Discover Sacramento’s Best Family-Friendly Beaches

Paradise Beach offers a serene escape along the American River, making it a truly family-friendly destination in Sacramento. This welcoming riverside recreation area boasts a beautiful sand beach where children can build sandcastles and splash in the gentle waters. It’s an ideal spot for a variety of outdoor activities, including leisurely swimming, peaceful fishing, and delightful picnicking with loved ones. The calm environment and clear river access make it safe and enjoyable for kids of all ages. With ample space to spread out and enjoy nature, Paradise Beach provides a perfect setting for a memorable family day out, offering a refreshing break from city life. [0]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Nestled along the American River, Sand Cove Park provides a fantastic green space and beach area perfect for families seeking outdoor fun. This chill riverside park is well-regarded for its inviting beach and designated swimming area, offering a safe environment for children to cool off and play in the water. Beyond swimming, families can enjoy fishing from the riverbanks or simply relaxing on the sandy shores. The park also features a nature area, providing opportunities for exploration and appreciating local wildlife. It’s a peaceful yet active spot, ideal for picnics, leisurely strolls, and creating cherished family memories by the water. [2]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Nimbus Flat State Recreation Area, located in nearby Rancho Cordova, is a spacious and highly-rated destination that caters wonderfully to families. Situated along a beautiful stretch of riverfront facing the dam, this scenic park offers expansive undeveloped terrain and long bike trails, perfect for adventurous families. The lake itself is particularly kid-friendly and a popular spot for various water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, providing unique ways to enjoy the water. With its natural beauty and diverse recreational options, Nimbus Flat is an excellent choice for families looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures and make the most of Sacramento’s aquatic offerings. [3]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Sutter’s Landing Beach is a hidden gem within Sacramento, offering a quiet, clean, and particularly kid-friendly environment for families. This inviting beach features shallow waters, making it safe for younger children to wade and play, along with sandy areas perfect for building and relaxing. Beyond the beach, the park provides access to trails for exploring and even boasts a skate park for older kids and teens. It’s an ideal spot for a calm day by the water, offering a blend of relaxation and active pursuits. The well-maintained surroundings ensure a pleasant visit for all family members looking to enjoy the American River. [4]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Tiscornia Park is a versatile public park in Sacramento that perfectly combines beach access with comprehensive family amenities. This park features a welcoming beach, ideal for a day of splashing and sunbathing by the American River. Families will appreciate the thoughtful additions like picnic tables and BBQs, perfect for a delightful outdoor meal. Furthermore, Tiscornia Park offers convenient boat access for those looking to get out on the water, as well as an accessible bike trail for scenic rides. It’s a lively yet comfortable spot, highly recommended for families seeking a blend of water activities, picnicking, and recreational opportunities in a single location. [5]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Allows

• ✅ Dogs

Miller Regional Park presents a peaceful community destination along the Sacramento River, offering a fantastic setting for family outings. This expansive park boasts a beautiful beach area, providing a serene spot for relaxation, sand play, and enjoying the riverside ambiance. Beyond the beach, families can take advantage of the marina and boat ramp, making it easy to enjoy various water activities. Numerous riverfront picnic tables and ample green space are available for outdoor meals and games. It’s an ideal location for fishing enthusiasts and those simply looking to unwind by the water, providing a complete recreational experience for all ages in a well-maintained environment. [6]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Allows

• ✅ Dogs

River Bend Park, a sprawling 444-acre riverfront gem, offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for families in Sacramento. While not a traditional sandy beach, its extensive river access makes it a prime spot for family rafting adventures on the American River. The park is also crisscrossed with equestrian and hiking trails, inviting families to explore the natural beauty and spot local wildlife. With generous picnicking spaces, it’s perfect for outdoor meals. Its diverse landscape and activities provide a dynamic environment for families seeking both active engagement and peaceful enjoyment of the river, ensuring a memorable day out for everyone. [7]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Allows

• ✅ Dogs

Located in Folsom, the Willow Creek Recreation Area offers families a refreshing escape with excellent access to the American River. This well-appointed park is ideal for those looking to enjoy water activities such as kayaking and swimming in the calm river waters. Families will find convenient picnic areas perfect for outdoor lunches, along with public restrooms for comfort. The scenic surroundings provide a peaceful backdrop for a day of fun and relaxation. Whether you’re splashing in the water, paddling along the creek, or simply enjoying a meal outdoors, Willow Creek Recreation Area promises a delightful and accessible family outing experience by the river. [14]

Good for

• ✅ Children

Allows

• ✅ Dogs