Summer is a fantastic time to head outdoors as a family and explore the Land of Enchantment. If you are searching for a destination that is cool, fun, and perfect for a family day trip in New Mexico, we have you covered. While our state may not be known for having dozens of beautiful, soft, sandy beaches, there are still several beaches scattered around the state for you to spend your summer day. We’ve compiled this list of seven beautiful beaches in New Mexico that are excellent for your next summer day trip.

1. Lake Farmington, Farmington
Anthony Gallegos/Google
The Beach at Lake Farmington is one of the most beautiful beaches in New Mexico. Plus, it offers a whole list of activities to keep every member of the family active, excited, and cool. Hop in the water and swim, rent kayaks and paddleboards, or play on the inflatable water slides and trampolines. The beach is well-groomed and perfect for building sandcastles or relaxing. Click here to learn more about this beach in New Mexico.
2. Elephant Butte, Elephant Butte Lake State Park
Amber Franks
Elephant Butte Lake State Park is the largest state park in New Mexico and is home to one of the most popular sandy beaches in the Land of Enchantment. The beach is quite large and you have easy access to many water activities such as fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming, and more. Plus, when you need a place to brush off the sand, there are grassy areas and restrooms with showers on the shore. Click here to learn more about Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
3. Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area, Carlsbad
Mark H/TripAdvisor
Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area is located right in the heart of Carlsbad and is the perfect family day trip in New Mexico. The Pecos River runs right through this recreation area, creating a long list of activities for the entire family to enjoy. There is a 125-acre beach where you can sit back and enjoy the views, jump in the water, or launch a kayak. You’ll also find many additional amenities nearby including a playground, picnic area, and walking paths. Click here to learn more about this recreation area in Carlsbad.
4. Caballo Lake, Caballo Lake State Park
Management/TripAdvisor
If you are wanting to get away from the crowds, Caballo Lake, located at Caballo Lake State Park near Truths and Consequences, is the ideal location. Bring a picnic and a fishing pole and enjoy some time on the shore during this family day trip in New Mexico. You may also want to stay a little longer at one of the four nearby campgrounds. Be aware that much of this beach is rocky so bring some chairs to sit on and adequate water shoes. Click here to learn more about Caballo Lake.
5. Cochiti Lake, Sandoval County
Cochiti Lake - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Albuquerque District/Facebook
Cochiti Lake is one of the best beaches in New Mexico. The Cochiti Swim Beach Day Use Area features a beautiful sandy beach where you can relax, build a sandcastle, and swim. There are also picnic tables located around the beach, which make a picnic easy and convenient. Cochiti Lake is within the boundaries of the Pueblo de Cochiti Indian Reservation, so make sure to follow all guidelines. Click here to learn more about this beach in New Mexico.
6. Lea Lake, Bottomless Lake State Park
New Mexico State Parks/Official Website
Lea Lake is one of the nine lakes at Bottomless Lake State Park and is the only lake that allows swmming. It is a popular swimming area with its sandy beach and beautiful blue water. You can scuba dive in this lake, splash around in the water, dig in the sand, or just admire the beautiful limestone bluffs that are nearby. There are also showers and restrooms at this beach to make your stay even more enjoyable. Click here to learn more about Lea Lake at Bottomless Lake State Park.
7. Tingley Beach, Albuquerque
Yolanda Leal/Google
Located just minutes from downtown Albuquerque and along the Rio Grande is Tingley Beach. This beach sits along fishing ponds that individuals of all ages will love. In addition to throwing in a line, sit back and watch the wildlife in the water. You’ll likely see all types of ducks and geese. You can also explore this beach on one of the many trails that surround the area. Click here to learn more about Tingley Beach.

Do you have a favorite beach in New Mexico that didn’t make our list? Tell us and fellow beach lovers in the comments!

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Featured Addresses
Farmington lake, Farmington, NM, USA
Elephant Butte Reservoir, New Mexico 87901, USA
Lake Carlsbad, Carlsbad, NM 88220, USA
Caballo Lake State Park, New Mexico 87931, USA
Cochiti Lake, New Mexico 87041, USA
Lea Lake, New Mexico 88203, USA
Tingley Beach, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA