The 10 best beaches in and around Phoenix for soaking up the Arizona sun

Sunbathing is an unofficial tradition passed down through generations in Arizona, and it’s easy to see why. Popular for its dry climate, with temperatures that peak in the summer months, the Grand Canyon State offers the perfect opportunity for locals and tourists to unwind, relax, and create timeless memories with loved ones. Hot summers and mild winters are some things you should know before visiting Phoenix.

Dubbed the “Valley of the Sun,” Phoenix has an average of 300 days of sunshine per year and is just one of Arizona’s most beautiful cities, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities, from swimming in the clear waters to sunbathing on the shore and watching the clear skyline. Here’s a handpicked selection of the 10 best beaches in and around Phoenix for soaking up the Arizona sun.

10 Buckskin Mountain State Park Beach, Parker

With scenic views of the surrounding mountains along the Parker Strip, this full-service recreation area is nestled between Headgate Dam and Parker Dam, both of which offer extensive boating and hiking opportunities. While cooling off in Arizona’s warm climate, visitors can enjoy scenic views of hiking trails, exotic wildlife, and a vibrant cactus garden. A mecca for travelers for thrilling water adventures, Buckskin Mountain State Park Beach is a popular destination for fun in the Phoenix area when temperatures are at their highest.

• Address:
  5476 AZ-95, Parker, AZ 85344

This beach can get crowded quickly in summer, so tourists who want to camp on the beach are advised to reserve a spot in advance.

9 London Bridge Park Strand, Lake Havasu City

Located directly on the famous Bridgewater Channel, London Bridge Park offers a buoyed swimming area with boat access and seasonal watercraft rentals for individual and group campers alike. Shaded picnic areas with grills and tables are reserved for group gatherings, allowing visitors to bask in the Arizona sun with loved ones. The beach’s proximity to several restaurants in the Lake Havasu area allows visitors to grab a bite to eat and cool off in and around the sparkling waters of the beach.

• Address:
  1340 McCulloch Boulevard, Lake Havasu City

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8th Cattail Cove State Park Beach, Lake Havasu City

Cattail Cove State Park Beach is located on the shores of Lake Havasu, just 19 miles from stunning Lake Havasu City and only about 8 miles from the Parker Strip. The beach’s serene lounge arena creates a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable family vacation in the bright Arizona sun. Campers who don’t like big crowds will enjoy the quiet, hidden location of this 2,000-acre park. Fishing, boating, and swimming are just a few of the many outdoor activities that tourists can enjoy at magnificent Cattail Cove.

• Address:
  AZ-95, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406

This camp has a designated dog beach, so adorable pups can romp on the white sand or splash in the clear water.

7 Centennial Beach, Yuma

Cooling off at Centennial Beach allows visitors to experience nature up close. This pristine beach is tucked away on the lower bank of the 110-acre West Wetlands Park. With a lovely little sandpit on the shore, the beach is a lovely place to build sandcastles, have exciting family picnics and even play fetch with happy puppies! Centennial Beach is a great getaway in the summer months, as adventure seekers can take a dip in the cool, sparkling waters or spot beautiful bird life while strolling along the shore.

• Address:
  282 N 12th Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364

6 Rotary Beach, Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City is known for its high temperatures and major attractions including tranquil Rotary Beach, the largest in Lake Havasu City. This beautiful beachfront oasis on the Bridgewater Channel is just a short drive from the famous London Bridge. Named after the city’s Rotary Club, the beach offers plenty of space and amenities for visitors to relax and recharge their batteries. And when visitors are feeling super competitive, they can have fun on one of the six volleyball courts or one of the two beach ball courts on the beach.

• Address:
  1400 S Smoketree Ave, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403

Also see: Fun in the Sun: 10 Budget Hostels in Phoenix

5 Windsor Beach, Lake Havasu City

With breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and a beautiful cactus garden, this sun-kissed retreat makes for a fun and memorable day in the sun. Along with a colorful array of flora and fauna, plentiful white sandy beaches dot the coast creating a stunning contrast to the surrounding mountains. Aside from soaking in the clear waters of Windsor Beach, there’s also the chance to soak up the sun while hiking the 1.75-mile Mohave Sunset Trail or strolling through the lush Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden.

• Address:
  699 London Bridge Rd, Lake Havasu City, AZ

4 Patagonia Lake State Park Beach, Nogales

Perfect for a fun watershed, Patagonia Lake State Park Beach is one of the beaches locals recommend for tourists wanting to get a feel for Arizona’s climate. With shaded picnic areas, essential camping facilities, and meticulously clean campgrounds, this must-see destination offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to relax amidst the rolling hills of southern Arizona. With the exception of the designated boat docks, Patagonia Lake is always open to swimmers!

• address
  : 400 Patagonia Lake Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621

3 Tempe Beach Park, Tempe

A resort town in the greater Phoenix area, Tempe Beach Park is known for drawing large crowds of tourists, especially during the winter months. The park has recorded numerous events, concerts and festivals including the biannual Tempe Festival of the Arts, the Aloha Festival and the spectacular Dragon Boat Festival. On the north side of famous Tempe Town Lake, visitors can cool off at North Shore Beach and are welcome to rent a boat or paddle board.

• Address:
  80W Rio Salado Pkwy Tempe, AZ 85281

Also see: 10 Off the Beaten Path Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona

2 River Island State Park Beach, Parker

River Island State Park Beach offers nature lovers endless opportunities to beat the cold and is a perfect Arizona winter destination. In the winter, water sports like boating and fishing are commonplace as visitors seek the warmth of River Island’s mild climate. With a boat dock, a Ramada, and well-appointed beachfront campgrounds overlooking the Colorado River, there are plenty of recreational activities for visitors to dip their feet in while getting some sunlight. Beautiful mountain views and hiking trails add to the beach’s appeal – the perfect combination for a sunny holiday.

• Address:
  5200, AZ-95, Parker, AZ 85344

1 Pebble Beach, Mesa

There is something very relaxing about catching the rays of the sun, especially when surrounded by the pleasant backdrop of clear blue waters. Located on the Salt River in Cibola National Forest, Pebble Beach delivers on beach-goers’ expectations for a perfect beach vacation. The beach is especially popular as a launch and launch point for inflatable boats. Mesquite, ramadas, and picnic tables create a fun atmosphere where families can gather. As such, Pebble Beach is a pocket-friendly destination for families on a budget.