Minnesota is known more for its ice-fishing than sun-drenched beaches, but for a few months each summer, locals and travelers alike can enjoy an abundance of beaches ranging from hidden gems on small lakes to the crashing waves of the world’s largest freshwater lake. So this summer take advantage of the warmth and check out one of our Top Five Minnesota Beaches.
Many Minnesotans are familiar with Duluth’s Canal Park where you can walk the pier and watch ships entering Duluth Harbor, but few venture across the famous Aerial Bridge to the tiny strip of land that separates the harbor from Lake Superior. If you do take the 4-mile drive out to Park Point you’ll be rewarded with one of the best non-coastal beaches in the country. This wide swath of sand stretches for miles and gives a true ocean feel, complete with crashing waves and a horizon that disappears in the distance. The water here is pretty cold but a trip to this iconic strip of land for a picnic, sunrise or a brisk swim is worth the extra drive.
Lake Bemidji State Park
Bemidji is of course the home of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. The famous statue of these mythical Minnesotans sits on the south side of Lake Bemidji. If you head a few more miles around the lake you’ll arrive at Lake Bemidji State Park which is the home of a fantastic beach. This wide, classic looking beach is close to camping, hiking, and a marina which provides a great home base for a day of family fun. If you’re heading up to the heart of Minnesota lake country this beach is worth a visit and don’t forget to stay long enough for a sunset over the lake.
Cedar Lake East Beach: Minneapolis
Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes offers many beaches, but one stands out from the rest. If you are looking for an easy spot to take the family for a couple hours you have many beaches to choose from, but if you’re looking for something a little more unique, this beach on the east side of Cedar Lake is the place to check out. Known by locals as “Hidden Beach” there was once a long wooded path that lead to a secluded peninsula where nudity and alcohol were the norm. The City has since stepped in to clean up the illegal activity but you’ll still find an eclectic mix of regulars, artists and families enjoying a not quite hidden beach experience. Don’t forget to visit the natural mud pit before you end your visit.
Square Lake: May Township
This beach is under an hour from the metro at a Washington County park north of Stillwater. The beach is longer than two football fields and offers a ton of great picnic spots and a bathhouse for easy changing and showering. However, what makes this beach stand out is how clean the water is. It’s known as the cleanest lake in the seven-county metro area and you’ll notice right away how easy it is to see the bottom of the lake. For those concerned about water quality this is your go-to beach. Also, consider renting a kayak to explore the lake further.
White Sands Beach: Minneapolis
This little-known metro beach is a unique destination right in the heart of the city. It’s located on the western shore of the Mississippi river less than a mile from the I-94 bridge that spans the river. You’ll have to hike a couple hundred yards from River Parkway down the bluff to this rustic beach that offers a taste of nature and beauty without leaving the city. There are no amenities here so bring everything you’ll need for your urban adventure. Some choose to make bonfires here but again you’ll have to pack in everything you’ll need. Be careful in the water…this is the Mississippi River.