Think Utah isn’t an exciting beach destination?
Don’t let Utah’s desert landscapes and snow-capped mountains deceive you!
Sure, this landlocked state is over 500 miles away from the oceanfront wonders of the west coast.
But, it’s home to a plethora of reservoirs, lakes and ponds with sandy beaches.
And, guess what?
We’re helping you plan a wet and wild adventure here by featuring the best family beaches in Utah.
1. Lake Powell — Canyonlands National Park
Lake Powell, UT 84533
(928) 608-6200
With its pristine beaches and ethereal scenery, Lake Powell is, hands down, the most popular beach destination in Utah.
Why We Recommend This Beach
No list of the best family beach vacations in Utah is complete without Lake Powell.
With over 1,900 miles of shoreline, Lake Powell overflows with splashy fun for the entire gang.
In fact, it’s a beloved recreational destination for fishing, boating and water-skiing.
As a bonus, the lake is located near some of the best family resorts in Utah.
And, did we mention that it offers other outdoorsy family-friendly activities, like hiking and camping?
Expert Tip
Explore this man-made reservoir in a fun and scenic way by renting a houseboat.
Not only will it give you a cozy home base, but it also lets you discover private beaches and hidden gems.
Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Greenwell Inn
2. Rendezvous Beach — Bear Lake State Park
Rendezvous Beach, UT 84038
(435) 946-2900
With its stunning waters, the Rendezvous Beach will make you feel like you’ve been transported into a child-friendly coastline in the Carribean.
Why We Recommend This Beach
They don’t call Rendezvous Beach one of the nicest family-friendly beaches in Utah for nothing.
Nicknamed the “Caribbean of the Rockies”, this beach wows visitors with its green jewel and deep blue hues.
Furthermore, the beach has plenty of facilities to make your visit even more pleasurable and enthralling.
To me, it’s a great alternative to California’s child-friendly coastline.
Expert Tip
If you want to camp at a waterfront spot, I suggest that you make reservations at least 4 months in advance.
Remember, it’s a pretty famous beach, especially in summer.
Also, don’t forget to drive to Garden City and sample their luscious raspberry shakes.
Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn & Suites Logan Near University
3. Bridger Bay Beach — Syracuse
4528 West 1700 South
Syracuse, UT 84075
(801) 652-2043
With a wealth of wildlife and a gorgeous beach, Bridger Bay is, no doubt, one of the top fun things to do in Utah with kids.
Why We Recommend This Beach
From afar, Antelope Island looks quite like a deserted wasteland.
But, once you set foot on the island, you’ll discover a slew of interesting wildlife, including bison, antelope and deer.
And, more importantly, it’s home to a family-friendly cove, Bridger Bay Beach.
For a memorable visit, spend some time kayaking, canoeing or swimming at the Great Salt Lake.
Since the lake’s salt content is extremely high, you can float and bob here without sinking.
Additionally, the beach has convenient amenities, like showers, vending machines and picnic areas.
Expert Tip
Planning to stay overnight?
You might want to pitch a tent at Bridger Bay Campground.
The campground has 25 primitive sites with no electricity or water.
You can, however, find water at the visitor center, dump station and beach.
Also, you’ll find the Lakeside Trailhead, a terrific wildlife watching trail, at this campground.
Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn Salt Lake City Layton
4. Deer Creek State Park — Wallsburg
UT-314
Wallsburg, UT 84082
(435) 654-0171
There’s more to Deer Creek State Park than its scenic outdoor pursuits.
With a family-friendly shoreline, it’s even deemed as one of the best beaches in Utah for kids.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Deer Creek State Park is well-known for its fishing and boating opportunities.
But, guess what?
It also has a sandy, secluded and quiet beach on the northeast where you can just go swimming or sunbathing.
Furthermore, the state park offers tons of exciting outdoor pursuits for teenagers, kids and adults.
Expert Tip
The Chokecherry campground is an excellent place to stay overnight.
It has paved roads, full hookups and pavilions over picnic tables.
And, while the electricity is just 30 amp, it’s great value for the price.
Recommended Hotel: Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa Trademark Collection by Wyndham
5. Pineview Reservoir — Huntsville
816 N 7100 E,
Huntsville, UT 84317
Pineview Reservoir is home to a trio of fine and gorgeous Utah beaches.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Want to experience one of the most action-packed family vacations in Utah?
