Sun & Sand: 3 Kid-Friendly Public Beaches in the Twin Cities

Sun & Sand: 3 Kid-Friendly, Public Beaches in the Twin CitiesStill sitting inside and feeling bored?

Well, it’s time to get up – there’s only a few more weeks of warm weather and summer fun left!

And what kind of summer would it be without a family trip to the lake? Whether you’re looking for a more relaxing experience with a good book or want to splash around with the kids, there are plenty of choices in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

So if you’ve already taken the kids to some of the best zoos and campgrounds in the area, then grab your sunscreen, beach towels and water toys and head to one of these kid-friendly, public beaches in the Twin Cities:

Lake Harriet North & Southeast Beaches

4101 Lake Harriet Parkway E, Minneapolis, MN 55409

For a more low-key and less-crowded beach experience, both the North & Southeast Beaches at Lake Harriet are great family-friendly options. Besides swimming, fishing and watersports, there’s also beatiful rose gardens to admire in nearby Lyndale Park as well as free summer concerts and movie showings at the Lake Harriet Bandshell. (Note: Lifeguards are only present at the North Beach location.)

Amenities and Features:

  • Bike path
  • Floating swim dock
  • Walking path
  • Free parking in select areas

Lake Nokomis Main Beach

5001 Lake Nokomis Parkway W, Minneapolis, MN 55417

Lake Nokomis Main Beach is another spot that’s not usually as crowded as other popular Minneapolis beaches. Have kids who don’t know how to swim? Sign them up for swim lessons, which are offered for various ages and skill levels. And if you’re looking for a sweet way to end the day, grab an ice cream cone at Grand Ole Creamery before you head home. (You’ll want to stick around for sunset though – the view of the lake and Minnesota skyline in the distance is breathtaking!)

Amenities and Features:

  • Bike path
  • Restaurant/concessions
  • Picnic area
  • Playground
  • Restrooms

Lake Minnetonka Swimming Pond

4610 County Road 44, Minnetrista, MN 55331

Just west of Eden Prairie, this beach is located within Lake Minnetonka Regional Park and is completely surrounded by sand. Featuring filtered, chlorinated water, this 1.75-acre swimming pond is the perfect mix of both pool and lake. And for kids looking to run around and burn off some excess energy on land, there’s also a giant, nautical-themed playground.

Amenities and Features:

  • Bike path
  • Hiking trails
  • Picnic areas
  • Playground
What other public beaches near the Twin Cities do you like to visit during the summer months? Comment and let us know if we missed your favorite!