Best Beaches in Idaho

Lake Cascade State Park, located in Cascade, Idaho, offers a serene and picturesque getaway amidst the natural beauty of Central Idaho. The park spans 500 acres and features the stunning Lake Cascade, Idaho's fourth-largest lake, with 27,000 acres of water perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Surrounded by the Boise National Forest and the Idaho Mountains, it provides a diverse range of outdoor activities year-round, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy the scenic trails, such as the Crown Point Trail, or explore the park's many day-use areas and campgrounds.

The park is open year-round, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. With its diverse wildlife, including eagles, deer, and elk, Lake Cascade State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park's proximity to Cascade, Idaho, makes it easily accessible for those looking to explore both the natural and local attractions.

Admission to the park is $5 per vehicle, making it an affordable destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Sandpoint City Beach is a vibrant and picturesque destination located in the heart of Sandpoint, Idaho. It offers a stunning 22-acre park with 6 acres of sandy beach, grassy lawns, and a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, tennis, volleyball, and picnicking amidst breathtaking views of Lake Pend Oreille. The beach is just a short walk from downtown Sandpoint, making it easily accessible to shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The area is also home to two marinas, Sandpoint Marina and The Windbag, which cater to sailors and windsurfers alike.
The park's rich history dates back to 1922 when it was donated by the Northern Pacific Railroad. Over the years, it has been developed through volunteer efforts and public funding, becoming a central hub for community events like the Lion’s Club 4th of July Fireworks. During winter, the beach transforms into an informal sledding hill, adding to its year-round appeal.
Sandpoint City Beach is open from 7 AM to 11 PM, offering ample opportunities for both daytime and evening activities.

Eagle Island State Park is a scenic public recreation area located on the southwest outskirts of Eagle, Idaho. Spanning 545 acres, it is nestled between the north and south channels of the Boise River. The park offers a unique beach setting, which is not typical for its inland location, featuring a man-made lake with sandy shores. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, volleyball, and fishing, making it a versatile destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park also provides a snow tubing hill during winter months and offers equestrian and hiking trails, disc golf, and bird watching opportunities. Its history dates back to being a penitentiary farm before becoming a state park in 1983.

The park's atmosphere is family-friendly, with amenities like restrooms and picnic shelters. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash and not in the water. The park's proximity to Boise makes it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway for those seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty.

Eagle Island State Park is a hidden gem in Idaho, offering a mix of recreational activities and serene natural landscapes, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the region's outdoor attractions.

Bear Lake State Park, nestled on the Idaho-Utah border, is renowned for its stunning turquoise-blue waters, earning it the nickname 'Caribbean of the Rockies.' Located in Saint Charles, Idaho, the park offers a picturesque landscape with diverse sand colors and a backdrop of majestic mountains. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The park's North Beach is particularly popular, offering a two-mile stretch of beach perfect for family outings and water sports.
The area is rich in natural beauty, with activities like boating and jet-skiing available. However, it's important to note that dogs are not allowed on the beach, and there are no camping facilities within the park itself.
Visitors can enjoy the serene environment and engage in various water activities, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Priest Lake State Park, located in Coolin, Idaho, is a serene and picturesque destination nestled in the scenic beauty of the Idaho Panhandle. The park is part of the larger Priest Lake area, which boasts 23,000 surface acres and nearly 80 miles of shoreline, making it ideal for water sports and outdoor activities. The park itself is divided into three units: Indian Creek, Lionhead, and Dickensheet, each offering unique experiences such as camping, boating, and hiking. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the Selkirk Mountains, providing breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.
The park is known for its pristine beaches, especially at the Indian Creek and Lionhead units, where visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The area is also rich in history, with remnants of old logging camps and movie studios from the early 20th century.
Priest Lake State Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, offering a wide range of recreational activities and stunning natural beauty.

Bank Beach, located in Pounta, Western Greece, is a scenic destination known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. However, specific details about this beach are limited, and it seems there might be confusion with another location, Pounta Beach in Laconia, which is famous for its fine sand, pebbles, and crystal-clear green waters. Pounta Beach in Laconia offers breathtaking views of Elafonisos and the submerged city of Pavlopetri, making it a hidden gem. The area is adorned with dunes and cedar trees, and the shallow waters are ideal for families with children.

Visitors can enjoy the expansive sandy beach that stretches about 7 kilometers from Pounta to Neapolis. The beach is perfect for swimming when the wind blows from the north. Additionally, the nearby wetland and canal connecting the lake to the sea offer a unique exploration opportunity.

For those interested in water sports, the area around Hamokelo is known for strong currents and waves, making it a favorite spot for enthusiasts.

Redfish Point Beach, located in Gulf Breeze, Florida, offers a serene and picturesque setting with its white sand and tranquil Gulf views. The area is perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach experience, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the local wildlife. The beach is surrounded by a variety of dining options and accommodations, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The nearby city of Gulf Breeze provides additional amenities and attractions, including parks and water sports facilities. The beach's proximity to Pensacola Beach also allows visitors to explore a broader range of activities and cultural experiences.
Overall, Redfish Point Beach is a charming destination that combines natural beauty with convenient access to local amenities.

Pettit Lake is nestled in the picturesque heart of Sawtooth City, Idaho, offering a serene natural environment with fine, light-colored sand along its shoreline. The lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and picnicking. It's surrounded by the majestic Sawtooth National Forest, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. The area offers camping facilities and various amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable visit for travelers.
The tranquility of Pettit Lake, combined with its scenic beauty and diverse activities, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking both tranquility and outdoor excitement.
With nearby trails leading into the Sawtooth Wilderness, visitors can also explore vast hiking paths and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Lake Lowell Park, located in Nampa, Idaho, is a serene oasis that combines natural beauty with recreational activities. Spanning over 1,500 acres, the park features a picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, making it ideal for picnics, hiking, and bird watching. Visitors can enjoy various trails, picnic areas, and amenities like BBQ grills and restrooms. The park is also home to numerous bird species, including migratory birds, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers throughout the year.
The park is bordered by the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, which adds to its natural charm and provides opportunities for wildlife observation. Lake Lowell Park offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, there's something for everyone at Lake Lowell Park.