The Lake Pontchartrain lakefront along Lakeshore Drive in the Lakeview area is New Orleans' most accessible stretch of waterfront, about 6 miles (10 km) north of downtown in Louisiana. It is not a sandy swimming beach in the Gulf Coast sense. The shoreline is a engineered levee and seawall system, with grass slopes, rock revetment and concrete steps leading down to brackish lake water that is typically tea-coloured to murky green rather than clear. Swimming is not the draw, and visitors generally come to walk, jog, cycle, fish from the rocks or watch the sky over a lake that is among the largest in the United States.
The setting is wide and open. Lakeshore Drive runs parallel to the water for several miles, with a paved multi-use path on the lake side and broad grass areas along the levee crest. Exposure is considerable: wind blows freely across the lake, which keeps the shoreline breezier than the city in summer but also makes cold fronts feel sharp in winter. Small waves slap the seawall on windy days, though there is no surf. The character is local and relaxed rather than touristy. Residents of Lakeview use it for morning exercise, dog walks, picnics, kite flying and sunset viewing, and the atmosphere is calm and family-oriented with little commercial activity directly on the shore.
Amenities are basic. Free parking is available along Lakeshore Drive and in several pull-offs, grass and levee slopes serve as seating, and the Mardi Gras Fountain is a landmark along the path. Restrooms and food are limited directly on the shoreline, so visitors usually bring water and snacks or drive into Lakeview for restaurants. There are no lifeguards or sun loungers, since the lakefront is a public park-style promenade rather than a managed beach.
Access is mainly by car or rideshare, as there is no direct streetcar to the lakefront. From the French Quarter and Central Business District the drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. The paved path makes the area easy to explore on foot or by rented bicycle. Lake Pontchartrain is also the subject of long-running conservation work by organisations such as the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation, which is a useful source of water quality information. The best months for outdoor time are spring and autumn, while summer heat and humidity can be intense by midday.
| Distance | About 6 miles (10 km) north of downtown New Orleans |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Drive or rideshare; there is no direct streetcar |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | Spring and fall for walking; summer is hot and humid |
| Address | Lakeshore Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 |
Amenities
- Paved lakefront path
- Free parking along Lakeshore Drive
- Grass and levee seating
- Mardi Gras Fountain
Good to know
- Best for
- walkers, families, photographers, fishing
Location
Lakeshore Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124
30.0270, -90.0520 View on map
Highlights
- Paved lakefront path for walking, jogging and cycling along Lakeshore Drive
- Open views across Lake Pontchartrain, especially at sunset
- Mardi Gras Fountain landmark beside the path
- Free parking and grassy levee slopes for picnics and kite flying
Tips for visiting
- Visit at sunrise or late afternoon in summer to avoid midday heat and humidity.
- Bring water, snacks and insect repellent, as shoreline food and shade are limited.
- Check local advisories before any water contact, since this is not a designated swimming beach.
- Weekends draw more locals, so arrive early for the best roadside parking.
- Rideshare is easier than public transit, as no streetcar runs to the lakefront.
When to visit
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for walking, with sunrise and sunset the best times of day. Summer afternoons are hot and humid.
Accessibility
The paved lakefront path is flat and generally suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Access down to the water over rock and steps is uneven.
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Frequently asked questions
Can visitors swim at the Lake Pontchartrain lakefront?
The lakefront is a seawall and levee promenade rather than a swimming beach, and the water is murky. Visitors should check current local water quality advisories before any contact with the water.
How far is the lakefront from downtown New Orleans?
It is about 6 miles (10 km) north of downtown, typically a 20 to 30 minute drive depending on traffic. There is no direct streetcar.
Is parking free at Lakeshore Drive?
Yes, free parking is available along Lakeshore Drive and in pull-offs beside the path.
What is there to do at the lakefront?
Common activities include walking, running, cycling, picnicking, fishing from the rocks and watching sunsets over the lake.