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
In a city where the culinary scene is growing rapidly, one restaurant stands out for its authentic, innovative, and flavorful take on Thai cuisine — and it’s earned national recognition. Lom Wong, a Thai restaurant in Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row, has become a popular hotspot for locals and food critics alike. Chef Yotaka “Sunny” Martin, co-owner of Lom Wong, has made it to the finalist round for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards, among the highest honors in the culinary world. advertisement The Vision Behind Lom Wong Opened in 2022, Lom Wong is more than just a place to grab a
In our day-to-day hustle, it’s easy to overlook the beauty surrounding us while on the road. Arizona’s cities are surrounded by incredible landscapes such as the Sonoran Desert, the Sedona monuments, and Flagstaff’s trees and mountains. Still, it’s sometimes too easy to forget the daily beauty we have the opportunity to enjoy. It’s beneficial to remember that Arizona’s commutes can be far more than just a means of getting from point A to point B while trying to avoid traffic. advertisement Top Scenic Commutes in Arizona According to a recent survey by Quantrell Volvo, which surveyed over 3,000 commuters, several
Are you looking for a new breakfast restaurant in the Valley? Fortunately for you, the local breakfast scene is as diverse as the state. Let’s explore some of the best breakfast destinations according to locals. advertisement 1. Butterfield Pancake House (Scottsdale) Locals agree that Butterfield Pancake House is one of the top breakfast spots in the Valley. Known for its mouth-watering pancakes and classic breakfast fare, this Scottsdale establishment is a beloved local gem. True to its name, the pancakes are the star! Fluffy, warm, and served with various toppings make them unique and irresistible. 2. Over Easy Over Easy
When you think about Arizona, there is no denying you’ll also think about cactus. Not only is it the state flower of the blossom of a Saguaro Cactus, but it’s also illegal to destroy or vandalize a Saguaro Cactus in Arizona. But beyond cactus ‘s resilience in the harsh desert landscape, did you know this spiny plant is also packed with health benefits? From cactus fruit to cactus pads (called nopales), the versatile cactus has been a staple in indigenous diets for thousands of years. It is now gaining attention for its impressive nutritional properties. advertisement What Is Cactus Fruit?
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. |