Did you know that more than half of Americans left vacation time on the table last year— 768 million unused vacation days! Don’t waste your days off, Cher! January 28 is National Plan for Vacation Day, take the day to plan at least one adventure to the Cajun Coast!

There are so many ways to have a great time on the Cajun Coast! Check out all of the activities and even themed itineraries and map out your plan for adventure!

The Atchafalaya Basin Swamp has nearly one million acres of the nation’s most significant bottomland hardwoods, swamps and bayous. The Atchafalaya Water Heritage Trail features 9 sites within the Cajun Coast including areas only available by boat, rich historic landmarks, and the beauty National Geographic Traveler noted as “hauntingly beautiful land.”

You can also see the bayous with a drive along the Bayou Teche Scenic Byway, meandering along this beautiful bayou waterway, taking in more than 100 historic properties along the way. You can bike along this byway as well, or Hwy. 182, known as the Old Spanish Trail.

You can get even closer to our waterway adventures on a Cajun Coast Paddling Trail. We have mapped out the routes and arranged by difficulty level, so the novice or pro can enjoy getting their canoe or kayak out into the wild. You can find kayak rentals at nearby outfitters or Cajun Houseboat Rentals also has some for day rental. If you want a professional guiding the way, swamp tour operators like Captain Caviar, can provide entertaining and educational tours of the beauty and mystery of the Atchafalaya waters. Depending on the time of year, a variety of wildlife and plant life, and yes, alligators, will be spotted.

If your goal in the new year is to learn something new, or learn more about the many cultures who settled this area, including the Chitimacha, the first settlers of the region. Their basket-weaving skills are legendary, and you can see their work on display at the Chitimacha Museum in Charenton.

Also, in Charenton, is the Cypress Bayou Casino-Hotel, Louisiana’s first land-based casino.  In addition to slots and table games, you’ll find amazing dining and an upscale nightclub, featuring live entertainment each weekend.  Nearby, Amelia Belle Casino also provides exciting gaming action!

So, come find a new adventure in the new year on the Cajun Coast!