Best Lake Beaches in Alaska

Eagle Beach, located near Saint Terese, Alaska, is a unique and picturesque destination. It is known for its expansive beach area that extends almost half a mile at low tide, making it a prime feeding ground for wildlife, including bald eagles. The beach offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy well-maintained walking trails and the serene beauty of the nearby rivers.
The area is accessible by car, providing an easy escape from the city to enjoy nature. Eagle Beach is particularly famous during the salmon runs in mid to late summer, attracting a variety of wildlife.
It's a great place for outdoor activities like beachcombing and picnics, with small pavilions and fire pits available for use.

Christiansen Lake, nestled in Talkeetna, Alaska, offers a serene and picturesque escape. Located about 12 miles off the Talkeetna Spur Road, it provides a tranquil lakeside experience perfect for those seeking nature and relaxation. The area is known for its fishing and boating opportunities, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding landscape is dotted with residential areas, ensuring a mix of natural beauty and community charm.
The lake is part of a larger recreational area that includes other lakes and parks, such as Talkeetna Lakes Park, which offers non-motorized activities like skiing and hiking. Christiansen Lake itself is stocked with fish, attracting anglers from around the region.
The proximity to Talkeetna town allows visitors to enjoy local amenities while still experiencing the wilderness of Alaska.

Goose Lake is a serene and picturesque spot located in central Anchorage, near the University of Alaska Anchorage. It offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, with opportunities to observe wildlife like Pacific loons and Canada geese. The lake is also a popular swimming spot during the summer, featuring a large parking area, a play zone for kids, and forested walking trails nearby. Visitors can enjoy paddleboat rentals and a light meal from the Paddleboat Cafe on certain days. The surrounding area provides a mix of urban and natural environments, making it a unique destination for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

The lake's proximity to the university district and its integration into Anchorage's trail system make it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Despite being in the heart of the city, Goose Lake maintains a peaceful atmosphere, offering a chance to connect with nature without leaving urban amenities behind.

The area around Goose Lake is well-suited for family outings, with its sandy shoreline and supervised swim area, although swimming is currently restricted. It remains a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks, especially during warmer months.

Chena Lake Recreation Area is a 2,000-acre park located about 17 miles southeast of Fairbanks and three miles from North Pole, Alaska. The area features a 260-acre lake and four miles of the Chena River, offering diverse habitats for wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, fishing, and hiking amidst spruce, tamarack, and birch forests, open lands, marshes, and sloughs. The park includes developed facilities such as the Lake Park and River Park campgrounds, picnic areas, playgrounds, and boat launches. Chena Lake is stocked with Rainbow Trout, Silver Salmon, and Arctic Char, making it a popular spot for fishing. The area is also known for its wildlife, including ospreys, beavers, and moose, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

The park's unique features include the Moose Creek Dike, a seven-mile-long barrier that protects Fairbanks from flooding, and the Moose Creek Dam, which offers panoramic views and a fish-viewing overlook. During winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with cross-country ski trails and ice fishing opportunities.

Chena Lake Recreation Area is open year-round, providing a serene and adventurous experience for visitors in both summer and winter.

Juneau, Alaska, is a picturesque city nestled at the base of Mount Juneau and along the Gastineau Channel. While it does not have a traditional beach like those found in warmer climates, it offers stunning natural beauty with its surrounding mountains, glaciers, and waterways. The area is rich in wildlife and cultural heritage, with attractions like the Mendenhall Glacier and Eagle Beach State Park nearby. Juneau is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in exploring Alaska's unique landscapes.

The city itself is vibrant, with a mix of historical landmarks, cultural events, and modern amenities. It is known for its eclectic dining scene and lively bars, making it a great spot for both locals and tourists. However, due to its rugged terrain, Juneau is accessible only by air or sea, adding to its unique charm.

Juneau's scenic beauty and outdoor activities make it an ideal location for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From whale watching to glacier hiking, there are plenty of opportunities to engage with the natural environment.

Wasilla Lake is a picturesque lake located in Wasilla, Alaska, named after the nearby Wasilla Creek by workers constructing the Alaska Railroad. It is situated in a scenic area known as 'Lake Country,' which is renowned for its numerous lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The lake's shoreline is primarily private property, but it features Newcomb Park, a public area that offers access to the lake. Wasilla Lake is particularly noted for its stable population of rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The surrounding area provides a mix of rural tranquility and easy access to amenities in Wasilla and nearby Palmer.

Wasilla itself is a growing city with a rich history, having been a major supply center during the construction of the Alaska Railroad. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and offers a range of services, including restaurants and retail stores. The area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.

The Matanuska-Susitna Valley, where Wasilla is located, is known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.

Kenai Beach, located at the mouth of the Kenai River in Alaska, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The beach is known for its picturesque views, including stunning sunsets and the backdrop of the Aleutian Mountain Range. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring the rugged coastline. The beach is divided into North Beach and South Beach, each offering distinct experiences. During July, it becomes a hub for the personal use fishery, attracting many visitors for dip-net fishing. The area is also rich in wildlife, with frequent sightings of beluga whales, seals, and bald eagles.
The beach itself features a mix of sand and pebbles, making it an excellent spot for rock collecting. At low tide, the coastline expands, revealing more sand and rock pools. The nearby Kenai Beach Access Trail provides a scenic route to the beach, passing through a park and offering opportunities to spot moose.
Overall, Kenai Beach is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and local culture.