Holly Beach, Louisiana: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you looking for a unique Gulf Coast getaway? Holly Beach, Louisiana, is the place to be. It offers pristine beaches, Cajun culture, and endless outdoor adventures. This charming coastal town is a true gem, inviting visitors to explore its stunning natural beauty and vibrant way of life.

Holly Beach is just 35 miles from Lake Charles. It's a top spot for those wanting to escape the ordinary and dive into Cajun country. With its drive-on sandy beaches and breathtaking sunsets, it has something for every traveler.

Whether you love beachcombing, outdoor fun, or local Cajun culture, Holly Beach has it all. Discover the best things to do in this Gulf Coast gem. Plan your ultimate escape to Louisiana's Cajun Riviera.

Key Takeaways

• Holly Beach, Louisiana offers pristine beaches, Cajun culture, and endless outdoor adventures
• Located just 35 miles from Lake Charles, it's a prime destination for a Gulf Coast getaway
• Visitors can enjoy activities like beachcombing, outdoor recreation, and experiencing local Cajun culture
• The town is known for its drive-on sandy beaches and stunning sunsets
• Holly Beach is a perfect escape to explore the captivating essence of Cajun country

Explore the Creole Nature Trail

The Creole Nature Trail is in the heart of Southwest Louisiana. It's a 180-mile scenic drive through marshlands, bayous, beaches, and wildlife refuges. This All-American Road is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor fans.

Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point

Start at the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point. It's a visitor center that introduces you to the trail's ecosystems and wildlife. Here, you can plan your trip and find the best spots to see alligators, birds, and other creatures.

Intracoastal Park

Stop at Intracoastal Park along the trail. Here, you can see barges on the Intracoastal Waterway. It's a unique view of the region's maritime industry.

Sabine National Wildlife Refuge

The Sabine National Wildlife Refuge is a highlight of the trail. It's a 124,511-acre coastal area known for birdwatching. Walk the Wetland Walkway to see the stunning landscapes.

Holly Beach

Next, visit Holly Beach, a coastal community with sandy shores. Enjoy beachcombing, sunbathing, or just relaxing in this peaceful spot.

Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge

The Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge is the trail's final stop. It's home to wildlife like the sandhill crane. Take the Pintail Wildlife Drive for a look at the refuge's habitats.

The Creole Nature Trail in Southwest Louisiana is great for wildlife viewing, outdoor adventures, or a scenic drive. Plan your visit to explore the region's natural beauty.

Discover Holly Beach

Holly Beach is a hidden treasure on the Gulf Coast, known as the "Cajun Riviera." It's a perfect spot for those who love nature. You can enjoy beachcombing and shelling or go on outdoor adventures.

What makes Holly Beach special is that you can drive right onto the beach. This makes it easy to set up a picnic, launch a kayak, or just relax. It's a unique way to experience the beach.

If you love the outdoors, Holly Beach is for you. You can go on ATV rides, go fishing, or birdwatching. The area's wetlands and marshes are full of life.

At sunset, Holly Beach turns into a breathtaking sight. The sky lights up with colors, creating a peaceful moment. It's a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of this coastal place.

"Holly Beach, the 'Cajun Riviera,' offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region."

Holly Beach, Louisiana: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Visiting Holly Beach, Louisiana, is a treat. You can enjoy beachcombing, shelling, and many outdoor adventures. This coastal town is perfect for fun and relaxation.

Beachcombing and Shelling

Exploring Holly Beach's sandy coastline is a must. It's famous for beachcombing, where you can find unique seashells and driftwood. The beach is wide, making it great for finding hidden treasures.

Outdoor Adventures

Holly Beach is also great for outdoor fun. Anglers can surf fish for speckled trout and redfish. Birdwatchers will love the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, with its many bird species. ATV rides along the beach offer an exciting way to see the coast.

Holly Beach, Louisiana, is perfect for a day of beachcombing or outdoor adventures. It offers natural beauty and unique experiences for all.

"The stretch of surf from near Holly Beach westward to Constance Beach is Broussard's favorite fishing area."

Outdoor Recreation at Fort Polk

Fort Polk might not be everyone's top choice, but it has a lot to offer. On base, you can enjoy mini golf, go-karts, splash parks, shooting ranges, and batting cages. Just 45 minutes away, the Toledo Bend Recreation Area on the Fort Polk MWR site is a gem. It has the lake for kayaking, fishing, boating, and camping in cabins or yurts.

Toledo Bend Recreation Area

The Toledo Bend Recreation Area is a hit for outdoor lovers visiting Fort Polk. This big lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and kayaking. You can also stay in cabins or yurts for a weekend escape.

On-Base Activities

Fort Polk also has a lot of outdoor recreation options right on base. You can camp, fish, play in splash parks, and hit the batting cages. It's great for family fun or a solo adventure.

