The Arizona Beach Town Locals Hope Stays Off Tourists’ Radar

A slice of desert paradise, away from the crowds, lies a community along the Colorado River. Set across the river from the California border is Parker, Arizona, and it’s a town that locals wish they could gatekeep. Water recreation is the norm here, and camping under a dark night sky is expected. While RV road trippers often pass through, stopping for an overnight at one of the town’s riverside RV parks, Parker locals enjoy a tight-knit, riverside beach community year-round. To outsiders, it remains a bit of a hidden beach town in Arizona, but it’s one that those who enjoy peace and quiet by the water would love to discover.

Hidden Beach Town in Arizona

Parker's lifestyle centers on its location along a stretch of the Colorado River that serves as a border between Arizona's La Paz County and California, and is only 155 miles west of Phoenix and 120 miles north of Yuma. With sandy beaches dotting the river's shoreline, the town has a bit of a beachy vibe, despite its Sonoran Desert and the Buckskin Mountains surroundings. In fact, it feels like an oasis in the desert.

Best Things to Do in This Quiet Small Town

While considered a quiet beach town in Arizona, there are plenty of things to see and do. For those who wish to spend their days on the water, jet skiing, waterskiing, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular activities. Parker is also home to two state parks: Buckskin Mountain and River Island, both situated along the 18-mile recreational stretch of Colorado River known as the “Parker Strip.” Both parks have campgrounds, beaches, hiking trails, boat ramps, and views of the Buckskin Mountains.

You can also check out the Blue Water Resort & Casino for table games, slot machines, dining, lodging, and entertainment, play a round of golf at the Emerald Canyon Golf Course, or marvel at the engineering of the Parker Dam. However, if you prefer to do nothing but lie on a riverside beach to soak in some Vitamin D from the sun, we wouldn't blame you!

Where to Stay and Eat in Parker

Accommodations

If you plan to spend the night in Parker, Arizona, and need a place to stay, there are several vacation rental homes and hotels to consider. One highly rated Airbnb, the Parker Studio, nestled on the Colorado River, features a studio space for four guests, a kitchen, a bathroom, a private patio, and a dock. It's a fantastic option for those looking to relax while staying close to area parks and attractions. You can also book a stay at The Lighthouse, a darling tiny home for up to five guests. This new build is close to Parker Strip, the marina, and the boat launch.

For those who prefer hotels to vacation rentals, there are several budget-friendly options, including Best Western Parker Inn and Hampton Inn Parker, AZ. 

Dining

When choosing a place to dine in Parker, here are a few restaurants that satisfy a range of taste buds and budgets:

• The Greenhaus: Located at 401 S California Ave in Parker, The Greenhaus is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. during the week and 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on weekends. It offers a menu of fresh salads, soups, and sandwiches.
• The Black Pearl Restaurant: Part of Pirates Den Resort (7350 Riverside Dr,), this family-friendly restaurant offers hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees, along with views of the Colorado River. 
• Billy’s Wing Shack: This fast-casual eatery is known for its fresh and flavorful boneless wings and frosty ice cream treats for dessert. Located at 157 Riverside Drive, Billy’s Wing Shack is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Between its riverside location, beaches, water recreation, state parks, and attractions, Parker is a unique getaway destination. If you have yet to visit this hidden beach town in Arizona, you must take some time to explore it, especially if you plan on taking a road trip up to Lake Havasu City or over the border into California. To help plan your adventure, use Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.