Is Holly Beach, Louisiana Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Holly Beach, Louisiana market research

Holly Beach, Louisiana Airbnb Investment Overview

$800–$2,500Typical monthly host earnings
8–15%Typical annual ROI
45–55%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

Potentially—Holly Beach, Louisiana combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a unique opportunity, largely driven by its appeal as a quiet coastal retreat and a destination for outdoor activities like fishing and birdwatching.
  • Current market conditions indicate a steady, albeit niche, tourism trend, particularly during peak seasons when visitors seek respite from urban environments.
  • While property values in Holly Beach may not experience the rapid appreciation seen in larger metropolitan areas.
  • The investment potential hinges on consistently attracting short-term renters, which can be sustained by marketing the area's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Local regulations, taxes, and potential natural disaster risks (given its coastal location) are crucial factors to consider when assessing overall profitability and long-term viability.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Holly Beach?

$800–$2,500 based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available vacation rental market data for coastal Louisiana communities, Airbnb properties in Holly Beach typically generate monthly revenues ranging from $800-$2,500 depending on property size, amenities.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June-August) when revenues can reach $3,000-$4,500 monthly.
  • Spring and fall shoulder seasons generally produce moderate earnings of $1,200-$2,000 monthly.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include property condition and amenities (pools, hot tubs, and waterfront access command premium rates), booking platform optimization, local fishing tournaments and events.
  • Properties closer to the beach and fishing access points typically outperform inland locations by 20-40%.
  • The market remains relatively seasonal with summer bookings often secured months in advance, while winter months require competitive pricing strategies to maintain occupancy levels above 30-40%.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Holly Beach

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–15%.

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-15% annually, with higher-end properties near the beach achieving up to 18% during peak seasons due to the area's popularity as a fishing and recreational destination along the Gulf Coast.
  • The average payback period ranges from 7-12 years, depending on initial investment and property management efficiency.
  • Compared to long-term rentals in the same market, which typically yield 6-9% ROI, short-term vacation rentals in Holly Beach outperform by approximately 3-6 percentage points.
  • Properties within 500 feet of the beach command premium nightly rates of $150-300 during summer months versus $80-120 for inland properties.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Holly Beach

Holly Beach, Louisiana averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Holly Beach, Louisiana, experiences average Airbnb occupancy rates of approximately 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations driven by its coastal location and recreational fishing opportunities.
  • Peak season occurs from May through September, when occupancy rates can reach 70-85%, particularly during summer months when families visit for beach activities and the area's renowned fishing tournaments.
  • Winter months see occupancy drop to 25-35% due to cooler weather and reduced tourist activity.
  • Spring and fall maintain moderate rates around 40-50% as fishing enthusiasts take advantage of optimal conditions.
  • These rates are generally lower than Louisiana's state average of approximately 60-65% and the national Airbnb average of 48-50%, primarily due to Holly Beach's remote location.
  • The area's vulnerability to hurricanes and seasonal weather patterns also contributes to more pronounced occupancy fluctuations compared to urban markets.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Holly Beach

The strongest opportunities balance visitor demand, nightly rates, and acquisition cost.

  • Holly Beach, Louisiana offers several promising neighborhoods for Airbnb investment, with the beachfront area being the most lucrative due to its direct Gulf of Mexico access.
  • The Constance Beach Road corridor provides excellent investment potential with its mix of established vacation homes and new construction opportunities.
  • The Holly Beach Marina district attracts serious anglers and boating enthusiasts willing to pay higher rates for convenient boat launch access.
  • The residential area along Highway 82 offers more affordable entry points for investors while still capturing overflow demand from beachfront properties.
  • The Peveto Beach Woods area provides unique eco-tourism opportunities near the bird sanctuary, attracting nature photographers and birdwatchers who value quiet.
  • Properties near the Holly Beach Fire Station and community center benefit from central location advantages and proximity to local amenities.
  • The eastern residential section toward Johnson Bayou offers emerging investment opportunities with lower competition and property costs while still maintaining reasonable proximity to beach access points and fishing areas.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Holly Beach

Yes, but only where zoning permits short-term rentals and every required license is current.

  • Holly Beach, Louisiana operates under Cameron Parish regulations for short-term rentals, requiring property owners to obtain a business license from the parish clerk's office and register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue for tax collection purposes.
  • Properties must comply with occupancy limits based on septic system capacity and bedroom count, typically allowing 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
  • There are no owner-occupancy requirements, allowing for full investment properties, and most residential areas permit short-term rentals as the community relies heavily on fishing and beach tourism.
  • The registration process involves submitting property details, proof of insurance, septic system compliance, and paying annual fees of approximately $100-200.
  • Properties must maintain adequate parking, proper waste management, and meet health department standards for water and sewage systems.
  • Recent changes have focused on stricter enforcement of septic system regulations and increased coordination with state tax authorities.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Holly Beach

Tax rates vary by jurisdiction; licensing, inspection, and insurance costs are additional.

