New Mexico has a stunning coastline, ideal for a day trip or full-fledged vacation. Whether you want to visit the beauty spot of a long sandy beach or explore spectacular landscapes and peaks, the state has it all. Many of the lovely beaches in New Mexico are in high demand among tourists.
New Mexico is a great place to visit, but what’s even better is the list of beaches throughout the state. There’s one for everyone, and they all offer the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here is a complete guide to all the most beautiful New Mexico beaches.
Most Popular Beach In New Mexico
There are many beaches in New Mexico, but some are more popular than others. If you’re planning a trip to the Land of Enchantment, you probably want to check out the most popular beach in the state.
Elephant Butte Lake State Park – Elephant Butte, Sierra County
Elephant Butte Lake State Park is more popular than other beaches in New Mexico. It is unquestionably the state’s most visited beach and attracts many people from great distances all year.
Elephant Butte Reservoir is a beautiful recreational spot perfect for every water activity as it is the largest lake in New Mexico. It offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities that you may not find on other New Mexico beaches. Additionally, its powdery sand makes it an excellent area for kids to have fun.
Due to the lake’s size, you can enjoy different watercraft, including houseboats, jet skis, kayaks, pontoons, and sailboats. You can also go hiking or biking in the state park to have fun on land. Also, you might want to bring a tent or umbrella for shade on hot summer days because the reservoir is flat with few trees.
Anyway, Elephant Butte Reservoir has incredible vistas, unlike other beaches in New Mexico. The view extends to the horizon and can be enjoyed from various locations in the state park.
You can look forward to excellent services and a comfortable stay at Comfort Inn & Suites in Truth and Consequences, Sierra County, only 1 hr 4 mins away.
Best Beaches In New Mexico for Families
Are you planning a family vacation to New Mexico and looking for a place that’s great for kids and adults alike? Here are three of the best beaches in New Mexico for families. Interestingly, they’re all very different, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.
Farmington Lake Beach – Farmington, San Juan County
Farmington Lake offers one of the best beaches in New Mexico for kids. The whole family will enjoy swimming here, but it’s exceptional for kids due to its clean, clear water and soft golden sand.
Furthermore, the lakefront also provides an inflatable playground with water slides and trampolines. Its gentle, shallow water makes it the perfect spot for kids and adults. Be sure to bring your sandcastle kit and make some memories with the kids. Build sand castles or forts, relax, soak up the sun, and take in the beach air.
Farmington Lake beach also offers kayaks, paddleboards, and life vests for rent. Additionally, it is one of the few New Mexico beaches with active lifeguards in every area. The beach provides everything for a safe and relaxing day at the beach.
Comfort Suites offers clean and spacious rooms with top-quality facilities. Professional staff. Great for kids and pets.
Cochiti Lake Beach – Pena Blanca, Sandoval County
Cochiti Lake Beach is one of the most well-liked family beaches in New Mexico. Its pristine waters make it ideal for all water activities, including swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing.
Additionally, the beach has a vast shoreline perfect for the kids to play in the sand. You can make sandcastles with the kids or enjoy beach volleyball with the whole family. There’s even a playground for the kids in the beach area.
Cochiti Lake is also famous for its recreational opportunities and wildlife habitats. The beach has amenities for camping, picnicking, and hiking. You can go fishing on the lake as well. In each area, there are a ton of activities for leisure at one of the most beautiful New Mexico beaches.
The whole family will love everything about Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel. The rooms are spacious, and the staff is friendly. Families love the connecting/adjoining rooms at this location.
Tingley Beach – Albuquerque
Tingley Beach is a famous spot that is easily accessible from downtown Albuquerque. Despite having a rather narrow beach strip, it is still a relatively good relaxation spot among the many New Mexico beaches.
The area is pretty serene and well-liked by locals and visitors for the ducks and geese circulating around the ponds. It has a great vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
The beach has fishing ponds for both adults and kids. You can teach your kids how to cast a line at the children’s pond with a fun fishing kit. If you’re in the mood for a different experience, you can take your kids to the ABQ BioPark Zoo, about 4 minutes away from the beach. They’ll love an up-close look at the animals.
