Fontainebleau State Park Beach sits on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain at 62883 Louisiana Highway 1089 in Mandeville, about 35 miles (56 km) from New Orleans across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. The park occupies the site of a historic plantation and sugar mill, and its lakeshore beach is one of the few places in the New Orleans area where visitors can lay a towel on actual sand beside the lake. The sand is fine and tan, backed by grassy lawns and mature live oaks draped in Spanish moss. The water is brackish and typically brown to green rather than clear, and conditions vary with rainfall and wind, so it is better described as a pleasant lakeside beach than a tropical one.
The beach is open and gently sloped along the lake edge, with little surf. Wind from the lake can pick up on exposed days but waves remain small, which suits wading and relaxed paddling. The atmosphere is overwhelmingly family-oriented and quiet. Picnic pavilions, shaded lawns and grills give the park a day-use feel, and many visitors combine the beach with the nature trails through the surrounding marsh and forest, which are popular for walking, cycling and birdwatching. The park also offers camping and cabins, so overnight stays are possible.
Amenities include restrooms, picnic pavilions and nature trails. Lifeguards are not guaranteed, and visitors should confirm current swimming conditions, any advisories and seasonal hours with the park before travelling. Food is limited inside the park, so most visitors bring picnic supplies or stop in nearby Mandeville, which has a range of restaurants and shops. Entrance is by a modest per-person day-use fee collected by the state park system.
Access is almost entirely by car. The drive crosses the 24-mile Causeway, with a toll collected on the southbound trip only, and typically takes 45 to 60 minutes from New Orleans depending on traffic. Parking is on site. The best months for beach time are April through October, while spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for trails. Summer afternoons can be extremely hot and humid, and thunderstorms are common, so early arrival is advisable. Phone 985-624-4443 for current park information.
| Distance | About 35 miles (56 km) north of New Orleans, across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Drive across the 24-mile Causeway (toll collected southbound only); about 45-60 minutes |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | April-October for water; spring and fall for comfortable weather |
| Address | 62883 Louisiana Highway 1089, Mandeville, LA 70448 |
Amenities
- Sandy lakeshore beach
- Picnic pavilions
- Restrooms
- Nature trails
- Camping and cabins
Good to know
- Best for
- families, picnickers, wildlife-watchers, campers
Location
62883 Louisiana Highway 1089, Mandeville, LA 70448
30.3270, -90.0420 View on map
Highlights
- Sandy lakeshore beach on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain
- Live oaks draped in Spanish moss shading lawns and picnic pavilions
- Nature trails through marsh and forest for walking and birdwatching
- Camping and cabins for overnight stays
Tips for visiting
- Arrive early on summer weekends, as parking and pavilions fill quickly.
- The Causeway toll is collected southbound only, so keep a payment method ready for the return.
- Bring food, water and insect repellent, since dining options inside the park are limited.
- Confirm swimming conditions and hours with the park at 985-624-4443 before travelling.
- Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for trails.
When to visit
April to October suits beach time, with mornings the most comfortable. Spring and fall are best for trails and mild weather.
Accessibility
Paved areas near the pavilions and restrooms are generally easier to navigate, but sand access is uneven. Visitors who use a wheelchair should contact the park ahead of travel.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is Fontainebleau State Park from New Orleans?
About 35 miles (56 km), a drive of roughly 45 to 60 minutes across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.
Is the Causeway toll charged both ways?
No. The toll is collected southbound only, on the return to New Orleans.
Can visitors camp at Fontainebleau State Park?
Yes, the park offers camping and cabins in addition to day-use facilities.
Is the lake water clear?
The water is brackish and usually brown to green rather than clear. Conditions vary with weather, so check with the park before swimming.