01
Best overall pick
Paradise Beach
Near Sacramento State • Sheltered River Cove • Closest True Beach To La Riviera
A curved sandy cove on the American River that feels surprisingly secluded for being so close to the city.
Paradise Beach is the classic local swimming hole for La Riviera residents, with a broad sandbar, gentle current in summer, and plenty of room to spread out. Mornings tend to be quieter, with students and families staking out umbrellas, while afternoons bring a livelier scene of picnickers and floaters. Parking and access can feel informal here, so arrive early on hot weekends and pack out everything you bring.
02
Easiest after-work dip
Howe Avenue River Access
Howe Avenue Corridor • Straightforward River Access • Best For Quick Swims And Dog Walks
A no-frills stretch of shoreline where locals slip in for a fast swim, toss sticks for the dog, or start a short float.
Just across the river from much of La Riviera, the Howe Avenue access point is about as convenient as river beaches get. There is usually enough open shoreline to find a spot, and the mix of shallow edges and deeper channels makes it easy to choose your comfort zone. It is not the most picturesque stop on the parkway, but its practicality and quick in-and-out appeal keep it in steady local rotation.
03
Wide gravel bar hangout
Watt Avenue River Access
Watt Avenue Crossing • Open, Social River Beach • Good For Groups And Float Launches
A broad gravel and sand bar that works well for bigger groups, river floats, and laid-back afternoons by the water.
Upstream from La Riviera, the Watt Avenue access offers lots of open space, making it a favorite staging area for rafting and tubing days. The long bar lets you spread out away from other groups, and the flow here often suits confident swimmers who like to move around in the current. Shade can be limited, so bring canopies or plan to visit earlier or later in the day if you prefer cooler conditions.
04
Best for picnics and families
River Bend Park
Rancho Cordova Side Of The River • Spacious Park With Sandy Spots • Family-Friendly Day-Use Hub
A sprawling riverside park with lawns, shade trees, and a mix of sandy and pebbly access points for wading and play.
River Bend Park, just downstream from La Riviera, feels more like a classic regional park than a simple river pullout. Families appreciate the picnic tables, restrooms, and big grassy areas that sit close to the water, so kids can bounce between blanket, playground, and shoreline. It is a smart choice when not everyone in your group wants to be in the river the entire time.
05
Worth-the-drive lake day
Beals Point at Folsom Lake
North Shore Of Folsom Lake • Classic Inland Lake Beach • Best For Full-Day Outings
A broad, groomed lakefront beach with facilities, rentals in season, and room for big gatherings.
About a half-hour from La Riviera, Beals Point delivers a traditional beach-day experience that river spots cannot match. The long shoreline, gentle slope into the water, and amenities like restrooms and nearby concessions make it easy to linger from late morning through sunset. It is especially popular with multi-generational groups who want swimming, paddling, and shoreline lounging in one well-organized place.