Looking for the best beaches near Spokane to soak up the sun, swim in clear water, and escape the crowds? We’ve rounded up the top local lake spots—from hidden gems to family favorites—that are perfect for your next summer day trip. Summer, sunshine, and the many lakes that are within an hour of driving from Spokane, help create this magical place we call home. There are over 70 of them within a short distance, so pack your chairs, sunblock and coolers for the perfect day (or afternoon) at one of the many places to cool off in our area.
From the iconic shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene to the quiet stretches of Long Lake (also known as Lake Spokane), and from the relaxed riverbanks of Priest River to the crystal-clear waters of Priest Lake, the Inland Northwest is packed with incredible lake beaches that deserve a spot on your summer bucket list. Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon dip, a full weekend camping trip, or just a new spot to spread out your towel and let the kids run wild, these destinations have you covered. With soft sand, refreshing water, and postcard-worthy views, there’s still time to make some lake day memories before the season slips away.
Let’s dive into our favorite picks—with some insider tips sprinkled in like sand in your car.
Honeysuckle Beach
2369 E Honeysuckle Avenue
Hayden Lake, Idaho
Honeysuckle Beach is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it gems that locals know to hit early—because it’s small, stunning, and totally worth the drive to Hayden. Tucked at 2369 E Honeysuckle Avenue, it’s one of only two public access spots on Hayden Lake, which makes it feel kind of exclusive in the best way. The beach is surrounded by crystal-clear water and classic PNW pines, and it’s got everything you need for a slow, sun-soaked afternoon—picnic tables, fishing docks, and just enough space to spread out without feeling crowded. It’s low-key, family-friendly, and totally charming, whether you’re chasing shade under the trees or soaking up the sunshine on the dock. Pack some snacks, bring your floaties, and be ready to fall a little bit in love with Hayden all over again.
Loon Lake
3906 W Canyon Springs Way
Loon Lake, Washington
Less than 30 miles outside of Spokane, Loon Lake has soft golden sand waiting for its visitors. Tucked off 3906 W Canyon Springs Way, this beach has that soft, golden sand that makes you want to kick your shoes off the second you get there. It stretches about 200 yards, which means there’s plenty of space to spread out, set up your towels and snacks, and settle in for the day. The vibe is super chill—no over-the-top crowds, just families, friends, and people who know what’s up. Whether you’re swinging by for a lazy afternoon swim or making a weekend of it at one of the nearby cabins or campsites, Loon Lake hits that perfect sweet spot between close-to-home and totally unplugged. Bring your cooler, your floaties, and a good playlist—this place is summer, plain and simple.
Farragut State Park – Beaver Bay
3550 E. Highway 54
Athol, Idaho
Beaver Bay Beach at Farragut State Park is straight-up summer magic—sandy, swimmable, and one of the best places in North Idaho to spend a hot day with your people. The water is shockingly clear, the views of Lake Pend Oreille are unreal, and the vibe? Pure relaxation. Bring your floaties, a cooler, and a good playlist, because once you post up here, you’re not going anywhere for a while. Just up the road in Athol at 3550 E. Highway 54, the rest of Farragut has everything you need to turn a beach day into a full-blown weekend. There are 265 campsites to choose from—Snowberry and Whitetail are the most popular—with rates around $31–$37 a night depending on hookups, plus cabins, equestrian spots, and group sites if you’re rolling deep. When you’re done at the beach, hit the disc golf courses (there are five!), hike through the pine forest, rent a kayak, or check out the old naval base museum at the Brig. And if you’re a planner, you’ll want to jump on those campground reservations early—summer dates fill fast. Farragut is one of those places that hits all the marks: chill beach, solid camping, epic lake views, and plenty to do if you actually feel like moving.
