There’s nothing better than a warm summer day where the kids can splash in the water, climb, swing, and slide. It’s even better when all of that can be found in one stop! That’s why the best Twin Cities beach playgrounds are such a win for families. Instead of choosing between a day at the lake or a trip to the park, these destinations let you enjoy both. To help you plan your next outing, we’ve pulled together some of the best places to swim and play in the Twin Cities!
We’ve rounded up 16 family favorites located across the metro area, so there’s bound to be one close to home (or worth the drive!). Whether you’re planning a spontaneous afternoon outing or looking for fun day trip ideas, these destinations are packed with opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and exploring some of the most unique playgrounds in the Twin Cities. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, towels, and sand toys!
Please keep reading to discover some of the best Twin Cities outdoor summer activities for kids this season!
Arden Hills: Tony Schmidt Regional Park
3500 Lake Johanna Blvd, Arden Hills, MN, 55112
If you’re looking for one of the most family-friendly beaches in the Twin Cities, Tony Schmidt Regional Park is a fantastic choice. Located on beautiful Lake Johanna, this Ramsey County park features a life-guarded swimming beach with a long, shallow swim area that’s ideal for younger kids. A large playground sits just steps from the sand, making it easy for little ones to switch between swimming and climbing. For families needing a break from the sand and water, a second playground is located near the pavilion.
Families will also find picnic tables, shaded areas, walking paths, a fishing pier, and accessible restrooms. With so many family-friendly amenities and places to play, this is undoubtedly one of the best Twin Cities beaches with playgrounds for a full summer day outdoors.
Big Lake: Lakeside Park
101 Lakeshore Dr, Big Lake, MN 55309
Lakeside Park is one of the best places to swim and play in the Twin Cities. If you’re looking for a fun summer day trip beyond the inner metro, this is well worth the trek! Set on the shores of Big Lake, this family favorite features a sandy swimming beach, a pirate-themed playground overlooking the water, and plenty of room to picnic. Kids can also enjoy the skate park, sand volleyball court, and fishing pier. Of course, watching boats come and go from the launch is another popular activity for littles here!
Families also love the picnic shelters and grills with scenic views. Don’t forget to pack a lunch! With plenty of open green space to play and spread out, it’s easy to spend the entire day here. Just note that there is no lifeguard on duty and swimming is limited to the buoyed area. A daily parking pass is also required.
Bloomington: Bush Lake Beach
9140 East Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438
Bush Lake Beach is one of the best swimming beaches with playgrounds for families near Minneapolis. It offers a full day of outdoor fun right inside Hyland-Bush-Anderson Lakes Park Reserve. The sandy beach features free admission and parking, making it an easy and affordable summer destination with kids. When your kids are ready for a break from splashing in the water, they’ll find a small playground right on the beach (best for toddlers and young kids). There is a sand volleyball court, concessions, restrooms, and drinking fountains just steps away, too.
For even more adventure, take the short drive or walk to Hyland Play Area (Chutes and Ladders Playground), one of the most unique playgrounds in the metro. This playground is a fantastic option for all ages, including older children. With hiking trails, biking paths, and lake activities all in one park, it’s a perfect choice for Twin Cities outdoor summer activities for kids.
Burnsville: Crystal Beach
1101 Crystal Lake Rd E, Burnsville, MN 55306
Crystal Beach is one of the best Twin Cities beach playgrounds for families looking to pack plenty of fun into one summer outing. This beautiful park features an unguarded swimming beach. Kids love the unique “sand factory” play equipment where they can dig, build, and explore right on the beach. Plus, a large playground is just steps away from the water (but off the beach). On or off the beach, there is plenty of space to play when they need a break from splashing and swimming.
Families can also rent canoes or paddleboards to spend some time on the water. Afterward or in between swims, enjoy a picnic. There are plenty of tables and grassy areas to spread out. Or, stroll the paved trail (it’s stroller-friendly!). A concession stand, restrooms, volleyball court, and free public Wi-Fi add to the convenience. Whether you have an hour or a whole day, Crystal Beach is an easy destination for lakeside adventures with your kids.
