What is the Closest Beach to Phoenix? 21+ Best Options

Wondering about what is the closest beach to Phoenix, Arizona? Here we will cover the closest beach to Phoenix in Mexico, the closest beach to Phoenix in California, as well as various beaches near Phoenix with freshwater.

Phoenix, Arizona is a city that sits in the triple digits regularly during the summertime. And I know firsthand how sweltering those days can be! I’ve spent many summer days in this awesome southwestern city.

Phoenix averages over 110 days with 100-degree temperatures every single year. And during the summer months, it can feel exhausting.

If you are in need of a beachy escape, you have come to the right place. This post will outline not only the closest beach to Phoenix, but also dive into the beaches in Mexico, California, and even the beaches in Phoenix that you can escape to.

Let’s dive in!

What is the Closest Beach to Phoenix?

Phoenix is a thriving desert metropolis full of fun things to do, parks to hike, food to eat, and towering saguaro cacti to see.

But, in the sweltering summer months, it’s only natural to want some relief! The triple digit temperatures begin to feel never-ending.

Luckily, and likely surprisingly, there are a lot of beaches near Phoenix to escape to! But it all depends on what type of beach are you looking for.

When choosing from the closest beaches to Phoenix, your options will range from sandy ocean beaches to freshwater lake beaches.

Let’s dive into all of your options below.

What Is The Closest Ocean Beach To Phoenix?

The closest ocean beach to Phoenix by distance and time in the car is easily Puerto Peñasco in Sonora, Mexico. The drive is less than four hours by car.

The closest US beach to Phoenix would be the San Diego beaches in California, or alternately the Orange County beaches in California.

Let’s dive into some facts about each location below.

What Is The Closest Beach To Phoenix in Mexico?

The closest beach to Phoenix in Mexico is found at Puerto Peñasco – or, Rocky Point. By car, you can reach Rocky Point in under four hours.

I have personally driven this route many times! The drive is easy, the border crossing is simple, and the destination is beautiful. Rocky Point is one of the most popular summer escapes for locals in Phoenix.

Much like Los Cabos, the desert meets the ocean in Rocky Point. The town has preserved its traditional charm with seafood markets, calm streets, and local mom and pop shops.

But, the real draw for most are the beautiful sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy various water sports, lounge in the sun, and relax at upscale resorts.

Rocky Point, the closest beach to Phoenix, offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a respite from the Arizona heat.

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What Is The Closest Beach To Phoenix in California?

If you prefer to stay on this side of the border, the closest US beaches to Phoenix are found in California.

Based on driving time, the closest beaches to Phoenix in California are the Sand Diego beaches of La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Park and Beach, Mission Beach and Ocean Beach. This collection of beaches are found in a line running down the coast, all next to one another.

It will take roughly 5.5 hours to drive from Phoenix, Arizona to the San Diego beaches.

If you’re measuring from point to point and not factoring in the routes, then Newport Beach in Orange County can also be considered the closest beach to Phoenix.

Note that in driving time, it may take around 30 minutes more to reach Newport Beach, driving north of Anza Borrego Desert State Park on the way. Plan for about 6 hours driving time to reach Newport Beach from Phoenix.

Best Beaches to Visit in San Diego from Phoenix

The following four spots are easy to reach beaches in San Diego closest to Phoenix!

1. Torrey Pines State Beach

Torrey Pines State Beach, located in San Diego, is a gorgeous stretch of coastline that offers pristine sand and turquoise waters for public enjoyment.

As a state park, there is a fee of $15 per vehicle to access the beach, but the experience is worth it. Visitors can swim in the refreshing water, sunbathe on the beach or hike through 2,000 acres of preserved land in Torrey Pines State Park.

Additionally, if you’re visiting during the spring season, consider taking a quick detour to the beautiful Carlsbad Flower Fields. This popular attraction features vibrant blooms between March and May each year.

Torrey Pines State Beach an ideal destination for anyone in Phoenix looking to escape the desert heat.

