleans.
Fishing is a major part of both the Grand Isle culture and economy, and the area is known for shrimp, fish, and oysters. The waters surrounding the island are home to over 280 different species of fish. The island is also home to a variety of migratory birds.
Grand Isle - one of the highlights of 5 Best Beaches in New Orleans (Read all about New Orleans here)
Grand Isle highlights
Grand Isle is the only inhabited barrier island in Louisiana. Because of its location and low elevation, the settlement on the island has been decimated by hurricanes several times. It is a constant battle to restore and reclaim lost land and marshes from the sea.
Grand Isle is an angler’s dream. It is estimated that up to 95% of the Gulf’s marine life has spent at least a small portion of its existence in Louisiana. This island is also an important stop along the migratory flight path for birds flying to and from Latin America.
Good to know about Grand Isle
People visit Grand Isle all year long, but the summertime is the busiest season and brings additional seasonal residents and an increase in tourism. While there is always plenty to see and do on the island, there are 2 popular festivals that happen every year: the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival in April and the Tarpon Rodeo fishing tournament in July.
Grand Isle has many restaurant choices, and seafood with a Louisiana flare is a specialty. There are plenty of options for staying on the island, from bed-and-breakfasts and hotels to campgrounds at Grand Isle State Park.
Grand Isle
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Where to stay in New Orleans
Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Qtr - Astor
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
New Orleans Marriott
Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans
Maison Dupuy Hotel
Sheraton New Orleans Hotel
Homewood Suites by Hilton New Orleans French Quarter
Old 77 Hotel
