Louisiana's Once-Private Lake Boasts The Most Beautiful Beach In The State

Unlike many other states along the U.S. Gulf Coast, Louisiana isn't known as a beach destination. The "Pelican State" is famous for its swamps, bayous, jambalaya, and of course, the "Big Easy" for its amazing live music. However, the shimmering waters and soft white sands of Lake Isabel Farm, now open to the public, offer a rare beachy escape. It was even deemed "the most beautiful beach in Louisiana" by Travel + Leisure.

Lake Isabel Farm is a 422-acre property in Washington Parish, Louisiana, approximately one hour north of New Orleans by car. At the heart of the property is a 125-acre spring-fed lake that sits on the historical basin of the Bogue Chitto River. Visitors to Lake Isabel Farm have easy access to activities on the water, and fully-equipped cabanas are available for bigger groups. Once you've purchased your ticket and passed through the gate, the entire property is yours to explore until just after sunset. Only day passes are available, at the time of writing, but that may change in the near future — the first lakefront house is set to open soon at Lake Isabel Farm, according to its website.

Lake Isabel Farm is located in southeastern Louisiana, just north of Covington. Visitors flying in should opt for New Orleans International Airport, a little over an hour away. Keep in mind that the most direct route crosses Lake Pontchartrain on the longest continuous bridge in America, which has been known to frighten some drivers due to its sheer length.

At first glance, the sandy beaches and crystal azure waters of Lake Isabel Farm resemble one of the most beautiful islands in the world, only without the palm trees. Over the past four years, owner Anthony Sedlak has been steadily improving the property for both visitors and local wildlife. "This place is all about having a good time, respecting the environment and trying to get people back in nature because we have such a beautiful state," Sedlak said to The Advocate.

The lake, formerly a gravel pit, has been filled with spring water, which may be the same medicinal waters from the nearby Abita Springs. Water frequently cycles in and out through the sandy lake bed and an outflow at the end, keeping the water naturally clean and clear. The beach and sand dunes are the main attractions, but if you venture out, you'll find yourself in a forest or a serene bayou. According to an interview with WBRZ, Sedlak is reinvesting profits from ticket sales back into improving the property by planting trees and repairing damage from over a decade of dredging. 

Under the water's surface, you may spot bass and catfish, which were naturally stocked by local birds. Speaking of fish, the lake has a designated fishing area away from the swimming beach, as well as shared kayaks available to explore the calm waters. There are no lifeguards on duty, and all visitors are required to wear lifejackets if they're borrowing a kayak or have brought their own personal watercraft. If you're soaking up the day, be sure to stick around for the magical sunsets.

Unlike in Florida's beach towns, you won't have to worry about big Spring Break crowds here. Lake Isabel Farm caps admission at 125 visitors per day, at the time of writing. Tickets must be purchased online and cost $55 for visitors ages 13 and older. Afternoon passes cost $35 per person for those arriving at 3 p.m. or later, and tickets for children and seniors cost $40. Admission includes access to all amenities on the property, including kayaks, a barbecue area, and beach volleyball. Cabanas are reserved for groups; the first five groups of fifteen adults to book cabanas will get first access. Smaller groups can still apply for a cabana by booking under the same name, as some may be available on quieter days. There is no natural shade on the beach, so be sure to bring your own beach tent or umbrella, as well as a couple of sandbags to keep it from taking off in a gust.

Activities on the water aren't the only way to spend your day at Lake Isabel Farm. The property has a 3-mile walking trail, as well as sand dunes to climb. In Covington, about 30 minutes away from Lake Isabel Farm, you'll find several big-box stores that carry everything you'll need for a day on the water and supplies for a barbecue or picnic. Be sure to bring oil-free sunscreen to protect the quality of the spring water, and keep in mind that glass containers are prohibited. If you'd prefer to spend the night in the area, you'll find several chain hotels in Covington — and keep your eyes peeled for updates about overnight rentals at Lake Isabel Farm.