It’s been a historically hot summer. Here’s the good news: it’s cooler by the lake. We’ve got you covered with a rundown of the Top 5 beaches in the Twin Cities. And more important than the rankings, we let you know the vibe at each of these beaches so you can find the one that is right for you! Looking for a secluded beach on the banks of the Mississippi where you can read a book and escape the city? Read on. Looking for a multi-purpose beach that can pinch hit for other water activities thanks to an adjacent splash pad? We have that too. Stay beaching, friends.
Hours: Monday-Sunday 5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Description: An expansive beach with ample sand surrounded by beautiful walking paths and a truly impressive playground 25 minutes away from Minneapolis in Plymouth.Perfect For: Families who want space to spread out and have their own space.Bonus: The park is an entertainment smorgasbord with boating classes, live entertainment, and more.
4 - Lake Phalen
Lake Phalen. (Sean McPherson / City Cast)
Hours: 12 p.m.-8 p.m. May 23-July 31, 12 p.m.-7 p.m.
Description: A family-friendly beach in the heart of the East Side of St. Paul.Perfect For: The multi-activity family: great paths for bike rides and jogs, a nearby playground for the little ones and a beach for everyone.Bonus: The nearby splash pad is a joyous alternative for water-hesitant kids.
Hours: Given that’s an unofficial beach, feel free to make your own hours but always swim at your own risk.Description: A perfect, unofficial sand beach on the West Bank of the Mississippi in South Minneapolis. Prepare for a mini-hike on steep terrain to get there but be rewarded with a pristine beach on the mighty Mississippi when you arrive.
Perfect For: The lone beach lover who doesn’t love the stagnant nature of lake water and prefers the roll of the Mississippi.
Bonus: The beach might be light on amenities, but it’s also light on people. Perfect for an afternoon spent reading a paperback between some cool off sessions on the river.
Hours: 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Daily
Description: If you are looking for the cleanest waters in the Twin Cities you can stop looking, you’ll find them at Square Lake.
Perfect For: The clean-water enthusiast who wants to see the bottom of the lake and see an army of lifeguards keeping the beachgoers safe.
Bonus: The beach has ample parking, ample staff, and enough beach terrain for everyone to enjoy their own little corner, and the quality of the water can’t be beat.
Cedar Lake East Beach. (Sean McPherson / City Cast)
Hours: 6 a.m.-10 p.m.
Description: The quintessential Minneapolis beach: a mud pit, a sauna, and folks from all walks of life enjoying a great beach together.
Perfect For: Every single human being on the planet. This beach will restore your faith in humanity one splash at a time.
Bonus: This is one of the most selectively-shaded beaches on Earth; there’s plenty of spots for those who want to sunbathe and those who prefer to stay pale all summer.
Pro-tip: Nobody calls it Cedar Lake East Beach besides the internet. Call it Hidden Beach. Call it Nude Beach. Better yet, just head over there and call it your favorite beach.
