Hotels near Boulder Beach at Lake Mead

Lake Mead, created when Hoover Dam blocked the Colorado River in the 1930s, is the largest reservoir in the United States by capacity when full, and Boulder Beach is its most popular swimming spot. After the summer heat passes, the lake water usually stays warm enough for comfortable swimming through much of October, making it a natural alternative once resort pools start cutting their hours.

The beach is gravelly rather than sandy, with clear water, picnic shelters and views across to the River Mountains. Kayaks and paddleboards can be rented nearby, and the paved River Mountains Loop Trail passes close by for cyclists. Entry is covered by the Lake Mead National Recreation Area vehicle pass, about $25 (about €22) for seven days, and historic Boulder City is ten minutes away for lunch.

Pro Tip: Bring water shoes for the pebbles and plenty of drinking water, and check National Park Service water quality alerts before swimming. Midweek visits mean an almost empty beach.