2. La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is one of the closest beaches to Phoenix in California. Located in San Diego, this is a must-visit for nature lovers.

The beach is free to access and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby cliffs. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving adventures. Visitors can also take kayaking tours to explore nearby caves and coves.

La Jolla Cove beach is home to a large population of sea lions, and visitors observe the sea lions lounging on the beach, in their natural habitat. Note that the nearby Cove Beach Park offers picnic tables and bathroom facilities, making it an ideal place to spend a day with family and friends.

Overall, La Jolla Cove beach is an excellent place to relax, unwind, and to adventure. If you’re looking for a beach getaway from Phoenix, this spot is well worth the trip.

3. Mission Beach

Mission Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists looking for fun in the sun. I had a friend that live here and every time I visited, the beach was lively and packed!

The beach is free to the public. Visitors can go swimming, sunbathing, and play beach volleyball. The Belmont Park amusement park and the Historic Plunge swimming pool are both nearby.

For anyone interested in water sports, jet ski and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available too. Or, you can simply take a stroll on the boardwalk and enjoy the ocean views.

Mission Beach is well known for its lively atmosphere and is often busy, particularly during the summer months. So if you are looking for a party or a social escape, this might be your pick.

4. Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is great choice for all beachgoers, but particularly surfers. Or, those who want to learn to surf. It’s a popular surf spot for San Diego locals!

The beach spans nearly a mile and features a picturesque shoreline with golden sand and crystal clear water. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities like swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.

The beach is free to the public and open all year-round. Nearby things to do include the Ocean Beach Pier, or shopping and dining on Newport Avenue.

Best Beaches in Newport Beach from Phoenix

If you’d rather head into Orange County, you have some great beach options here, too! It will take close to six hours to reach these beaches from Phoenix.

1. The Wedge 

The Wedge is a well known destination in Orange County known for its massive waves. It is a beloved spot for surfers and bodyboarders alike, but beware of the strong waves! It is a dangerous place if you are not a strong swimmer.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and more on the beach’s soft sand. There is also a scenic boardwalk near the Balboa Pier.

Best of all, admission to the Wedge is completely free! Whether you are a seasoned surfer or simply want to relax on the beach, the Wedge is a great spot to spend a day soaking up the sun and taking in the picturesque scenery of Orange County.

2. Balboa Peninsula Beach 

Balboa Peninsula Beach is a free, fantastic coastal destination. Known for its pristine shoreline, one of the most popular things to do at Balboa Peninsula Beach is to take a walk or jog on the sandy shore.

Visitors can also rent bicycles and cruise along the boardwalk, which spans around 3 miles. For a real “vacation” feeling, go swimming and bodyboarding in the Pacific. If you want to explore further, you can take a ferry to Balboa Island to shop the charming boutiques, eat in delicious restaurants, and gaze at historic landmarks.

At night, the beach comes alive with get togethers and parties, making it a perfect spot for socializing with your road trip friends.

3. Corona Del Mar State Beach 

Corona Del Mar State Beach is one of the closest California beaches to Phoenix.

This is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a day of sun, sand, and surf. Corona Del Mar State Beach offers a great backdrop for your beach trip.

The beach is free and open to the public all year round, making it a great place to spend a day without breaking the bank. Take a stroll along the walking path that overlooks the ocean or watch the boats passing by at the nearby Newport Harbor.

Overall, Corona Del Mar State Beach is a great choice for anyone searching for a relaxing day of California sunshine and beautiful scenery.

4. Newport Beach

Right next door to Corona Del Mar State Beach is Newport Beach, a laid-back and popular OC hangout.

Beachgoers can stroll along the boardwalk or explore quaint shops and restaurants nearby. The harbor is a lively hub of activity, where you can enjoy water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and even whale watching.

Entrance to the beach is free, and there are ample parking options available. Newport Beach also hosts various events throughout the year, drawing in crowds from all over Southern California.

