Best Beaches in Minnesota

The lakes in Minnesota are some of the cleanest and most pristine bodies of water in the country, and that’s why they’re home to so many awesome beaches. There’s something for everyone: you can find sandy shores, rocky coastlines, serene coves, and many lighthouses!

Best Beaches in Minnesota

There are many beaches across Minnesota to choose from but we have rounded up our favorites below.

Lake Calhoun Beach, Minneapolis

Known officially as Bde Maka Ska, Lake Calhoun is the largest lake in Minneapolis and a popular destination for beach-goers and families who want quick access to the lake. You can go to either Thomas beach on the southern end of the lake or 32nd Street beach on the eastern shore. Thomas Beach offers beautiful views of downtown Minneapolis’s skyline. There are also plenty of restaurants nearby if you decide to make a day out of it!

Cascade River State Park Beach, Lutsen

The northernmost of our beaches, the Cascade River State Park Beach offers great views of Shumway Hill and plenty of nature activities like swimming, hiking trails along the Cascade River, and canoeing or kayaking. The park also boasts one of Minnesota’s remaining fire towers for panoramic views over Lake Superior’s North Shore.

Tettegouche State Park, Silver Bay

Located in Tettegouche State Park (one of the most undeveloped and least visited state parks in Minnesota), you’ll find this pristine stretch of Lake Superior’s North Shore. The beach is more rocky than sandy but no less perfect for a day at the beach. Many visitors like to travel down to the nearby Palisade Head for breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

Minnesota Point Beach, Duluth

Located right next to Park Point (a narrow peninsula between Lake Superior and the Duluth Ship Canal), Minnesota Point Beach is one of Minnesota’s most photographed spots for beach-goers. Unfortunately, it can get pretty crowded in the summer months.

Lake Bemidji Beach, Bemidji

Lake Bemidji beach has two types of sand: dark-colored wood chips on the ground surrounding the water and white sand at the actual beach. There are several amenities here including restrooms, picnic shelters, grills/fire rings, and a boat launch! There are plenty of other lakes in the area, many of which have beaches, so don’t be afraid to explore the area to find a beach to your liking!