Most people think of tall buildings and busy city life when they think of Dallas, but did you know that this Texas city also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the state?
Yes, you don’t have to go to the Gulf Coast to have some fun in the sun.
As a traveler, parent, and beach lover, it’s my duty to be honest about the best beaches we’ve visited this summer so you don’t miss out.
So I’ve compiled a list of the best beaches near Dallas, TX to make your sandy escape one you’ll never forget.
This article will show which beaches offer the best amenities, water quality, accessibility, and more.
So grab your swimsuit and sunscreen, and dive into these comparisons.
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Best Beaches Near Dallas, TX Compared
Dallas may be known for its skyscrapers, but its beaches are just as beautiful, if not better.
For the perfect summer getaway, here’s a quick run-through of the best beaches in Dallas, in my experience.
Editor’s Choice
Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area — Grand Prairie
Do yourself a favor, and include Joe Pool Lake to your list of the best things to do in Dallas.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 4.5/5
- Water Quality: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
#2nd Best Choice
White Rock Lake Park — Dallas
White Rock Lake Park overflows with inexpensive and costless family fun.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 4/5
- Water Quality: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 4.5/5
#3rd Best Choice
Pebble Beach Park — Nevada
Pebble Beach Park is perfect for water-loving families looking for fun things to do near Dallas.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 5/5
- Amenities: 4.5/5
- Water Quality: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 3.5/5
Here are the top 10 beaches near Dallas, TX.
1. Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area — Grand Prairie (Editor’s Choice)
5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
(972) 237-4120
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Want to enjoy a world of beachy family fun on your vacation?
Do yourself a favor, and include Joe Pool Lake to your list of the best things to do in Dallas.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 4.5/5
- Water Quality: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
Pros
- Plenty of family-friendly activities
- Abundant wildlife
Cons
- Crowds
Why We Recommend This Beach
They don’t call Joe Pool Lake the best beach near Dallas for nothing.
Not only does it offer a gorgeous and refreshing swimming area, but it also has tons of fantastic amenities.
As you visit this family-friendly beach, you’ll get access to picnic tables, a ship-themed playground and a concession stand.
There’s even a sand volleyball court for families who want to enjoy a little friendly game.
And, did we mention that it’s the nearest beach to Dallas, TX for those who want to do some swimming?
Related: Fun Things to Do in Dallas with Kids
Expert Tip
Try to arrive early in the day, especially if you’re visiting on a summer weekend.
It’s less crowded and the heat isn’t bad in the early morning.
Recommended Hotel Near Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area: Candlewood Suites – Grand Prairie – Arlington
2. White Rock Lake Park — Dallas
8300 E Lawther Dr
Dallas, TX 75218
(214) 660-1100
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White Rock Lake Park overflows with inexpensive and costless family fun.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 4/5
- Water Quality: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 4.5/5
Pros
- Great walking trails
- Natural scenery
Cons
- No camping
Why We Recommend This Beach
Think there are no beaches in Dallas, Texas?
Well, guess what?
There’s actually one beach located within the limits of Dallas: White Rock Lake Park.
Although swimming isn’t allowed on this beach, there are plenty of exciting family-friendly activities at this park.
From boating and canoeing to hiking, you’ll find a slew of cheap and free activities around the beach area.
Expert Tip
Don’t forget to drop by the Bath House Cultural Center.
With its beguiling exhibits, the cultural center will give you an educational tour detailing the history of the region.
Recommended Hotel Near White Rock Lake Park: Hotel Crescent Court
Related: Restaurants in Dallas, TX
3. Pebble Beach Park — Nevada
13501 Co Rd 546
Nevada, TX 75173
(972) 442-3141
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Pebble Beach Park is perfect for water-loving families looking for fun things to do near Dallas.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 5/5
- Amenities: 4.5/5
- Water Quality: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 3.5/5
Pros
- Wide range of activities
- Quiet and peaceful
Cons
- Extra fee for RVs
Why We Recommend This Beach
Searching for relaxing lake beaches near Dallas?
A word of advice, pay a visit to Pebble Beach Park.
Perfect for a day of relaxation and recreation, this age-friendly park beckons families with its enticing beach and easy-going vibe.
Furthermore, the park has a few amenities to make your trip even more fun, including a 3-lane boat ramp and shaded picnic tables.
On top of it all, the lake boasts some stunning lake views.
Expert Tip
Pack life vests and always keep an eye on your children when they are swimming on the beach.
With no lifeguards available at the park, it’s ideal to take a couple of extra safety precautions.
Recommended Hotel Near Pebble Beach Park: Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront Hotel
Also See:
Best Beaches Near San Antonio, TXBeaches Closest to Austin
4. Surfside Beach
1304 Monument Dr
Surfside Beach, TX 77541-9522
(979) 233-1531
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Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Surfside Beach gives vacationing families a heavy dose of Vitamin Sea.
