Arizona might be surrounded by land on all four sides, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a day at the beach! These five sandy oases are as close to paradise as it gets here in the Grand Canyon State, and they all deserve a spot on your summer bucket list. We bet you didn't know there are indeed Arizona beaches - they're just not attached to an ocean. Read on to see which ones you might want to add to your travel bucket list (and don't forget your bathing suit, hat, and sunscreen!)
1. Boat Beach (Grand Canyon National Park)
One of many beaches hidden deep within the Grand Canyon, crystal-clear water from Bright Angel Creek laps onto sandy shores at this hidden alcove. Known as Boat Beach, it's a popular starting point for rafters during river-running season. Hikers also enjoy cooling off here after a long, sweaty trek. Less than a mile away, you'll find a tourist camp with a variety of amenities.
2. Cattail Cove State Park (Lake Havasu City)
With palm trees everywhere you look, Cattail Cove State Park is reminiscent of a tropical paradise. It's located on the pristine Lake Havasu, known for its deep blue waters as alluring as a sapphire gem. This 2,000-acre destination features a beach, boat ramp, and 61 campsites, allowing for a vast array of water recreation activities.
3. Roper Lake State Park (Safford)
Just five miles south of Safford, this gorgeous state park has, easily, some of the bluest water in Arizona. At the base of Mt. Graham, this 32-acre lake is a quiet and relaxing spot for boating, fishing, camping, and swimming.
4. London Bridge Beach (Lake Havasu City)
Along the famed Bridgewater Channel, this Lake Havasu beach is accessible by car and boat. Not only does it offer gorgeous white sand, but also buoyed swimming area, two playgrounds, fully enclosed dog park, basketball and sand volleyball courts, and a community stage. Tall shade trees, covered picnic areas, and plenty of green grass for lounging make the park an ideal place to soak up the sun. Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and other personal watercrafts are available for rent, so get ready to have a blast while marveling at our beloved London Bridge.
5. Redwall Cavern (Grand Canyon National Park)
Last, but certainly not least, is Redwall Cavern. This awe-inspiring natural amphitheater was carved by water flowing into the limestone Grand Canyon walls. Near the cave entrance, you'll see incredibly well-preserved fossils of ancient marine creatures. This otherworldly place is only accessible via raft, so make sure you book a suitable guide to help your adventure be successful.
How many of these hidden beaches in Arizona have you visited? Did we miss your favorite Arizona beach? What about a hidden beach in Phoenix Arizona? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
Also be sure to check out our previous article for a few more off-the-beaten-path sandy oases: 7 little-known beaches in Arizona that’ll make your summer unforgettable.
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Arizona you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
Thinking about taking a Grand Canyon State vacation soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.
If you’re still in the mood for more Arizona adventures, take a look at this video about Coal Mine Canyon:
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