Nothing says “Summer” quite like a day at the beach! If you and your family are looking for a stretch of sand to enjoy this season, check out our list of the most popular beaches in and around St. Michael-Albertville.

Note: Before you go, be sure to check park websites as beaches frequently close temporarily for maintenance or issues related to water quality.

1. Beebe Lake (St. Michael)
STMA’s only beachfront park gets the premier spot on our list because of its convenient location. Found on the south end of town near the Hanover and Buffalo borders on Beebe Lake Road (obvs), Beebe Lake Regional Park has several family-friendly amenities, including a sandy beach with several shade trees, a small playground, picnic and fishing areas, paved trails, and modern restrooms. The beach is a short distance downhill from the parking lot, but we recommend taking the stairs if you have little ones as the incline is rather steep.
More Info | Map

2. Bertram Beach (Monticello)
Another beach that is a long-time favorite of STMA residents can be found at Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Monticello. The beach is spacious, the water is clean and quiet, and the nearby picnic areas are well-shaded. There are also modern restrooms and a small playground located near the beach. Be prepared for a bit of a hike, however, as the beach is a quarter-mile walk downhill from the parking lot via an unpaved trail through a wooded area. Consider bringing a wagon or backpack to help schlep your gear to the sand, as well as some decent walking shoes for the kids.
More Info | Map

3. Orono Park (Elk River)
Orono Park is one of our new favorite summer fun destinations, thanks in part to the splash pad that was installed in 2022. In my opinion, visitors can get the most “bang for the buck” here, with a swimming beach, splash pad, super fun playground, and picnic shelters all within a stone’s throw of one another AND of the parking lot. Although the beach itself has only a few small shade trees, the rest of the park has plenty of shaded areas to choose from. If you want to make a day of it, this park also has a skate park, pickleball courts, fishing pier, and more. (Mom Bonus: Thanks to the recent renovation, Orono Park has the cleanest, most spacious restrooms I’ve ever seen at a beach!)
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4. Lake Rebecca Park (Rockford)
Lake Rebecca Park Reserve is part of the Three Rivers Park District and located about 20 minutes from STMA. This is one of our all-time favorite parks because of its fantastic nature-inspired playground, but the beach is definitely worth a visit as well! The well-maintained beach is about a quarter-mile walk along paved trails from the playground and parking lot and features permanent shade umbrellas, restrooms, and a fishing pier.
More Info | Map

5. Elm Creek Swimming Pond (Maple Grove)
The swimming pond at Elm Creek Park is consistently voted “Best Water Recreation Destination” in our annual Mom’s Choice Awards, and with good reason! This man-made pond and beach boast filtered, chlorinated water and a gradual entry that is perfect for your littlest splashers. You’ll also find lifeguards, restrooms, changing shelter, a handful of shade umbrellas, and a concession stand. These features do come at a premium, however, as entry for swimmers and non-swimmers alike costs $6+tax per person per day or $20 for a season pass. (Infants under 1 year of age may visit for free)
More Info | Map