"Fort Polk may not be the most desirable army post, but it offers a surprising number of outdoor recreation opportunities for military members and their families."

Explore Nearby Towns and Cities

Holly Beach and the Creole Nature Trail offer great outdoor fun. But, the area around Fort Polk has many charming towns and historic cities too. Leesville has quaint shops and local food, while DeRidder has a lively Main Street and music. There's something for everyone in Louisiana.

Leesville

Leesville is close to Fort Polk and has its own charm. You can explore its historic downtown, visiting antique shops and boutiques. Try the local restaurants for authentic Cajun and Creole food. The Fort Polk Museum is also in Leesville, sharing the area's military history.

DeRidder

DeRidder is about 30 minutes from Fort Polk. Its Main Street is filled with local shops, restaurants, and live music. You can enjoy downtown's music or try different foods, from barbecue to Cajun dishes.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a 45-minute drive from Fort Polk. It offers a wide range of shopping and entertainment. You can find boutiques, theaters, and the Kisatchie National Forest. Alexandria mixes city life with nature, making it a great day trip.

Natchitoches

Natchitoches is an hour from Fort Polk and is historic. Walk along Main Street, with its colorful buildings and shops. Try the famous meat pies and other Creole foods. It's also famous for "Steel Magnolias," adding to its charm.

Experience Cajun Culture

The area around Fort Polk in Louisiana is full of Cajun culture. Visitors can dive into a special way of life here. They can enjoy Cajun food, lively festivals, and events all year round.

Cajun Cuisine

Cajun food is a big deal here, with dishes passed down through generations. Try the crawfish étouffée, a stew with crawfish, onions, and bell peppers. It's made with a rich roux.

Also, don't miss the gumbo, a soup with seafood, sausage, or chicken. And the po' boy sandwiches are a must, filled with roast beef, shrimp, or sausage.

Festivals and Events

The Cajun culture celebrates with many festivals and events. Mardi Gras brings parades, music, and food to the streets. The Abbeville Giant Omelette Celebration features a huge omelet cooked in a big skillet.

The Ladybug Ball Festival in Houma offers traditional dances and music. Whether it's the food or the festivals, Louisiana's Cajun culture will impress you. Explore this unique area and learn about its rich traditions.

Visit Nature Reserves and Wildlife Refuges

The area around Fort Polk has many nature reserves and wildlife refuges. They are great for seeing different plants and animals. Places like the Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge and the Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge show off Louisiana's wetlands and birdwatching spots.

Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge

The Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge is in southwestern Louisiana. It's famous for its roseate spoonbill nesting rookeries. Visitors can walk trails, canoe, and enjoy the calm of this wetland area.

Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge

The Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge is a bit harder to get to. But it's worth it for a wild experience. With over 71,000 acres, it's home to alligators and other coastal animals. Paddling through its bayous and marshes, you can see lots of wildlife and learn about Louisiana's natural reserves.

"These nature reserves and wildlife refuges offer a glimpse into the true heart of Louisiana's diverse and captivating natural landscapes."

Family-Friendly Activities

Visiting the Fort Polk area is a treat for families. Inside the Fort Polk military base, you'll find splash parks, mini golf, and go-karts. These activities are perfect for outdoor fun and making memories.

Outside the base, Millennium Park in Lake Charles is a gem. It has playgrounds, hiking trails, and stunning natural views. It's a great place for families to spend a day together, exploring and having fun.

• Splash parks within Fort Polk offer refreshing relief from the warm Louisiana sun, with interactive water features that children will love.
• Mini golf courses on the base provide a fun and competitive way for families to enjoy quality time together.
• Go-kart tracks at Fort Polk allow for high-speed thrills and family-friendly racing.
• Millennium Park in Lake Charles boasts sprawling green spaces, playgrounds, and trails for families to explore the great outdoors.

The Fort Polk area and its communities have lots to offer families. Whether you're looking for excitement or a calm day outdoors, there's something for everyone. It's a great place to make memories that will last a lifetime.

"The best memories are made when families come together and experience new adventures." - Anonymous

Conclusion

Holly Beach and its surroundings offer a perfect mix of beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, lively Cajun culture, and lots of wildlife. You can enjoy peaceful beach walks, explore nature, or try authentic Cajun food and festivals. This part of Louisiana is truly special.

The area, known as the "Cajun Riviera," has a unique charm. It's also home to diverse wildlife and outdoor activities. Whether you're a military family or a traveler, you'll find unforgettable experiences here.

So, why not plan a trip to Holly Beach and its area? You can enjoy the Gulf Coast's beauty, dive into Cajun culture, and make memories in nature. Start planning your trip today and discover the amazing things this part of Louisiana has to offer.