Looking for sun and sand without leaving the desert? I was too—and that’s how I stumbled on some of Arizona’s most unexpected lakeside escapes. You might not believe it at first, but beaches in Arizona really do exist. I’ve found clear waters, soft sandy shores, and desert views that make every visit feel like a mini getaway. If you're craving a refreshing swim or a peaceful afternoon in the sun, I’ve got a few favorites I think you’ll love.
Highlights:
- When I want a full beach day with swimming and picnics, I always head to Lake Havasu. You’ll find wide, sandy stretches and plenty of space to relax.
- If you're looking for a more urban vibe, I recommend Tempe Town Lake. I’ve enjoyed just kicking back by the waterfront and watching the city buzz around me.
- You’ll love the boating and fishing options at Lake Powell. I’ve spent entire weekends there—it’s a spot that really lets you slow down and soak it all in.
- For something family-friendly, Lake Pleasant has been a great go-to. I’ve taken kids there and always appreciated how easygoing the vibe is.
- And when I need to cool off with a view, I head to Patagonia Lake. You’ll find scenic shorelines and a peaceful pace that’s hard to beat.
Best Beaches in Arizona:
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Buckskin Mountain State Park -
Camp by the river and hike scenic trails on an easy summer trip.
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Cattail Cove State Park -
Swim in clear water and relax on sandy shores during a quick weekend getaway.
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Centennial Beach - just minutes from downtown Yuma -
Wade in the river and enjoy sunny views on an affordable family trip.
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Lake Havasu Beaches -
Play in the water and sunbathe on scenic shores during an exciting trip.
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Lake Havasu State Park -
Boat across sparkling water and explore nature trails on a fun couples getaway.
Dennis/stock.adobe.com
Patagonia Lake State Park -
Fish calm waters and enjoy birdwatching on a peaceful retirement escape.
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River Island State Park -
Launch a kayak and swim near rocky coves on a relaxing summer trip.
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Roper Lake State Park -
Soak in hot springs and camp lakeside on an unusual desert retreat.
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Wahweap Bay - 10 minutes from Page, AZ -
Admire red cliffs and cruise scenic waters on an unforgettable fall trip.
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London Bridge Beach - just minutes from the London Bridge -
Walk along the channel and swim by the bridge on a popular kids outing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Does Arizona have beaches?
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Yes! Arizona has thousands of lakes with small, secluded sandy coves, while the entire stretch along the Colorado River between the two dams is one long beach Riviera.
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What makes Arizona’s beaches unique?
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Arizona beaches are mostly small, and many can only be accessed by boat, but they often offer a sense of privacy and seclusion rarely found on the sea coast.
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Where can you find beaches in Arizona?
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Most are part of urban parks like Gateway Park in Yuma or state parks like Buckskin Mountain Park or Cattail Cove State Park, offering a range of amenities for the whole family.
Best Time to Visit Beaches in Arizona
- May to September – Warm weather, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- June to August – Peak season with hot temperatures, ideal for cooling off in the water.
- April & October – Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and great for beach walks and relaxing.
- November to March – Cooler but peaceful, perfect for enjoying scenic lakeside views.
- Early May – Great for enjoying mild weather before the summer heat kicks in.
Map:
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)