With a host of salty activities, it’s also truly one of the best beach vacations from Dallas.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Surfside Beach is a great alternative to Pebble Beach Park and White Rock Lake Park if you want more stretches of white sand.
Surfside Beach, as its name suggests, is a paradise for surfing aficionados.
With consistent waves and great depth, Surfside is perfect for teens and adults who want to show off their surfing skills.
Of course, the beach has plenty to offer for the rest of the family.
You may go fishing, swimming, sunbathing and hunting beautiful seashells on this Texan beach.
Expert Tip
Drop by Buc-ee’s gas station before you cross the huge bridge on 332.
Here, you can stock up on towels, sunscreen, fried chicken, snacks and anything else that you need for your beach escape.
Recommended Hotel Near Surfside Beach: Best Western PLUS Lake Jackson Inn & Suites
5. South Padre Island
South Padre Island, TX 78597
(956) 761-6433
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South Padre Island is, hands down, one of the best beaches in Texas for families.
Why We Recommend This Beach
No list of the top weekend beach trips from Dallas is complete without South Padre Island.
For years, this island has been captivating families with its soft white sand beaches and crystal clear aquamarine waters.
Plus, the island offers a variety of attractions and activities, including ziplining, horse riding on the beach and Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark.
Expert Tip
South Padre Island is remarkably popular for the Spring break vacation goers.
So, if you prefer a quiet family getaway, avoid visiting it in early March.
Recommended Hotel Near South Padre Island: Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island
Related: Top Dallas Attractions
6. Crystal Beach — Bolivar Peninsula
Bolivar Peninsula, TX 77550
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If you’re looking for the closest white sand beach to Dallas, look no further than the stunning Bolivar Peninsula.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Bolivar Peninsula is home to Crystal Beach, a breathtaking and pristine 7-mile stretch of sugar white sands.
Besides the stunning sandy shoreline, the beach also has gentle waves, making it a terrific spot for swimming with kids.
There are also plenty of family-friendly activities on this beach, including hunting seashells and launching small sailboats.
Expert Tip
Take a break from the sandy and sunny fun, and visit the historic Bolivar Point Lighthouse.
Likewise, make sure to check out the live and outstanding music scene on the beach.
Recommended Hotel Near Crystal Beach: The Tremont House, A Wyndham Grand Hotel
7. Burger’s Lake — Fort Worth
1200 Meandering Rd
Fort Worth, TX 76114-2416
(817) 737-3414
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Burger’s Lake is one of our favorite quick beach getaways from Dallas.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Since the 1930s, this spring-fed lake has been a favorite for Dallas residents who need a quick break from their bustling city life.
With its laid-back charm and sandy shoreline, the lake is absolutely a refreshing and exciting way to escape the Texas heat.
Expert Tip
Avoid the crowds and snag a nice parking spot by going to the lake early in the morning on weekdays.
Recommended Hotel Near Burger’s Lake: Omni Fort Worth Hotel
Also See:
Beaches in Galveston
Best Beaches Near Houston
8. Galveston Island
Galveston Island, TX 77551 – 77553
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There’s no never a dull moment for families on Galveston Island.
Why We Recommend This Beach
You’ll have to drive for over 250 miles from Dallas to Galveston.
But, trust me, it’s worth the long drive.
After all, Galveston Island is jam-packed with family-friendly diversions.
From surfing to sunbathing, the island is a haven of fun for beach bums.
Moreover, it offers a bevy of other family-friendly attractions, like the Lone Star Flight Museum.
Expert Tip
For an educational experience, spend a few hours exploring Moody Gardens, which is an insightful non-profit nature center.
Also, you may visit the Schlitterbahn Waterpark for more splashy fun with the gang.
Recommended Hotel Near Galveston Island: The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center
Related: Best Day Trips From Dallas
9. Little Elm Park — Little Elm
701 W Eldorado Pkwy
Little Elm, TX 75068
(972) 731-3296
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Why We Recommend This Beach
With its 233-mile shoreline, Little Elm Park offers families a ton of fun and adventure.
Spend some time in the water swimming, paddle boarding or kayaking.
There are also 10 volleyball near the swimming area, making it a great spot for families with teenagers.
Expert Tip
Since there’s no lifeguard on duty, swimmers need to be extra careful.
You can also borrow life jackets for the little ones and adults.
Recommended Hotel Near Little Elm Park: NYLO Dallas Plano Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
10. Sea Rim State Park — Sabine Pass
19335 State Hwy 87
Sabine Pass, TX 77655
(409) 971-2559
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Sea Rim State Park can give the best beaches near Dallas, TX a run for their money, with its sandy shoreline and enthralling outdoor adventures.
