advertisement
7 August 2023
When you think of beach destinations, Arizona might not be the first place that comes to mind. Arizona lacks a traditional ocean coastline as a landlocked state, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience the joy of a beach day right here. Several picturesque lakes in Arizona offer sandy shores and sparkling waters, giving you the feeling of being at the ocean. So, grab your sunscreen and beach towel, and explore these five Arizona “beaches” that will transport you to a coastal paradise.
For a beach experience that most closely resembles an ocean setting, head to London Bridge Beach in Lake Havasu City. This popular spot lines the famous Bridgewater Channel and offers a buoyed swimming area, a sandy beach, two playgrounds, and even a fully enclosed dog park for your furry friends. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere as you play games on basketball and sand volleyball courts or enjoy live performances on the community stage. To make the most of your day trip, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, lounge on the lush green grass, and find shelter in the covered picnic areas with tables and barbecues.
Escape to the peaceful tranquility of Roper Lake State Park in Safford, tucked away at the base of Mount Graham. This delightful destination features a boat ramp, a sandy swimming beach, a picnic area, a campground, and even cozy cabins for overnight stays. The lake is stocked with bass and trout, enticing fishing enthusiasts to try their luck. If you prefer to explore on foot, Roper Lake State Park offers beautiful hiking trails that take you through picturesque landscapes.
Nestled between the Parker and Headgate Dams, Buckskin Mountain State Park stretches for 18 miles and offers breathtaking views of surrounding mountains on both the Arizona and California sides. The serene and secluded atmosphere makes it a perfect beach-like destination. You can indulge in various activities, including beach fun, waterfront camping, hiking on scenic trails, launching a boat from the ramp, playing basketball or volleyball, and letting the kids have a blast at the playground. Buckskin Mountain State Park ensures a delightful experience for the whole family.
If you’re seeking a more adventurous beach day, The Chains near Glen Canyon Dam is the perfect spot. This day-use area showcases awe-inspiring rock formations and is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities in the deep waters. Swimming is allowed, but be cautious due to the steep sides that can make getting out of the water challenging. Always wear a lifejacket for safety. As you soak in the enchanting surroundings, you’ll spot Wahweap Marina to the north and Antelope Island across the channel, making it a truly magical hidden gem.
Located at the historic Yuma Crossing, just below the Ocean-to-Ocean bridge, Gateway Park in Yuma is a hidden gem for summer fun. With its sandy beach, ample grassy areas, fishing piers, playgrounds, and picnic spots, the park offers everything you need for a full day of enjoyment under the sun. Take a stroll along the riverbank, take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the Colorado River, or relax and watch the river’s gentle flow.
Though Arizona may not have an ocean, these five lakeside destinations prove that you can still enjoy the pleasures of a beach day without leaving the state. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the beauty of these Arizona “beaches,” and create lasting memories that will make you forget you’re miles away from the ocean.
advertisement
Las Vegas may get most of the attention when it comes to casinos in the Southwest, but Arizona has an impressive gaming scene of its own. Across the state, tribal casinos combine gaming with luxury hotels, pools, spas, restaurants, live entertainment, and some spectacular desert scenery. Arizona’s casinos are operated by Native American tribes under tribal-state gaming compacts. Today, visitors can find casino destinations everywhere from the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas to Flagstaff and the Verde Valley. Whether you are planning an entire weekend getaway or simply looking for an entertaining night out, here are some of the best
Arizona has earned a reputation as one of the premier golf destinations in the United States, and it is easy to understand why. With dramatic desert landscapes, mountain backdrops, sunny weather, and hundreds of courses scattered throughout the state, Arizona offers unforgettable golf for players of nearly every skill level. Scottsdale may receive much of the attention, but exceptional courses can be found from Tucson to Sedona and throughout the greater Phoenix area. If you are planning an Arizona golf getaway, these are some of the best public courses to put on your list. advertisement Troon North Golf Club Located
Sitting in my office in Chandler, Arizona, in an area commonly called Ocotillo, I can sometimes glimpse the most unlikely bird I ever thought I would see. Enjoying the outdoors of Arizona and bathing in the water in the artificial pond by my office are Rosy-faced lovebirds. advertisement At first, I thought the birds were lost pets, which alarmed me as a former bird owner (I used to have a pet parakeet as a kid — lived a long, full life to the age of 12). Worried about potential pet owners missing their birds, I dove into researching these beautiful
Whether you are looking for breathtaking natural wonders, charming small towns, outdoor adventures, or rich cultural history, Arizona has something for every traveler. While many people visit for the Grand Canyon, they quickly discover that the state offers far more than one famous landmark. From red rock canyons and towering forests to vibrant cities and hidden desert gems, Arizona is a destination that surprises visitors at every turn. advertisement Experience Some of the World’s Most Incredible Landscapes Arizona is home to an astonishing variety of scenery. In one trip, you can stand on the edge of the Grand Canyon, hike
