01
Best overall pick
Falls Beach at Bass Lake
South End Of Bass Lake • Lively Swim Beach With Natural Backdrop • Local Favorite
A sandy, social stretch of shoreline where Oakhurst locals cool off in clear lake water below the falls outflow.
Tucked near the south end of Bass Lake along Road 222, Falls Beach feels like the classic summer hangout: sand underfoot, cold water, and a backdrop of pines. On hot afternoons you’ll see families, dogs at the water’s edge, and floaties drifting just offshore. Parking is roadside and fills quickly, so arrive earlier in the day if you want an easy spot and a bit more space to spread out.
02
Best for relaxed swims
Wishon Point Day Use Area, Bass Lake
North Shore Of Bass Lake • Shaded Cove With Mellow Atmosphere • Great For Low-Key Afternoons
A tree-framed cove with gentle entry and picnic tables, ideal when you want a quieter Bass Lake beach day.
Wishon Point sits on a bend of Bass Lake where the water feels a bit more sheltered and slow. Small sandy pockets and a gradual slope into the lake make it easy for wading and floating, and there are plenty of pines for shade between swims. Bring a picnic and plan to linger—this is the spot for reading, card games, and unhurried dips rather than high-energy crowds.
03
Best for groups and gatherings
Recreation Point on Bass Lake
West Side Of Bass Lake • Group-Friendly Lakeshore With Open Space • Best For Larger Meetups
A broad slice of lakeshore with room for group picnics, easy water access, and plenty of sun.
Recreation Point combines shaded picnic areas with open shoreline, so big families and friend groups can spread out without feeling crowded. The lake access is straightforward, with spots to launch inflatables and stand-up paddleboards right from the shore. It’s a good bet on weekends when you want to mix swimming with barbecuing and lawn games instead of hunting for a tiny patch of sand.
04
Most rugged escape
Redinger Lake Swim Cove
San Joaquin River Canyon Southeast Of Oakhurst • Steep-Sided Reservoir With Quiet Coves • Best For Adventurous Swimmers
A more remote reservoir where rocky coves and pockets of shoreline reward those willing to drive the winding road.
Redinger Lake trades manicured sand for a wilder feel and far fewer people. The drive in is curvy and the access points are more primitive, but you’re rewarded with still water, steep canyon walls, and little coves where you can claim a bit of shoreline. Pack everything you need for the day, including extra water, since services here are minimal and shade can be limited along the banks.
05
Best for full-day outings
Millerton Lake State Recreation Area – South Shore Beach
Foothills Northwest Of Fresno • Wide Reservoir Beach With Amenities • Best For Families
A broad, gently sloping lakeside beach with lifeguarded swim areas in season and easy access to restrooms and picnic spots.
Millerton Lake’s south shore gives you more of a classic reservoir beach day, with long stretches of shoreline and open water views. Families appreciate the combination of swim zones, nearby facilities, and space to set up canopies, coolers, and yard games without feeling cramped. It’s a bit of a drive from Oakhurst, but the roomier setting and infrastructure make it a strong choice when you want to turn a beach visit into a full-day outing.