We have lots of water all around, but if you are looking for a beach with nice sand, Sauvie Island is the place to go. This small agricultural hub is a beautiful natural setting just minutes from downtown that will take you worlds away from it all. Divided into four beaches, this stretch along the Columbia is perfect for swimming and sunning the day away.

There is only one way in and out, and this is it. Cross the bridge and you are on this lovely little close-in island tucked away north of Portland.

Walton Beach is the first one you arrive at on Reeder Road, and for this reason it is typically quite crowded on hot and sunny days. Don't let this deter you though. If you can find a parking spot, the beach is lovely here.

All along the coast here, the water is relatively shallow and great for playing and wading in.

If you go a little further up Reeder Road, Collins Beach is next. This clothing optional beach is very similar to Walton Beach, except there is nudity. If you are into it, stay. If not, move onto another beach: there are plenty to choose from.

If you really want something less crowded, head further down Reeder Road to Willow Bar Beach or North Unit Beach where fewer people venture. These two more remote beaches are perfect for a quiet day trip and provide some stunning natural views.

Keep walking from North Unit Beach and you will reach the Warrior Point Lighthouse, the only one in Oregon not on the Pacific coast.

Any spot you choose, this stretch of Sauvie Island is truly beautiful and has some great beaches to spend the day.

Flying kites, paddle boarding, rafting and other water sports are all great here.

While you are on the island, check out the lavender farm for some truly amazingly fragrant flowers.

Or pick some berries at one of the many u-pick farms peppered all around the island.

With such great places to swim and relax, summer can't get here soon enough.

What do you think about this spot? Feel free to share below.