5 Lakeside Beaches in Georgia That’ll Make You Feel Like You’re at the Ocean

Don’t feel like driving all the way to the ocean for a beach day in Georgia? No problem. There are several lake beaches in Georgia that will still make you feel like you're at the ocean. Here in Georgia, you don’t need to head to the coast to find warm sand and cool water; you can simply hit up the lakeside beach scene for an equally resplendent way to stay refreshed. Whether you’re relaxing lakeside in Lake Lanier or enjoying the giant swimming beach at Fort Yargo, here are the best lakes in Georgia for swimming that will have you feeling like you’re at the ocean.

1. Paradise Beach at Margaritaville, Lake Lanier

Leave all your worries behind and spend the day at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Paradise Beach is one of the best places to go in Georgia for the family to kick back and relax at Lake Lanier — with music playing, umbrellas available to rent for some nice shade, ice cream and food, plus ice-cold beer. You won’t even miss the ocean at all. It's a wonderful summer retreat the whole family will love. Book your experience on the Margaritaville Resorts website.

2. Red Top Mountain State Park

Connect with Georgia's natural beauty along Lake Allatoona when you visit Red Top Mountain State Park. This popular Georgia state park has become an ideal place for families to enjoy a beach day. Enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, and waterskiing galore along this 12,000-acre lake. What's better on a hot Georgia summer day than a lake beach like this?

3. Don Carter State Park

Don Carter State Park offers waterfront access right where the Chattahoochee River meets Lake Lanier. As the very first state park on Lake Lanier, guests come from all over to swim, enjoy the large sandy swimming area, and even rent non-motorized watercraft! It's one of the best lake beaches in Georgia for swimming, paddling, and getting a nice tan.

4. Fort Yargo State Park

Fort Yargo State Park features a 260-acre lake with a very large swimming beach for guests. Not only can you spend the day swimming here, but you can also launch off your kayak or canoe, too! There is a parking fee, but you’ll still be able to enjoy lakefront access all day. It's one of the nicest lakes in Georgia with beaches. What a wonderful way to cool off!

5. Acworth Beach at Cauble Park

Acworth Beach at Cauble Park is a bit of a hidden gem in terms of lakefront beaches in Georgia. But it sure is beautiful! This family-style public beach is free to enjoy and features a roped-off swimming area with a white sandy beach. Note that while entry to this beach is free, there is a parking fee for non-residents during the weekend.

Have you ever been to these lake beaches in Georgia before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you have more lakefront beaches that are worth checking out, keep us in the loop! If you're looking for more magnificent lakes in Georgia for a nice hot day, take this road trip to some of the best in the state.