Did you know that Raccoon Island, part of Louisiana’s Isles Dernières (Last Island) Chain, hosts the largest brown pelican nesting colony in the state with over 5,000 nesting pairs annually? This remote barrier island, once part of a thriving 24-mile-long resort destination before a catastrophic 1856 hurricane, now exists as a critical wildlife refuge and offers visitors a rare glimpse into both Louisiana’s fascinating history and its rich coastal ecosystem. As the westernmost island in the chain, Raccoon Island provides a pristine, undeveloped landscape where nature’s resilience and beauty take center stage.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Reaching Raccoon Island requires careful planning as this remote barrier island is accessible only by boat. The closest major airports are Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), approximately 130 km (80 miles) northeast, and Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT), about 120 km (75 miles) north.

From either airport, you’ll need to drive to one of the coastal launching points in Terrebonne Parish. The most common departure points include:

• Cocodrie, Louisiana – offering charter boat services and kayak launches
• Dulac Marina – providing boat rentals and guided tours
• Pointe-aux-Chenes – with several local fishing guides who know the waters

Charter services typically require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. The boat journey to Raccoon Island takes approximately 1-2 hours each way, depending on weather conditions and the type of vessel. Most visitors arrange day trips through local tour operators who specialize in wildlife and nature excursions.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

The ideal time to visit Raccoon Island is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant and wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. During these seasons, temperatures typically range from 18-29°C (65-85°F) with moderate humidity.

Always check weather forecasts before planning your trip, as conditions can change rapidly in this coastal area. The island offers no shelter during storms, so tour operators may cancel trips during inclement weather for safety reasons. Bird enthusiasts should note that the pelican nesting season typically runs from March through July, making spring the optimal time for wildlife photography.

Getting Around Locally

Once you reach Raccoon Island, transportation options are limited to walking and wading. The island is relatively small at approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles) long and can be explored on foot, though certain areas may be restricted during bird nesting seasons.

Many visitors choose to explore via:

• Guided walking tours – led by knowledgeable naturalists who explain the ecosystem
• Charter boats – which anchor offshore while you explore designated areas
• Kayak excursions – allowing access to shallow areas and wildlife viewing (for experienced paddlers only)

There are no paved paths or facilities on the island, so wear appropriate footwear for walking on sand, shell, and occasionally muddy terrain. The island is also constantly changing due to erosion and storms, so areas that were accessible during previous visits may have changed.

Note that portions of the island may be closed to public access during certain times of the year to protect nesting birds. Always respect these closures and follow the guidance of your tour operator or wildlife officials.

Where to Stay

There are no accommodation options on Raccoon Island itself, as the island remains uninhabited and protected as a wildlife refuge. Visitors typically stay in nearby coastal communities and make day trips to the island. Popular lodging areas include:

Booking accommodations in advance is highly recommended, especially during fishing season and weekends, as options are limited in these small communities. Many lodgings cater to fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts, offering amenities like fish cleaning stations, boat slips, and early breakfast options.

Dining & Local Cuisine

While there are no dining establishments on Raccoon Island itself, the surrounding coastal communities offer exceptional seafood and authentic Cajun cuisine. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and plenty of water when visiting the island for the day.

In the nearby communities, you’ll find:

• Fresh Seafood: Locally caught shrimp, oysters, blue crab, and various fish species
• Cajun Specialties: Gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, and boudin
• Local Favorites: Crawfish boils (in season, typically February to May)

Some notable dining spots in the area include:

For those planning a day trip to the island, many charter services can arrange picnic lunches, or you can pack your own provisions. Remember to take all trash with you when leaving the island, as there are no waste facilities on site.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Despite its remote nature, Raccoon Island offers several compelling attractions and activities for visitors interested in wildlife, nature, and outdoor recreation:

Many visitors find that the island’s remote nature and lack of development create a peaceful atmosphere that’s increasingly rare in today’s world. The sense of standing on a dynamic, ever-changing landscape offers a profound perspective on coastal ecosystems and environmental change.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Raccoon Island itself has no museums or cultural facilities, several nearby locations offer insights into the fascinating history of the Isles Dernières chain:

Museums & Historical Sites

• Terrebonne Parish Historical & Cultural Society Museum (Houma): Features exhibits on the 1856 hurricane and the island’s resort history
• Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) in Cocodrie: Educational center with displays about coastal ecosystems and research
• Southdown Plantation House & Museum (Houma): Provides context about plantation life during the era when Isle Dernière was a popular resort

Annual Events

Several annual events in the region celebrate the area’s unique cultural heritage:

• Terrebonne Waterlife Museum Festival (April): Celebrates the region’s connection to water and fishing
• Voice of the Wetlands Festival (October): Music and cultural event highlighting coastal preservation
• Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival (Labor Day weekend): Showcases the region’s two major industries with food, music, and cultural displays

Local libraries in Houma and surrounding communities often maintain historical archives with newspaper accounts, personal letters, and other documents related to Isle Dernière’s history. History enthusiasts may arrange appointments to view these materials with advance notice.

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

The waters surrounding Raccoon Island and the island itself offer excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature experiences:

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Visiting Raccoon Island requires awareness of several important safety considerations and respectful practices:

Safety Precautions

• Weather Awareness: Check forecasts before departing and be prepared for rapid changes in conditions
• Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing as there is no shade on the island
• Water Safety: Strong currents can occur; swim only in designated areas and follow guide recommendations
• Wildlife Caution: Maintain safe distances from wildlife, especially nesting birds
• Communication: Cell service is unreliable; consider bringing a marine radio or satellite phone for emergencies

Conservation Etiquette

• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and belongings
• Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance without disturbing animals, especially nesting birds
• Stay on Designated Areas: Avoid trampling sensitive dune vegetation or disturbing nesting sites
• Photography Ethics: Never disturb wildlife for the sake of a photograph

The island is protected as a wildlife refuge, and certain areas may be restricted during nesting seasons. Always follow guidance from tour operators and wildlife officials regarding accessible areas. Remember that you are a visitor in a critical wildlife habitat, and your actions can have significant impacts on the animals that depend on this ecosystem.

Visitor Comments About Raccoon Island

Additional Nearby Destinations

While visiting the Raccoon Island area, consider exploring these nearby attractions to enhance your trip:

Many visitors combine a trip to Raccoon Island with exploration of New Orleans, which is approximately a 2-hour drive from Houma. The contrast between the remote, natural setting of the islands and the vibrant cultural scene of New Orleans creates a well-rounded Louisiana experience.

Practical Travel Tips

Make your visit to Raccoon Island more enjoyable with these practical tips:

For those with limited mobility, be aware that accessing the island requires boarding boats and walking on uneven terrain. Discuss any mobility concerns with tour operators in advance to determine if accommodations can be made.

A Pristine Wilderness Experience

Visiting Raccoon Island offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Louisiana’s last truly wild places. As you stand on these shifting sands watching thousands of pelicans soar overhead, you can’t help but feel a connection to both the natural world and the fascinating history that shaped this unique landscape. The island serves as both a critical wildlife sanctuary and a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience. Whether you come for the bird watching, the pristine beaches, or simply the peace of an undeveloped coastline, Raccoon Island rewards visitors with experiences that resonate long after they’ve returned to the mainland. In an increasingly developed world, places like this become ever more precious – windows into the wild heart of Louisiana that deserve our appreciation and protection.