Beaches in Colorado

Beaches in Colorado – Mountain Lakes, Sandy Shores & Scenic Summer Getaways

Colorado may be known for mountains and skiing, but summer reveals another side: sandy freshwater beaches along sparkling mountain lakes and reservoirs. Whether you want paddleboarding with alpine views or family-friendly swim areas, the best beaches in Colorado offer warm weather, scenic beauty, and refreshing summer escapes.

From the sandy coves of Chatfield and Cherry Creek near Denver to the dramatic shorelines of Grand Lake and Lake Pueblo, Colorado’s beaches are perfect for swimming, paddling, sunbathing, and weekend getaways.

Why Visit Beaches in Colorado?

Beautiful mountain scenery along lakes & reservoirs
Warm summer water ideal for swimming
Family-friendly beach areas with lifeguards (select parks)
Paddleboarding, kayaking & boating
Picnic areas, campgrounds & outdoor recreation
Close to Denver, Colorado Springs & mountain towns

Best Beaches in Colorado

These are the top lake and reservoir beaches across Colorado for swimming, relaxing, and summer activities.

Chatfield Reservoir (Littleton)

Large sandy swim beach, warm water & mountain views near Denver.

Cherry Creek Reservoir (Aurora)

Popular summer beach with swimming, paddleboarding & soft sand.

Grand Lake

Colorado’s largest natural lake with a small sandy beach & cool alpine water.

Lake Pueblo State Park

Warmest water in Colorado; excellent for swimming & boating.

Boulder Reservoir

Swim beach with lifeguards, mountain views & SUP rentals.

Stagecoach State Park (Steamboat Springs)

Clean sandy beach, warm water in summer & beautiful mountain backdrop.

Jackson Lake State Park

Known as “The Oasis of the Plains” — warm water & great camping.

Lake Dillon / Dillon Reservoir

Scenic shoreline, cooler water & amazing high-elevation views.

Where to Stay Near Colorado Beaches

Denver Metro (Chatfield & Cherry Creek)

Family-friendly hotels near the state parks
Vacation rentals in Littleton & Aurora
Denver hotels for city + beach day access

Grand Lake / Rocky Mountain National Park

Cozy lodges near the lake
Cabins with waterfront access
Scenic alpine resorts

Pueblo Area (Lake Pueblo State Park)

Budget-friendly hotels in Pueblo
RV & camping near the lake
Vacation rentals with lake views

Steamboat Springs (Stagecoach Reservoir)

Mountain lodges
Cabins & chalets
Resort hotels in downtown Steamboat

Best Time to Visit Colorado Beaches

Season	Beach Conditions
Summer (June–Aug)	Warmest water, sunny weather & peak swimming season.
Fall (Sept–Oct)	Warm afternoons & colorful mountain scenery.
Spring (April–May)	Cool water but beautiful views; ideal for hiking + beach combo trips.
Winter	Too cold for swimming but stunning for photography.