  • Short-term rentals in Holly Beach, Louisiana are subject to several fees and taxes including Louisiana state sales tax of 4.45%, Cameron Parish sales tax of approximately 3-4%.
  • The Louisiana Tourism Promotion District may impose an additional 1-3% tourism tax depending on the specific location within the parish.
  • Property owners must obtain a Louisiana sales tax license which typically costs $25-50, and may need local business permits ranging from $50-150 annually.
  • Cameron Parish may require short-term rental registration fees of approximately $100-200 per year, and some areas require fire safety inspections costing $75-125.
  • Additionally, operators must collect and remit occupancy taxes quarterly, and may face penalties of 5-25% for late payments.
  • Total tax burden typically ranges from 12-15% of gross rental income, with initial setup costs of $200-400 and annual renewal fees of $150-350 depending on specific parish requirements and property classification.
Common questions

Holly Beach, Louisiana Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

To start an Airbnb in Holly Beach, Louisiana, begin by researching Cameron Parish regulations and Louisiana state requirements.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Cameron Parish Police Jury and Louisiana Department of Revenue to obtain necessary permits including a business license, sales tax permit, and any required short term rental permits, which may cost $50 to 200 annually.
  • Find property by working with local realtors like Coldwell Banker or Century 21 who specialize in coastal properties, focusing on elevated homes due to flood requirements, with typical beachfront properties ranging $200,000 to 500,000.
  • Furnish the property with hurricane resistant, coastal themed furniture from retailers like Ashley Furniture or local suppliers, ensuring all items can withstand humidity and potential storm damage, budgeting $15,000 to 30,000 for complete furnishing.
  • List your property on Airbnb, VRBO, and local platforms like Louisiana Travel, highlighting beach access, fishing opportunities, and proximity to Calcasieu Lake, with competitive rates of $150 to 300 per night depending on size and amenities.
  • Manage the property by establishing relationships with local cleaning services, maintenance contractors familiar with coastal properties, and consider property management companies like Vacasa or local firms.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

For identifying profitable short term rental properties in Holly Beach, Louisiana, focus on beachfront or near beach locations within walking distance of the Gulf of Mexico, as proximity to water drives highest occupancy rates in this coastal fishing village.

What to prioritize

  • Target properties with 2 to 4 bedrooms, outdoor spaces like decks or patios, boat parking or launch access, and fishing amenities since Holly Beach attracts primarily fishing enthusiasts and beach vacationers.
  • Pricing analysis should benchmark against similar Gulf Coast destinations like Grand Isle and Cameron, with peak rates during summer months (June August) and fishing seasons typically ranging $150 to 300 per night depending on size and amenities.
  • Competition research reveals limited STR inventory due to Holly Beach's small size, creating opportunities for well positioned properties, though Hurricane Laura (2020) and other recent storms have impacted the local housing stock.
  • Essential tools include AirDNA for market data, VRBO and Airbnb for competitor analysis, Cameron Parish property records for acquisition research, and local fishing guides/bait shops for understanding seasonal demand patterns.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Holly Beach, Louisiana, you must first contact the Cameron Parish Police Jury office at 337 to 775 5718 or visit their office at 10433 Marshall Street in Cameron, as Holly Beach falls under Cameron Parish jurisdiction.

Documents and approvals

  • Required documents typically include a completed short term rental application, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, certificate of occupancy, fire safety inspection certificate, general liability insurance policy (minimum $1 million coverage), floor plan showing maximum occupancy.
  • You'll need to schedule inspections with the parish building department and fire marshal, which usually costs an additional $100 to 150 in inspection fees.
  • The timeline is generally 4 to 6 weeks from application submission to permit approval, assuming all inspections pass and documentation is complete.
  • Specific Holly Beach requirements include adherence to coastal building codes due to hurricane zone designation, mandatory flood insurance documentation, parking requirements of at least two spaces per unit.
  • Annual permit renewal is required with a $100 to 150 renewal fee, and you must maintain current insurance and inspection certificates throughout the permit period.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

Short term rentals (STRs) are generally legal in Holly Beach, Louisiana, as the area falls under Cameron Parish jurisdiction, which has not implemented comprehensive STR bans like some other Louisiana parishes.

Core operating requirements

  • However, properties must comply with Louisiana state tax requirements including collecting and remitting state sales tax and local occupancy taxes where applicable.
  • Cameron Parish and the incorporated areas within it may require business licenses or permits for STR operations, and properties must meet basic safety and zoning requirements.
  • The area has seen increased STR activity following Hurricane Laura in 2020 and subsequent storms, as many properties were rebuilt or renovated for rental purposes.
  • While there are no specific prohibited zones for STRs in Holly Beach itself, operators should verify compliance with any flood zone regulations given the coastal location, and ensure proper insurance coverage.
  • Recent legal changes in Louisiana have focused more on tax collection enforcement in preference to outright restrictions, with the state requiring platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to collect taxes directly since around 2019 to 2020.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Holly Beach, Louisiana are primarily concentrated along the beachfront properties on Rutherford Beach Road and the adjacent coastal streets within a 2 mile radius of the main beach access points.