Do yourself a favor and spend a few days at Pineview Reservoir.
From paddle boarding to swimming, the reservoir has a myriad of activities suitable for the entire family.
Of course, the reservoir is home to some of the state’s top toddler-friendly beaches, like Anderson Cove.
Expert Tip
Traveling with adventurous teens?
Satisfy their adventure cravings by allowing them to go paddleboarding at Windsurfer Beach.
A local favorite, it’s the go-to spot for those who are into stand-up paddleboarding.
Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Ogden Conference Center
6. Sand Hollow State Park — Hurricane
3351 Sand Hollow Rd
Hurricane, UT 84737
(435) 680-0715
With its red sandstone landscape and warm, blue waters, Sand Hollow is sure to captivate the whole family.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Sand Hollow is a haven of fun for outdoor adventures.
For a shot of adrenaline, go on a sand dune ATV adventure with the gang.
Afterward, relax on the beach, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the area.
Expert Tip
Can’t get enough of the park’s sand dunes?
You might want to check out the stunning pink-orange sand dunes at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.
It’s a short drive from Sand Hollow, and also features loads of outdoor activities.
Recommended Hotel: Days Inn by Wyndham Hurricane/Zion National Park Area
Related: Weekend Getaways in Utah
7. Wayne Bartholomew Park — Springville
1090 E 2900 S St
Springville, UT 84663
(801) 489-2270
With its sandy beach and recreational areas, it’s no wonder they call this park the best kid-friendly beach destination in Utah.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Ever since its opening in 2015, the park has become one of most popular weekend family getaways in Utah.
With a beach area and a 3-acre pond, the park offers plenty of splashy fun for everyone.
There are also areas for games, like ring-toss horseshoe and volleyball.
Expert Tip
Pack life vests and always keep an eye on your kiddos when they are swimming.
There are no lifeguards on the beach, so it’s best to take extra safety precautions.
Recommended Hotel: Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
Also See:
Beaches Near Salt Lake City, UT
8. Manila Creek Pond — Pleasant Grove
3300 N. 900 West
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
(801) 785-3506
Manila Creek Pond is a fun pit stop for families who love to fish and swim.
Why We Recommend This Beach
With gentle, shallow waters and a roped-off wading spot, Manila Creek Pond is the safest beach in the state for kids.
Moreover, it’s a terrific spot for moms and dads who are into fishing.
There are also amenities to make your beach escape more convenient and fun.
Expert Tip
Since there’s no natural shade in the area, you should wear some sunscreen as well as pack umbrellas or pop-up shade pavilions.
Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Orem University Pwy Provo
9. Highland Glen Park — Highland
4800 Knight Ave
Highland, UT 84003
(801) 756-5751
Highland Glen Park is loaded with activities that will entertain everyone in your family.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Although the park is relatively small, it’s still packed with recreational fun for the entire squad.
Besides its roped-off kid-friendly beach, the park also has restrooms, BBQ grills, a playground area and a sand volley court.
Expert Tip
The park is situated near the Murdock Canal trail system where you can experience other adrenaline-pumping adventures.
Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Salt Lake City/Sandy
10. Flaming Gorge Reservoir — Dutch John
Flaming Gorge Dam, 5995
Dutch John, UT
Why We Recommend This Beach
Flaming Gorge has all the hallmarks of a memorable family getaway.
Situated in the heart of the Ashley National Forest, this reservoir is home to 2 of the best family beaches in Utah.
Plus, it has a network of trails, picnic areas and camp sites, making it a popular destination for family recreation.
Expert Tip
If you don’t like roughing it up, there are plenty of comfortable accommodations nearby.
Our favorite is the Flaming Gorge Resort.
With its cushy accommodations and convenient amenities, this motel guarantees a good night’s sleep.
Recommended Hotel: Flaming Gorge Resort
Utah Family Beaches Map
10 Best Beaches in Utah for Families for 2023
- Lake Powell — Canyonlands National Park
- Rendezvous Beach — Bear Lake State Park
- Bridger Bay Beach — Syracuse
- Deer Creek State Park — Wallsburg
- Pineview Reservoir — Huntsville
- Sand Hollow State Park — Hurricane
- Wayne Bartholomew Park — Springville
- Manila Creek Pond — Pleasant Grove
- Highland Glen Park — Highland
- Flaming Gorge Reservoir — Dutch John
