Dallas may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on sunny beach vibes. While there’s no ocean shore in sight, several lakes and sandy parks near Dallas offer everything from swimming and kayaking to beach volleyball and sunbathing. These inland oases are perfect for cooling off, building sandcastles, or just unwinding on a towel with a view.
Whether you’re seeking family fun, romantic sunsets, or adventurous watersports, the best beaches near Dallas are just a road trip away. This guide takes you through the most popular and scenic sandy escapes worth driving to this summer.
Why Hit the Beach Near Dallas?
While coastal road trips might steal the spotlight, Texas is full of lakeside gems with beachfronts, picnic areas, boat rentals, and even floating water parks. Most beaches near Dallas are found within state parks or recreational areas, offering a safe and convenient setting to soak up the sun.
You don’t need a plane ticket or long travel days—just pack a cooler, toss in some sunscreen, and hit the highway. From family-friendly lakes to quiet hidden shores, these are the summer road trip stops that locals swear by.
Best Beaches Near Dallas for a Summer Getaway
1. Lynn Creek Park Beach – Joe Pool Lake
One of the closest true beaches to Dallas, Lynn Creek Park offers a long stretch of sandy shoreline along Joe Pool Lake. Popular for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and jet skiing, it’s the go-to spot for city dwellers needing a fast escape. The park also has shaded cabanas and grills for all-day hangouts.
Address: 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM (seasonal)
Approx Cost: $15 per vehicle
Famous For: Large, clean beach close to Dallas with great amenities
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early on weekends—parking fills up quickly by midday.
2. Little Elm Beach – Lewisville Lake
This family-friendly beach area on Lewisville Lake feels more like a resort shoreline than a lake. With white sand, volleyball courts, a playground, and food trucks on weekends, it’s one of the best-developed beach parks around Dallas. There’s even an on-site bar and lakeside concert stage.
Address: 701 W Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068
Hours: 8 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$15 per vehicle (seasonal rates)
Famous For: Sandy beach with music, food, and family fun
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own chairs and shade tents—tree cover is minimal.
3. Lake Mineral Wells State Park Beach
This quiet lakefront state park offers a small but charming beach area perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic cliffs, it’s ideal for peaceful nature getaways. The calm waters make it a favorite for families with younger kids.
Address: 100 Park Rd 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $7 per adult; kids 12 and under free
Famous For: Quiet beach, family-friendly lake, and natural scenery
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Rent a kayak or paddleboat on-site and explore the shoreline from the water.
4. Burger’s Lake – Fort Worth
This spring-fed lake offers a retro beach park experience. With sandy beaches, shaded picnic areas, diving boards, slides, and lifeguards on duty, it’s an old-school favorite for Fort Worth families. The water stays cool even during peak summer heat, thanks to the spring source.
Address: 1200 Meandering Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76114
Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
Approx Cost: $15 per person
Famous For: Spring-fed lake with fun water features and safety measures
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: No outside food delivery allowed—bring your own picnic or use their grills.
5. Lake Texoma Beach – Eisenhower State Park
Located near the Texas-Oklahoma border, Lake Texoma’s Eisenhower State Park has one of the best natural beach areas around. You’ll find hidden sandy coves, clear water for swimming, and plenty of shaded picnic spots. It’s a full-on summer getaway just two hours north of Dallas.
Address: 50 Park Rd 20, Denison, TX 75020
Hours: 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $5 per person (12 and under free)
Famous For: Scenic beach coves with camping and hiking options
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring water shoes — the shoreline can be rocky in places but rewarding for explorers.
6. Ray Roberts Lake – Isle du Bois Beach
Part of Ray Roberts Lake State Park, the Isle du Bois unit has one of the best lake beaches in North Texas. This wide, sandy stretch is perfect for sunbathing and playing in shallow waters. There’s nearby hiking, equestrian trails, and even overnight campsites.
Address: 100 PW 4137, Pilot Point, TX 76258
Hours: 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $7 per adult; kids free
Famous For: Wide sandy beach with excellent recreational facilities
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stay overnight and enjoy sunrise at the water’s edge—it’s quiet and magical.
Packing Tips for a Texas Lake Beach Trip
- Beach towel and swimsuit
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Portable cooler with drinks and snacks
- Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat
- Folding chairs or beach mat
- Reusable water bottles
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Extra dry clothes
- Sand toys for kids
- First-aid kit
Food & Drink Spots Near the Beach
1. Hula Hut – Little Elm
A colorful lakefront restaurant serving tropical drinks, tacos, and Tex-Mex with a tiki twist. Great for post-beach relaxation.
Address: 210 E Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068
Hours: Sun–Thurs 11 AM – 10 PM, Fri–Sat till 11 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Waterfront dining with a beach vibe
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a lakeside table during sunset—it’s one of the best views around.
2. Oldwest Cafe – Denton
A hearty breakfast or brunch stop before heading out to Ray Roberts or Lake Texoma. Their massive pancakes and cowboy-themed decor set the tone for adventure.
Address: 2420 S Interstate 35 E, Denton, TX 76205
Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM – 2 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Big breakfast plates and Western charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the “Doc Holiday” omelet—it’ll keep you full till dinner.
3. Woodshed Smokehouse – Fort Worth
Located on the Trinity River, it’s the perfect BBQ spot after a dip in Burger’s Lake. Sit riverside and savor brisket or smoked duck tacos.
Address: 3201 Riverfront Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$30
Famous For: Chef-driven smoked meats with outdoor seating
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your pup — the patio is dog-friendly with a special pet menu.
Where to Stay Near the Water
1. Glamping Retreat at Ray Roberts Lake
For a nature-meets-comfort experience, this glamping site near the state park offers cozy canvas tents with A/C, firepits, and access to hiking trails.
Address: Near Isle du Bois Unit, Pilot Point, TX
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $150–$220 per night
Famous For: Glamping experience close to the beach
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book early for summer weekends—they fill up fast.
2. Lakeview Lodge at Eisenhower State Park
Overlooking Lake Texoma, this rustic lodge offers simple comfort and incredible views. Ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking peace after a beach day.
Address: 50 Park Rd 20, Denison, TX 75020
Hours: Check-in 4 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $90–$150
Famous For: Affordable, scenic lodging in the state park
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a lake-view room for a front-row seat to the sunset.
3. Live! by Loews – Arlington
For those hitting Lynn Creek or Joe Pool Lake, this stylish hotel offers resort vibes with easy access to restaurants, entertainment, and water parks.
Address: 1600 E Randol Mill Rd, Arlington, TX 76011
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $180–$300
Famous For: Modern luxury near the lake and stadiums
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Head to the rooftop bar for cocktails and skyline views.
Local Tips for Lake Beach Trips
- Check swim advisories or weather alerts before heading out
- Bring cash for park entry if cards aren’t accepted
- Arrive early for shaded picnic spots
- Stay hydrated — lakeside sun gets intense
- Respect local wildlife and keep the area clean
- Watch out for fire bans if planning to grill
- Keep valuables out of sight or locked up
Final Conclusion
You don’t have to drive to the Gulf Coast to enjoy a beach day when you live in North Texas. The best beaches near Dallas offer that sunny, sandy magic just a short drive away. Whether you want family fun, peaceful nature, or an active day of paddling and volleyball, these lakeside destinations deliver summer vibes without the long haul.
So roll down your windows, pack your sunscreen, and discover a side of Texas you might not expect — one with waves, warmth, and water just waiting to be explored.
