Shelby North Carolina BEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES


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



1. Broad River Greenway

Scenic Riverfront Escape. Explore riverside beaches and cool off in the refreshing Broad River at this expansive greenway just outside Shelby. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing along miles of beautiful nature trails.

MORE INFO

2. Double Shoals

Hidden River Beach. Discover a sandy riverside oasis behind the historic Double Shoals cotton mill with a canoe landing and spots for swimming. This local gem offers a peaceful setting for picnicking, paddling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Broad River.

MORE INFO

3. Lawndale Beach

Family-Friendly Riverfront. Splash and relax at this riverside beach in Lawndale, the future home of the Lawndale Greenway. Kids and families cool off in the gentle waters, while visitors enjoy easy access to nature and planned greenway trails.

MORE INFO

4. First Broad River Carl Spangler Trails

Riverside Trail Beaches. Enjoy sandy banks and natural swimming areas along the First Broad River, accessible from the Carl Spangler Trails. Perfect for paddling, wildlife observation, and a refreshing river swim near Shelby.

MORE INFO

5. RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls (The Bullhole)

Sandy River Adventure. Experience a unique river beach and granite bedrock swimming area at The Bullhole, just northeast of Shelby. Visitors delight in sandy sunbathing spots, a dramatic stone dam, wooded trails, and riverside picnicking.

MORE INFO


6. Lake Norman State Park

Lakeside Beach Retreat. Unwind on a large sandy swim beach at North Carolina's largest manmade lake, surrounded by forested parkland. Lake Norman State Park offers swimming, sunbathing, paddling, hiking, and plenty of space for family fun on the water.

MORE INFO

7. Carrigan Farms

Natural Quarry Beach. Dive into a scenic spring-fed quarry with sandy lounging areas, swimming, and beach volleyball near Mooresville. The unique quarry setting features clear waters, rope swings, and a lively atmosphere for water recreation.

MORE INFO

8. Lake Lure Beach and Water Park

Mountain Lake Beach. Sink your toes into soft sand along the shores of iconic Lake Lure, surrounded by Blue Ridge peaks. The public beach features lifeguards, water slides, picnic areas, and stunning lake vistas for a full day of lakeside play.

MORE INFO

9. Beatty's Ford Park

Family Lakefront Park. Relax on the sandy swim beach at this popular Lake Norman park, featuring swimming, fishing, and covered picnic shelters. Families enjoy the calm cove, playgrounds, and open spaces for lakeside fun.

MORE INFO

10. Lake James State Park

Expansive Lake Beaches. Spend the day at wide sandy beaches on the crystal-clear waters of Lake James, just under two hours from Shelby. This mountain lake park features designated swim areas, paddling rentals, hiking, and beautiful scenery.

MORE INFO