10 Best Family Beaches in Montana [for 2023]
Montana, a beautiful state in the western United States, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is known for its breathtaking natural scenery including the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. However, many people don’t know that Montana is also home to some of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in the country.
These beaches are perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating, and provide an intimate beach vacation experience away from the crowds typically found at oceanfront beaches. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or a thrilling adventure with your loved ones, Montana’s beaches naturally have something to offer for everyone.
From the crystal-clear waters of Flathead Lake to the sandy shores of Lake Coconusa, there’s no shortage of amazing beaches to choose from. So, if you want to create unforgettable memories with your family, definitely pick your travel destination with our list of the best family beaches in Montana.
1. Lake McDonald Beach, West Glacier
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Lake McDonald Beach is a beautiful pebbly beach located on the shore of Lake McDonald, the largest lake in Glacier National Park. While it may not have a sandy shoreline, Pebble Beach offers a unique and colorful coastal experience that makes it one of the best family beaches in Montana.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters and stunningly beautiful views create a calm and serene atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and unwinding. Perfect for. The pebbles on the beach are smooth and comfortable to the touch, making them perfect for activities such as tossing and piling up stones.
The gentle and clear waters of the lake also make it ideal for various water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and boating. Makes a role model. Here you should note that swimming is not recommended during the colder months as the water can be quite cold. Wetsuits are recommended, rather than bikinis or traditional swimwear, to keep warm even in the hottest of weather.
For those looking for accommodation, Meadow Lake Golf & Ski Resort is just minutes from the beach and Montana One of the best family hotels. Due to its close proximity to the beach and other amenities, Lake McDonald Beach is an excellent option for a relaxing getaway with family and friends.
2. Bozeman Beach, Bozeman
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Bozeman Beach Located in Glen Lake Rotary Park, this child-friendly beach features a long stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for sunbathing and building sand castles. The shallow and calm waters make for a refreshing dip on hot summer days, providing a safe and peaceful environment for kids to splash around in, making this one of the best family beaches in Montana.
The beach has plenty of fun activities to enjoy with the kids, including They are taught to fish on the dock or go kayaking with them through the calm waters. Families can also bring their own floaties to enjoy a good time in the water.
Bozeman Beach offers pavilions that are available to rent, making it an ideal place to host family events such as birthday parties and anniversaries. The grassy area around the pavilions provides ample space for playing family games or relaxing in the shade.
3. Flathead Lake State Park Beach, Bigfork
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Flathead Lake State Park Beach is a natural paradise that offers the perfect escape from city life and is considered one of the best family beaches in Montana. This stunning beach is located in Montana, USA, and is highly recommended for nature lovers. One of the best things about this beach is the abundance of water activities available.
You can indulge in a host of fun-lled activities like kayaking, canoeing, boating, water skiing, fishing, motor boating, and sailing. Flathead Lake, which is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States, is the perfect destination for water activities, providing a cool and refreshing experience that’s hard to beat.
Those who want to spend the night at the park with their families There are many options available for those who want to spend their time. Camping is a popular option, and the beach has a well-equipped campground with ample facilities.
Visitors can gather around a campfire at night, sing songs together, toast marshmallows, and enjoy the sounds of nature, which add to the camping experience. Flathead Lake State Park Beach for You An expert tip is to visit a park ranger station for guided tours throughout the park.
Guided tours are designed to give people a better understanding of the park’s ecosystem, history, and culture. For example, you can join a night tour that is suitable for all ages and walk the trails under the moonlight while learning about the myths surrounding the night.
4. Brush Lake State Park Beach, Dagmar
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Brush Lake State Park Beach is a must-see for families looking to enjoy a fun-filled day on a pristine lake surrounded by lush greenery. Located in the state of Montana, this beach offers a wide range of water activities that teens and adults alike will love, including kayaking, motor boating, water skiing, and canoeing.
The calm and clear waters of the lake make it an ideal place for beginners to learn water sports or for experienced enthusiasts to hone their skills. Brush Lake State Park Beach with water activities for kids to run around and play There is enough space.
The grassy fields surrounding the beach are the perfect place to play catch, throw a frisbee, or play a game of tag. The beach also has picnic tables where you can enjoy a family meal near the water in a calm and serene environment, making it one of the best family beaches in Montana.
There is a campground nearby that will give you a complete outdoor experience. Whether you prefer tent camping or bringing your own RV, there are plenty of options available. There is also a campground specifically designed for RVs.
5. City Beach, Whitefish
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City Beach is a safe and beautiful beach for families with children, with its stunning 7-mile stretch of sandy shoreline and crystal-clear water, this beach is perfect for relaxation and fun activities.
City Beach’s highly rated One reason to recommend it is its security. Unlike many other beaches in Montana, City Beach has attentive lifeguards on duty, making it a safe place for families to swim and play in the water.
