Best Beaches in Minneapolis

Lake Phalen Beach is a scenic spot located within Phalen Regional Park in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The park offers a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, and boating on Lake Phalen, which is part of a chain of lakes. The beach area is complemented by amenities like picnic tables, barbecue grills, and sports facilities such as a golf course and volleyball courts. The park's natural setting and diverse recreational options make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

The surrounding area provides a mix of urban and natural environments, with nearby neighborhoods offering a range of dining and shopping experiences. The park's accessibility and diverse activities ensure it remains a vibrant community hub.

Phalen Regional Park is also known for hosting various events throughout the year, including cultural festivals and sports competitions, which add to its appeal as a community gathering place.

Lake Nokomis Main Beach is a vibrant and popular destination in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offering a serene blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Located in the southern part of the city, it is part of the Chain of Lakes and features a long stretch of fine white sand, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics. The beach is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, enhancing safety for families. The surrounding park offers additional attractions such as hiking trails and a playground, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
The lake itself is historically significant, having been transformed from marshland into a navigable lake through extensive dredging. It is named after Nokomis, the grandmother of Hiawatha, reflecting its cultural and historical importance. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and sailing, thanks to its well-developed infrastructure. The nearby Minnehaha Falls and several hiking trails add to the allure of this scenic area.
Lake Nokomis Main Beach is also known for its environmental efforts, with native vegetation restoration projects along its shores. This blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination in Minneapolis.

Bde Maka Ska, formerly known as Lake Calhoun, is the largest lake in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and a key part of the city's Chain of Lakes. It is surrounded by city park land and offers a 3.4-mile bike trail and a 3.2-mile pedestrian trail, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities like biking, walking, and kayaking. The lake features three beaches: North Beach, 32nd Beach, and Thomas Beach. It is also home to sailing clubs and hosts various local sailing teams. The area around the lake includes several parks, picnic areas, and volleyball courts, providing a vibrant recreational space for both locals and visitors.

The lake's history is rich, having been the site of a Dakota agricultural village and later a mission station where the first alphabet for the Dakota language was created. Today, it remains a beloved spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, watch the sunset, or participate in water sports like canoeing and windsurfing. The nearby Calhoun Beach Club Residences offer additional amenities and views of the lake.

Afton State Park, located in Minnesota, offers a serene and natural escape along the St. Croix River. The park features a swimming beach in a shallow, calm section of the river, marked with buoys during the summer. It is surrounded by rolling glacial moraines and blufflands, providing stunning views and diverse wildlife habitats. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing on its extensive trails. The park also includes a visitor center and offers camping options, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
The park's unique landscape supports a variety of flora and fauna, including remnant prairies and wooded river valleys. Its proximity to St. Paul makes it an accessible getaway for both locals and tourists. The swimming beach is a highlight, offering a peaceful spot for relaxation and water activities.
Afton State Park is named after the River Afton in Scotland, reflecting the area's historical and cultural ties. It is a place where nature lovers can connect with the outdoors while appreciating the region's rich history.

Square Lake Park, located in Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota, is a picturesque destination known for its pristine waters and diverse recreational activities. The park features a 950-foot sand beach, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing during the warmer months. It also offers a fishing pier and a motorized boat launch, catering to both casual and serious anglers. The park's clear waters attract scuba divers from across the region, adding to its allure. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for family outings and nature enthusiasts alike.
Square Lake Park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, providing ample time for visitors to explore its natural beauty. The park's commitment to eco-friendly practices ensures that its natural resources are preserved for future generations.
The park's proximity to Stillwater and other local attractions makes it a convenient day-trip destination for those exploring the St. Croix River Valley.

Lake Harriet North Beach is a picturesque destination in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offering a serene escape amidst the city. The beach stretches for about 500 feet and features fine, golden sand, making it perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. It is part of Minneapolis' Chain of Lakes, providing a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. The surrounding parkland includes attractions such as the Lake Harriet Bandshell, which hosts concerts during the summer, and the Lake Harriet Rose Garden, a tranquil spot for picnics.
The beach is a popular spot for family outings, with amenities like picnic tables and grills available. However, it does not have lifeguards on duty, and dogs are not allowed. Visitors can enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks display here, adding to its festive charm.
The area also offers a variety of hiking trails, including the Lake Harriet Loop Trail, which connects to other lakes and parks, making it a great spot for nature lovers and those seeking active adventures.