Skip the days-long road trips from Colorado to ocean coastlines and visit one of these nine sandy beaches found at the state’s lakes and reservoirs.

1. Grand Lake

Found just outside of the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, the mountain town of Grand Lake is home to a pristine body of water that’s the town’s namesake. Grand Lake’s swim beach is shallow and sandy, which makes it great for a day in the sun. Play volleyball on the sand courts, grab ice cream from across the road, and rent a kayak or paddle board.

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2. Pueblo Lake State Park

The Lake Pueblo Swim Beach at Pueblo Lake State Park offers bathrooms, outdoor showers, grills, shade, seating, and vending machines. Beat the heat of southern Colorado at Lake Pueblo.

3. Cherry Creek Reservoir

Open each summer, the swimming area at Cherry Creek Reservoir is perfect for a beach day. The roped-off swim area is complete with a sandy beach, along with a bathhouse located on-site.

4. Chatfield State Park

Experience the ultimate Colorado beach outing at Chatfield State Park. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day each year, Chatfield Reservoir allows swimming in the water off of a big, sandy beach. Stay a while and camp in this state park. Campsites can be reserved within walking distance of the lake.

5. Blue Mesa Reservoir

Found a spot along the shores of the massive Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado’s largest body of water. Heads up – a lot of the 96 miles of shoreline here is steep and rocky. Great spots to find swimming and beach areas include Bay of Chickens, Dry Creek, and the Old Highway 50 beach.

Author’s Note: Do not jump off rocks, cliffs, ledges, or bridges higher than 15 feet at Blue Mesa Reservoir – it’s illegal. Be aware of boats and other watercraft as this reservoir does not have a designated swim area. And remember, only swim where allowed.

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6. Medano Creek

If you’re serious about getting sandy, head over to Medano Creek at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Massive sand dunes – including North America’s tallest – and peaks surround the creek for a taste of the beach and mountain life in one setting. That being said, pick your time to visit carefully – Medano Creek only flows for a few weeks each year – typically between late May and early June.

7. Jackson Lake State Park

If you’re looking for a bit of shade for your afternoon fun, Jackson Lake, just 30 minutes northwest of Fort Morgan has got you covered. The sandy coast backs up to beautiful trees, providing visitors with a beach experience and plenty of protection from the sun.

8. Ridgway Reservoir

The Swim Beach at Dutch Charlie at Ridgway Reservoir is a perfect mountain beach setting. Wade in the beach area or swim in the open area at Dallas Creek Shoreline’s no-wake section. Enjoy picnic tables, volleyball, and more in Ridgway.

9. Twin Lakes

Located at the base of Colorado’s beautiful Independence Pass is Twin Lakes, named after two gorgeous bodies of water near Leadville. Twin Lakes offers the best of mountain life and beach life.

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