The swimming area here is divided into sections using ropes, ensuring that you can enjoy shallow and deep areas as well as designated areas for kayaking and other water activities. But that’s not all.
After a day at the beach, we suggest taking some time to explore the charming town of Whitesh. The city has a variety of local stores and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the local culture. And if you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home, Whitesh’s local shops have you covered.
6. Cooney State Park Beach, Roberts
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Coney State Park Beach, located in Montana, is the perfect family beach. Here you can celebrate your holidays with your whole family. Whether you are interested in water sports such as boating, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, kite surfing, or fishing, you can do it all at Coney State Park Beach.
There is also a volleyball court on the beach and a horseshoes court nearby, to indulge yourself in fun and games with family and friends. If you have young children, they will enjoy playing in the nearby playground.
Will like, to take a break from swimming and other water activities. Autumn is the perfect time to visit this beach as the landscape is breathtaking during this season. The stars are also more prominent during autumn, making this an excellent destination for stargazing.
Coney State Park Beach is a great family-friendly beach destination that offers a variety of activities and fun for the whole family. So pack your bags and plan your next family vacation to Coney State Park Beach.
7. Boettcher Park Beach, Polson
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Boettcher Park Beach is a lovely family beach, especially suited to young children. You can enjoy a stress-free holiday at this fun beach, as there is a wide range of facilities on offer. Which will keep your kids entertained, including a large playground with lots of equipment for them to climb, swing and slide on. The beach is also kid-friendly, with clear and shallow water for your little ones.
One of the best things about the beach is its pet-friendly policy, which means you don’t have to bring your pet when you go on holiday. You don’t have to leave your dearest friends behind. As long as you keep your pets on a leash at all times, they are also welcome to join in the fun.
There is also an extensive grassy area where your kids can run and enjoy their day of play. Boettcher Park Beach is considered the ideal destination for families looking to spend quality time together in a safe and welcoming environment
8. Black Sandy State Park Beach, Helena
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Black Sandy State Park Beach, located on the picturesque Hauser Reservoir, is the perfect destination for beachgoers who love to be surrounded by nature. This beach is quite suited for those who want to combine a beach holiday with camping.
The nearby campground is constantly being improved to provide travelers with a convenient and enjoyable camping experience. In addition to camping, the beach is filled with exciting activities, such as kayaking, windsurfing, fishing, and boat rides. The calm and beautiful lake provides the perfect setting for these activities, making them even more enjoyable.
It is important for you to note that Black Sandy State Park Beach can get quite crowded during peak season due to its popularity. Thus, if you are planning to camp and stay overnight for a few days, it is highly recommended that you make reservations ahead of time.
And to avoid crowds, book your hotel during the off-season. It is best to schedule a visit. This way, you can enjoy the peace and beauty of the beach to the fullest without having to deal with large crowds.
9. Mystic Lake Beach, Fishtail
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Mystic Lake Beach is nothing less than a hidden gem within Yellowstone County, Montana. Its natural beauty is a sight to behold, with crystal clear waters and a soft, sandy shoreline perfect for a relaxing day out. This secluded beach is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, where you find a calm and serene environment.
Where you can connect with nature and spend some blissful time with your loved ones. The beach is family-friendly, with soft sand perfect for kids to play and build sand castles, while the cool water refreshes from the heat of the day. And the beach is a prime spot for fishing, so bring your sh Bring catching gear and a cooler and settle in for a relaxing day of casting and catching.
If you’re up for some adventure, the nearby Mystic Lake Trailhead is a must-visit. This scenic route is one of the most beautiful in Montana and is accessible to children, making it a great way to introduce them to the wonders of hiking.
As you make your way along the trail, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which includes towering mountains, lush forests, and sparkling lakes.
10. Avalanche Beach, West Glacier
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Avalanche Beach, located in Glacier National Park, Montana, is a beautiful and peaceful beach and is a favorite with families. The beach boasts stunning mountain views, sandy shoreline, and clear water, and includes a variety of activities such as sunbathing, wading, and picnicking.
The beach’s shallow waters allow children to splash around without fear of going too deep Perfect for killing. And the soft sand shoreline is soft enough to build sand castles or relax with a good book.
You are also encouraged to share moments with your families by capturing the moments through photographs or simply appreciating the beauty of the surroundings. Take advantage of the picturesque backdrop by taking a peaceful stroll around the beach.
If you enjoy a little adventure, the trail leading to Avalanche Beach offers a great opportunity for hiking, taking in beautiful views of the mountains and surrounding landscape. Would not like to leave In order for you to get the most out of your visit, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure a good parking spot near the trailhead. Since the hike to the beach area is a bit of a trek, it is advised to pack lightly and bring only essentials to avoid carrying too much weight.