Swamp tours, sailing trips, lake fishing and dinnertime views combine for an exciting mix of on-the-water enjoyment
NORTHSHORE, LOUISIANA–APRIL 2025–There is no better way to enjoy The Northshore than to explore its waterways. From the open waters of Lake Pontchartrain to the cypress-shaded Honey Island Swamp, visitors revel in the variety of scenery and activities to experience on the water here. The Northshore is just forty minutes north of New Orleans and an hour from Baton Rouge to the west and the Mississippi Gulf Coast to the east, with easy access off Interstate 12.
Of course, Lake Pontchartrain is an obvious choice for on-the-water fun. It sprawls nearly 630 square miles and serves as front porch and playground for The Northshore. One of the most relaxing ways to enjoy it is under sail. A three-hour charter or sunset cruise with local captains from Delaune Sailing Charters (1298 Madison Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 504-458-1013) or Bayou Sailing Adventures (100 Covington Street, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 504-606-9029) are the perfect additions to any visit. With experienced captains at the helm, the passengers can sit back and enjoy a lovely lake outing.
If casting a line is the preferred way to spend time on the water, there are plenty of ways to do that here. From wintertime on the Tchefuncte River to fall on Lake Pontchartrain and every season and waterway in between, The Northshore’s fishing options are bountiful all year long. More than a dozen fishing charters are waiting to take anglers out for a day on the lake or an excursion on the area’s rivers and bayous. Whether casting nearshore or on the open waters of the lake, the experience of Captain Mike at Angling Adventures of Louisiana (53105 Highway 433; Slidell, Louisiana 70461; 985-781-7811) will bring in the Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, Sheepshead, Drum and more.
Swamp tours draw many visitors who cannot resist the lure of beauty and wildlife of Louisiana’s bayous and swamps. These tours offer a chance to get away from it all, explore the diverse rivers and bayous and experience close encounters with the wildlife of swamps. Honey Island Swamp is a lush environment to explore, filled with a variety of wildlife, from birds to boars. From majestic cypress trees to iconic alligators, the views are second to none. Cajun Encounters Tours (55345 US-90, Slidell, Louisiana 70461; 504-834-1770) takes visitors on a two-hour guided tour aboard a small, flat-bottomed boat. At Honey Island Kayak Tours (65583 Pump Slough Road, Pearl River, Louisiana 70452; 504-517-3066) swamp tours as well as kayak rentals for self-guided trips are offered, too.
In addition to on-the-water fun, many consider dining with a view to be one of the best ways to enjoy this coastal environment. The creative menus are as amazing as the setting and from the catch of the day to a signature chef’s special, the impressive list of restaurants on The Northshore include a variety of waterfront settings.
Upscale on the water
Palmettos on the Bayou (1901 Bayou Lane, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-643-0050) Dine indoors or enjoy the view from one of multiple decks overlooking Bayou Bonfouca. Seasonal menus focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Tchefuncte’s (407 St. Tammany Street, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-323-4800) Upscale atmosphere and breathtaking views combine for the perfect setting to enjoy the carefully created Louisiana and American favorites on the menu.
Relaxed food and fun
Pat’s Rest Awhile (2129 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-951-2173) This casual, seafood restaurant and bar overlooks Lake Pontchartrain and is the vision of renowned chef Pat Gallagher. The menu is filled with classic American entrées made with Gallagher’s signature flavors.
Middendorf’s Slidell (1951 Oak Harbor Boulevard, Slidell, Louisiana 70461; 985-771-7777) The legendary name–and the beloved thin fried catfish–lives on in casual, comfortable style, including an open-air porch overlooking palm trees, tiki huts and a play area for the kids.
Bar and Grill Atmosphere
T Rivers Bar & Grill (1999 Main Street, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-845-1711) This is a multi-level waterfront hot spot known for live music and excellent food. The menu includes gourmet burgers and Louisiana favorites, along with local brews on draft.
The Landing Bar & Grill (4750 Pontchartrain Drive, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-645-9009) Dine indoors or out at this waterfront sports bar with burgers, sandwiches, salads and wraps. It’s also a popular spot for live music on weekends.