6 Little Known Beaches in New Mexico That’ll Make Your Summer Even Better

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

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 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

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.

4. Cochiti Lake, Cochiti

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’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

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.