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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesSouth USALouisianaCreole
Stage 20

Creole Road Trip

Lake Charles - Lake Arthur - Pecan Island - Creole - Holly Beach

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security
Wildlife Wildlife
Beach Beach
Culture Culture
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Creole Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages5 km361 h/stage1.1

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Creole Road Trip in Louisiana?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 135EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 242EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 508EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 643EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 162EUR drive & more 63EUR sleep & more 352EUR eat & more 324EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 739EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 901EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 270EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 594EUR eat & more 432EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,114EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,384EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 675EUR drive & more 100EUR sleep & more 165EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 481EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,156EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Creole Road Trip Itinerary

The Creole Road Trip is an amazing journey through the heart of Louisiana. Starting in Lake Charles, the route takes you 361km through the towns of Lake Arthur and Creole, providing a wealth of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Along the way, you can enjoy the many attractions of these towns, such as the Creole Nature Trail, the Sam Houston Jones State Park, and the Lake Arthur Wildlife Management Area. The trip can be completed in 3 days, but it can also be stretched out over a longer period if desired. The best time to take this road trip is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. The roads are generally in good condition and the trip can be managed with a moderate budget. Ultimately, this road trip is a great way to experience the culture and beauty of Louisiana, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
number of days 3 number of days
route length 361 km route length
budget fair budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Lake Charles

Distance 361 km Driving time 5.4 h Pace: fast 108.4 kWh Airports BTR , MSY
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Lake Charles is a great starting point for the Creole Road Trip. Situated on the banks of the Calcasieu River in Louisiana, it is the fifth-largest city in the state and home to a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the city's attractions, from the restored historic buildings to the many museums, galleries, and galleries. The Lake Charles Regional Airport (LCH) is the closest international airport, providing car rental services to travelers. Once in the city, visitors can check out the many historical sites, including the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, which offers insight into the area's history and culture. The Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu is also a must-see for visitors, and the historic downtown area features a variety of charming shops and restaurants. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Creole Nature Trail, a 180-mile scenic byway that winds through some of Louisiana's most beautiful landscapes. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and birds. For those looking for a more active experience, the city also offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Lake Charles is the perfect starting point for the Creole Road Trip, offering visitors a chance to explore the city's rich culture and natural beauty. With an international airport, car rental services, and plenty of attractions, it is the ideal destination for those looking for a memorable vacation.

1 Lake Charles - Lake Arthur

Distance 82 km Driving time 1.5 h Pace: modest 21.4 kWh View map Itinerary
scenic road accommodation options
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Lake Charles to Lake Arthur? This 51-mile journey, which will take you less than 2 hours, is full of scenic views and interesting stops. On the way, you can visit the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, a 180-mile road that winds through the marshlands and coastal prairies of Southwest Louisiana. You can also take a break at the Lake Charles State Park and see the beautiful lake, or take a stroll through the historic downtown area. You can also take a detour to the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, where you can observe birds and other wildlife. Finally, you can end your trip with a visit to Lake Arthur, which is known for its beautiful sunsets and peaceful atmosphere. As you drive along the route, make sure to keep an eye out for the stunning views of the marshes and the Gulf of Mexico. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

2 Lake Arthur - Pecan Island

Distance 95 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: fast 28.6 kWh View map Itinerary
scenic road accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Lake Arthur to Pecan Island? This 59mi drive will take you less than two hours, and you'll get to experience the best of both places. Start your journey in Lake Arthur, where you can explore the local wildlife refuge, go fishing and kayaking, or take a scenic drive through the countryside. Then, head to Pecan Island, where you can stroll along the boardwalk, take a boat tour, and explore the local wildlife sanctuary. Along the way, you'll get to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the area, including rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as you never know what you might spot! Make sure to keep an eye out for some of the amazing attractions and activities that this route has to offer. From quaint towns and historic sites to unique restaurants and art galleries, there is something for everyone along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Lake Arthur to Pecan Island!

3 Pecan Island - Creole

Distance 67 km Driving time 0.8 h Pace: fast 20.2 kWh View map Itinerary
scenic road junction of road trips
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing road trip from Pecan Island to Creole! This 42-mile drive will take you less than an hour, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenic road. Start your journey in Pecan Island, a small town in Louisiana with a rich history and spectacular views. You can visit the historic downtown area, the Pecan Island Lighthouse, and the Pecan Island Wildlife Refuge. Continue your journey to Creole, a small town in Calcasieu Parish. Here you can explore the Creole Nature Trail, a 180-mile trail that winds through the marshlands of Southwest Louisiana. You can also visit the Creole Heritage Folklife Center, which showcases the history of the area. No matter what you choose to do, you’ll be sure to have a memorable experience on this road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

4 Creole - Holly Beach

Distance 41 km Driving time 0.6 h Pace: fast 12.3 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Creole to Holly Beach? This 26-mile drive will take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy the scenic road without having to rush. You can start your journey in Creole and make a few stops along the way to Holly Beach. The first place you should visit is the Creole Nature Trail. This 180-mile trail is full of wildlife, wetlands, and prairies. You can also take a boat tour to get a closer look at the wildlife and explore the region. If you're looking for a place to stay, there are several hotels and campgrounds in the area. Once you've explored the Creole Nature Trail, you can make your way to Holly Beach. This small beach town is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. There are several restaurants and shops to explore, as well as plenty of beach activities. No matter where you decide to stop along the way, you're sure to have a great time. Be sure to check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage to get more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