People like Home2 Suites by Hilton for their premium bedding and superb amenities. What’s better? This location is also pet-friendly which makes it popular among families with a furry member.
Lea Lake Beach – Roswell
Everything about Lea Lake Beach is beautiful. From its tranquil blue waters to its picturesque golden stretch of sand and stunning limestone scenery. You’ll enjoy swimming in Lea Lake Beach, especially during the sweltering summer.
Many local visitors even choose to camp over or drive their RV over for some weekend fun. However, you can always lay down a beach towel or mat and simply relax on the beach for the day.
The kids won’t miss out on the fun at Lea Lake Beach. They’ll love building sand castles on the waterfront and splashing around in the shallow part of the beach’s waters.
Lea Lake Beach is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding New Mexico beaches. It is the sole swimming spot with a sandy shoreline in the Bottomless Lake State Park, Roswell.
The Beach can get pretty crowded during the summer. Thankfully, the beach has hygienic shower facilities. Additionally, snack shops are nearby if you want a quick bite.
Check Out Holiday Inn Roswell for a comfortable stay in Roswell. It has a clean, serene environment and luxurious rooms ideal for you and your family.
Abiquiu Lake Beach – Galina, Rio Arriba County
Abiquiu Lake Beach is a beautiful rocky beach with pristine water and breathtaking views on the shores of the Abiquiu Reservoir. It’s one of the best beaches in New Mexico for a weekend family getaway, with all the right amenities for a relaxing stay.
The lake’s recreation area offers picnic areas for a relaxing meal time with family, hygienic public restrooms, playgrounds for the kids, and a beach volleyball court for sports. The kids will love this location even though it isn’t sandy like other New Mexico beaches.
Additionally, you can have fun swimming, boating, or fishing with the kids. The lovely view also makes it a great spot to take pictures. You can also use any three group shelters for various family events, including anniversaries and birthday parties.
You may not find the perfect accommodation in Galina. Consider Holiday Inn Express in Los Alamos, NM. They provide luxury and comfort for a reasonable price.
Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area Beach – Carlsbad
Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area has one of the top family-friendly beaches in New Mexico. There are numerous fun activities for kids, teens, and adults. The clear, tranquil water is ideal for kids to swim in, and the smooth sand is fantastic for building sandcastles and sculptures.
This leisure area offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities. You can swim, go kayaking, or relax while taking in the scenery. There are also many other attractions, such as walking pathways and playgrounds.
The kids will love playing at neighboring playgrounds while teens enjoy water sports, including boating, pedal, and waterskiing. Additionally, there are grills, picnic tables, showers, and facilities for recreational tennis or racquetball.
The options are endless, and you can spend a whole day of relaxation and leisure at one of the most beautiful beaches in New Mexico.
Comfort Suites Carlsbad is a lovely location with superb services for the whole family, with beautiful and comfortable rooms. This location isn’t pet-friendly, but service animals are allowed.
MORE BEACHES IN USA |
Top Captivating Beaches In New Mexico
New Mexico is a beautiful state with amazing beaches, but many people don’t know about these hidden wonders. Most of the beaches in New Mexico are not heavily trafficked, and some are downright gorgeous. So grab the sunscreen and start planning your next road trip to one of these New Mexico beaches.
El Vado Reservoir Beach – Rio Vado County
The El Vado Reservoir is an enchanting location in New Mexico with plenty of beautiful sights to behold. Its rolling hills and lush foliage make this location gorgeous. To top it all, it has one of the most beautiful New Mexico beaches.
El Vado Beach may be small, but it’s still captivating. The beach has amenities for swimming, canoeing, scuba diving, and camping. During the winter, you can still enjoy the Reservoir’s beautiful surroundings or go ice fishing if that’s your thing.
Additionally, El Vado Lake State Park offers opportunities for boating, water skiing, and cross-country skiing during the winter. You’ll also find some hiking trails in the area. It may not be the most beautiful spot, but it’s among New Mexico beaches worth visiting.
The Plaza Hotel is a superb location with modern facilities. Travelers love the overall cleanliness and comfortable rooms.
Conchas Lake State Park – San Miguel County
Conchas Lake, where the Canadian River empties, features many sandy New Mexico beaches and undiscovered coves and gorges. Visit this state park for a fascinating day of beach fun and exploration.