Eden Prairie: Bryant Lake Regional Park
6800 Rowland Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Bryant Lake Regional Park is one of the most scenic Twin Cities beaches with playgrounds. Families can start their visit by cooling off at the free, sand-bottomed swimming beach. When kids are ready to play, head to the nearby playground. It includes a climbing net and toddler-friendly equipment. The beach is unguarded, and the water is regularly monitored for quality.
Beyond swimming and play, families can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. This is a great way to explore the waves in a whole new way! Off the water, explore the park’s hiking trails and disc golf course. With concessions, restrooms, and beautiful lake views, Bryant Lake makes an excellent destination for a fun day outdoors with your family this summer.
Elk River: Orono Park
18599 Gary St, Elk River, MN 55330
Orono Park is one of the best Twin Cities beach playgrounds, thanks to its unbeatable combination of activities. Families love that there is a swimming beach, splash pad, and destination playground all in one spot! The nature-inspired play area features a giant treehouse structure, climbing elements, swings, and inclusive equipment for kids of all abilities. Then, steps away, families can cool off at the large splash pad. It’s perfect for kids who aren’t quite ready to dip their toes in the lake. Of course, you can also spend the whole day at the wide, sandy beach. The beach has a shallow swim area that’s perfect for kids of all ages (there is no lifeguard on duty here). The best part is that parents can see all three locations at once since they are all located in the same area.
Beyond the water activities and playground, families can enjoy paved trails, picnic shelters, fishing, pickleball courts, and clean restrooms. Parking can also easily be found. All of these fantastic amenities paired with endless ways to splash and play make Orono Park one of the most family-friendly beaches in the Twin Cities.
Excelsior: Playground Beach
2 1st St, Excelsior, MN 55331
Playground Beach is one of the most charming places to swim and play in the Twin Cities. It offers a beautiful Lake Minnetonka setting and unbeatable location next to the Commons Playground. Kids can splash in the sand-bottom swimming area before heading straight to the playground. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy the lake views from nearby benches and picnic tables (or jump in on the lake fun!). The beach is unguarded, so swimmers must stay within the marked buoyed area. If you’re lucky, you may even catch live music from the Excelsior Commons Bandshell.
After your beach day, stroll into downtown Excelsior for ice cream (there are several local favorites, including a waterfront Sebastian Joe’s option in the Commons). Extend your stroll to explore unique shops, grab lunch, or a ride on the historic streetcar. With a sandy beach, open green space, nearby restrooms, and several family-friendly attractions nearby, Excelsior is an easy spot to spend an entire summer day together.
Lake Elmo: Lake Elmo Park Reserve Swim Pond
1515 Keats Ave N, Lake Elmo, MN 55042
If you’re searching for sandy beaches with nearby playgrounds in Minnesota, the Swim Pond at Lake Elmo Park Reserve is hard to beat. This unique, chlorinated swimming pond combines the feel of a sandy lake beach with the clean, filtered water of a pool. Lifeguards are on duty throughout the summer. The shallow entry makes it especially great for younger swimmers. Just steps away from the beach, the Nature Adventure Playground invites kids to climb, balance, and explore between swims. The playground is a favorite amongst toddlers and tweens alike!
Families can also enjoy concessions and picnic areas for a low-effort, all-day experience. The park also offers hiking trails, a fishing pier, and more. Just note that a Washington County Parks vehicle pass is required to enter the park.
Maple Grove: Elm Creek park reserve Swim Pond
12420 James Deane Pkwy, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Many local families highly regard Elm Creek Swim Pond as one of the best swimming beaches with playgrounds near Minneapolis! It offers a family-friendly swim pond with the feel of a beach and the clean, filtered water of a pool (the water is chlorinated here). Come early because there are a few first-come, first-served shade umbrellas on the beach! The sandy shoreline, lifeguards on duty, changing facilities, and gentle swim area make it a family favorite with young kids. After cooling off, head to the nearby nature-inspired play area. It’s one of the most unique playgrounds in the Twin Cities. Kids can climb, explore, and burn off any extra energy.
