01
Best overall pick
South Tufa Beach, Mono Lake
South Shore Of Mono Lake • Surreal Tufa Shoreline • Iconic Mono Lake Experience
Walk among towering tufa formations and shallow bays on the most dramatic stretch of Mono Lake shoreline.
If you only visit one Mono Lake beach, make it South Tufa. A flat trail leads you right to the chalky towers and calm, glassy water, with views that change by the minute as light moves over the basin. Visit early or near sunset for cooler temperatures, softer light, and fewer people in your photos.
02
Best for swimming and paddling
Navy Beach, Mono Lake
East Shore Of Mono Lake • Open Swimming And Paddling Cove • Best For Taking A Dip
A gently sloping shoreline and wide bay make this the go-to spot for floating, swimming, and launching kayaks on Mono Lake.
Navy Beach is the most practical place to wade into Mono Lake’s famously buoyant, salty water. The beach is broad and relatively smooth underfoot, with enough space to lay out a towel or stage kayaks and paddleboards. There’s little shade, so bring sun protection and plenty of water if you plan to linger.
03
Best for families
Mono Lake County Park Beach
North Shore By Mono City • Family Picnic And Birdwatching Spot • Top Pick For Families
A small lakeside beach backed by lawns, shade trees, and picnic tables just minutes from Mono City.
Mono Lake County Park offers an easy mix of comfort and lake access: kids can explore the short boardwalk to the shore while adults enjoy shaded picnic areas and restrooms. Down at the waterline, you get close-up views of tufa formations and wide-open vistas across the lake. It’s an ideal low-key stop if you’re staying in or near Mono City.
04
Best quick stop
Old Marina Beach, Mono Lake
West Shore Near Lee Vining • Roadside Viewpoint Beach • Best Quick Stop Off Highway 395
A convenient pull-off with a short path to the shoreline, perfect for stretching your legs and taking in classic Mono Lake views.
Old Marina Beach sits just off Highway 395, making it one of the easiest Mono Lake access points if you’re road-tripping through the Eastern Sierra. From the shore you get sweeping views of the lake, tufa outcrops, and the high Sierra beyond. It’s more of a scenic pause than an all-day beach hang, but invaluable when you want big scenery with minimal effort.
05
Best alpine escape
June Lake Beach
June Lake Loop South Of Mono City • Sandy Alpine Lake Beach • Best Full-Day Escape
A wide sandy beach on a clear mountain lake, ideal for swimming, paddling, and spending a full day by the water.
About a half-hour south of Mono City, June Lake Beach offers a classic mountain-lake feel that contrasts beautifully with Mono Lake’s stark shoreline. There’s real sand underfoot, clear (and cold) freshwater for swimming, and easy access for kayaks and paddleboards. Come with a picnic, a good book, and layers—the higher elevation can feel brisk even on sunny days.