Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance: Know About Various Modes Of Transportation

May 17, 2025

Last Updated on: May 19, 2025

Travel Guides

Japan will have already exceeded the 10 million visitor mark by April 2025. The number is 10.54 million, specifically, as the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) data states. 

JNTO had also stated earlier that 2024 was the year of the highest tourist footfall, with the number shooting up to 36.8 million. 

Now, Tokyo, as the cultural, economic, and commercial epicentre of Japan, is, of course, experiencing the most tourism boom. 

However, around 1300 km apart, Hokkaido also contributes to the country’s tourism growth. 

So, this time, we decided to make a Tokyo to Hokkaido journey, and our Tour and Travel blog has all the details as always!

What Is The Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance?

What Is The Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance

The distance between Tokyo and Hokkaido is 1,281.5 km. Traveling this distance by car takes around 20 hours. 

However, taking a flight or a bullet train is the best option for traveling between these two destinations. 

What Is A Good Month To Visit Hokkaido?

What Is A Good Month To Visit Hokkaido

Hokkaido is a year-round travel destination. However, the best times to visit are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn).

Mild weather conditions and moderate rainfall make these months ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the nearby attractions. 

Further, Spring or Sakura is the cherry blossom season in Hokkaido and all parts of Japan. Similarly, Koyo, or the autumn foliage in yellow, orange, and red, makes Hokkaido look like a painting. 

Again, the summer season in Hokkaido is pleasant and cooler than Japan’s main island, and it is ideal for hiking and exploring the scenic flower fields. Also, in winter, Hokkaido has a lot of visitors for skiing and snowboarding. 

Nevertheless, the table below provides a detailed idea of the weather conditions of Hokkaido by month. 

MonthAverage Temperature (Degree Celsius)Rainfall (Inches)Hours of Sun
January-958
February-849
March-3410
April5212
May121.915
June181.715
July20316
August22514
September165.812
October94.811
November34.610
December-54.99

How Do I Go From Tokyo To Hokkaido?

How Do I Go From Tokyo To Hokkaido

There are four ways to travel from Hokkaido to Tokyo. You can take a flight, Shinkansen bullet train, ferry or car. 

Take A Tokyo To Hokkaido Flight

  • Duration: 1.2-1.5 Hours
  • Cost: 5500 Japanese Yen (One Way)
  • Route: Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo to Sapporo Chitose Airport
  • Best for: Quick Traveling

If you want to reach Hokkaido from Tokyo in the blink of an eye, you can take a flight to Sapporo from Narita or Haneda Airport.

These two airports are close to Tokyo Station. 

Traveling In Tokyo To Hokkaido Bullet Train

  • Duration: 7-7.5 Hours
  • Cost: 26990 – 35860 Japanese Yen (for Adults)
  • Route: Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Sapporo Station
  • Best for: Exploring the Scenic View and Food Scene

Taking the Tokyo to Hokkaido train is the way to cover the distance. The Shinkansen bullet train journey is long and expensive. 

However, it is the best way to explore the attractions on the route. 

Further, the train journey is divided into two stages. 

  1. Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto
  2. Limited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Sapporo

The first stage of the journey takes around 4-4.5 hours, and the second stage of the journey will take close to 3.5 hours. 

Moreover, if you have plans to explore various parts of Japan by train, you can buy a JR or Japan Rail Pass for 50000 Japanese Yen. It remains valid for 7 days. 

Ferry Ride From Tokyo To Hokkaido

Ferry Ride From Tokyo To Hokkaido
  • Duration: 20-22 Hours
  • Cost: 26990 – 12000 Japanese Yen
  • Route: Tokyo to Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port to Sapporo
  • Best for: Patrons of Slow Traveling
  • Evening Ferry Timing: Departure – 7:45 PM, Arrival – 1:45 PM Next Day
  • Night Ferry Timing: Departure – 1:45 AM, Arrival: 7:35 PM Next Day

The journey from Tokyo to Hokkaido is divided into three stages. 

  1. First, you have to travel to Oarai Port from Tokyo Station after a train journey of 1 hour and 45 minutes. 
  2. Then, you will have to take the Sunflower Ferry from Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port.
  3. Finally, you will need to take a train ride or ride a car to reach Sapporo from Tomakomai Port.

