12 Best Beaches in Minnesota to Visit
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Written by Kyle Kroeger
Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes. You’ll love being around the water if you are fond of it. Many hobbyists flock to the lakes throughout the state to partake in fishing, kayaking, and some much-needed relaxation.
Apart from the Twin Cities, Minnesota is also known for its beautiful sandy beaches along the scenic North Shore. Minnesota may not be the first place you think of when discussing the best beaches, but some waterside locales are well worth visiting.
In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the top beaches in Minnesota because that’s the best way to enjoy the summer like a true Minnesotan.
We’ve also included some important details about each beach so you know what to expect once you’re there. Read on and find out more about the best beaches in Minnesota!
Best Minnesota Beaches to Visit
1. Afton State Park Beach
Let’s look at Afton State Park to get things started. It’s found along the eastern side of Minnesota in Washington County and is a fun exploring location.
Before getting to the beach, you can check out the visitor center. Many visitors head there if they want to have a meal before heading out to visit the rest of the park.
Sprawling trails crisscross this wonderful park beach. Bridges are in place to connect the trails, so feel free to check out the locations that catch your eye. You can also hike to the overlook and take in the majesty of your surroundings.
Upon finally arriving at the beach, jump in and go for a swim! The water is typically shallow and calm. It’s a safe spot for your kids and a picnic area nearby so you can keep an eye on them.
You can also rent a boat to explore the waters better, but that’s all you’re getting regarding rental options. There are also campgrounds in Afton State Park. Stay over for the night if you want to make the most of your vacation.
See Related: Best Museums in Minnesota
2. Bear Head Lake State Park
Bear Head Lake State Park can be found in Saint Louis County, and it’s also pretty close to the Boundary Waters region. Simply put, Bear Head Lake State Park features one of the most breathtaking beaches in the entire country.
This beautiful state park beach offers stunning views of the sunset or sunrise and the verdant trees in the park. The beauty of the surrounding area will keep you coming back.
Bear Head Lake State Park offers more than just beautiful scenery, though. Rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard to explore the area better. When it comes to campsites, you have a few options to choose from. You can set up a tent and use one of the campsites in the park.
Alternatively, you can rent the camper cabin and enjoy a more luxurious vacation there. It’s like your own personal hotel located deep in the wilderness of Minnesota.
See Related: Things to Do in Minnetonka, Minnesota
3. Big Bog State Recreation Area
Big Bog State Recreation Area is another of the nicer beaches in Minnesota. This area, found just north of Waskish, Minnesota, boasts a varied collection of attractions worth seeing and experiencing in person.
Let’s start with the beaches in the area. What we like so much about them is that they cater to visitors of all ages and skill levels. There are safe and shallow spots that are ideal for kids. For the more advanced swimmers, deeper areas allow you to walk into the water.
Ride the water after renting a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. That should allow you to experience the beach in a whole new way.
Big Bog State Recreation Area also offers different kinds of accommodations to guests. You and your family can use the available campgrounds or stay in one of the camper cabins.
The camper cabins provide electricity, fire pits, and vault toilets. If this is your first time camping with your family, you may want to rent one of the camper cabins.
See Related: Things to Do in Minneapolis, MN
4. Black Beach
Are you looking for black sand beaches in Minnesota? You won’t have a wide selection, but you can head over to the Black Beach on Minnesota’s North Shore, which is one of the best things to do in Minnesota.
Some pictures online showcase the Black Beach, but there’s nothing like seeing it in person. The black grains of sand on the shore create a scene that looks ripped out of a sci-fi movie. And yet, there you are, experiencing it in person.
The rocky terrain surrounding the Black Beach only adds to its unique charm. Stay safe if you decide to climb those rocky formations, though.
Although picnic tables are on the beach, you won’t find many amenities. Parking can also be troublesome because of the area’s size. Consider those factors before paying a visit to this black sandy beach.
See Related: Tettegouche State Park Travel Guide
5. Camden State Park
Camden State Park is one of the must-visit beaches in southern Minnesota. It all starts with the accommodations. As numerous options are available, you won’t have to contend with other guests over lodgings if you stay in Camden State Park for a while.
If you’re traveling with a large party, stay in the group campgrounds. You can relax there and enjoy a meal using the picnic tables provided.
The upper campgrounds in Camden State Park are suitable for those bringing an RV if you own one. Park your RV there, then head out to enjoy all that the beach has to offer.
If you and your family want to stay somewhere more comfortable, you can also stay in the enclosed shelter. The beach itself is accessible to all guests.
If you want to swim around more, head over to the spring-fed pool in the park. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are also available for fun along the water.
See Related: Best Parks in Minneapolis
6. Fort Snelling State Park
Located along the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers, Fort Snelling State Park features one of the top beaches in Minnesota. Get all your preparations out of the way as you prepare for a fun weekend in Fort Snelling State Park.
The beach that spans Snelling Lake is truly one of the most stunning you’ll find anywhere in the state. You also won’t have to wait for a spot on the shore to open up because this is an especially wide beach.
Also, note that Snelling Lake Beach is handicap-accessible. Lifeguards are also on standby to watch the folks having fun under the sun.