5 Holly Beach - Lake Charles

Distance 76 km Driving time 1.1 h Pace: fast 22.7 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues accommodation options
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from Holly Beach to Lake Charles, a 47mi drive that will take you less than two hours. Start your journey at Holly Beach, an idyllic beach town with a great selection of restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities. Don’t forget to take a stroll on the boardwalk and admire the beautiful view of the Gulf of Mexico. Continue your journey to Lake Charles, a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Charpentier Historic District, a picturesque area full of Victorian-style homes, and the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, where you can learn about the local history and art. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants and bars, and end your day with a stroll in the beautiful Prien Lake Park. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, don’t wait any longer and start planning your trip today!

  Lake Charles

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Lake Charles, Louisiana, is the perfect end point for a Creole Road Trip. A vibrant city with a diverse culture, Lake Charles is a great place to explore. Start your journey with a visit to the Charpentier Historic District. Here, you’ll find a collection of some of the most beautiful Victorian and Queen Anne-style homes in the area. Be sure to also check out the Mardi Gras Museum, where you can learn about the region’s rich and colorful history. Head to the Lake Charles Civic Center for some relaxation and entertainment. This complex offers a wide range of activities, from ice skating and roller skating to basketball and volleyball. The center also hosts concerts and shows throughout the year. If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, head to the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. This 180-mile scenic route takes you through some of the region’s most stunning and unique landscapes, including marshlands and barrier islands. Finally, don’t miss out on the chance to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. With plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants, there’s plenty of opportunities to enjoy a great night out. Lake Charles is easily accessible by car. The closest international airport is the Lake Charles Regional Airport (LCH) located just 15 miles away. So, make Lake Charles the end point of your Creole Road Trip for a truly unforgettable experience.

Creole Road Trip at a glance

We believe that the presented Creole Road Trip gave you numerous inspirations for your future holidays.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a base that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with interesting beauty spots.
If travelling by car is your plan when exploring highlights around Louisiana, there are a number of important road rules to follow and a list of elements to be mindful of to ensure safety. These tips will also become useful for travellers who are considering vehicle hire or camper rental.
It is vital to follow the local road rules when driving around Louisiana. Alcohol is best to be avoided at any price while sightseeing in a car. The permittedconsumption limit is low and cannot exceed 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum speed limit, which is 40km/h, when travelling around the build-up areas may result in speeding offence. On the other hand, the maximum allowed speed around rural areas is 72km/h. On highways, 129km/h is the maximum car speed that you should be mindful of. Driving with your headlights on at daytime and equipping your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit heavily increase your safety.
The majority of travellers are also interested in the travel expenses of the whole road trip. Depending on the budget option that you select, the amount of money that you have to pay during the whole road trip can vary. A wide range of budget possibilities is presented below.
If you go for the cheapest option, you need to spend the maximum of 50 EUR on gasoline to cover the planned 361km. You will have to spend around 242 EUR on economy overnight stays. Travellers who want to benefit from this option will spend around 216 EUR on food and restaurants. Travellers will have to pay about 135 EUR if they choose the cheapest car rental option as well. Thus, going for vehicle rental will increase the costs of the road trip from around 508 EUR to approximately 643 EUR.
Holidaymakers who are looking for greater comfort and the standard option should be prepared to pay the maximum of 63 EUR for the gasoline needed to cover the tour. Cost amounting to 352 EUR can be expected by all tourists who are searching for standard accommodation options. For food and restaurants within the standard range of services, you will have to pay roughly 324 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard hire car can expect a cost of roughly 162 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total more or less 901 EUR for holidaymakers who would like to try vehicle rental and 739 EUR for those who are not interested in rental.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will meet the expectations of the most demanding drivers. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total roughly 1,384 EUR for drivers who are considering vehicle rental and 739 EUR for those who do not need a rental car. Travellers who would like to cover the road trip in a premium hire vehicle should expect a cost of around 270 EUR. When it comes to the premium option of the tour, the cost of the gasoline needed to cover all stages around Louisiana is around 88 EUR. You should expect to pay about 594 EUR for accommodation options and 432 EUR for food and restaurants if you opt for the top standard of services during your tour.
Camper lovers will be equally happy with [trip_name. If you choose this means of transport, you should expect the costs of roughly 675 EUR. Holidayers will spend approximately 100 EUR on fuel allowing to cover all stages of the itinerary. You should expect to pay roughly 216 EUR for expenses connected with food and around 165 EUR for overnight stays if you opt for camper rental.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the presented details in a simple way.
The best travel opportunity when exploring the part of Louisiana mentioned in our itinerary idea is between October and April. If Creole Road Trip has inspired you, you should definitely check out other picturesque road adventures that are available on our website. We hope that the great variety of travel opportunities will definitely meet the expectations of the most demanding holidaymakers.

Facts for safer driving in Louisiana

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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