01
Best overall pick
Lake Gregory Regional Park Beach
Crestline • Lively In-Town Lake Beach • Closest Classic Beach Experience
Sandy shoreline, a designated swim area, and plenty of lakeside activity make Lake Gregory the go-to beach right in Crestline.
This is the beach locals point to when you ask where to swim without leaving town. A roped-off swim zone, seasonal inflatable water park, and rental boards keep kids and grownups busy between dips. Grassy picnic spots, shaded benches, and easy parking mean you can comfortably settle in for the whole afternoon.
02
Best reservoir escape
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area – Cleghorn Swim Beach
Silverwood Lake, North Of Crestline • Open Reservoir Shoreline • Great For Wide-Open Space
Cleghorn offers a broad slice of shoreline on Silverwood Lake, with long views, gentle water, and room to spread out.
About a half-hour from Crestline, Cleghorn feels like a classic Southern California reservoir beach, with a wide, gently sloping entry that works well for casual swimmers. Families set up day camps with coolers and shade tents while kids wade, float, and skip between the water and picnic tables. Arrive early on hot weekends when parking and the best shaded spots go fast.
03
Most resort-like
Lake Arrowhead Resort Lakeside Beach
Lake Arrowhead • Polished Resort Beach • Good For Relaxed, Upscale Days
A small, groomed lakeside beach reserved for resort guests pairs mountain views with a mellow, cushioned setup.
If you prefer chaise lounges to beach blankets, this tucked-away strip of sand by the resort offers a more polished way to get in the water. The swim area is compact but peaceful, with easy access to restrooms, dining, and the shops in nearby Lake Arrowhead Village. It works best when you’re planning an overnight or day-use splurge rather than a quick dip-and-go outing.
04
Coziest mountain lake
Green Valley Lake Swim Beach
Green Valley Lake, East Of Crestline • Quiet Mountain Village Lake • Nice For Quiet, Unhurried Visits
A small sandy beach on a compact alpine lake, Green Valley feels like a low-key mountain swim club without the fuss.
Up the road from Crestline, this tiny village lake has just enough sand, grass, and calm water to fill a lazy afternoon. The swim area is manageable for kids, and the rest of the shoreline stays relaxed, with anglers and paddlers sharing the space. Bring snacks or a picnic, as services are limited and the appeal here is the unhurried, slightly old-fashioned atmosphere.
05
Best activity hub
Meadow Park Swim Beach, Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake • Active Lakeside Park Beach • Ideal For Mixing Beach And Play
Meadow Park pairs a sandy swim beach with playgrounds, courts, and grassy fields for a full day out.
Once you crest the drive into Big Bear, this city park is one of the easiest places to get toes in the lake. A lifeguarded swim area in season, volleyball courts, and nearby play structures make it especially appealing for groups and families. It’s a smart choice if you want to balance time in the water with room to roam, then head into Big Bear Village for food on the way home.