Conchas Lake is unique and quite different from your average beach. Since its surroundings are flat and arid, it is the perfect spot for a stroll after soaking up some sun or splashing around in the beach’s water.
The most outstanding features towards the north of the lake are canyons, coves, and creeks. If you explore the area, you’ll discover Green Island, Little Island, and Rattlesnake Island. This location is beautiful and has features you won’t find on other beaches in New Mexico.
If you want to stay the night, check out Drury Inn & Suites Las Cruces. Superb location with excellent services and welcoming staff.
Heron Lake Beach – Rio Arriba County
Heron Lake Beach is one of the lesser-known beaches in New Mexico, about 13 miles from El Vado Reservoir. It is ideal if you want a tranquil spot to relax and explore. The beach has calm waters that are great for swimming and paddle boats.
Additionally, the lake offers a great fishing spot for Kokanee Salmon and record-sized trot. But it’s not only fishermen that can have fun here. You can also enjoy hiking, sailing, skiing, and cross-country skiing.
The beach has campsites in case you want to spend the night. If you choose to camp overnight, the lovely view of the area and calm water will make your time at Heron Lake Beach more enjoyable.
You may have to drive down to Los Alamos for better hotel options. We recommend Hampton Inn & Suites Los Alamos. It’s a great hotel that would suit your taste.
Navajo Lake State Park Beach – San Juan County
Navajo Lake, the second largest lake in New Mexico, is a lovely location with miles of shoreline and over 200 days of sunshine every year. The state park beach is one of the most well-liked beaches in New Mexico, and it’s not hard to see why.
You can’t go wrong by visiting Navajo Lake Beach, with stunning surroundings and various fun activities. Explore the area by boat, fishing, viewing wildlife, or hiking along beautiful trails. You can also enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like cliff diving or camping overnight on one of the best New Mexico beaches.
Take advantage of the unique and unmatched amenities at Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe. You’ll love everything about this location.
Bottomless Lakes State Park – Chaves County
Bottomless Lakes is the first state park in New Mexico and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The park is famous for its numerous sinkholes and lakes with greenish-blue aquatic plants and runs as deep as 90 feet.
You can enjoy the stunning view of the lakes or explore the area for other rare finds. This state park has the best New Mexico beaches for non-motorized water activities like fishing, kayaking, pedal boating, and scuba diving. But that’s not all there is.
The park has facilities for picnicking and camping. You’ll also find beach playgrounds and miles of trails for hiking and biking. It is undoubtedly a must-see for tourists and visitors.
Since Chaves County is less than 30 mins away from Roswell, Days Inn by Wyndham is a good option for a serene and comfortable stay near Chaves County.
Eagle Nest Lake – Colfax County
Eagle Nest Lake is a calm and serene spot in Northern New Mexico. It’s the ideal beach location to escape the sweltering summer because of the insulting mountains in the area.
While the water may be too chilly for swimming, Eagle Nest Lake still provides one of the most amazing beaches in New Mexico. The Eagle Nest area is home to famous landmarks; The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (a well-liked tourist route) and Wheeler Peak (The highest point in the state).
You can take a stroll along the beachfront or explore the area. It’s also a great relaxation spot; we believe couples will love this tranquil getaway location.
Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Microtel Inn & Suites. We’re sure you’ll have the most comfortable stay at this location in the county seat of Colfax County.
Other Famous Beaches In New Mexico
Park Lake Beach – Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa’s Park Lake Beach is among the must-see locations in the city and one of the most outstanding New Mexico beaches. This lake beach offers a wide range of recreation activities for the outdoors.
You will find opportunities for boating and swimming, as well as rentals for different water sports. There is also a bouncing horse, climbing wall, water slide, and an inflatable obstacle course for fun and games.
Park Lake is open all year round, but you’ll enjoy most of its activities and events between Memorial Day and Labor Day. You’ll also find picnic areas and food trucks serving various tasty New Mexican food in the beach area. Take a trip to Park Lake and enjoy one of the best beaches in New Mexico.
We believe you’ll love the rooms, facilities, and additional perks in The Sandman.
