Far and Away in Grand Isle

Traveling to Grand Isle at the bottom of Louisiana sometimes feels like heading to the ends of the earth. And that’s its major draw. This barrier island facing the Gulf attracts thousands of visitors each year for its remote location that provides excellent fishing, unique birding and opportunities to plant toes in pristine sand and sea.

Beach-combing

We tend to think of Gulf waters when temperatures rise and we need to cool off, but a beach visit to Grand Isle State Park can be ideal in winter months as well. Birding opportunities abound here — look for gulls, terns, skimmers and pelicans — but also chances to spot other island wildlife. Fishing, hiking, shell collecting and tidal pool exploration are all fun activities any time of the year. Or perhaps relaxing as the sun sets over the Gulf.

Dining

The bounty of Gulf waters and its neighboring marshlands provide ample fresh seafood options for visitors dining out. The seafood dishes at Starfish are one reason this restaurant remains popular with both visitors and residents alike, but folks also rave about its fried chicken and breakfast items. Dining in is a casual affair, but it’s equally easy to pick up a seafood platter or chicken box to enjoy back at the vacation rental.

Birds!

In spring and fall, nearly 100 bird species chose Grand Isle as a resting spot before making their 500-mile trek across the Gulf. This biannual migration draws visitors of a human kind to comb Lafitte Woods, the largest remaining stand of live oak-hackberry forest on a Gulf barrier island. Best time to visit is after a “fall out,” where exhausted birds will drop to the trees after thunderstorms, and in April for the Migratory Bird Festival that occurs throughout Grand Isle.