Barataria is a small town located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, United States. Situated in the southeastern part of the state, Barataria is located within the expansive wetlands and marshes of the Mississippi River Delta. The town is known for its rich natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique Cajun culture. Despite its small size, Barataria has a close-knit community that takes pride in its heritage and traditions. Visitors to Barataria can explore the area’s scenic waterways, indulge in delicious Cajun cuisine, and experience the charm of Louisiana’s bayou country.
Geography
Barataria is located in the Mississippi River Delta region of southeastern Louisiana. The town is situated approximately 15 miles south of New Orleans and is bordered by the Barataria Bay to the east and the Bayou des Familles to the west. Barataria’s landscape is dominated by marshes, swamps, and waterways, making it an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including alligators, birds, and fish. The town’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico provides residents and visitors with access to recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Population
As of the latest census data, Barataria has a population of approximately 1,500 residents. The town’s population has remained relatively stable over the years, with a mix of families, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts calling Barataria home. Residents of Barataria are proud of their Cajun heritage and often participate in traditional activities such as fishing, crabbing, and hunting in the surrounding wetlands and bayous.
Major Landmarks
Barataria is home to several notable landmarks and points of interest that showcase its unique cultural and natural heritage. The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, located just south of Barataria, encompasses over 23,000 acres of wetlands, bayous, and historic sites. Visitors to the park can explore nature trails, take guided boat tours, and learn about the area’s history and ecology. Other major landmarks include the Barataria Preserve Visitor Center, the Bayou Coquille Trail, and the historic fishing village of Jean Lafitte.
Climate and Weather Overview
Barataria experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The town is located in a low-lying coastal area that is prone to flooding and tropical storms during the hurricane season. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly higher precipitation levels during the summer months. Barataria’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, which can result in rapid changes in weather patterns and temperatures.
Average Climate Data
Below is a table detailing the average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Barataria:
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 61°F | 5.08 inches | 14 days |
| February | 63°F | 4.36 inches | 14 days |
| March | 68°F | 5.24 inches | 14 days |
| April | 74°F | 4.42 inches | 15 days |
| May | 80°F | 4.76 inches | 15 days |
| June | 85°F | 7.24 inches | 14 days |
| July | 88°F | 7.53 inches | 14 days |
| August | 88°F | 7.80 inches | 13 days |
| September | 84°F | 6.45 inches | 12 days |
| October | 77°F | 3.78 inches | 12 days |
| November | 70°F | 4.14 inches | 13 days |
| December | 64°F | 4.64 inches | 13 days |
Weather by Month
January
January in Barataria brings mild temperatures and occasional rainfall, with average highs around 61°F (16°C). While winter storms are rare, the town may experience cold fronts that bring cooler temperatures and breezy conditions. Visitors can explore Barataria’s wetlands and bayous on guided boat tours, go birdwatching, or enjoy traditional Cajun cuisine at local restaurants.
Recommended Activities:
- Taking a guided boat tour of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
- Birdwatching along the Bayou Coquille Trail
- Sampling seafood gumbo and jambalaya at a local Cajun restaurant
February
February continues the mild weather patterns of January, with average temperatures hovering around 63°F (17°C). While occasional rainfall may occur, sunny days are common, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore Barataria’s historic sites, visit local museums, or take a leisurely stroll along the bayou.
Recommended Activities:
- Exploring the Barataria Preserve Visitor Center
- Visiting the historic fishing village of Jean Lafitte
- Taking a swamp boat tour to see alligators and other wildlife
March
March marks the transition to spring in Barataria, with temperatures warming up to around 68°F (20°C). The town experiences an increase in rainfall as the wet season begins, but sunny days are still prevalent. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing amidst the lush greenery of the wetlands.
Recommended Activities:
- Hiking the Bayou Coquille Trail
- Fishing for redfish and speckled trout in Barataria Bay
- Taking a guided kayak tour of the bayous and marshes
April
April brings warm temperatures and blooming flowers to Barataria, with average highs reaching 74°F (23°C). Spring is in full swing, with colorful blossoms and abundant wildlife adding to the town’s natural beauty. Visitors can explore the area’s scenic waterways on guided boat tours, go crabbing or shrimping, or simply relax and soak up the sunshine.
