If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the sound of water lapping at your backyard bulkhead, watching the sun rise over the lake from your private dock, or docking your boat just steps from your living room—then Louisiana may just be the perfect place to build your dream waterfront home.
From the peaceful, oak-draped shores of the Northshore to the vibrant waterways of the New Orleans area, Louisiana offers a wealth of beautiful, buildable waterfront locations. At Lamulle Construction, we’ve spent decades helping homeowners make the most of these scenic spots through custom docks, bulkheads, boathouses, and marine construction services tailored to Louisiana’s unique terrain.
If you’re looking to build a home on the water, these are some of the best places in Louisiana to start your search.
1. Mandeville – Charm on Lake Pontchartrain’s Northshore
Why It’s Ideal:
Mandeville sits right on the edge of Lake Pontchartrain, offering postcard-worthy water views and a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s known for its Southern charm, walkable lakefront, and strong community vibe. Mandeville blends easy access to New Orleans with the peace of small-town living, making it a top pick for homeowners seeking waterfront serenity without sacrificing convenience.
Waterfront Appeal:
Many lots in Mandeville offer direct access to Lake Pontchartrain or scenic bayous. Ideal for docks, covered boat slips, and small-scale marinas, Mandeville’s properties are also well-suited for bulkhead installation to protect your shoreline from erosion—something we specialize in at Lamulle Construction.
Nearby Amenities:
Charming downtown shops, excellent schools, and the Tammany Trace bike path make this a great spot for families. And with seafood restaurants dotting the lakefront, your weekends are set.
Pro Tip: Mandeville’s soft soils and changing water levels require the right kind of dock foundation. We often recommend treated pilings and reinforced walkways for long-term stability.
2. Slidell – A Boater’s Paradise on the East Side
Why It’s Ideal:
Located just northeast of Lake Pontchartrain, Slidell is a haven for boaters. With easy access to the lake, the Rigolets, and even the Gulf of Mexico, Slidell properties are a dream for those who want deepwater access right from their backyard.
Waterfront Appeal:
Slidell offers a mix of bayou lots, lakefront homes, and deepwater canal access. It’s also one of the best areas in Southeast Louisiana for adding custom boat lifts and boathouses—something Lamulle Construction is often called in to design and build.
Nearby Amenities:
A vibrant arts community, great local schools, and proximity to I-10 make Slidell both scenic and convenient. It’s ideal for professionals who work in New Orleans but want to escape to the water every evening.
Pro Tip: When building in Slidell, storm surge is a key consideration. That’s why we design elevated docks and reinforced seawalls that hold up season after season.
3. Madisonville – Historic Riverfront Living on the Tchefuncte
Why It’s Ideal:
Tucked along the Tchefuncte River, Madisonville is a picturesque town rich in history and charm. Waterfront properties here feel like a peaceful escape—yet you’re still within reach of the Northshore’s amenities.
Waterfront Appeal:
Riverside lots offer excellent spots for boathouses, fishing piers, and wooden walkways. Because of the calm current, this is one of the best places in Louisiana to build a multi-use waterfront structure: dock, lift, and deck all in one.
Nearby Amenities:
Visit the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum or grab a plate of oysters at a riverfront café. Madisonville’s slower pace and old-town charm make it perfect for retirees and families alike.
Pro Tip: Use pressure-treated wood and composite decking to handle the Tchefuncte’s fluctuating water levels and protect against rot.
4. New Orleans (Lakefront Neighborhoods) – City Access, Waterfront Living
Why It’s Ideal:
Few cities offer waterfront living quite like New Orleans. Neighborhoods such as Lakeview, Lake Terrace, and Lake Vista provide direct access to Lake Pontchartrain while staying firmly within the city limits. You’ll get stunning views and be just minutes from the French Quarter.
Waterfront Appeal:
These lakefront areas are ideal for bulkhead construction, elevated walkways, and custom concrete seawalls. Because of stricter city permitting, working with a marine contractor who knows the process is essential.
Nearby Amenities:
Upscale dining, arts and culture, and proximity to major employers make this a great choice for professionals who want it all.
Pro Tip: City regulations can be strict. Lamulle Construction’s experienced permitting team can help you get approvals for your dock, lift, or boathouse project without the headache.