Areas to research

  • The oceanfront and near oceanfront properties between Mile Marker 1 and Mile Marker 5 offer the highest rental potential due to direct beach access, fishing opportunities, and proximity to the Holly Beach pier, attracting tourists year round for saltwater fishing, crabbing.
  • The area near the Holly Beach Marina and boat launch on the western end draws fishing enthusiasts and boaters, particularly during peak fishing seasons from March through November.
  • Properties within walking distance of local seafood restaurants and bait shops along Highway 82 provide convenience for guests and maintain steady occupancy rates.
  • The residential areas just inland from the immediate beachfront, particularly those with canal access or fishing ponds, offer more affordable investment opportunities while still attracting visitors interested in fishing and water activities.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Holly Beach, Louisiana

Airbnb properties in Holly Beach, Louisiana are subject to Louisiana state sales tax of 4.45% and local Cameron Parish sales tax, which typically ranges from 3 to 5% for short term rentals, resulting in a combined rate of approximately 7.45 to 9.45% on gross rental receipts.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The Louisiana Department of Revenue requires hosts to register for a sales tax permit and collect taxes from guests at the time of booking or check in.
  • Cameron Parish may impose additional occupancy taxes of 2 to 4% specifically on transient lodging, collected similarly to state taxes and remitted to the parish tax collector.
  • Airbnb can collect and remit these taxes on behalf of hosts through their platform in many Louisiana jurisdictions as of 2019, though hosts remain ultimately responsible for compliance.
  • Properties rented for 30 days or longer are typically exempt from occupancy taxes but may still be subject to regular sales tax, and certain exemptions may apply for government employees or long term medical stays, though documentation is required for such exemptions.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Holly Beach, Louisiana

The total cost to start an Airbnb in Holly Beach, Louisiana would be approximately $185,000 to $225,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase costs around $150,000 to $180,000 for a median beachfront or near beach property suitable for vacation rentals.
  • Furnishing costs including beds, linens, kitchen appliances, furniture, and beach themed decor would run $15,000 to $25,000 for a 2 to 3 bedroom property.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, welcome materials, and basic supplies total $2,000 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees including business license, short term rental permit, and tax registrations cost approximately $500 to $1,000.
  • Insurance including property, liability, and short term rental coverage runs $2,500 to $4,000 annually.
  • Utilities setup and deposits for electricity, water, internet, and cable cost around $1,000 to $1,500.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($600 to $900), cleaning supplies and services ($1,200 to $1,800), maintenance reserves ($1,500 to $2,500), marketing ($500 to $1,000).
Are Airbnb properties in Holly Beach, Louisiana profitable?

Airbnb properties in Holly Beach, Louisiana typically generate annual revenues of $15,000 to $35,000 for beachfront units and $8,000 to $18,000 for inland properties. Operating expenses generally consume 40 to 60% of gross revenue, including property management fees (15 to 25%), cleaning costs ($40 to 80 per turnover), utilities ($150 to 300 monthly), insurance ($2,000 to $4,000 annually for coastal properties), maintenance and repairs ($2,000 to $5,000 annually due to salt air and hurricane exposure).

Profitability indicators

  • Net profit margins typically range from 15 to 35% for well managed properties, with successful hosts like those operating 2 to 3 bedroom beach houses near Sabine Pass reporting annual profits of $8,000 to $15,000 per unit.
  • Success factors include strategic pricing during fishing tournaments and summer festivals, professional photography showcasing beach access, responsive guest communication, and partnerships with local fishing guides.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

Airbnb investments in Holly Beach, Louisiana typically generate annual ROI of 12 to 18% with cash on cash returns ranging from 8 to 14%, driven by the area's proximity to Gulf Coast beaches and fishing opportunities that attract seasonal tourists primarily from Texas and Louisiana metropolitan areas. Properties within 0.5 miles of the beach command premium rates of $150 to 250 per night during peak summer months (May September) and $80 to 120 during off season, with average occupancy rates of 65 to 75% annually.

Return planning figures

  • Initial investment recovery typically occurs within 6 to 8 years for properties purchased at $200,000 to 350,000, assuming 20 to 25% down payments and factoring in renovation costs of $15,000 to 30,000 to meet vacation rental standards.
  • The market benefits from limited hotel inventory and consistent demand from fishing tournaments, family beach vacations, and weekend getaways.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Holly Beach, Louisiana?

STRSearch is a national platform that helps investors identify profitable short term rental properties including in Holly Beach, Louisiana.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents in the area include Century 21 Bono Realty in Lake Charles (serving the Holly Beach market since 1995).
  • National services include Awning (founded 2017) which provides full service Airbnb property management and acquisition consulting.
  • Local property management companies like Gulf Coast Property Management (established 2008) and Cameron Parish Rentals (operating since 2012) offer services to help investors manage their Airbnb properties in the Holly Beach area.
  • Additional national platforms include BiggerPockets for investor networking and education, Roofstock for turnkey rental property purchases, and Vacasa for professional vacation rental management services.

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Success Rate
100% profitable track record
Data Accuracy
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
Service Scope
End-to-end STR investment support
Risk Mitigation
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Expert Network
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Success Rate
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Data Accuracy
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Service Scope
Partial services only
Risk Mitigation
No profitability screening
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Limited or no partner access
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