A drive from Phoenix to Newport Beach will take around six hours, so your best bet is to stay and enjoy the weekend for any of the above beaches!

What Are Some Other California Beaches Near Phoenix?

Two other notable California beaches that I’d recommend visiting from Phoenix are El Matador State Beach in Malibu and Huntington Beach in Orange County. These will take a bit longer to reach but are well worth the effort!

1. El Matador State Beach

One of my favorite California beaches is El Matador State Beach in Malibu. The rock formations along the beach create a rugged and unique atmosphere, attracting visitors looking for a different type of beach.

Visitors can swim in the water, sunbathe on the sand, and hike to the top of the rocky cliffs. At low tide, visitors have the opportunity to traverse cave-like openings in the rocks, moving from one beach to another through narrow passageways.

Be sure to check the tide though – when it rolls in, the pathway back to where you came from can become submerged underwater at high tide.

If it is your first time visiting, note that the small paid parking area is often busy or full. However, parking along Pacific Coast Highway is completely free.

Whether you’re spending one day in Malibu or a full week here on vacation, make sure you stop at this great beach!

2. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach visitors can enjoy the miles of sandy beach and warm Pacific Ocean waters. The beach is open to the public and there is no fee to enter.

A must-do activity at Huntington Beach is to experience the bonfire pits at night. The beach provides 200 fire pits across 8 miles of sandy shoreline, making it an ideal location for a night of relaxation and ambiance.

With so much space and variety of activities to offer, Huntington Beach is a perfect spot for those who want to lounge, or take a dip in the ocean, or simply enjoying nights on the sand, everyone can find something to do at this beautiful beach.

Best Beaches In Phoenix

The following beaches can be considered “in Phoenix” because they are just outside of the city proper and in the surrounding areas. These beaches in Phoenix are your best options if you just want to spend half a day or an afternoon in the sun.

Both of these beaches are a very short drive from Phoenix!

1. Tempe Beach Park

The closest beach to Phoenix is a simple 15 minute drive from the city. Tempe each Park is a 25 acre playground full of sand, water, and fun activities. And, it is the park that I visited the most in Phoenix!

Tempe Beach Park is a fun oasis for a respite from the sun and swimming. But for those who want a bit more adventure, you can find it here too.

Tempe Beach Park has loads of hiking paths, biking paths, volleyball courts, and water sports. Visitors can paddleboard, kayak, go boating, and more. Check for rental prices here.

If you want to bring lunch or dinner, there are also grills, picnic tables, and restrooms available. This is the easiest and closest beach to Phoenix and well worth a day trip!!

2. Pebble Beach Recreation Area

Pebble Beach Recreation area is one of the closest beaches to Phoenix, at only a 40 minute drive from the city. This spot is located 20 miles northeast of Mesa, a mall town with lots of arts and a southwestern feel.

Pebble Beach is primarily for those who want to swim or spend time in the sun.

There are no designated docks, ramps, or launch sites. Motorized boats are not allowed here. However, kayaks, paddlwboars, and other non-motorized vessels are okay.

Additionally, you’ll find 20 picnic tables and grills under pavilions, so its a great spot for lunch and dinner picnics. For those who want to fish, you could even catch your own meal.

The best part about Pebble Beach is how far removed it feels from Phoenix. You can find more details on visiting here.

Best Beaches Near Phoenix

The following 12 beaches in Arizona are a bit farther away from Phoenix. Each of these beaches will require at least two hours in the car, but many are three hours or more from Phoenix.

These beaches near Phoenix are great for a weekend escape or a multi-day trip. Here are the best beaches in Arizona with easy access from Phoenix.

1. Buckskin Mountain State Park Beach

Just under three hours from Phoenix, Buckskin Mountain State Park is a great place for an overnight getaway.

This state park is ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. While the weather can get toasty, the sparkling oasis is very refreshing.