Road Trip From Tokyo To Hokkaido

Road Trip From Tokyo To Hokkaido
  • Duration: 20-23 Hours
  • Cost: 15000 Japanese Yen for Tolls, 15000-26000 Japanese Yen for Ferries, and Car Rental
  • Route: Tokyo, Aomori City, Hakodate, Sapporo
  • Best for: Travelers Willing to Explore the Tohoku Region and other Areas

A car trip from Tokyo to Hokkaido is a lifetime experience. However, the journey also consists of various stages.

  • Driving from Tokyo to Aomori City
  • Ferry Ride from Aomori to Hakodate or Tomakomai
  • Driving to Sapporo

Tokyo To Hokkaido Journey: Places To Visit

There are multiple places to visit during the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey. Let me briefly introduce these stopovers to you. 

Otaru

Otaru

Otaru basks in its unique charm as a port city. You will see historical canals and old warehouses here. 

It also has many sushi bars if you want to try the best of Japanese flavors. 

• Sapporo

Sapporo

Sapporo has a palpable urban energy as the capital of the Hokkaido region. However, it is also the gateway to the Northeastern mountains. 

• Hakodate

Hakodate

It is a coastal city located at Hokkaido’s southwestern tip. It is often referred to as the gateway between Hokkaido and Honshu. 

• Tohoku Region

The Tohoku Region has historical attractions like Sendai. The Aomori prefecture is a cultural hub of the region. 

However, for me, Kakunodate is the most fascinating place here. It is well-preserved, and this feudal town is home to Samurai residences. 

• Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its colorful wildlife and pristine ambiance. 

• Daisetsuzan National Park

It is the largest national park in Hokkaido. With its diverse landscape and trails, it is a favorite of hikers. 

Lake Toya, Nikko, Furano and Biei, and Lake Akan are other popular places to visit on the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey.

Tokyo To Hokkaido: Where To Eat? 

Tokyo To Hokkaido Where To Eat

If you love ramen and soup curries, the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey will be the ultimate gastronomic delight. You cannot miss the seafood, grilled lamb, or Jingisukan. 

Further, Aomori and Sendai will be your stopovers on the route. These cities in the Tohoku region are known for their regional delicacies such as Kiritanpo Hot Pot, Hachinohe Senbei Soup, and Kitakata Ramen. 

See why we all prefer bullet train rides over flights! 😋😋😋😋😋😋

Further, once you reach Sapporo in Hokkaido, your choices will be as vivid as they can get. 

Sapporo DelicaciesWhy So Special?
Sapporo RamenThick noodles
Rich broth
Diverse in toppings
JingisukanSignature-style grilled lamb
Tastes amazing with beer
Soup CurryA flavor bomb with a fusion of Indian and Japanese flavors. 
Fresh SeafoodSushi
Nemuro Hanamaru and other crab delicacies
Steak or YakinikuSignature Hokkaido-style grilled beef
SweetsYogurts Parfait
Mango Parfait

Is Hokkaido Worth Visiting?

Yes, Hokkaido is a place worth visiting. It is a melting pot of unique cultures, outdoor activities, and natural wonders. Also, Hokkaido has some real surprises for Murakami fans, and I will spill the beans if you are not already aware!

First, have a look at the table below for a sneak peek into why Hokkaido is so popular among tourists.

Reasons Why You Must Visit HokkaidoThe Highlights
Cultural and Historical Experiences• Hakodate Historical Town
• Onsen culture or hot spring experiences in Noboribetsu
• Exploring the indigenous Ainu Culture at Lake Akan
Gastronomic delight• Fresh seafood at the Sapporo fish market
• Trying Sapporo ramen, soup, and dairy products**
• Exploring Ramen Alley or Ganso Ramen Yokocho in the Susukino nightlife area
(It is the birthplace of miso ramen.)
Exploring Wildlife• A visit to the Shiretoko National Park
• Spotting bears, deer, and foxes
Diverse Landscapes• Mountains such as Asahi-dake, Mount Rausu, etc. 
• Forest areas such as Mt. Daisetsu and the Hidaka Mountains
• Hokkaido is home to 22% of the entire forest land in Japan. 
• Beaches in Hokkaido, such as Otsu Beach, Shimamui Beach and Aso Beach Ishikari
• Volcanic areas such as the Akan Volcanic Complex, Shikotsu-Toya National Park, and Daisetsuzan Volcanic Group
Winter Sports• Skiing
• Snowboarding
Summer Outdoor Activities• Biking
• Hiking
• Cycling

** Hokkaido is world-famous for its milk and dairy products. Hokkaido milk is creamy, rich, and full-bodied. It has been a favorite among chefs and connoisseurs since the 19th century after the western farming technique became popular in Japan.**

Why Is Hokkaido A Murakami Lover’s Dream Destination?

