Best Beaches Near the Twin Cities for Families

You don’t have to travel to the ocean to enjoy an incredible beach day. Minnesota is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for a reason, and the Twin Cities are surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, paddleboarding, kayaking, picnicking, and soaking up the sunshine.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet lake to relax by, a beach with a fantastic playground, or a destination where teens can spend the afternoon paddleboarding with friends, there’s a perfect beach waiting just a short drive from Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Here’s our guide to some of the best family-friendly beaches near the Twin Cities.

1. Lake Nokomis Beach

Location: Minneapolis

Lake Nokomis is consistently one of the Twin Cities’ favorite family beaches.

Families love:

• Large sandy beach
• Lifeguards (seasonal)
• Paddleboard and kayak rentals
• Walking and biking trails
• Playground
• Picnic areas
• Restrooms
• Nearby concessions

The gradual shoreline makes it especially popular with younger children.

Best For: Families with kids of all ages

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2. Bde Maka Ska Beach

Location: Minneapolis

One of Minneapolis’ most iconic lakes, Bde Maka Ska offers plenty of space for everyone.

Activities include:

• Swimming
• Paddleboarding
• Sailing
• Kayaking
• Walking trails
• Beach volleyball
• Picnicking

Teens especially enjoy renting paddleboards or simply relaxing by the water with friends.

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3. Lake Harriet Beach

Location: Minneapolis

Lake Harriet combines a beautiful beach with one of the city’s most scenic parks.

Families can enjoy:

• Sandy beach
• Playground
• Walking trails
• Bandshell concerts
• Picnic areas
• Ice cream nearby

It’s easy to spend an entire day exploring the lake.

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4. Weaver Lake Beach

Location: Maple Grove

Weaver Lake is a favorite among local families because it offers much more than swimming.

Highlights include:

• Sandy beach
• Splash pad
• Modern playground
• Fishing pier
• Walking paths
• Picnic shelters
• Restrooms

Younger children especially enjoy moving between the beach and splash pad.

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5. French Regional Park Beach

Location: Plymouth

French Regional Park offers one of the cleanest and most relaxing beaches in the western Twin Cities.

Families love:

• Swimming beach
• Boat rentals
• Fishing pier
• Large playground
• Walking trails
• Shaded picnic areas

This is a wonderful choice for a slower-paced beach day.

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6. Cedar Lake East Beach

Location: Minneapolis

Sometimes called Minneapolis’ “hidden beach,” Cedar Lake provides a quieter atmosphere than some of the city’s larger lakes.

Families enjoy:

• Calm swimming
• Beautiful scenery
• Paddleboarding
• Walking trails
• Wildlife

It’s perfect for visitors looking to escape larger crowds.

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7. Lake Phalen Beach

Location: St. Paul

Lake Phalen Regional Park has become one of St. Paul’s premier family destinations.

Visitors enjoy:

• Sandy swimming beach
• Playground
• Golf course nearby
• Fishing
• Walking trails
• Picnic areas
• Watercraft rentals

There’s plenty to keep families entertained throughout the day.

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8. Bryant Lake Regional Park

Location: Eden Prairie

Bryant Lake combines beautiful scenery with excellent amenities.

Activities include:

• Swimming
• Paddleboarding
• Hiking
• Disc golf
• Playground
• Picnic shelters

It’s a fantastic destination for active families.

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9. Square Lake Park

Location: Stillwater

Known for its crystal-clear water, Square Lake is one of the cleanest swimming lakes near the Twin Cities.

Families can enjoy:

• Sandy beach
• Swimming
• Snorkeling
• Scuba diving
• Fishing
• Picnic areas

The exceptionally clear water makes this beach unique.

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10. Long Lake Regional Park

Location: New Brighton

Long Lake offers:

• Sandy beach
• Walking trails
• Playground
• Fishing
• Picnic shelters
• Calm swimming area

It’s a wonderful option for families with younger children.

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11. Cleary Lake Regional Park

Location: Prior Lake

This Scott County park offers a peaceful escape just south of the Twin Cities.

Families enjoy:

• Beach
• Paddleboard rentals
• Canoes
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Nature programs

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12. Elm Creek Park Reserve Swim Pond

Location: Maple Grove

Unlike a traditional lake beach, Elm Creek features a large chlorinated swim pond with soft sand and excellent water quality.

Families love:

• Sandy beach
• Playground
• Hiking trails
• Mountain biking
• Disc golf
• Picnic areas
• Nearby Eastman Nature Center

It’s especially popular with families who prefer calmer swimming conditions.

What to Bring

A little preparation helps make every beach day more enjoyable.

Don’t forget:

• Swimsuits
• Towels
• Sunscreen
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Sand toys
• Water shoes
• Beach umbrella
• Refillable water bottles
• Snacks or picnic lunch

A small wagon can also be helpful for transporting all your beach gear.

Beach Safety Tips

Wear Life Jackets

If your family plans to kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, properly fitted life jackets are essential.

Apply Sunscreen Often

Minnesota sunshine can be stronger than many people expect, especially when reflected off the water.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming.

Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially on hot summer days.

Watch Weather Conditions

Keep an eye on changing weather forecasts, and leave the water immediately if thunderstorms approach.

Turn Your Beach Day into a Full Adventure

Many of these beaches are located near parks, restaurants, trails, and attractions.

After swimming, consider:

• Renting bikes
• Hiking nearby trails
• Visiting a local ice cream shop
• Exploring downtown areas
• Having a family picnic
• Watching the sunset over the lake

Combining activities makes your day even more memorable.

Which Beach Is Best?

Best for Toddlers

• Lake Nokomis
• Weaver Lake
• Long Lake

Best for Teens

• Bde Maka Ska
• Square Lake
• Bryant Lake

Best for Paddleboarding

• Bde Maka Ska
• Lake Nokomis
• Cleary Lake

Best Playground

• Weaver Lake
• French Regional Park
• Lake Harriet

Best Hidden Gem

• Cedar Lake East Beach

One of the greatest perks of living in Minnesota is having incredible beaches just minutes from home. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon in the sand, a full day of paddleboarding and swimming, or a family picnic with beautiful lake views, there’s no shortage of amazing places to enjoy the outdoors around the Twin Cities.

From the lively shores of Bde Maka Ska to the peaceful waters of Square Lake and the family-friendly swim pond at Elm Creek Park Reserve, each destination offers its own unique experience. No matter which beach you choose, you’ll find opportunities to slow down, enjoy the sunshine, and create lasting memories together.

So pack the sunscreen, load up the beach towels, and get ready to discover some of the best lakes Minnesota has to offer. Your next favorite summer tradition might be just a short drive away.