Things to Do in Houma in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Houma

29°C (84°F) High Temp
21°C (70°F) Low Temp
89 mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

  • Prime crawfish season begins - April marks the start of peak Louisiana crawfish harvest with prices dropping 30-40% from March as supply increases
  • Perfect weather for outdoor activities with comfortable 21-29°C (70-84°F) temperatures and moderate humidity before summer heat arrives
  • Festival season kicks off with local music festivals and outdoor events taking advantage of pleasant spring conditions
  • Ideal fishing conditions as water temperatures warm to 18-21°C (65-70°F), triggering active feeding patterns for redfish, speckled trout, and bass in the bayous

Considerations

  • Increased rainfall with 10 rainy days averaging 89mm (3.5 inches) - afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt outdoor plans 40% of days
  • Higher accommodation rates as spring break visitors and festival-goers drive up demand, with rates 20-35% above winter pricing
  • More crowded fishing spots and boat launches as fair weather brings out recreational anglers and weekend warriors

Best Activities in April

Bayou Swamp Tours

April's warming waters bring alligators out of winter dormancy, making wildlife spotting exceptional. Water levels are optimal after winter rains but before summer heat makes afternoon tours uncomfortable. Wildlife is most active during cooler morning hours 8-10am.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours 7-14 days ahead during April as demand increases with better weather. Tours typically cost $25-45 per person. Look for operators with covered boats for sudden afternoon showers. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Charter Fishing Expeditions

April water temperatures of 18-21°C (65-70°F) trigger feeding frenzies for redfish and speckled trout. Pre-frontal conditions common in April create excellent fishing windows. Cooler mornings mean comfortable 6-8 hour trips before afternoon heat.

Booking Tip: Charter rates range $800-1,500 for half-day trips (up to 6 people). Book 2-3 weeks ahead as captains fill up quickly in spring. Weather flexibility is crucial - operators offering rescheduling policies are worth premium pricing.

Crawfish Boil Experiences

Peak crawfish season begins in April with mudbugs at their largest and most flavorful. Local farms reach full production, driving prices down while quality peaks. Perfect weather for outdoor boils and learning traditional Cajun cooking techniques.

Booking Tip: Experience authentic boils at local farms or cooking classes ranging $35-75 per person. Weekend events book fastest. Many combine with live Cajun music. Check current cultural experiences in booking section below.

Historic Plantation Tours

April's moderate temperatures and blooming gardens create ideal touring conditions. Avoid summer's oppressive heat and humidity while exploring outdoor grounds and slave quarters. Morning tours 9-11am offer best lighting and comfort.

Booking Tip: Tours range $15-35 per person. Book directly with plantations or through tour operators offering transportation from Houma. Combined tours with swamp visits offer better value at $60-95 per person for full day.

Kayak Eco-Tours

Calm morning waters and active wildlife make April perfect for paddling. Water temperatures warm enough for accidental splashes but air cool enough to paddle comfortably. Migratory birds add to year-round wildlife viewing.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost $45-75 including equipment and guide. Book 10-14 days ahead as April's ideal conditions increase demand. Morning tours 8am-12pm avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Operators should provide waterproof bags for gear.

Cultural Heritage Centers

April's mild weather makes indoor-outdoor cultural sites comfortable to explore. Perfect backup activities for rainy afternoons. Seasonal exhibits often debut in spring, and garden areas are at their most beautiful.

Booking Tip: Admission typically $8-20 per adult. Many offer combination tickets with other regional attractions. Plan indoor activities for afternoon storms. Free parking and climate-controlled environments make them ideal rain-day options.

April Events & Festivals

Mid April

Houma Jazz & Blues Festival

Local and regional musicians perform across multiple outdoor stages, showcasing authentic Louisiana musical traditions. Food vendors serve fresh crawfish and regional specialties at peak season quality and value.

Early to Mid April

Crawfish Festival Season Launch

Multiple small community crawfish festivals begin throughout Terrebonne Parish, featuring mudbugs at their seasonal best, live music, and traditional boiling competitions. Authentic local experiences away from tourist crowds.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - April storms are brief but intense, lasting 20-45 minutes
Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable and clingy
SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with strong reflection off water
Waterproof phone case - essential for boat tours and sudden downpours
Closed-toe shoes for swamp tours - protects against insects and wet deck surfaces
Light layers for temperature swings - mornings can be 8°C (15°F) cooler than afternoons
Insect repellent with DEET - warming weather activates mosquitoes and no-see-ums
Quick-dry shorts/pants - wet weather and boat spray common on water activities
Polarized sunglasses - crucial for spotting wildlife and reducing water glare
Small waterproof daypack - protects electronics and snacks during outdoor activities

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early March - April marks the beginning of tourism season and rates jump significantly after spring break bookings are confirmed
Local crawfish prices drop dramatically mid-month when harvest peaks - wait until April 15th for best boil deals at restaurants, with prices falling from $8-9/lb to $5-6/lb
Afternoon thunderstorms typically hit between 2-5pm - schedule outdoor activities for morning hours and use rainy periods for indoor cultural sites or restaurant visits
Many fishing charters offer 'weather guarantee' policies in April due to frequent front passages - choose operators who reschedule rather than refund for better trip security

Avoid These Mistakes

Wearing cotton socks on swamp tours - they stay wet all day and cause blisters. Pack synthetic or wool socks instead
Scheduling afternoon outdoor activities without weather backup plans - 40% of April days have storms between 2-6pm
Assuming all crawfish are equal - early April mudbugs are smaller and pricier than mid-month harvest. Wait until April 15th for peak size and flavor at lowest prices

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