What better way to spend a summer day in Des Moines than at the beach!? If you want to bask in the sun, cool off in the water, have a lakeside picnic, or take a relaxing swim, some beautiful Des Moines beaches allow you to do just that. Read on to discover some lovely beaches near Des Moines, Iowa! You’re sure to find one near you.
So, pack your sunscreen, beach towel, and a sense of adventure, and head to one of the Des Moines beaches today! Enjoy the water, the amenities, and the picturesque surroundings – and create a summer experience to remember!
Related: Lakes Near Des Moines, Iowa [+ map!]
Map of Des Moines area beaches
Beaches near Des Moines Iowa
Big Creek State Park Beach in Polk City
Big Creek State Park boasts the largest beach in the entire Iowa State Park system! And the best part is, it’s just a quick 20-minute drive north of Des Moines.
The Big Creek beach stretches for 1300 feet along the scenic shoreline of Big Creek Lake. But that’s not all – this beach is packed with fantastic amenities! Find a massive wooden playground, a volleyball court, and even boat rentals within walking distance.
And if you want to make your beach experience extra special, rent a private cabana or spacious picnic shelter right on the beach.
For more aquatic adventures, visit the nearby marina! They offer a range of snacks, bait, and boat rentals, including stand-up paddleboards, sailboats, and pontoon boats (and more!). For more information and pricing, visit their website—call 515-984-6083 for reservations.
Beach notes: No lifeguards are on duty. Lake water gets monitored for safety. To check the water quality, you can go here. If E-coli levels are unsafe, signs will get posted.
Related: A Guide to Big Creek State Park in Central Iowa
Raccoon River Park Beach in West Des Moines
The Raccoon River Park beach is undeniably one of the most beloved destinations for beachgoers near Des Moines. And it’s easy to understand why! It stretches 500 feet along the shoreline of Blue Heron Lake, a stunning 232-acre lake in the center of the park.
The swimming beach is a roped area located on the northeastern side of Blue Heron Lake. It’s open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 10:30 am to sunset.
So, pack up your inflatable rafts and beach toys; this is the perfect place to cool off on those scorching summer days!!
And once you’ve had your fill of beach fun, explore the other amenities the park offers! The Raccoon River Boathouse is a must-visit for boat rentals and easy access from the docks. You can rent various watercraft there, including canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.
Beach notes: No lifeguards are on duty. There is a life jacket loaner station on site. The water gets tested every three weeks for dangerous levels of E-coli (signs will alert beachgoers of high levels).
Related: A Guide to Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines
Gray’s Lake Park Beach in Des Moines Iowa
Gray’s Lake Park is ideally situated on the southern edge of Downtown Des Moines, making it a popular year-round outdoor destination. And summer is no exception!
In fact, Gray’s Lake Beach is one of the hottest outdoor summer destinations in Des Moines! The sand beach stretches along the scenic north shore of Gray’s Lake, with several park amenities within easy reach.
Kids enjoy the playground with swings and slides. And the 2-mile Kruidenier Trail is perfect for walkers, runners, and bikers.
And exciting news for beachgoers – a beachside concession stand has recently reopened during the summer! Buy hot dogs and ice cream and rent stand-up paddleboards to make the most of a day at the beach. Life jackets are also available. Go here for beach concession hours.
Beach notes:
- Free parking and restrooms are at the beach.
- Life jackets are available at the park concessions.
- The water gets tested for high E-Coli levels, and the beach is closed if unsafe.
If you’re looking for even more aquatic excitement, go to Gray’s Lake Terrace Concessions on the lake’s southwest side. They offer more boat rentals, like canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and sailboats. Note that rentals are seasonal, so check the hours before you go.
Related: A Guide to Gray’s Lake Park in Des Moines
Saylorville Lake in Polk City
Saylorville Lake is an exceptional destination for a day at the beach. Even more? It’s just a few short miles north of Des Moines!
The vast 6000-acre lake attracts folks eager to embrace the sandy beach and other water activities, like boating and fishing.
Saylorville Lake has one designated public swimming beach: Oak Grove Beach. Situated west of Ankeny and south of Polk City, this beach provides a designated area to enjoy the sun and water.
Saylorville’s Oak Grove Beach notes:
- Is a day-use area; day-use fees apply.
- Has no lifeguard on duty.
- Is an alcohol-free zone.
- Has running water (seasonally).
- Is usually open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
- Has restrooms (when open).
- Has life jacket loaner stations.
- Closes during high water levels.
Life Jacket Loaner Stations
Visitors can check out life jackets and return them when done. The loans are free and on the honor system. Child, Youth, and Adult sizes are available. Stations are at Sandpiper Recreation Area, Oak Grove Beach, and the marina.
Related:
• A Guide to Saylorville Lake in Central Iowa
• Saylorville Lake Campgrounds: Central Iowa Camping At Its Best
Easter Lake Park Beach in Des Moines
Easter Lake beach and boat rentals closed for 2023
Easter Lake’s North Shore Recreation Area (beach and boat rentals) is closed during the 2023 season. You can view the renovation plan by following this link. The anticipated reopening is scheduled for 2024.
There’s no better way to spend a fun summer day than on the scenic lakeshores at Easter Lake. Its North Shore Beach is a summer hotspot on Des Moines’ southeast side!
This 469-acre park is a haven of natural beauty and outdoor amenities, offering a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Explore trails, have a relaxing picnic, let the kids play at the playgrounds, or try your luck at the fishing jetties.
Easter Lake Boat Rentals and concessions are also at the beach, where beachgoers can get a snack or drink – or rent a boat! Rent a canoe, kayak, motorboat, or pontoon. (Closed for 2023.)
Beach notes: No lifeguard on duty. Signs will be posted if water is deemed unsafe.
Related: A Guide to Easter Lake Park in Des Moines
Next:
• Lakes Near Des Moines, Iowa [+ map!]
• Pools in Des Moines
• 12 Top Lakes for Recreation and Relaxation