Glenwood North Carolina BEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES


Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Glenwood, North Carolina.



1. Lake James State Park

Expansive Mountain Lake. Unwind on a broad sandy beach nestled against Lake James, a vast reservoir with over 150 miles of shoreline. Enjoy designated swimming areas, scenic mountain views, lakeside picnicking, canoe and kayak rentals, and easy access to hiking and biking trails.

MORE INFO

2. Lake James State Park - Paddy's Creek Section

Family-Friendly Beachfront. The Paddy's Creek section features a large swimming beach, shaded picnic shelters, and convenient restrooms. Canoe rentals, a gentle beach entry, and nearby hiking trails make this a top pick for families seeking water recreation.

MORE INFO

3. Lake Lure Beach and Water Park

Classic Lakeside Fun. Play on a sandy public beach with lifeguards and splash in the adjacent water park, set against the dramatic Hickory Nut Gorge backdrop. Visitors enjoy swimming, sunbathing, water slides, picnic areas, and stunning mountain vistas.

MORE INFO

4. Lake Glenville Recreation Area

High-Elevation Reservoir Beach. Relax by the cool waters of Lake Glenville at a public swim beach surrounded by forested slopes. Picnic tables, a swim area, and opportunities for boating and fishing round out the experience.

MORE INFO

5. Fontana Village Resort - Fontana Beach

Mountain Reservoir Retreat. Fontana Beach offers a sandy swimming area along the shores of vast Fontana Lake, framed by Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors enjoy swimming, sunbathing, nearby marina access, and picnic spots.

MORE INFO


6. Lake Junaluska Aquatic Center and Beach

Relaxing Spiritual Setting. Swim from a sandy lakefront beach at this scenic retreat center, surrounded by walking trails and gardens. Paddleboat, kayak, and canoe rentals are available, with mountain views completing the tranquil setting.

MORE INFO

7. Lake Adger Public Access Area

Quiet Lakeshore Escape. The Lake Adger public beach provides a peaceful spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Enjoy gentle waters, mountain scenery, and access to paddling and fishing on this picturesque lake.

MORE INFO

8. Lake Tahoma

Historic Private Lake. Lake Tahoma occasionally opens its sandy lakeshore for community events and public swim days, offering a unique mountain lake experience. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting and opportunities for swimming and wildlife watching.

MORE INFO

9. Lake Powhatan Recreation Area

Forest Lakeside Beach. Nestled in Pisgah National Forest, Lake Powhatan features a sandy swim beach, picnic spots, and easy hiking trails. Visitors enjoy calm swimming waters and a convenient location near Asheville.

MORE INFO

10. Bear Creek Lake Public Beach

Secluded Mountain Beach. Bear Creek Lake's small public beach offers swimming, picnicking, and a peaceful mountain setting perfect for relaxing by the water. Enjoy boating, fishing, and wildlife observation in this less-traveled gem.

MORE INFO