White sandy beaches, crystal clear blue water, vibrant golden sunshine, and cool crisp breeze. Can you hear the island music playing in your head? Right now, you may be thinking of a tropical oasis, but in fact, those were descriptions of Arkansas beaches. Yes, we know that Arkansas is not a coastal state, but we have escapes that are like a Caribbean paradise in the summer. Let’s explore the beauty of these seven gorgeous beaches.

1. Balboa Beach (Private) - Hot Springs Village

Tucked inside Hot Springs Village is Balboa Beach, a private sandy beach on Lake Balboa. The water is crystal clear which allows for great recreation like fishing, swimming, jet skiing, and more. Though the beach is private for Hot Springs Village property owners, you can access it by renting a vacation home inside the community. This tropical oasis will be a beach escape you won’t forget.

2. Sandy Beach - Heber Springs

The name says it all. Sandy Beach is tucked on the shores of Greers Ferry Lake, a reservoir with over 300 miles of shoreline. Recognized as one of the most pristine lakes in the country, it’s great for swimming, boating, fishing, scuba diving, and more. And of course, you must play in the sand and build a one-of-a-kind sandcastle. A day on this beach will transport you to a faraway tropical island.

3. Norfork Lake - Mountain Home

If you’re looking for the perfect beach escape, then you must visit Norfork Lake. Self-proclaimed as the "Caribbean of the mid-south," this Ozark lake boasts miles of white, sandy beaches, crystal clear water, vibrant sunsets, and more. With its 550 miles of shoreline, Norfork Lake offers plenty of water recreation. Dock the boat on one of the beaches, sink your feet into the sugary sand, and bask in the glorious sunshine. It’s a true island paradise and the perfect location for a beach escape.

4. Lake Ouachita - Mountain Pine

Easily one of the best beach getaways in Arkansas, and boasting the clearest water in the state, Lake Ouachita is a perfect vacation paradise. This 40,000-acre lake is located near Hot Springs and surrounded by numerous islands. You can splurge by renting a luxury houseboat or opt for a low-key day on one of the many sandy shores. A popular area for boating, swimming, snorkeling, and more, you’ll believe you’ve escaped to the Caribbean.

5. Crown Lake - Horseshoe Bend

A paradise for water enthusiasts, Crown Lake is nestled at the foothills of the Ozarks in Horseshoe Bend. And this 640-acre jewel provides plenty of opportunities for swimming and other recreational activities. Book an escape at the Crown Point Resort, and sink your feet into the powdery, sandy beach.

6. Beaver Dam Site Park - Eureka Springs

Nestled on the shores of the White River is Beaver Lake, and it’s one of the best tropical jewels in Arkansas. This man-made reservoir has approximately 450 miles of shoreline and multiple sandy beaches along them. It’s a great place for swimming, scuba diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, and more. The white sandy beaches rival those in the Caribbean, and the waterfront campsites are immaculate. Please note: Some of the beaches at Beaver Lake might be closed.

7. DeGray Lake Resort - Bismarck

Of course, this list must include the best waterfront resort located in Bismarck Arkansas. Not only does DeGray Lake Resort has sandy beaches, but it also has an incredible resort-style swimming pool. While you can retreat to the beach for swimming, snorkeling, and more, the pool is great to relax in the sun or to enjoy a game of water volleyball.

Perhaps the only thing missing from these tropical paradises are the palm trees. But with sandy beaches, clear blue water, and the vibrant sunshine, palm trees will be the furthest thing from your mind. These escapes are like a Caribbean paradise and will make for an epic summer vacation.

Are you ready to escape to one of these tropical paradises? Which one would you choose?

And if you’re looking for a more relaxed waterfront adventure, here’s another island oasis in Arkansas.