Concessions are also available for a quick snack between swims. Beyond the lake, Elm Creek Park Reserve offers plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as a few unique activities (like archery). A daily or season wristband is required for everyone ages 1 and older to access the swim pond and beach area.
Maple Grove: Weaver Lake
8591 Co Road 101 Maple Grove, MN 55311
Weaver Lake Beach is a fantastic destination for families looking to spend a full summer day outdoors. The beach features a large tube slide, which will almost certainly be a hit with your kids! Parents appreciate the spacious viewing deck and a buoyed swimming area. Between the slide and the beach, kids have plenty of places to enjoy the water before heading to the nearby playgrounds. The beach is unguarded.
Beyond the beach, the park offers two playground areas, sand volleyball courts, and a fishing pier. You can extend the fun by exploring the walking and biking trails. When you’re ready to eat, picnic areas with grills are widely available. With free parking and tons of family-friendly amenities, it’s easy to see why Weaver Lake Beach is a favorite amongst the best Twin Cities beach playgrounds.
Minneapolis: Lake Bde Maka Ska
3000 Bde Maka Ska Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Lake Bde Maka Ska is one of the most iconic beaches in Minneapolis. This urban lake offers families three sandy beaches and two playgrounds to enjoy all summer long. North Beach and 32nd Street Beach are especially convenient for families. Both have nearby playgrounds where kids can take a break from swimming. Then, Thomas Beach offers lifeguard hours, a floating swim dock, and sand volleyball. You can even rotate between the three beaches for added fun. A paved path circles the lake, making it easy to move between them (without having to move your vehicle).
Beyond the beach, families can explore the 3.2-mile paved loop trail, fishing pier, and sports fields. Seasonal rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes are also available (between North Beach and 32nd Street Beach). Parking is available around the lake at one of the many pay lots and spaces. Nearby street parking may also be available, but it is quite a walk to the beaches or playground. With beautiful lake views, multiple beaches, and plenty of kid-friendly amenities, Bde Maka Ska is one of the best sandy beaches with playgrounds in Minnesota.
Minneapolis: Lake Nokomis Park
4955 W Lake Nokomis Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Lake Nokomis Park is a favorite summer destination for Minneapolis families looking for free beaches with playgrounds in the Twin Cities. This scenic city lake features two sandy beaches (Main Beach and 50th Street Beach). Near the beaches, you’ll also find a playground and fishing piers. Main Beach offers lifeguard hours, seasonal concessions, and boat and bike rentals. This is the preferred option when you need all the amenities to keep kids happy! Meanwhile, 50th Street Beach provides a quieter spot to enjoy the water.
Lake Nokomis Park also offers sports fields and a 2.5-mile loop trail. The paved trail is perfect for walking, biking, or scooting. With picnic areas, grills, restrooms, and plenty of space to play, Lake Nokomis is one of the best beach playgrounds in Minneapolis. Paid parking is available at several on-site lots, and a coveted free parking lot is also available.
Minnetonka/Hopkins: Shady Oak Beach
5200 Shady Oak Rd, Minnetonka, MN 55343
Shady Oak Beach is a summer favorite for families looking for sandy beaches with playgrounds near Minnesota. Lifeguards are on duty during open hours, making it a great choice for families with younger swimmers. Of course, older kids can test their bravery at the high dive! This popular swimming spot combines a beautiful sandy shoreline with a waterfront playground. The playground is shaded, with towering climbing structures and slides. Plus, both the beach and playground are fenced and open to one another. The park also offers plenty of shady oak trees and picnic tables for a quick snack or packed lunch. Concessions are available if you want to purchase something on-site.