Visitors will find picnic areas underneath green, shady trees overlooking the Colorado River. And, for those who want to stay overnight, Buckskin Mountain State Park has 68 camping and RV sites available. Get more info on staying overnight here.

The park is open 24/7/365 and has an entrance fee of $10 per car. It’s a great choice for a quick beach getaway from Phoenix!

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2. River Island State Park Beach

Also situated on the Colorado River is the nearby River Island State Park Beach. You could easily visit both Buckskin Mountain and River Island in one trip.

River Island is roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes away from Phoenix by car. Here you’ll find a designated swimming area as well as kayaking and boating opportunities.

Hiking trails in River Island State Park connect with the trails in Buckskin Mountain State Park next door. And, here you can choose from eight beachfront campsites if staying overnight.

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3. Cattail Cove State Park Beach

Cattail Cove State Park Beach is a 2,000 acre state park on Lake Havasu, and is a roughly three hours drive from Phoenix.

Fishing, swimming, and boating are all popular activities here, and the water is just gorgeous. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards at the beach or bring your own boat, too.

There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from here, all of various difficulties, so you can plan a hike no matter your hiking abilities.

There are some awesome boat-in campsites here that are equipped with barbecue grills, picnic tables, and pit toilets. And, 61 tent camping and RV sites are also found here.

4. Windsor Beach

Lake Havasu, spanning over 11,000 acres, is home to many of the beaches in western Arizona. It serves as a popular beachfront locale for Phoenix and Arizona as a whole.

Windsor Beach is the largest stretch of sand within Lake Havasu. It has 47 on-site campgrounds and a picnic area. It is also a popular spot for boating and fishing.

This scenic spot features beautiful white sands and mountain and lake views. There are hiking options here as well, like the Mohave Sunset Trail, a scenic 1.75 mile walk through desert flora and fauna.

Be sure to check out my desert hiking gear list to properly prepare for these hikes! Desert hikes are no joke.

5. Patagonia Lake State Park Beach

This state park is hidden away in Arizona’s mountains along the Patagonia Lake. This 300-acre reservoir is a true oasis for locals looking to cool off at the beach.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and more here. And, you can also just lounge and relax on the shore, too.

Here you’ll find campgrounds for anyone looking to spend a few days away from busy Phoenix.

6. Centennial Beach

If you’re up for driving to Yuma, you’ll be greeted with a sandy reward.

Yuma’s Centennial Beach has a pretty waterfront and beach along the Colorado River. Because of the sandy shores, you’ll almost feel like you’re situated on the ocean.

Centennial Beach visitors can sunbath under the Arizona rays or dive into the cool water. There are plenty of spaces to picnic, play or relax on these Arizona shores.

7. Rotary Beach

This beach is perfect for anyone looking to play sports and get active.

Rotary Beach is located in a community park space and is one of the more popular beaches along Lake Havasu. The beach is stunning, but you’ll also find 40-acres of sports courts, picnic areas, grassy fields, and barbeque sites.

For anyone who wants more than a relaxing retreat, Rotary Beach may be for you.

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8. London Bridge Beach

This beach is one of the best ocean-like beach in the state. There are large palm trees lining the sand and seagulls fly all around. It feels like the ocean.

Crossing the water is the famous London Bridge. Originally located in London, England, the bridge was relocated to this spot in the 1960s. I recommend seeing it at least once, just for the historical interest!

Visitors to Lake Havasu City need to cross the bridge to access London Bridge Beach. It is one of the Arizona’s most popular beaches.

Here you can also get your fill of various water activities. For some adventure, rent wave runners, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and more.

9. Body Beach

Just south of London Bridge Beach is Body Beach, a popular jet ski spot for anyone feeling adventurous. I love to go jet skiing, so I highly recommend Body Beach if you are like me!

If you have your own jet ski, this is the best place to launch it from. If jet skiing is not for you, swimmers will love a dip on the shores of Bat Island.

10. Wahweap Beach

Wahweap Beach is a lesser known beach situated on Lake Powell, just south of the Stateline launch ramp.

