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:
Buckskin Mountain State Park
I stood on the beach at Buckskin Mountain, where the Colorado River shimmered under red cliffs. It was calm that morning, not even a breeze. The sound of soft waves lapping at the rocky shore was the only thing that moved. I waded in, toes tingling from the cool, spring-fed water, and looked up at those jagged peaks — and I thought, “This is Arizona’s idea of a lakefront view.”
Afterward, I stopped at Sundance Saloon, just a short drive away, and ordered a grilled chicken sandwich. It smelled smoky and citrusy, and the pickle-crunch sealed it.
Cattail Cove State Park
The beach at Cattail Cove was nearly empty. A few paddleboarders floated in the distance, but mostly it was just me, the gentle slap of waves, and the smell of creosote from the surrounding desert. I laid on the sand and let time slow down.
Centennial Beach - just minutes from downtown Yuma
Centennial Beach surprised me. It’s part of Buckeye’s hidden greenbelt, and the lake’s shoreline had just enough shade and space to stretch out. A few families were grilling, kids were splashing, and I found a patch of quiet under a tree where I could read and watch dragonflies zigzag.
I grabbed a burger later from Haymaker Restaurant Co. nearby — peppery, juicy, with crispy edges, exactly what I needed.
Lake Havasu Beaches
Havasu isn’t shy. It’s where people bring their boats, their floaties, their dogs, and their beach chairs. I dipped into the water near Rotary Community Park, which had plenty of sand and space, then walked along the shoreline toward the bridge — yes, that London Bridge.
Lunch was a fish taco plate at Javelina Cantina. The tortillas were warm and slightly charred, the mango salsa bright enough to match the view.
Lake Havasu State Park
I went early and had the beach nearly to myself. The water was flat and silver in the morning light, and I walked along the shoreline with my coffee, barefoot in the sand. It felt like a secret moment before the city woke up.
Later, I stopped by The Brew Shack for a breakfast sandwich that smelled like toasted sourdough and sizzling bacon. It was wrapped in butcher paper and still warm when I opened it at a picnic table.
Patagonia Lake State Park
Patagonia Lake is tucked into southern Arizona and felt wildly different from the desert beaches up north. It had willow trees, birdsong, and actual grass near the water’s edge. I rented a kayak, paddled until my arms ached, then floated back to shore with the sun warming my face.
Lunch was at Gathering Grounds in Patagonia — a turkey and cranberry sandwich on thick wheat bread, sweet and savory, with the smell of fresh baked goods drifting through the café.
River Island State Park
It’s a small beach, but a lovely one — clear river water, rocky cliffs rising around it, and a cove that made me feel like I’d stumbled onto a movie set. I sat on a bench and watched the light bounce across the water.
Roper Lake State Park
This one had a different vibe. Roper Lake is fed in part by hot springs, so the water was warmer than I expected. I floated there for a long time, watching birds skim the surface. It felt healing — not just my muscles, but my mind.
I picked up food at Brick’s Café in Safford afterward — a panini with gooey mozzarella and fresh tomatoes, sharp basil scent in every bite.
Wahweap Bay - 10 minutes from Page, AZ
Wahweap Bay had the most cinematic backdrop of them all — part of Lake Powell, with towering rock formations and endless blue sky. I sat by the shore at sunset and thought, “This is what Mars would feel like if it had water.”
Dinner was from Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge in Page. I had a veggie roll and miso soup — light, fresh, and exactly enough.
London Bridge Beach - just minutes from the London Bridge
This beach had palm trees, playgrounds, and that odd but charming sight: the old London Bridge arching overhead. It was lively, especially around midday, but still easy to find a quiet corner by the water.
I had a chicken caesar wrap at Makai Café, just up the way — creamy, garlicky, and wrapped tight in a flour tortilla that flaked just right on the edges.
Beaches in Arizona: At a Glance
- Best for solitude: Cattail Cove, River Island
- Best for families: Centennial Beach, Lake Havasu State Park
- Most scenic: Wahweap Bay, Buckskin Mountain
- Hidden gems: Roper Lake, Patagonia Lake
- Closest to food: London Bridge Beach, Lake Havasu Beaches
- What to pack: Shade if you have it, lots of water, and snacks for the remote ones
Jump to a Spot...
- • Buckskin Mountain State Park
- • Cattail Cove State Park
- • Centennial Beach - just minutes from downtown Yuma
- • Lake Havasu Beaches
- • Lake Havasu State Park
- • Patagonia Lake State Park
- • River Island State Park
- • Roper Lake State Park
- • Wahweap Bay - 10 minutes from Page, AZ
- • London Bridge Beach - just minutes from the London Bridge