One thing we can all agree on, it’s HOT in Texas, and there’s no better way to keep cool than a day in the water! Austin has some terrific swim beaches, from the mild to the wild, and here’s my list of favorites!

Emma Long Park, 1600 City Park Road, Austin Probably our most frequent go-to on the list, it’s a fun place to swim and just hang out on the beach, especially during the week when it’s not as crowded. We usually pair it with lunch at Ski Shores for a near perfect day! Online reservations are required.
Hamilton Pool, 24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs One of the most photographed of Austin area swimming locations, Hamilton Pool is a sunken grotto on Hamilton Creek, that results in a 50′ waterfall into the swimming area. It’s a short hike down to Hamilton Pool, and online reservations are required and hard to come by, so make your reservations early!
Horseshoe Bay Resort 200 Hi Cir N, Horseshoe Bay Imported sand makes for a fun beach on Lake LBJ. Situated near the pool area, it’s a great way to spend a day.
Pace Bend Park 2011 N. Pace Bend Rd., Spicewood Bring a canopy for shade, sand toys and a float for a fun and relaxing day on Tournament Point, a sandy area known as The Flats at this popular park on Lake Travis!
Secret Beach Roy G. Guerrero Park, 400 Grove Rd., Austin Half of what makes this beach so much fun is just finding it, but if you’re up for the adventure, it’s a payoff when you discover this sandy little beach off the Colorado River! You’ll want to keep your possessions to a minimum for the walk down, so just grab a blanket, water and some sand toys for the kids. While you can wet your toes in the water, no swimming is allowed. Be aware that it is a dog-friendly beach, and while they are suppose to be leashed, there often are unleashed dogs present. The park does have a nice playground and we like the disc golf course. Made even better is the great selection of nearby restaurants, including Tillery Kitchen and Bar and Jacoby’s Restaurant and Mercantile.
Volente Beach Park 16107 FM 2769 Unit A, Leander You can skip the waterpark and just visit the beach at this fun destination on Lake Travis, and still get drinks and food from the restaurant, but we love the waterpark, too!
West Lake Beach, 2509 West Lake Drive, Austin A fun private beach that is open to the public some weekends, call before going. The beach is often reserved for private parties. 512-327-9004
Keep Having Fun in the Texas Sun!
Michelle
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