Hill’s Resort
4777 W Lakeshore Road
Priest Lake, Idaho
Hill’s Resort at Priest Lake is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into someone’s well-kept family tradition—but don’t worry, there’s room for you too. Tucked up at 4777 W Lakeshore Road, it’s way more than just a pretty spot on the lake (though the views? Unreal). It’s the kind of place where you kick off your sandals, grab a drink, and instantly relax. The beach is gorgeous, the water is clear, and there’s a cozy buzz of people actually enjoying themselves—not just taking selfies and leaving. What really makes Hill’s special, though, is the vibe. The staff treat you like you’ve been coming for years, the food and cocktails are way better than you’d expect for a “lodge,” and the whole thing just feels easy. Whether you’re out for a day on the sand or settling in for a full weekend escape, Hill’s delivers all the lake life energy with none of the stress.
Lake Coeur d’Alene
50 Northwest Boulevard Suite 204,
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Lake Coeur d’Alene doesn’t need an intro—but we’ll give it one anyway, because it’s that iconic. This is the lake that defines summers around here, with mountain views that never get old, water that’s just the right kind of cold, and more beaches than you can hit in one weekend. It’s ideal for lounging on the sand, hopping on a paddleboard, or jumping in with the kids. There’s no wrong way to do Lake CDA. Sure, the Resort is a great place to grab lunch or a cone from Dockside, but if you’re here for the chill vibes, locals know the real magic is along Dike Road by North Idaho College. You’ll find quieter beaches, way fewer crowds, and some of the best swim spots in town. Bonus: if the road parking is full, there’s usually plenty available at the college. Bring a cooler, a towel, and your lake day A-game—this is the place we all come back to, again and again.
Lake Spokane (Long Lake)
7742 Chamokane Street
Ford, Washington
Lake Spokane—still known as Long Lake to most locals—is the kind of laid-back, under-the-radar spot that sneaks up on you with just how good it is. Venture out to Ford at 7742 Chamokane Street, this stretch of water is all about peaceful vibes, wide open shoreline, and easy access for swimming, fishing, and soaking up the scenery. The water is calm, the backdrop is classic Eastern Washington, and it’s a favorite for anglers chasing bass and trout—or for anyone who just wants to float the afternoon away without the resort crowds. It’s the kind of place where you can show up with a couple of camp chairs, a cooler, and no real plan… and still end up having one of your favorite days of summer.
Lake Roosevelt
1008 Crest Drive
Coulee Dam, Washington
Lake Roosevelt is massive—like, 120-square-miles-of-water massive—and if you’re into beach-hopping with room to roam, this place absolutely delivers. Located near 1008 Crest Drive in Coulee Dam, it’s a stretch of the Columbia River that feels more like an inland sea, complete with dozens of sandy beaches, secret coves, and wide-open swim spots that never feel crowded. If you’re looking for easy, family-friendly access, head to Kettle Falls, Fort Spokane, or Porcupine Bay—all three have great shoreline, plenty of picnic space, and some of the best water access in the region. Insider tip: Kettle Falls is your best bet for a full beach day with younger kids, while Porcupine Bay is more remote and perfect if you want to post up away from the crowds. Bring everything you need with you—some of these spots are a bit out there, but that’s what makes them great. Don’t forget your Discover Pass, extra sunscreen, and maybe a backup floatie or two—once you find your beach, you’re not going to want to leave.
For the full list of accessible Lake Roosevelt beaches, click here.
NPS Photo
Q’emlin Park
12201 W Parkway Drive
Post Falls, Idaho
This beach is a Post Falls community staple. Q’emlin Park beach has plenty of sand and amenities to make your beach trip easy and realaxing. There is plenty of room to spread out and host the whole family. They also have BBQ’s, playgrounds, picnic shelters and Idaho’s scenic views make Q’emlin Park one of the best spots for a full beach day. It’s our editor’s pick because she grew up in Post Falls and spent her teen years swimming and jumping off of rocks with her friends. There’s some great hiking nearby along the river and on the other side of the river to see the Post Falls Dam, which is wheelchair accessible, too!
For more summer inspired content, make sure to read Best Drive-Thru Coffee Stands, Best 2024 Summer Beach Reads, and Idaho’s Top Water Parks.