Have you heard of the Matsuyama Farm, located in the remote north of Hokkaido? It is an annual meeting ground for Murakami lovers from all corners of the world. 

Further, Hokkaido is THE LOCATION of the Oscar-winning film Drive My Car. It was based on Haruki Murakami’s stories. 

Also, be it the Men Without Women story collection or the surreal novel A Wild Sheep Chase, Hokkaido has been an important element in Murakami’s work. 

Moreover, prominent places mentioned in Murakami’s work are:

  • Keio Plaza Hotel in Sapporo (the inspiration behind the Dolphin Hotel in Dance Dance Dance)
  • Nakatonbetsu (the hometown of the young chauffeur in Drive My Car)
  • Bifuka (the inspiration behind the town of Junitaki in A Wild Sheep Chase. 

Also, Lake Shikotsu, despite not being directly related to the work of Murakami, is a place you cannot miss in Hokkaido.

Is 3 Days Enough In Hokkaido?

The second-largest island in Japan, Hokkaido, cannot be explored in three days. However, here, we have tried making a compressed itinerary if you are staying here for three days. 

  • On the first day, you can tour Sapporo and visit places such as the Sapporo TV Tower, Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, and Moerenuma Park. 
  • Further, on day 2, you can explore the history of Hokkaido by visiting coastal cities such as Otaru (known for its historic canals) and Otoyama Sake Brewery Museum. Also, don’t forget to try the seafood here.
  • On day 3, you can enjoy the best of Hokkaido’s natural wonders such as Nopporo Forest Park, Lake Shikotsu, and Mount Tarumae. 

Mount Tarumae is an active volcano and a popular hiking spot. On the other hand, Lake Shikotsu is the second-deepest lake in Japan. 

Are you tired of exploring all the outdoor attractions in Hokkaido? Relax at hot springs such as Jozankei, Noboritbetsu, and Asahidake and enjoy the ultimate Japanese experience. 

Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) 

Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Tokyo to Hokkaido distance.

How Long Is The Bullet Train From Tokyo To Hokkaido?

The Hayabusa Shinkansen is the fastest bullet train running from Tokyo to Hokkaido. This journey from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes. 

You can book a reserved seat at 26990 Japanese Yen or a Green Seat for 35860 Japanese Yen (for adults).

Is It Better To Fly Or Train From Tokyo To Sapporo?

If you want to travel quickly, you must take a Tokyo to Sapporo flight, which will take around 1 hour and 35 minutes. 

New Chitose Airport near Sapporo serves as the key entry point. 

On the other hand, if you want a more scenic experience, you can take a two-stage train journey.

Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto
Limited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Sapporo

The total journey will take around 7.5 hours.

How Long Is A Flight From Tokyo to Hokkaido?

The flight from Tokyo to Sapporo in Hokkaido takes from 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. 

It is one of the busiest air routes in the world, and hence, you will get many flight options. 


