01
Closest splash-worthy escape
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
San Bernardino Mountains Above The Cajon Pass • Mountain Reservoir Swim Beach • Easiest Quick Escape From Yermo
A pine-framed lake with designated swim areas that feels a world away from the desert in under a two-hour drive.
Silverwood Lake is often the first pick for Yermo locals because you can be in the water not long after leaving the I-15. The main swim beaches offer roped-off areas, picnic tables, and shady spots, making it easy to stake out a base for the day. Arrive early on hot weekends when parking lots and shoreline fill quickly with inland families trying to beat the heat.
02
Best for low-key lake vibes
Lake Gregory Regional Park
Crestline In The San Bernardino Mountains • Tree-Lined Lakeside Beach • Best For Families With Kids
A compact mountain lake with a sandy swim area, mellow water, and plenty for kids to do within a small, manageable footprint.
Lake Gregory’s swim beach feels like a classic mountain town hangout, with calm water and an easygoing atmosphere. In summer, the buoyed swim zone, seasonal inflatables, and nearby snack options keep younger swimmers happy without needing to roam far. It is a bit cooler at this elevation, so bring layers if you plan to stay into the evening when the breeze picks up off the water.
03
Best alpine-lake day trip
Meadow Park Swim Beach, Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake Village Shoreline • Alpine Lake Swim And Picnic Beach • Coolest Mid-Summer Escape
A roomy grass-and-sand lakeshore with mountain views, lifeguarded swimming, and plenty of space to spread out for the day.
Meadow Park gives you the Big Bear Lake experience without needing a boat, with a designated swim area, docks, and a large park right behind the sand. The higher elevation means noticeably cooler air than Yermo, which is a relief during the hottest months. Combine a swim session with a stroll into Big Bear Lake Village or a short hike if you want a fuller mountain-day itinerary.
04
Classic SoCal surf pick
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach Oceanfront • Wide Sandy Pacific Surf Beach • Top Pick For Surf Culture
A long, wide stretch of sand with consistent waves, a lively pier scene, and that unmistakable Orange County beach-town energy.
If you are willing to make the longer drive from Yermo, Huntington City Beach rewards you with the full Southern California ocean experience. The beach runs for miles, with volleyball courts, fire pits, surf breaks, and easy access to food and shops along the strand and Main Street. Aim to arrive early to beat both coastal traffic and parking stress, especially on summer weekends and event days near the pier.
05
Warm-water river getaway
London Bridge Beach, Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu City Riverfront • Colorado River Cove Beach • Best Warm-Water Weekend Trip
A string of sandy coves and grassy areas on Lake Havasu, ideal for swimming, paddling, and lingering in the water well into the evening.
London Bridge Beach is a farther run from Yermo, but its warm Colorado River water and resort-like feel make it a popular overnight or long-weekend choice. The shoreline has sheltered swim areas, shade structures, and easy rentals for kayaks or paddleboards, all with views of the famous bridge. Summer can be extremely hot here, so plan for plenty of sun protection and consider timing swims for mornings and late afternoons.