Fort Snelling State Park’s Picnic Island is where you and your family can go once you’ve had fun for the day. The shelters there are handicap-accessible, and they also feature electricity.
See Related: Best Parks in St. Paul, Minnesota
7. Glacial Lakes State Park
This list of the top beaches in Minnesota continues with Glacial Lakes State Park. You can find this place close to Starbuck; one of the best beach towns in Minnesota! We can discuss Starbuck some other time, though. For now, let’s focus on Glacial Lakes State Park.
The beach inside the park is not for beginners. It gets very deep in certain spots, and the drop-off is not always obvious. If you and your kids want to traverse the waters in Glacial Lakes State Park, consider renting a kayak or canoe instead.
Stand-up paddleboards are also available, but don’t use them without experience. Secure protection for yourself and your kids beforehand so you’re prepared no matter what happens.
The campgrounds in the park are well-maintained and handicap-accessible. You can also park your RV there if you brought it along for the trip. When it gets chilly at night, buy some firewood from the attendants and cozy up next to the fire.
See Related: Cascade River State Park Travel Guide
8. Hayes Lake State Park
You can find numerous lake beaches in Minnesota. Among the best in the North Star State is undoubtedly Hayes Lake State Park.
Situated in the northwestern portion of Minnesota, Hayes Lake State Park is one of the best-maintained natural locales anywhere in the state. That becomes evident immediately as you check out the fishing pier and boat access in the area.
The beach is also perfect for families paying a visit. There’s more than enough space on the sand for kids to play around and plenty of shallows. You can also rent a kayak or canoe and row with your children. That’s a great way to spend the day in Hayes Lake State Park.
See Related: Frontenac State Park Travel Guide
9. Itasca State Park
It’s time to take a trip to Itasca State Park next. Head to the park in your RV and get ready to have one of the most enjoyable outdoor weekends ever. There are so many reasons why this beach, located to the north of Park Rapids, Minnesota, is worth visiting.
Let’s start with the beach. Get into the water and relax as you absorb the beautiful scenery. A beach is also great for kids looking to let some energy loose.
If you want to explore, hop on a bike and ride through the trail through the park. You can also explore this place by hitching a ride on the tour boat.
Upscale accommodations are also available in Itasca State Park. Staying in the Douglas Lodge is an incredible experience in itself. Itasca State Park presents visitors with one of the top beaches in Minnesota and so much more. Plan a vacation there, and you certainly won’t regret it!
See Related: Best Museums in Minnesota
10. Lake Shetek State Park
It’s time to take a trip back to the southwestern region of Minnesota. We’re doing so this time to learn more about Lake Shetek State Park.
After visiting there, you may come to know Lake Shetek State Park, one of Minnesota’s best lake beaches. Lake Shetek State Park features multiple beaches. Visit the area if you cannot find a good spot along the sandy shore. There will likely be a less populated beach close by.
The locale above also presents visitors with multiple accommodation options. If you choose, you can splurge on a camping cabin or a private campsite. You can also check out the spacious group campsites to save money.
See Related: Best Van Camping Equipment
11. McCarthy Beach State Park
McCarthy Beach State Park has a special place in the hearts of many Minnesotans. It’s been considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Minnesota for decades. You’ll have a tough time finding people who grew up in Saint Louis County and haven’t been to McCarthy Beach.
The beach is an ideal hangout spot for families. The water is not too deep, so your kids can safely swim. Boats are also available to rent if you’re interested. You can also rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.
The campgrounds in McCarthy Beach State Park are quite large. Finding a suitable camping spot for your family is easy, and you don’t have to pay a premium.
See Related: Things to Do in Nisswa, Minnesota
12. Scenic State Park
Our last entry in this article detailing the must-visit beaches in Minnesota is located in Scenic State Park. Scenic State Park is not just a place to hang out during the summer. It’s also a location steeped in history. Pay a visit there and marvel at the ingenuity of the people who came before us, both native and European pioneers.
It’s also tough to develop a better name for Scenic State Park. Regardless of where you are in the park, you will have some stunning views.
Stay in one of the cabins available or set up your tent in one of Scenic State Park’s many camping areas. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are also available for those wanting to see more of the park.
Hop in your rental car now because you don’t want to miss that tourist hotspot. Now that you know more about the beaches in Minnesota, you should be able to pick out the right vacation spot for your family. There is no wrong option for you to choose.
See Related: Things to Do in Victoria, Minnesota
13. Carlos State Park Beach
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach in Carlos State Park, look no further than Carlos State Park Beach. This secluded beach is located just a short walk from the main parking area and offers stunning views of the ocean.
The sand at Lake Carlos State Park is clean and white, and the water is crystal clear. Plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, and several restaurants and bars are nearby.
14. Flandrau State Park Beach
If you’re looking for a beautiful and secluded beach to relax on, Flandrau State Park Beach is the perfect spot. Nestled in a quiet corner of the state park, the beach offers stunning views of the coastline.
Flandrau is also a great place to enjoy a variety of water sports, including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The hiking trails through the woods are worth exploring.
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