Share on Social Media

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE golf holidays in Thailand

How To Create An Unforgettable Golf Trip To Thailand

BY  Sibashree Oct 30, 2025

A golf trip to Thailand! Now that’s something else. It’s not just a vacation; it’s golf, sunshine, beaches, and that laid-back Thai feeling all mixed together. Sounds great, right?  And it might seem like a lot to plan at first, but honestly, it’s not that bad. With a bit of prep and the right mindset, you can pull off a trip that runs smoothly and ends up being one of those “I’ll never forget that” kind of weeks. Here is more on how to make your golf holidays in Thailand unforgettable.  Understanding Why Thailand Is So Special For Golf So here’s the thing. Thailand’s kind of sneaky about being one of the best golf spots out there.  The weather’s good most of the time, the courses look amazing, and the service... man, they really care about making you feel welcome.  One day you could be playing through jungle fairways in Phuket, and the next you’re in Hua Hin with mountain views all around. Every area has its own thing going on. And it’s not just golf either. Thailand has this relaxed rhythm to it. You finish a round and next thing you know, you’re sitting by the beach eating grilled fish or wandering through a night market.  Maybe you get a massage because, well, you earned it. That mix of great golf and total chill time? That’s the magic. Choosing The Right Destinations For Golf Holidays In Thailand Alright, first choose where to go. Thailand’s main golf areas are Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Phuket, and each one’s got a different vibe. Bangkok’s busy, sure, but it’s got a ton of courses and easy access from the airport. Hua Hin’s quiter, sort of classy, with views of the sea.  Pattaya’s lively (to say the least) but full of fun and variety. And Phuket... well, that’s just pure island life. Feels like you’re playing in a postcard half the time. Try mixing a couple of them if you can. A few days in Bangkok and Hua Hin work great. Or Phuket and Pattaya, if you want both beach and nightlife. Keeps things fresh, you know? Finding The Right Golf Courses Thailand’s got loads of courses — fancy ones, budget ones, and pretty much all of them are in good shape. Think about what you enjoy most. Some people like a challenge, others just want those wide fairways and nice views. Honestly, most golfers mix it up — one big “wow” course, then a few laid-back rounds where nobody’s really keeping score. You don’t have to sort it all out now. Check some reviews, maybe watch a couple of YouTube clips, or ask someone who’s been. If that’s not your thing, just get a local golf company to handle it — they know the best spots anyway. Where To Stay Hotels and resorts in Thailand... there’s something for every budget. Simple, fancy, whatever you like. Try to stay close to the golf courses or somewhere near the beach — saves you a lot of time. If you’re going with a group, look for a place with a pool or a bar where everyone can hang out after the game. And honestly, the people here are so friendly. The staff always seem to notice what you need before you even ask. It’s kind of amazing. Getting Around Getting around’s not hard, but yeah, those golf bags can be a hassle. It’s smart to set up your airport rides and course transfers before you get there. Most folks go with private vans that have air-con (and trust me, you’ll be thankful for that in the afternoon heat). Having a driver who knows the golf routes is a big help, too. You don’t have to worry about getting lost — just sit back, chill, and watch the scenery roll by. Adding Local Experiences Let’s be real — if you fly all the way to Thailand just to golf and go home, you’re missing half the fun. Between rounds, try something different. Maybe a longtail boat ride, a Thai cooking class, or a few hours in a spa. Night markets are great too — good food, random stuff to buy, and that fun chaos you can’t really explain. Oh, and if you like a drink, local rum and gin are becoming a thing now. Little side adventures like that make the trip more yours, you know? The Best Time To Travel The best months are November to March. Nice weather, dry, and not too hot. But if you don’t mind a few clouds, the months just before or after that are still great — fewer people and better prices. Even when it rains, it usually passes quickly, and you’re back out playing again soon. Just plan around it a bit, and you’ll be fine. Traveling With Friends Golf trips with friends hit different. Thailand’s perfect for it — easygoing people, good food, warm weather, and a pace that fits everyone. You can plan a few friendly matches, a silly competition, or just play for fun. Most courses have really nice clubhouses too — perfect for sitting down after the round, grabbing a drink, and laughing about that one shot nobody saw coming. Why Planning Golf Holidays In Thailand With Experts Makes It Easier You can plan everything yourself, sure, but honestly, a golf travel expert can make things so much easier. They deal with tee times, rides, hotels — all the little details that can eat up your time. One of the best ones out there is Fairways of Eden. They’re based right in Thailand and focus only on golf holidays. You can build your trip from scratch with them — choose your courses, hotels, and add whatever extras you want. It’s all in one place, which makes life a lot simpler. And no, using them doesn’t mean you lose control. It just means you get to relax knowing someone’s got your back when you land. Making Your Golf Holidays In Thailand Truly Unforgettable The best memories from a golf trip aren’t just about perfect weather or amazing greens. It’s the stuff in between — the laughs, the sunsets, the random moments you didn’t plan for. Take your time. Listen to your caddie. Enjoy the quiet. Let Thailand’s slow rhythm kind of take over for a bit. Every smell, every sound, every smile adds something to the story. When you finally head home, you’ll realize it wasn’t just about golf at all. It was about finding a place that fits — golf, people, peace, and a bit of adventure all wrapped together. So yeah, whether you do it all yourself or get Fairways of Eden to help, your unforgettable golf trip to Thailand really just starts with one idea — play the game you love in a place that feels made for it.

