Northshore Beach

Imagine a place where fresh water meets the endless horizon, creating the illusion of a real sea. This is Northshore Beach — a cozy corner of nature nestled on the northern shore of the majestic Lake Pontchartrain. Located in the state of Louisiana, this beach has become a favorite getaway for those visiting New Orleans.

The location itself in the USA is famous for its scenic views and tranquil atmosphere. Lake Pontchartrain, reaching 40 kilometers in width, is considered a true “inland sea.” The beach offers a sandy shore and clear water, making it perfect for family vacations and outdoor picnics under the southern Louisiana sun.

Visitors appreciate this spot for the chance to watch seagulls, and if you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins frolicking in the water. Thanks to its location in the Slidell area, the beach provides a comfortable escape from the city, inviting guests to enjoy the pristine beauty of the lakeside coast.

For those planning a trip, it's helpful to have the exact coordinates of this picturesque spot. The beach is located in the Slidell area and is easy to find using a GPS with the official address.

At Northshore Beach, there is something for everyone. Here, you can spend hours sunbathing on the sand or refreshing yourself in the calm waters of Lake Pontchartrain. The place takes on a special charm during sunset hours, when the water surface turns into a giant mirror tinted with warm hues. It’s the perfect moment for photos and nature contemplation.

Active recreation enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities for fishing and water sports like kayaking or swimming. The shore offers an impressive view of the famous Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which stretches for over 38 kilometers. Children will be delighted by playing in the shallow waters and observing the local fauna — curious seagulls are frequent visitors here.

For those looking to diversify their trip, the proximity to Slidell allows you to combine a beach day with boat tours of the famous Louisiana bayous (swampy streams). After returning to the beach, you can host a barbecue in designated areas, enjoying the peace and the fresh breeze that brings cool air even on the hottest days.

The easiest way to get to Northshore Beach from downtown New Orleans is by car. The drive takes about 30–40 minutes via I-10 East. You will need to cross the lake and follow the exit for Gause Blvd East in Slidell, then turn onto Debbie Dr, which leads you straight to the sandy shore. On-site parking is usually available for visitors.

For those who prefer public transport, there are regional bus routes (such as the E2 lines) to Slidell. However, keep in mind that it is about another 5 kilometers from the center of Slidell to the beach itself, which is most conveniently covered by taxi or a rented bike. If you are heading here directly from MSY Airport, the drive by car will take approximately 45 minutes, though you should account for potential traffic on the bridge during summer weekends.

The history of these places is closely linked to the development of the New Orleans region, founded back in 1718 by French explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville. For centuries, Lake Pontchartrain served as an important transportation route, helping turn the city into the South's largest port. The northern shore remained a wild frontier for a long time, gradually settled by people attracted to the wealth of local flora and fauna.

The region around the lake preserves memories of the colonial era: the French, Spanish, and Americans actively used these waters for trade. The construction of levees and bridges in the 20th century radically changed life on the coast. The building of the grand Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in the 1950s made the northern shores accessible for mass recreation, transforming them into popular resort areas.

The city of Slidell itself began to grow actively as a suburb in the late 19th century thanks to the arrival of the railroad. Over time, Northshore Beach became an integral part of the local leisure culture while maintaining the charm of Louisiana's untouched nature. Today, this place serves as a reminder of the times when the lake shores were a primary refuge for those seeking peace away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.

When planning a visit to Northshore Beach, you should budget an average of 2–4 hours. This time is quite enough to take a leisurely stroll along the shore, swim in the lake’s fresh waters, and have a small open-air picnic.

If your plans include serious fishing or you want to spend the whole day here enjoying the silence and watching dolphins on the horizon, then it’s worth setting aside 6 to 8 hours. The calm atmosphere of this place encourages long, unhurried relaxation, allowing you to completely forget about the city's hustle.

The beach is open to visitors daily from 07:00 to 21:00. This schedule allows guests to both witness a picturesque sunrise and see the day off while admiring the evening colors over Lake Pontchartrain.

Since official hours may change depending on the season or special events, it is recommended to check for up-to-date information on the official website or local tourism portals before your trip.

A visit to the beach can be easily combined with exploring other interesting places in the Slidell and New Orleans area. Exploring nearby parks and entertainment centers will help make your trip more fulfilling and diverse.