Best beaches to bask on or splash at: Where to go in Stanislaus or for a day away
From salty waves to cool lakes, there are sandy spots for every type of beachgoer.
There are local spots and out-of-town destinations within a few hours. Read on to find out where to stay cool this summer.
Modesto Reservoir
A top spot for locals, Modesto Reservoir offers 2,800 acres for camping, water sports, picnics and swimming.
Located just outside Waterford, the reservoir was highly rated by readers for its serene views and peaceful atmosphere. There are large areas of shallow beachfront for kids and those who prefer to stay cool without going in too deep.
Fishing is a popular beach activity, with opportunities to catch trout, sunfish and bass, among others. Picnic tables and barbecue areas are available by reservation.
The reservoir is at 18143 Reservoir Road and is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Day use fees start at $15 for residents and $20 for others, per vehicle.
Caswell Memorial State Park
Caswell is one of the most nature-forward places on the list, and swimming is accessible from two beaches.
Salmon Bend Camp Beach is right near the first-come, first served campgrounds, and Willow Beach is near the day-use area. There are no lifeguards, so life jackets are advised, especially in seasons when the currents are strong. There are no power boats to disturb swimmers; only hand-powered watercraft like inner tubes and kayaks are allowed.
There are several picnic and barbecue areas, all located adjacent to the river. The area is a favorite for bird lovers, so bring some binoculars while taking a dip.
Caswell Memorial State Park is at 28000 S. Austin Road in Ripon and is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Day use fees are $10 per vehicle.
McHenry Recreation Area
Tucked along the Stanislaus River, the McHenry Avenue Recreation Area is a top spot for swimmers and floaters. With milder flows and a sandy beach area, this is the main exit point for those tubing the river.
During times of stronger currents, life jackets are recommended, and there are life jacket loans for kids. The river is popular for swimming, wading, and relaxing under valley oaks and cottonwood trees.
There are bathroom facilities, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and even an outdoor rinsing shower near the parking lot. The area is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is at 24100 E. River Road in Escalon.
Woodward Reservoir
With 2,900 acres of reservoir, Woodward is one of the region’s most popular spots with larger beaches and plenty of places to swim. Boat recreation is one of the main draws, and those out on the water can access other beaches around the shore.
The waters are calm and cool and picnic areas are shaded. Most forms of watercraft are allowed, including personal watercraft, kayaks, and inflatable tubes and floats. Weekends tend to fill up quickly, so getting there early is recommended.
Woodward Reservoir is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is at 14528 26-Mile Road, Oakdale.
On the coast and in the hills
If the ocean is calling and a salty sandbar seems more appealing, there are seemingly endless beach options within a few hours’ drive. Here are some of the favorites recommended by readers.
Pajaro Dunes
Located in Watsonville, this peaceful beachfront is a favorite for soft sand and majestic sand dunes along this roughly mile and a half long beach. The shore is a favorite for its shallow waters, which draw swimmers and surfers alike.
Readers shared they preferred this beach for the tranquil ambiance and ability to see whales and dolphins. There is a resort on the beach that offers vacation rentals and other amenities, but visitors can park and access the beachfront at Sunset State Beach or Palm Beach State Park. Parking starts at $10 per vehicle.
Santa Cruz area
Several readers recommended beaches near Santa Cruz as their favorite. Seacliff State Beach in Aptos and Capitola Beach were two standouts.
Seacliff is a popular swim spot and camping destination, with fine sand for walking along the shore. In 2023, storms destroyed the pier and sunken ship off the shore and the campground, which all still remain closed and inaccessible to the public, though the beach remains open.
Just a bit up on Highway 1 is Capitola. A lively beach with shorefront restaurants and shops and an iconic strip of colorful beach houses, Capitola is as California as it gets. Readers voted it as a top favorite for the accessible waters and the ability to walk around town for a break from the sun. Parking can be difficult, especially on summer weekends, so plan to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Pinecrest
Though there are many lakes in the foothills, Pinecrest Lake drew top votes from readers for its majestic beauty and cool waters.
Situated in the Stanislaus National Forest, Pinecrest is just about two hours away, and the drive to get there is just as beautiful. Loved for boating, fishing and tranquil waters, the lake also has several activities during the summer, from movie nights to special events and boat rentals. There is plenty of parking for day use and campsites for longer stays.
