Nestled in local mountain ranges and small towns are some sandy beaches that can appease any beachgoers’ need to soak up some sun without taking that long drive to a not-so-nearby coastal town. 

Here is a list featuring five of the best sandy beaches throughout the state, perfect for boating, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming.

Beach #1: Bear Lake (Garden City, Utah)

Bear Lake is located in Northern Utah, spanning the Utah and Idaho border. There are three main recreation areas that make up Bear Lake, including Marina, Rendezvous Beach, and the Eastside. Each area has several campgrounds, and most areas are open year-round. Bear Lake State Park, Ideal Beach, and North Beach all have boat rentals and other water sports equipment for rent. More information on individual recreation areas throughout Bear Lake can be found on the Utah State Parks website. 

Several beaches throughout Bear Lake are beautiful and full of sandy areas for kids to play and beachgoers to lay out a towel and relax for the afternoon. 

Rendezvous Beach is a popular tourist destination. It is often crowded, and for good reason. But North Beach, in particular, resides on the Idaho side of the lake and is a gem for locals.

“One of our favorite spots in Bear Lake is North Beach,” said travel writer Brittany Haglund of the MiniVan Bucket List. “It has soft, white sand and shallow water that is perfect for families with young kids. Lots of people call this Bear Lake beach the ‘Caribbean of the Rockies’ for its deep turquoise hues.”

No visit to Bear Lake is complete without a famous raspberry shake. Haglund says some of the best shakes come from Merlins, La Beau’s, or Zipz in Garden City.

Beach #2: Sand Hollow State Park (Washington, Utah)

Completely opposite Bear Lake is Sand Hollow State Park in Southern Utah. Sand Hollow Reservoir is full of red, powder-like sand and clear blue water. There are several beach areas throughout the park where visitors can set up for the day. 

“You can go to the beach near The Beach, an aptly named shop at Sand Hollow to be close to amenities, or you can go a little farther east down the road to Cottonwood Cove,” said Haglund. “Having the big trees provide shade on a hot day is essential.”

Sand Hollow is also popular among those who enjoy off-highway vehicles. 

“Sand Mountain provides 15,000 acres of perfectly sculpted dunes,” according to the Utah State Parks website. “The red sand is an incredible backdrop for Sand Hollow reservoir. At nearly twice the size of the nearby Quail Creek Reservoir, Sand Hollow offers boating and other water recreation in a spectacular setting.”

Beach #3: Pineview Reservoir (Ogden, Utah)

Nestled in Ogden Canyon is a beach with spectacular mountain views: Pineview Reservoir. The best areas for sand play and relaxation include Cemetery Point, Anderson Cove Campground and day-use area, and Middle Inlet Beach.

“The combination of sandy beaches and beautiful mountain views make this one of the best beaches in Utah,” Haglund said.

Beach #4: Yuba Reservoir (Levan, Utah)

Yuba Reservoir is located in Yuba State Park, about two hours south of Salt Lake City, and just minutes from I-15. It is known for its camping, warm water and fine-sand beaches. 

Two new zip lines are now in operation just north of the Oasis campground and are open for group reservations. These zip lines are the first to be built within a state park.

“Yuba has warm water and beautiful sandy shores on the north side,” said Haglund. “Yuba also hosts an annual sand castle building contest so you know the sand is legit.”

The new Park Store at Yuba State Park sells firewood, ice, water bottles, drinks, souvenirs, fishing tackle, camping and boating gear. The store also offers paddle board rentals. 

Beach #5: Blackridge Reservoir (Herriman, Utah)

Blackridge Reservoir is located in the city of Herriman and is an easy way to cool off without driving too far off the beaten path. The sandy beaches and close proximity to civilization make Blackridge Reservoir a great option for families. 

Motorized watercraft are not allowed, but visitors can swim, paddleboard, kayak, or simply enjoy playing in the sand without getting in the water.

Amenities at Blackridge Reservoir include a beachfront, playground, restrooms, a parking lot, bike rack, trailhead, paved trail, benches, pavilions, and a grassy area.

Feature Image: Bear Lake Beach. Photo courtesy of BearLake.org