Best Beaches in Minnesota

Park Point Beach, located at the end of Minnesota Avenue in Duluth, Minnesota, is a popular summer destination known for its pristine sandy beach and diverse recreational activities. The beach is part of a narrow sandbar sandwiched between Lake Superior and the Superior Bay, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor fun. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sand volleyball, hiking trails, and bird watching, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. The area also features historic sites like the ruins of the Minnesota Point Light, adding to its charm.
The beach is well-equipped with amenities such as picnic tables, BBQ grills, and public restrooms, making it an ideal place for family outings and group gatherings. Lifeguards are present during the summer months to ensure safety. Additionally, the beach offers an accessible boat launch, allowing visitors to explore Lake Superior by water.
Park Point's scenic beauty and rich history make it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists, providing a serene escape from urban life while still being close to the city of Duluth.

Iona's Beach Scientific and Natural Area is a unique and picturesque destination located 16 miles north of Two Harbors in Minnesota. This beach is renowned for its stunning pink rhyolite stones that line the shores of Lake Superior, creating a breathtaking visual experience. The beach is part of a protected area, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beach walks, fishing, and photography opportunities, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking serene landscapes.
The area is named after Iona Lind, who once owned the Twin Points Resort, which formerly occupied the parking area. The beach is accessible via a short hike from the Twin Points Protected Access boat launch. The pink rhyolite stones, polished by waves into flat pebbles or 'shingles,' add to the beach's charm.
Iona's Beach offers a tranquil environment, perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with nature. However, visitors should be mindful of their footing due to the rocky terrain.

Black Beach, located in Silver Bay, Minnesota, is a unique gem on the North Shore of Lake Superior. It is renowned for its striking black sand, which is a result of taconite tailings from past mining activities. The beach offers a blend of geological wonders, historical intrigue, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination. Visitors can explore remnants of World War II military history and enjoy activities like agate hunting and wildlife watching. The surrounding landscape includes rugged cliffs and lush forests, creating a serene ambiance perfect for nature enthusiasts.
The beach's history is intertwined with the local mining industry, which once dumped taconite waste into the lake. However, after community efforts, the dumping ceased, and the beach has since become a popular spot for tourists. The area is also home to several state parks and landmarks like Tettegouche State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse.
Black Beach is not only a natural wonder but also a site for relaxation and adventure, offering stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and ATV trails.

Brighton Beach, also known as Kitchi Gammi, is a picturesque stony beach located on the shores of Lake Superior in Duluth, Minnesota. It is situated at the far east end of Duluth's Lake Walk, offering stunning views of the lake. The park features a picnic area with tables and BBQ grills, a pavilion, and a swing set, making it a popular spot for family outings and weddings. Visitors can enjoy swimming, rock hunting, and hiking along the nearby trails. The park's scenic beauty and amenities make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Lake Superior Circle Tour.

Brighton Beach Park was originally developed as a campground for auto tourists in 1922 but is no longer used for camping. Today, it serves as a public access point to Lake Superior, providing a serene environment for relaxation and recreation.

The area is also motorcycle-friendly, with nearby amenities and attractions that cater to a variety of interests.

Foster-Arend Park is a scenic retreat located in Rochester, Minnesota, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Situated along the tranquil banks of a river, the park features a lake with a beach and swimming area, including an inflatable water park. Visitors can enjoy fishing, sand volleyball, horseshoes, and explore both paved and unpaved trails. The park also includes a playground and open play fields, making it an ideal spot for families. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, Foster-Arend Park is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and recreation.

One of the park's unique attractions is its accessible path from the bathhouse to the water, along with a Water Buggy for individuals with mobility challenges. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the water activities. The park operates daily from 9 AM to 10 PM, providing ample time for visitors to explore its many amenities.

For those looking to unwind, the park's serene environment and scenic landscapes make it a peaceful haven, especially during sunrise or sunset. Whether you're interested in leisurely strolls, picnics, or more adventurous activities like the aquatic bounce park, Foster-Arend Park caters to everyone's needs.

Hayes Lake State Park, located in Roseau County, Minnesota, offers a serene and secluded getaway amidst the transition from farmland to wilderness. The park is centered around Hayes Lake, a 190-acre lake with a maximum depth of 28 feet, and the north fork of the Roseau River. It provides a habitat for diverse wildlife such as loons, moose, beavers, and black bears. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and canoeing, with over 200 bird species to spot for birdwatchers. The park's scenic trails connect with the Beltrami Island State Forest, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

The park's history dates back to the early 1900s when the first homestead was established. It officially became a state park in 1967, named after A.F. Hayes, an early settler who advocated for the creation of the lake. Today, Hayes Lake State Park is a popular destination for those seeking outdoor recreation and tranquility.

The park's unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes it an ideal spot for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

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.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, about 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors, Minnesota. The park is renowned for its picturesque Split Rock Lighthouse, which was built in 1910 following a devastating storm that damaged 29 ships in 1905. The lighthouse stands atop a 130-foot cliff, offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior. The park covers over 2,000 acres and features cobblestone beaches, hiking trails, and a unique cart-in campground. Visitors can enjoy educational tours of the lighthouse and its adjacent buildings, operated by the Minnesota Historical Society.

The park's natural beauty includes several prominent headlands along the shoreline, offering scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cross-country skiing, and fishing. The annual visitation of 150,000 makes it a must-see destination on the North Shore.