As of summer 2023, there is a new designated swimming area. The new swimming area is located west of the Wahweap Ramp and is clearly marked with swim buoys.

Note that there is typically a high concentration of boats here, and you are able to rent boats at the Wahweap Marina.

11. Diamond Creek Beach 

Along the south side of the Grand Canyon, Diamond Creek Beach is at the end of a quiet, hidden road. The beach is found on Hualapai Indian Tribal Land, so be sure to note that a permit is required to visit.

Diamond Creek Beach is not typically crowded due to the difficulty n accessing it. But if you’re up for the challenge, the beauty of this place is your reward!

And, for those who like adventure like me, you can go white water rafting here, too.

12. Roper Lake State Park

Heading toward the eastern Arizona beaches, Roper Lake is another popular spot for camping, hiking, and fishing. But, the real reason you’re here is probably the water.

The best water activities include boating, paddle boarding, swimming and more. There are plenty of activities for everyone joining your road trip (or just for yourself, if you’re on a roadtrip alone.)

Visitors to Roper Lake can enjoy the beach as well as enjoy the cool refreshing water on a hot Arizona day.

What To Pack for an Arizona Beach Day

These items are the perfect items for Arizona beach days. Whether you are lounging in the sun or sailing on a boat, pack these items, stat!

Closest Beach To Phoenix FAQs

If you still have questions about the closest beach to Phoenix, hopefully this section will sort them out!

How far is the ocean from Phoenix, Arizona?

The closest ocean to phoenix is the Sea of Cortez, which sits under four hours away by car. Locals from Phoenix frequent this beach area in a town called Rocky Point in Sonora, Mexico. Rocky Point is known for deep blue ocean, long sandy stretches, and Mexican hospitality.

What is the closest ocean to Arizona?

The closest ocean to Arizona is the Sea of Cortez south of the border in Mexico, at 3.5 hours away. The closest ocean in the US to Arizona is in San Diego, California.

What is the closest body of water to Phoenix, Arizona?

The closest body of water to downtown Phoenix is the Tempe Town Lake, about 15 minutes outside of the city center. This is also technically the only beach in Phoenix.

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Does Arizona meet the ocean?

Arizona is a landlocked state that does not border any oceans. Arizona’s neighbors, California and Mexico, do border the ocean.

Is there an ocean connected to Arizona?

No, there is no ocean touching Arizona’s borders, Arizona is a landlocked state.

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What is the closest beach to Mesa, Arizona?

Mesa, Arizona’s closest beach is Rocky Point, Mexico. you can reach Rocky Point in under four hours from Mesa.

Why is Rocky Point so popular?

Rocky Point is a very popular beach destination for locals in Arizona because it is easy reach by car and has beautiful beaches. The most direct route is through the Lukeville border crossing. Once in Rocky Point, you’ll have sparkling ocean, a lively town, and gorgeous beaches and resorts.

How many days a year is it over 100 degrees in Arizona?

Phoenix, Arizona has the most 100-degree days per year than any other city in the United States. It averages just over 111 days with triple digit temperatures every year.

Closest Beach To Phoenix: Final Thoughts

The absolute closest beach to Phoenix by car is in Rocky Point in Sonora, Mexico. This Mexican beach is a gorgeous, popular escape from Arizona and one of my favorite road trips from Phoenix. It will take roughly 3.5 hours to reach Rocky Point from Phoenix.

For those who want to stay in the USA, California beaches are the closest to Phoenix. La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Newport Beach, and more are all viable options in Southern California, and they can all be reached in around six hours or less. These are the nearest beaches to Phoenix within the USA on the ocean.

For anyone in Phoenix, Arizona looking to have a beach getaway, you have a surprising amount of options. From lake beaches in Arizona to ocean beaches in Mexico and California, there is something for everyone.

Enjoy exploring the closest beaches to Phoenix – they all have something unique to offer!

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