READ MORE things to do in leeds

Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 22, 2023

Do you want to travel without breaking the bank? Leeds offers affordable options for city breaks that let you discover new things. We've compiled some ideas for ways Leeds is an inexpensive city destination for singles, families, and couples. It offers inexpensive nights out to the fascinating year-round calendar of festivities as part of Leeds 2023. Most museums and galleries in Leeds are free to enter. Let's explore and find out the best things to do in Leeds. Things To Do In Leeds cloudfront.net Leeds has gained a reputation in recent years as the liveliest city in the UK, with a broad and welcoming cultural scene. Leeds is a city full of culture, from venues and organizations that are breaking new ground to street art trails. This is partially attributable to Leeds' abundance of museums and galleries, the majority of which offer free admission. A few of the best art galleries in the city may be found in the cultural district of Leeds, including the Henry Moore Institute, Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds Central Library, and Leeds City Museum, all of which are only a two-minute walk apart. Leeds City Museum offers amazing exhibitions and artifacts that let you travel through time and experience amazing history. Leeds Art Gallery features exhibits of Victorian art, sculptures, paintings, and portraits. It also has one of the best exhibits of 20th-century modern art outside of London. The Henry Moore Institute, one of the biggest sculpture exhibitions in Europe, honors the art of sculpture. The Leeds Central Library holds a great collection of books from all over the world. Things To Do In Leeds: Museums & Art jaga.co.uk There are always plays or other forms of entertainment in Leeds because of the city's outstanding theaters and touring companies. Leeds Grand Theatre - one of the UK's most stunning Grade II listed theaters - offers shows for as little as £15. This is home to Northern Dance and Opera North, the only resident dance and opera companies in the country outside of London. Some of the most well-liked Westend productions, including Sister Act, The Bodyguard, and Dirty Dancing, are also available online for a reduced price. Do you need more excuses to visit? Leeds is hosting its Year of Culture in 2023, which makes it an extremely interesting year for the city. A calendar of events is planned for the entire year, all throughout Leeds, with the goal of "letting culture loose." There are countless options for events and activities that highlight the vibrant arts and culture of the city and its residents. Most events are either free or "pay as you feel." Some of the highlights include 90 painters from throughout the city on display at Leeds Art Gallery. They will be showcased at the "The Leeds Artists Show" through April 30. Pay what you feel for "As You Are," a sound, walk-in musical experience designed by South African cellist Abel Selaocoe. It will be held for the Orchestra and Chorus of Opera North. There is still a lot to look forward to. Things To Do In Leeds: Food & Cuisine welcometoleeds.co.uk Searching for a culinary-themed staycation? Leeds is the ideal place to be. The city, which is home to a booming independent food industry, has several cafes, bars, pubs, and restaurants. Leeds is the unofficial gastronomic capital of the North. Not sure what you want to do? Visit Trinity Kitchen. Trinity Kitchen is a great spot to visit for lunch, supper, or even an afternoon snack. It features rotating street food vendors serving it all, from pizza to Pho. It has a laid-back, distinctive setting for you to enjoy lunch, dinner, or afternoon snack. Kirkgate Market also has a similar street food setup. Kirkgate Market, where M&S first made its appearance, is currently the largest indoor market in Europe. Its recently renovated food hall is home to some delicious treats. There is the award-winning Manjit's Kitchen- a vegan Punjabi street food vendor. There is also Fat Annie's- an entirely plant-based restaurant serving American-inspired burgers and hot dogs. You must also visit the renowned Yorkshire Pudding Wrap Company to indulge in one of their delicious wraps. Searching for new openings in the food and beverage industry? Leeds can take care of that.  