The area around the park, including nearby Beaver Bay, offers a mix of historical sites and modern amenities, making it an ideal location for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

McCarthy Beach State Park, located in Side Lake, Minnesota, is renowned for its stunning 2,300-foot sandy beach along the Sturgeon Lake chain. The park offers a serene environment with golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and beach activities like volleyball. It is surrounded by red pine trees and features crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and boating. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and birdwatching, with access to a nature center for educational programs. The park is home to diverse wildlife such as bald eagles and black bears.
The scenic beauty of the park is enhanced by the Northern Lights during winter, making it a year-round destination. With its proximity to Hibbing, about 30 minutes away, McCarthy Beach State Park is easily accessible for those seeking outdoor adventures.
The park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a popular spot for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Agate Beach, located near Castle Danger, Minnesota, is a scenic spot known for its unique geological features and proximity to Lake Superior. The beach is part of the larger Gooseberry Falls State Park area, though it is not directly within the park. It offers a serene environment with opportunities to hunt for Lake Superior Agates, which are prized for their beauty and historical significance. The beach's landscape is dynamic, changing with the seasons due to the flow of the nearby river and lake waves. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of this North Shore location.

One of the most appealing aspects of Agate Beach is its connection to the rich geological history of the region. The area is surrounded by ancient rock formations and offers stunning views of Lake Superior. While it is not as well-known as some other spots in the area, Agate Beach provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking to explore nature and enjoy the beauty of the North Shore.

The beach's accessibility and proximity to other attractions like lighthouses and hiking trails make it an ideal stop for travelers exploring the region.

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 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.

The Beach at Pinehurst Park, located in Cloquet, Minnesota, offers a unique sand-bottom swimming experience that feels like a lake without the weeds or fish. Opened in 2010, it has become a summer favorite for families and individuals alike. The beach features a zero-entry area perfect for young children, swim lanes for exercise, and a six-foot center depth, catering to swimmers of all levels. Lifeguards are always on duty, ensuring safety, and the facility follows American Red Cross guidelines. Visitors can enjoy amenities like changing rooms, kiddie slides, a sand volleyball court, and shaded picnic areas. The beach operates on a 'pack in, pack out' model to maintain cleanliness.

The Beach at Pinehurst Park is not just a swimming spot but a community space that promotes outdoor fun and inclusivity. It offers daily, group, and seasonal passes, making it an accessible option for everyone. The beach also partners with local organizations to provide water safety education and free swimming lessons to low-income families.

Whether you're looking to swim, play volleyball, or simply relax by the water, this summer spot offers something for everyone. Its proximity to Highway 33 makes it easily accessible for both locals and travelers passing through the area.

Zippel Bay State Park, located on the shores of Lake of the Woods in Minnesota, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The park features three miles of white sand beach and ocean-like waves, creating an ideal setting for swimming and water sports. It is surrounded by a diverse ecosystem, including jack pine, birch, and quaking aspen trees, which attract a variety of wildlife such as western moose and eastern black bears. The park is open year-round, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of Lake of the Woods, which is one of the largest lakes in North America.

The park's facilities include a swimming beach, picnic areas, a marina, and a fishing pier. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, with species like sandhill cranes and piping plovers being notable attractions. In the winter, the lake transforms into a bustling hub for ice fishing and snowmobiling, with numerous fish houses dotting the frozen landscape.

Zippel Bay State Park is a haven for those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility amidst nature's splendor.

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.

Minnesota Point Harbor Beach, located in Duluth, Minnesota, is a serene and picturesque destination. It is part of the larger Park Point area, which offers a sandy beach along Lake Superior. The beach is known for its gentle sand, making it a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. The surrounding area, Minnesota Point, is a long sand dune between Lake Superior and Duluth Harbor, providing a unique landscape of dense hardwood-pine forests and sand dune habitats. This area is ideal for birdwatching, with species like common terns and peregrine falcons occasionally spotted. The beach season may be brief, but the point remains a laid-back spot to visit any time of the year.

One of the main attractions of Park Point is its accessibility via the Aerial Lift Bridge, which connects it to the rest of Duluth. The area offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking trails, sand volleyball courts, and water sports. The Park Point Recreation Area is undergoing planning to enhance its amenities and environmental resilience, ensuring it remains a beloved community space.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of Lake Superior while engaging in outdoor activities or simply relaxing on the beach. The nearby city of Duluth provides additional attractions, such as the Canal Park area, which offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

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.

Shady Oak Beach is a picturesque 85-acre recreational area located in Minnetonka, Minnesota. It features a 76-foot sandy beach shoreline along a clear spring-fed lake, making it an ideal spot for swimming and water activities. The beach offers a variety of amenities, including a high dive, sand volleyball court, and picnic shelters. It is operated by the Minnetonka Recreation Department and requires an entrance fee for access to its facilities. The surrounding area is rich with attractions like the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and the Minnetonka Center for the Arts, providing a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

The beach is well-suited for family outings, with options for canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. Lifeguards are on duty during operating hours, ensuring safety for beachgoers. Additionally, the beach hosts birthday parties and offers special packages for events. While pets are not allowed on the beach itself, they can accompany families on nearby trails.

Shady Oak Beach is a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy outdoor activities in a scenic setting.

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.