5. Covington – Quiet Retreat with Hidden Water Views
Why It’s Ideal:
Just a short drive from Mandeville, Covington offers a quieter, more rural setting with stunning riverfront and bayou-adjacent properties. It’s perfect for those looking to build a luxury estate or quiet family home with access to nature.
Waterfront Appeal:
Many homes in Covington back up to the Tchefuncte River or Bogue Falaya. These shaded, tree-lined waterways offer the perfect spot for canoe launches, personal fishing docks, and private swimming decks.
Nearby Amenities:
Excellent schools, art galleries, and a charming downtown make Covington a well-rounded spot to settle down. You’ll enjoy all the peace of rural living with modern conveniences just minutes away.
Pro Tip: Because of the natural tree cover and slower currents, Covington properties benefit from low-profile docks and natural wood finishes that blend seamlessly with the surroundings.
6. Bay St. Louis – Coastal Charm Just Across the State Line
Why It’s Ideal:
Although it’s located just over the border in Mississippi, Bay St. Louis has long been a favorite escape for Louisiana residents—especially those in the Greater New Orleans area. This Gulf Coast town combines small-town warmth, walkable downtown streets, and postcard-worthy views with easy water access that rivals anywhere in the region. For those who don’t mind crossing state lines, it offers an idyllic backdrop for building a dream waterfront getaway or full-time residence.
Waterfront Appeal:
Bay St. Louis offers deepwater canals, open bay views, and direct Gulf access, making it a top-tier choice for boating enthusiasts. Lots here are ideal for boathouses, bulkheads, raised docks, and expansive walkways that take full advantage of the views. Whether you’re envisioning a weekend retreat or a hurricane-ready home on piers, the marine potential here is wide open.
Nearby Amenities:
Bay St. Louis boasts a charming arts district, delicious seafood spots, and boutique shops—all just a short walk from the waterfront. With fishing tournaments, beach festivals, and regular boat parades, the town is both quiet and full of life. And thanks to its proximity to Louisiana (under 90 minutes from New Orleans), it’s a popular build site for second homes.
Expert Insight: While Lamulle Construction specializes in marine construction throughout Southeast Louisiana, we frequently consult with Gulf Coast homeowners to offer guidance on dock layout, material selection, and erosion control—even if we don’t serve the area directly. We’re happy to point you to trusted marine contractors who share our quality standards.
What to Look for When Choosing a Waterfront Lot
Whether you’ve got your heart set on Lake Pontchartrain or a peaceful river bend, choosing the right lot is just as important as designing your dream home. Here are some factors to consider:
Flood Zones and Elevation
Louisiana’s low elevation means flood risk is real. Choose lots that allow for raised construction, and make sure you understand your flood zone classification.
Soil Conditions
Soft or sandy soils may need special piling support. At Lamulle Construction, we assess every property’s substrate to ensure your dock or bulkhead is built to last.
Access to Open Water
Do you want to paddle on a quiet bayou or zip your boat to the Gulf? Your water access affects what kind of structure (and boat) you’ll want.
Permitting Requirements
Some parishes are more restrictive than others. We handle permitting across St. Tammany, Orleans, and Jefferson Parishes to streamline your build.
Services That Elevate Your Waterfront Property
Once you’ve picked the perfect spot, the right marine construction makes all the difference. At Lamulle Construction, we specialize in:
- Custom Docks and Piers
Built to match your home and withstand Louisiana’s climate. - Bulkhead Installation
Protect your shoreline from erosion and storm damage. - Boat Lifts and Boathouses
Keep your vessel secure and easily accessible. - Permitting and Design Consulting
We’ll walk you through the process from start to finish.
Final Thoughts: Louisiana Is Ready for Your Dream Home
From the Northshore’s cozy coves to New Orleans’ vibrant lakefront, Louisiana offers a rare mix of natural beauty, lifestyle charm, and year-round waterfront living. If you’ve been dreaming of building a home where you can dock your boat, fish off your porch, or just enjoy the view—we’re here to make that dream a reality.
Lamulle Construction has been helping Louisiana residents build smarter, stronger, and more beautiful waterfront structures for over 30 years. Our team knows the land, the permits, and the people—and we’d be proud to help bring your vision to life.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re planning to build your waterfront home anywhere around Lake Pontchartrain, Mandeville, Covington, or New Orleans, reach out to Lamulle Construction today. We’ll help you assess your lot, plan your project, and build a waterfront lifestyle that lasts.
Contact us now to schedule a free consultation with our marine construction experts.