Why We Recommend This Beach
At Sea Rim State Park, you’ll have access to a beautiful 5-mile sandy beach where you can relax and enjoy a dip.
Likewise, the park is home to vast wetlands where you’ll spot alligators roaming among cypress trees.
Expert Tip
Wear a lot of sunscreen, especially when visiting during the warmer months.
Sunlight is way more intense at this state park than in other parts of the US.
Additionally, wear flip-flops or shoes when on shore since that intense sunlight quickly heats up the sand.
Recommended Hotel Near Sea Rim State Park: Hampton Inn & Suites Winnie
Beachgoer Guide
Comparing Beaches: Which One Is Right For You?
Finding the right beach for you doesn’t have to be the Bahamas.
Sometimes it’s a great lake spot that can offer plenty of things to do for the family.
I love Joe Pool Lake for its variety, with so many activities to enjoy.
You can go for a picnic, enjoy fantastic water sports, hiking, fishing, or even set up camp.
White Rock Lake Park is great for walking, jogging, biking, and having a picnic because of its many trails.
It’s also right next to the city’s gorgeous arboretum and worth the small fee.
If you hate the crowd but don’t want to miss a good picnic, check out Pebble Beach Park.
With plenty of covered picnic tables and even playgrounds for the kids, it’s a superb choice for the family.
All of these beaches offer free parking and easy access, so there’s no excuse not to try them out.
How I Picked The Beach Spots
As a parent and a beach enthusiast who regularly goes on vacation to Dallas, beaches are always a part of our itinerary.
Before visiting, I conducted extensive research and reached out to fellow beachgoers for their opinions and personal experiences.
I asked locals for suggestions, visited these beaches and lakes myself, and spent the night in some.
I settled with these beaches because they don’t require entrance fees and offer plenty of great amenities for the family.
Our Beach Rating Method
I rate these beaches based on the following criteria:
- Family-Friendliness: I use this to evaluate if the beach is ideal for families with children. Does the beach offer kid-friendly activities and playgrounds? Does the beach have shallow waters and gentle waves? I ask myself these questions when I rate the family-friendliness criterion.
- Safety: This is used to assess the safety of every beach destination. Are there lifeguards manning the beach? Does it have safety equipment? What are the other safety measures at the beach? I consider these factors when evaluating the safety of every beach.
- Amenities: I use it to evaluate the quality and availability of facilities on every beach. Is it equipped with restrooms, showers, and changing rooms? Does it have ample parking? These questions are important whenever I rate the amenities of each beach.
- Water Quality: This evaluates the cleanliness and clarity of the water at the beach. Are there algae in the water? Is the water safe and clean enough for swimming and other activities? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the beach’s water quality.
- Accessibility: This measures how accessible the beach is for visitors. How far is it from the major cities? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Is the beach wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to evaluate the accessibility of every beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Closest Beach To Dallas, TX?
The closest beach to Dallas is Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area, just a few minutes from the city.
What’s The Best Beach Or Lake In Dallas, TX, For Camping?
The best spot for camping is Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area, offering plenty of nature trails and lakeside activities.
Conclusion
Everyone has different reasons for going to the beach, whether it’s to beat the summer heat or just a way for the family to get closer.
Either way, you need a place that offers security and safety, with great amenities, plenty of parking spaces, and is close to local hotspots.
Joe Pool Recreation Area may not have that picture-perfect beach idea you have, especially since it’s at the lake, but it’s the top spot for a reason.
You get gorgeous lake views, plenty of sand for the little ones to play in, and watersports for the teens.
It’s very accommodating for camping, picnics, and even barbecues.
Because of that, it does get quite crowded during the holidays or the weekends.
If camping isn’t your goal, but you want to enjoy watersports and hiking, White Rock Lake is for you.
This park is the perfect choice for picnics, jogging, walking, biking, and a quick boat trip.
It doesn’t have as many amenities as other beaches and lakes, but it does the trick for a great family day.
If you hate the crowd but still want to be near water, then Pebble Beach Park is for you.
It’s a great and peaceful spot for a picnic, with great lake views.
You won’t find fine sand here, and the little pebbles are painful to walk on barefoot, but that doesn’t stop people from enjoying its views.
Surfside Beach is the closest thing you get to a white-sand beach and is an excellent alternative to these choices.
So if you’re looking for the best beaches near Dallas, TX, this article should be able to help you decide better.
Editor’s Choice
Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area — Grand Prairie
Do yourself a favor, and include Joe Pool Lake to your list of the best things to do in Dallas.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Safety: 4/5
- Amenities: 4.5/5
- Water Quality: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
