Lake Pontchartrain

Activity Overview

Lake Pontchartrain is an estuary in the heart of New Orleans that is connected to the Gulf of Mexico. It was named after Louis Phélypeaux, comte de Pontchartrain, a prominent French politician in 1699. It is famously known as the site of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the longest bridge over water in the world. Families can enjoy the beautiful lake while doing all kinds of outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, and bird watching.

Things to Do

• Go swimming in the lake! Both Pontchartrain Beach and Fountainbleau State Park offer safe swimming areas with beautiful views of the city.
• Explore the lake in a boat! There are dozens of local rental companies that will provide you with paddle boats, kayaks, and more.
• Enjoy a fishing expedition on Lake Pontchartrain - there are tons of fishing areas to choose from, including reefs, piers, and dredge holes. You can learn more about fishing on the lake here.

Lake Pontchartrain Insider Tips

• Don't miss the New Canal Lighthouse Museum, which features exhibits related to the history of the area and provides tours of the lighthouse.
• View their calendar to learn about upcoming events by the lake, including festivals, tours, beach events, and holiday celebrations.
• If your family is interested in record-breaking architecture, consider going for a drive across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which was built in the 1950s and 60s and is over 23 miles long.