Unbeknownst to most, there are beaches in New Mexico. Most people who’ve never visited the Land of Enchantment believe our whole state resembles the Tucson area of Arizona. In fact, it’s not uncommon for outsiders to ask, “Does New Mexico have beaches?” However, it’s a little known fact there are some stunning New Mexico beaches. Admittedly, we don’t have many, but it is possible to find sand in New Mexico.

1. Elephant Butte Reservoir, Elephant Butte
Elephant Butte Reservoir, New Mexico 87901, USA
emnrd.nm.gov
This beach is no secret, but it is by far one of the best beaches in New Mexico. Our biggest state park is blessed with plenty of soft sand. This area can be quite exposed, so be sure to bring an umbrella or other form of shade.
2. Lea Lake, near Roswell
Lea Lake, New Mexico 88203, USA
Joel Deluxe/Flickr
Lea Lake in Bottomless Lakes State Park has a swath of sandy beach that makes a great spot for a picnic. It's also the only lake in Bottomless Lakes State Park where swimming is permitted, earning it a spot on our list of the top New Mexico beaches.
3. Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area, Carlsbad
Lake Carlsbad, Carlsbad, NM 88220, USA
Visit Carlsbad/Facebook
A local favorite when it comes to beaches in New Mexico, this swimming beach along a portion of the Pecos River opens between Memorial Day and Labor Day. It's in the middle of Carlsbad and is the perfect spot to spend a hot summer day.

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4. Cochiti Lake, Cochiti
Cochiti Lake, NM 87083, USA
Enrique A Sanabria/Flickr
Cochiti Lake Recreation Area offers a family-friendly swimming beach, complete with picnic tables. Those aren't the only factors that make it one of the most popular of all New Mexico beaches, though. It's also a prime place to search for seashells. Although the Army Corps of Engineers operates this site, it’s located on land belonging to the Pueblo of Cochiti so tribal laws and rules must be followed.
5. Tingley Beach, Albuquerque
Tingley Beach, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA
Amy Z./Yelp
Tingley Beach’s big selling point is its Albuquerque location. You don’t need to leave the city to enjoy this recreation area. Although "beach" is in the name, we know this is a bit of a stretch. But not list of beaches in New Mexico would be complete without this waterfront park, which is great for picnicking, waterfowl watching, fishing, or renting a paddleboat.
6. White Sands National Monument, near Alamogordo
White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA
B Robbins/Flickr
Okay, a beach is supposed to refer to sand that is water-adjacent, but it's still worth pointing out that New Mexico has White Sands National Monument. It's definitely the driest of all New Mexico beaches; however, park-goers can explore endless fields of dunes. Near sunset, when the sand is cooler, it's a beautiful summer playground.

So, did you know about these beaches in New Mexico? Know of any other stunning bodies of what? Which beaches do you think are the most beautiful? Tell us!

New Mexico beaches aren’t the only option for cooling off. The state is brimming with great swim spots, including these amazing New Mexico swimming holes.

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More to Explore

Beaches In New Mexico

Daniella DiRienzo | June 22, 2022

What's the most beautiful waterfall in Mexico?

Beaches in New Mexico aren’t the only stunning water features in the state. There are quite a few, including waterfalls. Striking cascades can be found throughout the state; however, there’s no denying that Nambe Falls is one of the most breathtaking. Tucked away in the foothills of the Sangre de Christo Mountains, the lovely fall is just a short drive from Santa Fe. Accessing the waterfall requires a quarter-mile hike, which culminates with a close-up view of Nambe Falls. Keep in mind, there is a charge for parking. Also, overnight camping is permitted.

What is the scenic swim spot in New Mexico?

As far as scenic swim spots in New Mexico go, Blue Hole in Santa Rosa can’t be beat! Revered as the “best blue hole dive site in the U.S.,” it boasts crystal-blue water and lots of hidden caves. The pristine waters are perfect for a wealth of water-related activities, including swimming, diving, cliff jumping, scuba diving, and snorkeling. One of the best things about Blue Hole is its accessibility. Not only is it open year-round, but, since it’s located halfway between Amarillo and Albuquerque, it’s within a two-hour drive of 80 percent of all residents.

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