Current Phoenix Weather:
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
When it comes to historical facts, Arizona is known for its Wild West days. However, Arizona holds a treasure trove of fascinating stories. Let’s dive into some of the coolest historical facts about Arizona that you may not know. advertisement 1. Phoenix Was Almost Named “Pumpkinville.” (Sort of) In the mid-1800s, when settlers first arrived in Phoenix, they found fields of pumpkins growing where the Hohokam Native tribes had once established an intricate system of canals. These canals had been built to irrigate crops, and when settlers came across them, they were impressed by the thriving agriculture in the region.
The “Wild West” period, often romanticized in literature and films, spanned only around 30 years, from roughly 1865 to 1895. This era is usually portrayed as chaotic, lawless, and filled with gunfights, cattle rustlers, and prospectors. But what made this period so unique and distinct from earlier years of westward expansion? Was it truly more wild than the decades that preceded it? And why does the end of the Civil War in 1865 seem to mark a significant turning point in this legendary chapter of American history? advertisement The Pre-Wild West: Westward Expansion Before 1865 Before the Civil War, the
Arizona is more than just desert landscapes and the Grand Canyon; it’s a state that stands out for a variety of reasons that set it apart from many other states in the U.S. Arizona has developed a reputation for embracing individuality and, in some cases, doing things better than some states. Let’s explore some of the things that make Arizona unique that you may not have known. advertisement 1. No Daylight Saving Time One of the most unique aspects of Arizona is that the state does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). While the rest of the country shifts its
Arizona is currently experiencing a period of remarkable growth. From adding jobs and increasing its population to welcoming more businesses, the state is solidifying its place as one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. Arizona’s transformation is not just a short-term trend; it’s a testament to strategic planning, smart policy-making, and an influx of motivated individuals looking to make Arizona their home. Here’s a closer look at why Arizona is on the rise. advertisement Booming Job Growth in Arizona In the last 10 years, Arizona added more than 380,000 new jobs, with the state’s job growth ranking fifth in
advertisement
Cookie | Duration | Description |
---|---|---|
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional | 11 months | The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". |
viewed_cookie_policy | 11 months | The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data. |