Perfect your backstroke and soak up the sun at some of the Valley’s most beautiful beaches.
The Beach at Belleayre Mountain
Highmount; 845.254.5600
Beachgoers can participate in more than just swimming and lounging. Boat rentals (kayaks, rowboats, and pedal boats), fishing, basketball, and volleyball for guests of all ages are available at his Pine Hill Lake shore. Walk-ins, $3; $10 per car daily; $65 per car for beach season pass.
Clarence Fahnestock State Park
Carmel; 845.225.7207
Located on Canopus Lake, this wide sandy beach is surrounded by picnic tables, a cute general store, and a picturesque campsite. Fishing is a favorite at this beach, too; Patrons can also rent rowboats or bring their own. $7 per car.
Croton Point Park
Croton-on-Hudson; 914.862.5290
$10, $5 with park pass.
Kingston Point Beach
Kingston; 845.331.1682
Call for fees.
Lake Taghkanic State Park
Ancram; 518.851.3631
The two beaches on this pretty Columbia County lake are surrounded by areas to picnic and places to boat, hike, and fish; you can also rent vacation cottages, as well as camping spots.
Lake Welch Beach at Harriman State Park
Stony Point; 845.947.2444
The man-made Lake Welch serves as the larger of the two public beaches in Harriman State Park. With fishing, campgrounds, boating, and 200 miles of hiking trails, this popular state park is a must-visit this season.
Thomas P. Morahan Waterfront Park
Greenwood Lake; 845.477.9215
This Orange County beach provides picnic areas, a volleyball court, and, of course, swimming in the beautiful seven-mile-long Greenwood Lake. $10; $4 for residents.
Saugerties Village Beach
Saugerties; 845.246.2919
Call for fees.
Ulster Landing County Park
Saugerties; 845.336.8484
Free admission.