Recommended Activities:
- Taking a sunset cruise on Barataria Bay
- Going crabbing or shrimping in the bayous
- Picnicking at Lafitte’s Barataria Preserve
May
May heralds the arrival of hot and humid weather in Barataria, with average highs around 80°F (27°C). The town experiences increased rainfall and occasional thunderstorms, but sunny days still prevail. Visitors can explore Barataria’s wetlands and bayous on guided eco-tours, go fishing for bass and catfish, or sample fresh seafood at local seafood markets.
Recommended Activities:
- Taking an eco-tour of the Barataria Preserve
- Fishing for bass and catfish in the bayous
- Sampling boiled crawfish and shrimp at a local seafood market
June
June brings hot and humid weather to Barataria, with average highs reaching 85°F (29°C). The town experiences frequent rainfall and thunderstorms, which can impact outdoor activities. Visitors can explore Barataria’s indoor attractions, including museums and cultural centers, or take a leisurely drive along the scenic bayous.
Recommended Activities:
- Visiting the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center
- Exploring the history of Cajun and Creole culture at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
- Sampling Cajun and Creole cuisine at local restaurants
July
July is the hottest month in Barataria, with temperatures soaring to an average high of 88°F (31°C). The town experiences heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, which can lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas. Despite the heat, visitors can still enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching in the cooler morning and evening hours.
Recommended Activities:
- Fishing for bass, redfish, and speckled trout in Barataria Bay
- Taking a swamp boat tour to see alligators and other wildlife
- Birdwatching along the bayous and marshes
August
August maintains hot and humid weather in Barataria, with average highs around 88°F (31°C). The town experiences frequent rainfall and thunderstorms, which can provide relief from the heat but may disrupt outdoor activities. Visitors can explore Barataria’s indoor attractions, such as museums and art galleries, or take a scenic drive along the Mississippi River Delta.
Recommended Activities:
- Visiting the Paul J. Rainey Wildlife Sanctuary
- Exploring the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program Visitor Center
- Sampling Cajun and Creole cuisine at local restaurants
September
September brings slightly cooler temperatures and decreasing rainfall to Barataria, with average highs around 84°F (29°C). The town experiences fewer thunderstorms, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The cooler weather also marks the beginning of the fall fishing season, with anglers targeting redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in Barataria Bay.
Recommended Activities:
- Hiking the Barataria Preserve trails
- Biking along the Mississippi River levee
- Fishing for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in Barataria Bay
October
October marks the transition to fall in Barataria, with temperatures cooling down to around 77°F (25°C). The town experiences drier weather and lower humidity levels, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and events. Visitors can explore Barataria’s scenic waterways on guided boat tours, go birdwatching in local marshes, or attend fall festivals celebrating Cajun and Creole culture.
Recommended Activities:
- Taking a guided swamp tour of Barataria Bayou
- Birdwatching at the Lafitte Nature Trail
- Attending the Louisiana Seafood Festival in New Orleans
November
November brings cool temperatures and occasional rainfall to Barataria, with average highs around 70°F (21°C). The town experiences lower humidity levels and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. Visitors can explore Barataria’s wetlands and bayous on guided eco-tours, go fishing for bass and catfish, or take a scenic drive along the Great River Road.
Recommended Activities:
- Taking an eco-tour of the Bayou des Familles
- Fishing for bass and catfish in the bayous
- Exploring the historic fishing village of Jean Lafitte
December
December in Barataria brings mild temperatures and occasional rainfall, with average highs reaching 64°F (18°C). While winter weather is rare, the town may experience cold fronts that bring cooler temperatures and breezy conditions. Visitors can explore Barataria’s wetlands and bayous on guided boat tours, go birdwatching, or enjoy traditional Cajun holiday celebrations.
Recommended Activities:
- Taking a guided boat tour of Barataria Bayou
- Birdwatching along the Bayou des Familles
- Sampling Cajun holiday dishes at local restaurants