The brains behind Doh'nut, the greatest doughnuts in town, opened Things in Bread, a brand-new gourmet sandwich store right in the middle of the city center. You're onto a winner when you find traditional sandwich flavors made with premium ingredients and freshly baked bread. Things To Do In Leeds: Parks & Greens There are numerous ways to enjoy Leeds, so a trip to this city offers more than just the bustle of the city center. You can find some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the UK beyond the nightlife, museums, shops, and restaurants. Roundhay Park, a few miles outside the city center, has more than 700 acres of parkland, lakes, woods, and gardens. Get hot beverages and snacks from the on-site Lakeside Cafe. Visit the nearby Tropical World for a family-friendly island experience. In the desert, meerkats stand boldly, while exotic butterflies and birds are free to roam throughout the recreated rainforest habitat. Adult admission to Tropical World is £7.20, £3.80 for children, and kids under five enter for free. One of the most well-loved tourist destinations in the city is the medieval ruins of Kirkstall Abbey. It is located just outside of the city. Tickets are £5 for the ruins and expanse of grounds to check out; children under five are admitted free of charge. The Leeds-Liverpool Canal runs alongside Kirkstall Abbey, so why not take a leisurely stroll down it first? Things To Do In Leeds: Architecture & Heritage travel-assets.com Leeds is also an ideal starting point for discovering the splendor of the surroundings. The Yorkshire Dales National Park, which is home to some of Yorkshire's most famous landscapes and attractions, such as the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Ilkley Moor, Bolton Abbey, and the adjacent ancient towns of Harrogate and Knaresborough, is conveniently accessible from Leeds station. The industrial towns of Yorkshire are also well worth a day trip. Nestled next to the Leeds-Liverpool canal, Saltaire is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon strolling through its charming alleys or visiting the well-known Salts Mill. It's certainly worth the journey, with a magnificent variety of Hockney artwork, literature, flowers, cuisine, and 21st-century business, and free admission.  When you take an inexpensive city holiday to Leeds, you may discover all of this and more. Things To Do In Leeds: Lodging nationalparks.uk Book a stay at Art Hostel for consistently reasonable and distinctive lodging. It is the first establishment of its kind in the UK and the ideal spot to unwind after a strenuous day of sightseeing. Regional artists from East Street Art designed imaginative, reasonably priced, and distinctive lodging. It is a vibrant, artist-run company that spearheads avant-garde art initiatives and shows. The Art Hostel's themed rooms are all the product of the creative minds of Leeds-based artists working with regional artisans. Wrapping Up Leeds is a great place to take an inexpensive staycation in the UK because there is a lot to do there. The city is filled with events that do not break the bank. Use this guide to figure out how to spend your time here, whether you have 24, 48, or 72 hours. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Leeds, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Brighton Bliss: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Getaway Itinerary Unmissable Urban Delights: Things To Do In Glasgow UK City Hidden Gems: Things To Do In Manchester

