Upper Lake • best beaches

5 Best Beaches & Waterfront Escapes Near Upper Lake California

Upper Lake may sit just off the shoreline, but some of Clear Lake’s easiest and most inviting beaches are only a few minutes’ drive away. From low-key neighborhood swim spots to full-service state park shores, there’s a beach here for every kind of lake day. Use this list to pick the stretch of sand and grass that best fits your crew, cooler, and schedule.

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01 Best overall pick

Nice Community Beach

Nice Lakefront Along Highway 20 • Classic Community Swim Beach • Local Favorite

A straightforward, easy-to-use swim beach with grass, sand, and big lake views just a short hop from Upper Lake.

If you only have a few hours and want something simple and close, Nice Community Beach is the obvious choice. The mix of lawn and sandy shoreline makes it easy to spread out blankets, set up chairs, and keep an eye on kids in the shallows. Expect a relaxed, no-frills scene that feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a crowded resort beach.

02 Best for a mellow afternoon

Hinman Park

Lakeshore Between Upper Lake And Nice • Quiet Shaded Lakeside Park • Best For A Quiet Picnic

A small, tree-lined waterfront park where you can dip in the lake, grill, and linger in the shade away from highway noise.

Tucked just off the main road, Hinman Park feels more secluded than it is on the map. A small beachy edge and easy water access make it good for a quick swim, while scattered trees and picnic tables invite you to stay for lunch. It’s a smart pick if you want lake access without the bustle of the more obvious stops.

03 Best for lake views and boats

Lucerne Harbor Park

Lucerne Waterfront • Marina-Style Harbor Beach • Best For Boat-Watching

A harbor-front park with a small beach feel, open lawns, and constant boat activity on the water.

Lucerne Harbor Park combines Clear Lake’s open-water views with the energy of a small marina. While the shoreline is more modest than a big sand strip, there’s plenty of room to lay out on the grass, splash in the shallows, and wander the docks. Come here if you like a bit of people- and boat-watching along with your swim.

04 Best in-town waterfront

Library Park Beach

Downtown Lakeport Shoreline • Town-Center Grass-And-Sand Waterfront • Best For Families

A lively central park with a small beach area, play spaces, and easy walkability to Lakeport’s cafes and ice cream.

Library Park is where Lakeport’s lakefront and main-street energy meet, making it ideal if you want more than just a swim. Kids can alternate between the water, playgrounds, and open grass, while adults enjoy shaded benches and a short stroll to snacks in town. It’s a great choice for mixed groups who like amenities close at hand.

05 Best full-day outing

Clear Lake State Park Swim Beach

Near Kelseyville On The Southwest Shore • State Park Swimming Beach With Trails • Best For Making A Full Day Of It

A larger, managed swim beach backed by campsites, trails, and picnic areas for a full Clear Lake day trip.

Clear Lake State Park’s designated swim beach offers more structure than the small roadside parks, with defined swimming areas and plenty of room to spread out. Once you’ve cooled off, you can explore short lakeside trails, check out the visitor center, or relax under the oaks. It’s a bit farther from Upper Lake than the Highway 20 spots, but the amenities make the extra drive worthwhile.