Families can also enjoy kayak and canoe rentals. Extend the fun by checking out the scenic walking path near the beach. Free parking and a small entrance fee (kids 2 and under are free) also make this an easy win for summer fun. With so many ways to swim, play, and explore, Shady Oak Beach is one of our favorite ideas for outdoor summer activities in the Twin Cities with kids of all ages.
Plymouth: Medicine Lake
For one unforgettable summer outing, head to Medicine Lake in Plymouth, where three lakeside parks offer some of the best Twin Cities beach playgrounds. West Medicine Lake Park, East Medicine Lake Park, and Clifton E. French Regional Park are all just minutes apart, making it easy to spend the day swimming, playing, and exploring. Together, they offer some of the best free beaches with playgrounds in the Twin Cities.
West Medicine Lake Park features a spacious swimming beach and a colorful playground that’s just steps from the sand. Families will also find picnic areas, volleyball and basketball courts, paved trails, and plenty of room to spend a full day enjoying the lake.
East Medicine Lake Park offers a quieter atmosphere. The smaller beach and playground are perfect for toddlers and young kids. Beyond the swimming beach, this park also offers picnic areas and paved lakeside trails. But who can forget the fun dragon sculpture on the sand? It looks just like it’s coming in and out of the sand! The dragon is undoubtedly what makes this a go-to spot for many families.
French Regional Park rounds out the trio with one of the most unique playgrounds in the Twin Cities. The award-winning play area is massive, and a favorite amongst local kids! The playground sits near a sandy swimming beach (they are about a 10-minute walk apart). The beach has several first-come, first-served shady umbrellas. Boat rentals, fishing piers, scenic trails, and shaded picnic areas complement water play.
Wayzata: Wayzata Beach Park
220 Grove Ln E, Wayzata, MN 55391
Wayzata Beach Park combines lakeside relaxation with incredible outdoor summer activities for kids in the Twin Cities. It’s an unbeatable Lake Minnetonka destination! Families can swim at the sandy beach, fish from the dock, or enjoy shaded picnic areas. Families love the scenic waterfront views while they picnic here! If you have kids who love to watch boats in the marina, it’s an easy win. The beachside playground is one of the most unique playgrounds in the Twin Cities, featuring a nautical theme. It includes ship-inspired climbing elements, large rope nets, slides, swings, and interactive water features that keep kids cool on warm summer days.
Seasonal concessions, restrooms, Adirondack chairs, and watercraft rentals make it easy to spend an entire day enjoying everything this lakeside park has to offer. Plus, there are plenty of kid-friendly eateries nearby. A municipal-owned parking lot and free street parking are available near the beach and playground.
Woodbury: Carver Lake Park Beach
3175 Century Ave S, Woodbury, MN 55125
Carver Lake Park is one of the most family-friendly beaches in the Twin Cities, offering plenty to keep kids busy both in and out of the water. Families can enjoy the sandy swimming beach, plus two playgrounds (including a nautical-themed play area near the beach). The larger playground features natural climbing elements and shady play spaces. And a nearby bike park gives adventurous kids another way to play. The beach is unguarded.
Picnic shelters are available near the beach for a quick snack or a lunch picnic. Families can also try fishing, volleyball, or one of the many scenic trails to round out the day. With so many activities in one place, it’s easy to see why Carver Lake is one of the top Twin Cities beaches with playgrounds.
Have Fun Exploring the Best Twin Cities Beach Playgrounds with Your Kids!
The Twin Cities are filled with incredible places to swim and play with your kids. And, each of these local beaches with playgrounds offers something fun and different! From tube slides into the water to chlorinated lakes, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for on this list. Plus, whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon adventure close to home or a full day of swimming, playing, and exploring, these destinations make it easy to enjoy some of the best family-friendly beaches in the Twin Cities. We recommend packing sunscreen, towels, snacks, and sand toys to make the day even more successful. We’re confident these sandy beaches with playgrounds in Minnesota will make it simple to combine swimming and outdoor play into one unforgettable family adventure this summer.
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
