Craving some sun and sand without leaving Austin? My family and I have lived in Austin for over 5 years and keep discovering new spots to cool off in the summer. "These beaches in Austin, Texas may be lakefront, but they bring all the vibes for swimming, relaxing, and waterfront fun right in the city. " In this post, I’ll share the beaches my family and I discovered in and around Austin—where Texas heat meets refreshing waterfront escapes.

Highlights:

  • Swim in the cool, spring-fed waters of Barton Springs Pool.
  • Relax on the shores of Emma Long Metropolitan Park.
  • Sunbathe at the sandy banks of Lake Pflugerville Park.
  • Kayak and paddleboard at Festival Beach on Lady Bird Lake.
  • Unwind at the laid-back shores of Secret Beach in Roy G. Guerrero Park.

Best Beaches in Austin, Texas:

Emma Long Park Beach - 25 minute drive from Austin

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Emma Long Park Beach - 25 minute drive from Austin - Swim in cool lake waters and grill beneath shady oak trees.                                    

West Lake Beach - 20 minutes  from Austin

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West Lake Beach - 20 minutes from Austin - Paddleboard across calm waves and relax on grassy shores with friends.                                    

Secret Beach - 15 minute drive

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Secret Beach - 15 minute drive - Discover Austin’s hidden shore and wade in peaceful, shallow river waters.                                    

Lake Pflugerville Beach - 30 minute drive

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Lake Pflugerville Beach - 30 minute drive - Kayak the wide lake and enjoy a sunny picnic along the shore.                                    

McKinney Falls State Park - 25 minute drive

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McKinney Falls State Park - 25 minute drive - Swim beneath waterfalls and hike scenic limestone trails through rugged terrain.                                    

Milton Reimers Ranch Park - 50 minute drive from Austin

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Milton Reimers Ranch Park - 50 minute drive from Austin - Rock climb high bluffs and cool off in the river below.                                    

Bob Wentz Park - 35 minute drive

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Bob Wentz Park - 35 minute drive - Windsurf across Lake Travis and sunbathe on the sandy shoreline.                                    

Barton Springs Pool - 10-minute drive from downtown Austin

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Barton Springs Pool - 10-minute drive from downtown Austin - Dive into chilly spring waters and relax under massive shade trees.                                    

Hippie Hollow Park - 35-minute drive

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Hippie Hollow Park - 35-minute drive - Swim freely in secluded coves and sunbathe in a clothing-optional zone.                                    

Pedernales Falls State Park -  1-hour drive from Austin

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Pedernales Falls State Park - 1-hour drive from Austin - Wade between rock slabs and hike along stunning river overlooks.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)