Caballo Lake State Park – Sierra County
Caballo Lake State Park is one location you should check out if you’re ever in New Mexico. The state park is opposite the stunning Caballo Mountains in southern New Mexico.
This location has one of the most beautiful rocky New Mexico beaches. The beach at Caballo Lake is perfect for admiring breathtaking sunsets. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic getaway.
Additionally, you can enjoy typical beach water activities like swimming, kayaking, boating, and sailing. It’s also a good fishing spot. You can come along with your fishing equipment.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel has fabulous services, and its attendants are ready to make your stay lovely.
Lake Maloya Beach – Colfax County
Lake Maloya is a large water body that’s partially in New Mexico and partially in Colorado. This beautiful cross-state lake is the ideal spot for non-motorized water activities like row boating. Since there are no motorboats, the water is serene and calm.
However, it’s not your average sandy beach. The beachfront is rocky, and swimming is not permitted in the lake. But you can still rest on the beachfront, enjoy the scenic view around the lake, or go for a stroll. We believe it’s among New Mexico beaches worth visiting.
Consider Hyatt Place Santa Fe, only 2 hr 43 mins away from Lake Maloya. Comfortable rooms. Premium bedding. Professional staff.
Ute Reservoir – Quay County
UTE Reservoir is one of New Mexico’s longest lakes and offers a few beautiful rocky and sandy beachfront. On the southern end, you’ll find MineCove Beach, a well-liked relaxation spot for locals and visitors who can discover it.
The whole reservoir is the ideal location to unwind with friends. Like many other beaches in New Mexico, the sands near the Reservoir are soft and pleasant. You can camp on any of the two campgrounds in the area and explore the lovely surroundings.
You can be sure of exceptional services and the great staff at Fairfield Inn & Suites in Tucumcari.
Sumner Lake State Park – De Baca County
The Sumner Lake State Park has a vast, peaceful sense to it. It could be the environment or the fact that it doesn’t receive as much traffic as other beaches in New Mexico. In any case, it has a look and feels that other outstanding beaches do.
Sumner Lake is in the eastern part of the state, about 50 minutes away from Santa Rosa. The beachfront is shale rather than sand, and a grassy area for relaxation around the lake.
Furthermore, you’ll find a picnic area near the Sumner Dam. You can have a picnic with loved ones when you’re done swimming or exploring the area. Sumner Lake has one of the best rocky beaches in New Mexico.
Consider Best Western Inn in Santa Rosa if you want luxury and premium services near Sumner Lake. You’ll discover other beautiful sights in the area.
Stinking Lake – Rio Arriba County
Don’t be fooled by its name. Stinking Lake, New Mexico’s largest natural lake, boasts scenic views and various beautiful wildlife. The lake’s terrain is rocky, but its attractive features amaze you.
Visit Stinking Lake? Be prepared to explore the area. There is a sizable marsh section called Burford Lake nearby, which is equally enticing. There are also several bird species in the area, so bring your binoculars. You don’t want to miss out on any of the fun at one of the best New Mexico beaches.
Check out The Inn at Vanessie in Santa Fe for a comfortable stay near Stinking Lake.
White Sands National Monument – Otero and Doña Ana Counties
White Sands National Monument is not like your everyday beach. Some may say it’s not a beach because it has no water bodies. However, it still is counted among the top beaches in New Mexico by many.
Suppose you don’t care much about conventional beach water activities like swimming, kayaking, and water skiing. In that case, you can still have a great time on the white, soft sands at this New Mexico landmark.
Furthermore, there are numerous small dunes to climb and view the vast expanse of sand in every direction. It’s also an excellent location for kids to have fun. It may not be like other New Mexico beaches, but it’s one of the state’s best places to visit and explore.
Consider a stay at The Classic Desert Aire Hotel in Alamogordo and enjoy its unique features and facilities. It’s only 19 mins away from the national park.
Enjoying Beautiful Beaches In New Mexico
The best part about a vacation is enjoying the sights and sounds of a new place. Still, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy the beautiful beaches of New Mexico. There are tons of beautiful beaches in the state, and they all offer something unique.
A good thing about most of these beaches is that they’re easy to reach. You can take a road trip from Albuquerque to Carlsbad or Santa Fe to White Sands National Monument!
