If you're like me, you're sick of the cold and ready to start thinking spring and summer. Iowa can have truly brutal winters, but we are routinely treated to amazing warm weather months, too. So, it's a pretty fair tradeoff. If you're looking for a nice beach to hit without having to travel to one of the lakes of Minnesota, or a coastal ocean, look no further than some of these great Iowa options!

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Big Creek State Park

Located just north of Des Moines in Polk City, Big Creek Beach is a short drive away, and close to other great activities when it's time to head away from the beach. And, as Travel Iowa points out, there's a ton of sand and shoreline along with playgrounds and shelters await providing something for everyone.
Big Creek State Park via Google
Big Creek State Park via Google
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Okoboji

The mighty Lake Okoboji! Okoboji doesn’t just have beaches, Okoboji also has a lot of lakeside dining, camping, shopping, and amusement park.

Looks like fun, no?

Honey Creek Resort

Honey Creek is located in Moravia, Iowa which is under 3 hours from both Cedar Rapids and Waterloo. Obviously, as the name implies, this beach is more designed to be a  family getaway than a quick weekend away. With lots of family activities like an indoor water park and hotel, Honey Creek Resort is a great Iowa getaway.

Who isn't ready for this view?

Clear Lake

Located in central/north Iowa's Cerro Gordo County, Clear Lake is best-known nationally as the last town Buddy Holly played before his tragic plane crash when he played the Surf Ballroom. Clear Lake is home to several beaches that surround the lake, including Clear Lake State Park Beach, a 900-foot sandy beach.

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Lake Macbride State Park

Close to home, located in Iowa City, Lake Macbride is an easy getaway. While it does have a nice beach, it's also well known for its surrounding trails and waterfall. These can be reached by bike or on foot. As far as the water goes, it's also a great place to kayak or canoe.

Okay spring, now we're just waiting on YOU!

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