“Does Montana have an ocean?”, you ask Well, no, the state is landlocked. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some exceptional beaches in Montana. Some of them even have surf and sand that rivals the ocean. While you’ll never mistake any of these landscapes for the Pacific shoreline, spending a day at these beaches will definitely leave you feeling just as relaxed and rejuvenated.

1. Bozeman Beach
Robby G C / TripAdvisor
Glen Lake Rotary Park, Bozeman, MT 59715, USA
CraftBeers / TripAdvisor
Did you know Bozeman has its own beautiful sandy beach in Montana? You'll find it at Glen Lake Rotary Park on Manley Road, and it offers volleyball courts, playgrounds, and perfect sunbathing spots. Learn more about visiting Bozeman Beach.
2. Whitefish City Beach
Brent M / TripAdvisor
City Beach, 70 Lakeside Blvd, Whitefish, MT 59937, USA
Robby G C / TripAdvisor
Whitefish City Beach is always a perfect spot to spend a summer afternoon. This seven-mile-long glacial beach has plenty of swimming areas and activities, kayaks and paddleboards for rent, and a boat dock for those who want to go boating. Plus, the scenery can't be beat. All this makes Whitefish City Beach one of the best beaches in Montana. Read further on about Whitefish City Beach.

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3. Fort Peck Reservoir
Tim Schleicher / Flickr
Fort Peck Lake, Montana, USA
Sam M / TripAdvisor
Eastern Montana has its share of beaches, too. The Fort Peck Reservoir is the fifth-largest manmade reservoir in the country, and it's beautiful. Go for a hike, or just sit on the shoreline and take in the crystal clear waters (and possible wildlife sightings). Get more details on Fort Peck Reservoir, a great beach near me in Montana.
4. Canyon Ferry Lake
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Canyon Ferry Lake, Montana, USA
SeeJoshsPhotos / