Best Colorado Beaches

Guffey Gorge, also known as Paradise Cove, is a scenic swimming hole and cliff diving spot located in Park County, Colorado. It is situated about ten miles east of Guffey, near the small town of Florissant. The area is known for its natural beauty, featuring a secluded cove surrounded by 85-foot rock walls and a small waterfall. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, hiking, and cliff jumping, though the latter is considered risky and should be done with caution. The site is popular during summer months, attracting up to 1,000 visitors on hot days. A $6 per vehicle day-use fee applies from mid-May to mid-September.

Guffey Gorge offers a short but sometimes steep half-mile hike to the swimming hole. The trail is well-marked and includes stream crossings and scenic views of wildflowers. The area is open from dawn to dusk and has strict regulations to maintain its natural environment, including no alcohol, no overnight camping, and a 'Leave No Trace' policy.

The gorge's proximity to Cripple Creek and the Royal Gorge makes it an attractive stop for those exploring the region's historic and natural attractions.

Scuba Beach at Aurora Reservoir is a unique spot for scuba diving enthusiasts, located in Aurora, Colorado. The reservoir offers a dedicated scuba diving area that is open daily from dawn to dusk, with no night diving allowed. It's a popular spot for scuba certification dives and open water swim training. The area is marked off by buoys and provides an ADA accessible path into the water. The reservoir itself offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The surrounding area provides beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains and offers a serene escape from urban life. Visitors can enjoy the eight-mile trail around the reservoir for biking and walking, and there are picnic areas and restrooms available.
The reservoir is open year-round, with seasonal activities like fishing and swimming available. It's a must-visit for those looking to explore Colorado's natural beauty and engage in water sports.

Prospect Lake Beach is nestled within Memorial Park in Colorado Springs, offering a scenic backdrop with Pikes Peak. The area has been a recreational hub since the late 1890s, evolving from a water source to a vibrant spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The historic Eni R. Jaspersen Beach House has been renovated to include modern amenities like indoor and outdoor learning spaces, a rentable great room, and accessible beach access. The beach area is managed by the YMCA, providing seasonal swimming opportunities. Visitors can enjoy walking promenades, free training tools, and a lively atmosphere with nearby restaurants and attractions.

The lake itself is part of a 194-acre park, featuring a 1.25-mile trail around it. Prospect Lake has hosted various water sports competitions and remains a popular spot for outdoor activities. The surrounding area offers a mix of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it a central recreational spot in Colorado Springs.

The beach area is well-integrated with the community, offering spaces for events and activities that cater to both locals and tourists. With its rich history and modern facilities, Prospect Lake Beach continues to be a beloved destination for those seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation.

John Martin Reservoir State Park, located in Hasty, Colorado, is a vibrant oasis in the high plains of southeastern Colorado. It offers a diverse range of activities such as boating, fishing, birding, and hiking. The park is close to historical sites like Bent’s Old Fort and the Sand Creek Massacre, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The reservoir itself is a major water sports haven, with opportunities for motorboating, water skiing, and sailboarding. The nearby Lake Hasty provides a quieter setting with electric and non-motorized vessels allowed, and it's stocked with trout for fishing enthusiasts.

The park's scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, including over 370 species of birds, make it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can enjoy camping at one of the two campgrounds, which offer basic and electric hookup sites. The park is open year-round, providing a unique experience in every season.

John Martin Reservoir State Park is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control and irrigation, while Colorado Parks and Wildlife oversees recreational activities. This blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination in Colorado.

Grand Lake Town Beach is nestled in the scenic heart of Colorado, offering a picturesque retreat with its expansive shoreline set against a backdrop of lush landscapes. Known for its fine, golden sand, the beach serves as a haven for various activities including swimming, picnicking, and gentle strolls along the water's edge. It is a dog-friendly beach, making it an ideal location for families and pet owners alike. The beach is part of Grand Lake, Colorado's largest and deepest natural lake, which is surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park and offers a serene and breathtaking environment for relaxation and recreation.
The area is rich in cultural heritage, having been a special place for Native tribes like the Ute and Arapaho. Visitors can enjoy a blend of mountain and beach experiences, with amenities such as restrooms and parking available. However, it lacks specific accommodations for people with disabilities.
The beach is a popular spot during summer for swimming and water activities, while in winter, it transforms into a hub for ice skating and snowmobiling.

Boulder Reservoir, located in the northern part of Boulder, Colorado, is a multi-use water body that serves as a source for drinking water, irrigation, and recreation. It spans 700 acres with a shoreline of 4 miles and a maximum depth of 28 feet. The reservoir is surrounded by scenic views and offers a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a picturesque setting for picnics and sunbathing. The beach area features gentle sand and allows dogs, making it a pet-friendly destination.
Boulder Reservoir is part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project and receives most of its water from the Western Slope through the Alva B. Adams Tunnel and the Boulder Feeder Canal. The reservoir supplies about 20% of Boulder's drinking water and supports agricultural activities in the region.
The surrounding area is managed by the City of Boulder's Department of Parks and Recreation, offering amenities like restrooms and showers, making it a well-equipped destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Steamboat Lake State Park offers a serene getaway nestled at the base of Hahn's Peak in northwestern Colorado. The park is highlighted by its 1,053-surface-acre lake, providing ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The scenic backdrop of the Continental Divide and surrounding mountains makes it a picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy diverse activities, including hiking, camping, and exploring the nearby Routt National Forest.
The park's facilities include a full-service marina, boat ramps, and a sandy beach, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure. With a relatively uncrowded environment, it's perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat.
Hahn's Peak and Sand Mountain add to the area's natural beauty, creating a stunning view that complements the lake's tranquil atmosphere.

Cherry Creek State Park, located in Aurora, Colorado, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. The park is centered around an 880-acre reservoir, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. It is nestled in a natural prairie landscape with gentle rolling hills, perfect for hiking and biking. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and the Front Range mountains, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The park's amenities include a large off-leash dog area, a shooting range, and model airplane fields, catering to a wide range of interests. Camping facilities are also available, with 135 campsites spread across the park.
Cherry Creek State Park is a family-friendly destination, offering something for everyone, from water sports to educational programs and picnic areas.

Blue Mesa Reservoir, located in the Curecanti National Recreation Area near Sapinero, Colorado, is the largest body of water entirely within the state. It offers a diverse range of activities and breathtaking scenery. The reservoir was created by the construction of Blue Mesa Dam on the Gunnison River in 1965 and spans over 96 miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and camping amidst the stunning natural beauty of the area.

The reservoir is renowned for its fishing, particularly for lake trout and Kokanee salmon, making it a popular destination for anglers. The surrounding landscape provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, with scenic drives and hiking trails offering views of the rugged mountains and canyons.

Despite its rocky shoreline, Blue Mesa Reservoir offers some secluded beaches and coves, such as the Bay of Chickens and Dry Creek, where visitors can swim or simply enjoy the tranquility of the area.

Chatfield State Park Beach, located in Littleton, Colorado, offers a serene and scenic getaway. The park spans 3,895 acres and features a 1,355-acre lake, making it a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The seasonal swim beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, providing a refreshing summer destination. The park also offers extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, along with picnic areas and a full-service marina. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding foothills and the Platte River Valley. The park's family-friendly atmosphere and diverse recreational activities make it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Chatfield State Park is well-maintained, with clean facilities and a variety of amenities. It is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its natural beauty and accessibility. The park's proximity to Denver also makes it a convenient day-trip destination for those looking to escape the city.

The park's unique blend of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities creates a vibrant and engaging environment for all visitors.