10 Best Beaches in the Twin Cities
The thing that Minnesota kids get to brag more than any other kid in the country is access to 10,000 lakes for swimming, boating, fishing, and more. In the Twin Cities alone we are within reach of more than 1000 lakes! How does one choose? We aren’t sure. But we have rounded up some of our favorites to give you a start. Here are our top 10 favorite beaches in the Twin Cities metro area.
Lake Nokomis Main Beach
5001 Lake Nokomis Parkway W, Minneapolis, MN
This has to be the best beach in Minneapolis. The main beach is huge with plenty of sand to lay a blanket, build a sandcastle, or play some volleyball. Parking is pretty easy whether you use a paid lot or free street parking. The swim area is huge and great for play as much as for lap swimming. You can bike or walk around the lake, rent those bike cars, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the deeper parts of the water. Plus, a new restaurant is opening up this summer, Painted Turtle, with promises of great food and beer. What more could you want?
Lake Harriet Southeast Beach
4740 Lake Harriet Parkway E, Minneapolis, MN
Maybe you know Lake Harriet for their bandshell and sailboats, but this tiny neighborhood beach is also worth a visit. Enjoy a dip in the pool before or after the other great features Lake Harriet has to offer.
Bde Maka Ska 32nd Street Beach
3200 E Bde Maka Ska Parkway, Minneapolis, MN
There are many great beaches around Bde Maka Ska, but this one is the best for its location, views, and access to fun. Parking is tricky around this lake, so it’s worth hanging out for a while to enjoy all its features. Maybe rent a kayak at Wheel Fun Rentals and travel under the bridge to Lake of the Isles!
Wirth Lake Beach
3200 Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
We can’t stop talking about all we love about Theodore Wirth Park, and on that list is its beach tucked in the middle of the park on Wirth Lake. The beach has a giant sand beach, sand volleyball courts, and a beautiful natural setting in the middle of the city.
Phalen Park Beach
1400 Phalen Drive, Saint Paul, MN
St. Paul has fewer beaches than its twin city, Minneapolis, and the most popular is the Phalen Park Beach on Lake Phalen. The beach is far enough from the parking area to feel cozy and also features a snack stand and a splash pad.
Snelling Lake Beach
101 Snelling Lake Road, St. Paul, MN
Sure, you’ve heard of Fort Snelling State Park for hiking, but have you visited the beach? Come check out the wide sandy swimming beach that runs along the lake. Bring a picnic for your group and enjoy the great picnic areas, large enough for a big gathering. Daily or annual park permit required.
Elm Creek Park Reserve Swim Pond
12420 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove MN
If you love the lake vibe but don’t like the mess, check out Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove. The water here is filtered and chlorinated, but you can still enjoy the sandy beaches you love at a traditional lake beach.
Lake Elmo Park Reserve Swim Pond
1515 Keats Avenue N, Lake Elmo, MN
Another great pool/pond hybrid swimming choice can be found at Lake Elmo Park Reserve. The lake here goes out to 6 feet and is sure to entertain all ages in your family. $7 entrance fee for every vehicle.
Schulze Lake Beach
Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan is your destination for an entire day of summer fun. Start with a swim at the large sand beach of Schulze Lake, try out a kayak rental, and then finish the day drying off on a hike on one of the many trails.
Address: 860 Cliff Road, Eagan, MN
Square Lake Park
15450 Square Lake Trail N., Stillwater, MN
If you are looking for perfectly clean and clear water, then look no further than Square Lake Park in Stillwater. It’s a lesser-known beach and swim area, but those in the know say it’s the best-kept secret.
