Best Summer Beach Destinations in Austin, Texas, United States
1. Lady Bird Lake
A unique urban oasis in the heart of Austin with kayak and paddleboard rentals for a different beach experience.
- Water Activities: Offers water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowing.
- Urban Setting: Located in downtown Austin, providing easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
- Family-Friendly: Ideal for families seeking an urban outdoor adventure.
2. Barton Springs Pool
A refreshing natural pool fed by underground springs, perfect for a summer swim.
- Natural Pool: Fed by a natural artesian spring, maintaining a consistent temperature.
- Central Location: Located in Zilker Park and within walking distance of downtown Austin.
- Swimming Year-Round: Open for swimming throughout the year, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
3. Hamilton Pool Preserve
A beautiful natural pool created by erosion, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Natural Wonder: Features a 50-foot waterfall pouring into the swimming hole.
- Tranquil Environment: Ideal for a peaceful and serene outdoor experience.
- Reservation Required: Advance reservations are required to visit Hamilton Pool Preserve.
4. Deep Eddy Pool
One of Austin's oldest public pools, offering a historic swimming experience.
- Historic Attraction: Built in 1936 and still operating as a popular community swimming pool.
- Two Pools in One: Features two separate pools: a deep end for lap swimmers and a shallow end for children and casual swimmers.
- Adjacent to Pease Park: Located next to Pease Park, offering additional recreational activities such as hiking trails and picnic areas.
5. Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
A vast park with several ponds ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Swimming Ponds: Features multiple ponds that are safe for swimming.
- Water Sports: Offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, making it perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
- Camping Available: Has camping facilities for those seeking an extended stay in nature.
6. Emma Long Metropolitan Park
A sprawling park along Lady Bird Lake with a sandy beach area and various recreational activities.
- Sandy Beach: Features a sandy beach area for sunbathing and swimming.
- Water Sports: Offers kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals.
- Fishing Pier: Has a fishing pier for anglers looking to catch fish.
7. Mockingbird Island Beach
A man-made beach located in the middle of Lady Bird Lake, perfect for a unique swimming experience.
- Man-Made Beach: A small island with a sandy beach in the middle of Lady Bird Lake.
- Urban Setting: Located within Austin's downtown area, offering a unique cityscape view.
- Swimming and Relaxation: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
8. Community First! Village
A micro-village with tiny homes offering affordable housing solutions for the homeless while promoting sustainability.
- Affordable Housing Solution: Provides affordable, sustainable, and dignified housing for the chronically homeless.
- Artistic Community: Home to artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs showcasing their work.
- Sustainable Living: Promotes environmental stewardship through renewable energy sources and sustainable practices.
9. Lake Travis
A large reservoir offering water sports, fishing, and scenic views.
- Water Sports: Offers activities like jet skiing, wakeboarding, and sailing.
- Scenic Views: Provides breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country.
- Fishing Opportunities: Known for its abundant bass and catfish populations.
10. Buchanan's Slough
A secluded beach area along Lake Austin with crystal-clear waters for swimming.
- Secluded Beach: A less crowded and quieter option for beachgoers.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: Features crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming.
- Scenic Hike and Swim Combo: Located near the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering hiking trails as well.
11. St. Edwards Park
A park along the banks of the Colorado River with a sandy beach area for swimming and picnicking.
- Sandy Beach: Features a sandy beach area for sunbathing and swimming.
- Scenic Views: Offers scenic views of the Colorado River and surrounding hillside.
- Picnic Areas: Has picnic areas for a relaxing outdoor meal.
12. Pace Bend Park
A large park along Lake Travis with swimming areas, camping sites, and hiking trails.
- Swimming Areas: Offers designated swimming areas for visitors.
- Camping Sites: Features camping sites for overnight stays.
- Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails with beautiful views of Lake Travis.
13. Jacobs Well
A natural spring-fed swimming hole located in the Texas Hill Country, perfect for a refreshing swim.
- Natural Spring-Fed Swimming Hole: Fed by a natural artesian spring, maintaining a consistent temperature.
- Scenic Location: Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, offering stunning views.
- Remote and Secluded: A more remote and secluded location for those seeking a quieter experience.
14. Krause Springs
A natural spring-fed swimming area with multiple pools and scenic waterfalls.
- Natural Spring-Fed Pools: Features multiple pools filled with cool, refreshing water.
- Scenic Waterfalls: Offers picturesque waterfalls for a unique and beautiful swimming experience.
- Camping Sites: Has camping sites available for overnight stays.
15. Blue Hole at Wimberley
A crystal-clear swimming hole located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: Features crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing swim.
- Scenic Location: Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, offering stunning views.
- Family-Friendly: Ideal for families seeking a fun and memorable outdoor adventure.