Austin TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Austin, Texas.
1. West Lake Beach
CLASSIC LAKESIDE RETREAT
West Lake Beach is a family-friendly lakeside spot located on the west end of Lake Austin. Visitors enjoy swimming areas, shaded picnic tables, volleyball, and a sandy shoreline perfect for lounging. The park's relaxed atmosphere and private ambience make it a favorite for gatherings and a refreshing escape from the city.
2. Hippie Hollow Park
ADULTS-ONLY LAKEFRONT OASIS
Hippie Hollow Park is renowned as Texas's only clothing-optional public park, set on the scenic shores of Lake Travis. The rocky beach and clear waters draw swimmers and sunbathers seeking a laid-back, open-minded environment. It's celebrated for its stunning water views and unique, inclusive atmosphere.
3. Shoal Beach at Town Lake Metropolitan Park
TRANQUIL RIVERSIDE HAVEN
Shoal Beach at Town Lake Metropolitan Park offers a peaceful riverside setting along the Colorado River in downtown Austin. This dog-friendly beach is perfect for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying scenic views of the city skyline. Its serene ambiance and inclusivity make it a go-to spot for both people and pets.
4. Secret Beach
HIDDEN RIVERSIDE GEM
Secret Beach, tucked away in Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park, provides an off-the-beaten-path riverside oasis in East Austin. With its sandy banks and peaceful, undeveloped surroundings, it's a quiet spot for wading, lounging, and nature observation. The beach's tranquil, secluded vibe gives visitors a chance to escape urban noise.
5. Lake Pflugerville Park Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKESIDE PARK
Lake Pflugerville Park Beach features a crescent-shaped beach at the edge of a sparkling reservoir in the suburb of Pflugerville. Visitors can swim, kayak, fish, or walk along the 3-mile trail circling the lake. Its wide sandy area and accessible amenities make it a top pick for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Russell Park Beach
CRYSTAL LAKE GETAWAY
Russell Park Beach sits on the shores of Lake Georgetown, offering a tranquil swimming area with imported white sand. Shaded picnic spots and scenic lake views make it perfect for day trips, picnics, and water play. The clear water and calm setting create an ideal escape for those seeking a classic lakeside experience.
7. Blue Hole Park
NATURAL SWIMMING HOLE
Blue Hole Park is a scenic lagoon located along the San Gabriel River, surrounded by limestone bluffs and lush greenery. Guests can swim, float, or picnic in this spring-fed swimming hole. Its natural beauty and crystal-clear waters make it a beloved summertime refuge.
8. Hamilton Pool Preserve
STUNNING NATURAL POOL
Hamilton Pool Preserve dazzles with its dramatic limestone grotto and jade-green swimming hole fed by a 50-foot waterfall. The park's trails and scenic surroundings provide a breathtaking setting for swimming and hiking. Its unique geological formation and pristine waters attract visitors year-round.
9. Pace Bend Park
CLIFFSIDE LAKE SHORES
Pace Bend Park spans the shores of Lake Travis, boasting sandy coves, rocky bluffs, and inviting swimming areas. It's a favorite for camping, boating, and cliff-jumping with panoramic water views. The park's mix of adventure and relaxation makes it a versatile lakeside destination.
10. Pedernales Falls State Park
RIVERFRONT WILDERNESS ESCAPE
Pedernales Falls State Park features a dramatic stretch of limestone slabs along the Pedernales River, perfect for swimming, wading, and exploring. Visitors can hike rugged trails, relax by the water, and marvel at the park's wide, cascading falls. Its wild river scenery and spacious swimming holes make it a top choice for nature lovers.
Austin Things To Do
Visit our list of attractions and things to do near Austin, Texas.
Austin Restaurants
Visit our list of restaurants and places to eat near Austin, Texas.