READ MORE closest beach to New Orleans

Closest Beach to New Orleans | A Beach Holiday Guide In Louisiana

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The specific geographical location of New Orleans, especially the proximity to Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River, blesses the city with a vast coastal landscape.  So, along with the local heritage and culture of the city, the beaches and beach activities on the Gulf Coast can be a prominent factor in boosting tourism here.  From Bay Saint Louis, the closest beach to New Orleans, to more beautiful options like the Biloxi Beaches, await you with a lot of excitement! No wonder people are opting for vacation rentals near the New Orleans beach locations and cruise trips in the Mississippi River.  Adventure Life is such a service, organizing a Lower Mississippi River Cruise. You can contact them at +1.800.344.6118 to know more about the cruise trip.  Along with these cruise trips, many other activities like fishing, nature strolls, hiking, and bird watching make the beautiful beaches in New Orleans a lot of fun!  Charmed and impressed with these beaches, we have created a beach tour guide at Tour and Travel. Let’s explore the places!  Closest Beach To New Orleans | Explore The Gulf Shores At Their Best  Summer days in New Orleans can be extra balmy. So, winter, especially January, is the ideal time to explore the beaches here. The average temperature in New Orleans ranges between 43-62 degrees F and rarely there is snowfall in the city. All these weather conditions add to beach fun and vibe in New Orleans, and these are places you need to be at for some beach fun.  1. Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi | The Closest Beach To New Orleans Distance from New Orleans: 58.7 Miles An hour's drive from New Orleans will take you to Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi. The water here is shallow, but the peaceful ambiance and stretches of white sand more than makeup for it.  Enjoy sunbathing and crabbing here on a sunny day, and let your kids build adorable sand castles.  2. White Sands Lake Day Beach  Distance from New Orleans: 74 Miles Franklinton, on the north of New Orleans, has White Sands Lake Day Beach. This is a man-made and spring-fed lake that has become a popular tourist destination near New Orleans.  The Aqua Park is the prime attraction here. Your little ones will love playing on the slides and with inflatable water toys here. You can even play beach volleyball, kayaking, and boating here.  For a relaxing experience, you can even try full-day cooking. The entry fee to the Aqua Park is $18 for adults and $12 for children. 3. Biloxi Beaches Distance from New Orleans (90.2 Miles) The City of Biloxi has been one of the forerunners in restoring the beaches after the rampage of Hurricane Katrina. On its southern border, Biloxi is surrounded by a beautiful white sand beach, the Harrison County Sand Beach. With a whopping 26 miles of shimmering white sand, the Harrison County Sand Beach is the largest man-made white sand beach in the world. You can take a stroll along the pedestrian pathway here and on your way, you will also find some magnificent sand dunes.  The beach is also known for hosting special events. You can contact the Harrison County Sand Beach Authority at (228) 896-0055.  Moreover, you can take a drive along Beach Boulevard to enjoy the sound of the Mississippi and meet the historic oak trees. You will even find the antebellum homes here.  4. Grand Isle State Park Distance from New Orleans (110 Miles) Grand Isle State Park is next on our list of closest beaches to New Orleans. If you want to experience the coastal wildlife of Louisiana, there can be no better place than your destination.  Nestled at the southeast corner of Louisiana, the Grand Isle State Park is accessible to visitors with an entry fee of just $3.  Here, you can be a part of the deep-water fishing excursions and wildlife viewing. If you are here for fishing, don’t miss the longest fishing pier in Louisiana. It is 400 feet in length.  Do you want to make the most of the Grand Isle State Park fishing experience? Why don’t you get in touch with the best fish charter services, like the Southern Angler Fishing Charters, and explore the options? You can reach out to them at +1 504-458-7328.  Furthermore, this state park has a lot of hiking trails that you can explore. You will even enjoy birdwatching here with varieties like seagulls and pelicans displaying their prowess.  5. Dauphin Island, Alabama Distance from New Orleans (148 Miles) Dauphin Island on the border of Alabama and Mississippi, is a great spot for family vacation near New Orleans. This will be your ideal destination if you especially want to relax and have a low-key holiday.  Like many other beaches in New Orleans or beyond, it does not experience a rush of visitors. However, if you want to know about the local history, you will love visiting  Fort Gaines here.  This historical site has an association with the American Civil War. You must pay $10 for adults and $5 for children to visit this historical fort.  Moreover, Dauphin Island is a wonderful location for avid birders. It is home to the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. Covering a span of 165 acres, this bird sanctuary will allow you to walk through the trails and meet winged wonders. You will find osprey, gray catbirds, blue jays, and yellow-rumped warblers here.  No wonder that the American Bird Conservancy has termed Dauphin Island as the "Globally Import Bird Area.” Dauphin Island is also “America's Birdiest City." 6. Orange Beach, Alabama Distance from New Orleans: Around 200 Miles Orange Beach, Alabama, is not the closest beach to New Orleans. However, covering the 200-mile distance between the two is worth it because of the pristine shores. Looking at the stretches of white sand shores is an experience in itself.  Another major attraction on Orange Beach is the coastal cuisine. In fact, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism organized a specialized Foodie’s getaway for a gastronomic tour of the area.  Further, there are dedicated food trails like the “Oyster Trail,” “Burger Trail,” “Shrimp Trail,” etc. The Mardi Gras Food & Drink trail is another attraction for food lovers here. You can email Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism at Info@AlabamasBeaches.com to learn more about this food tour.  You can even get real-time updates about the city of Orange Beach, Alabama, from the government website or by contacting the authorities at 251-981-6979. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.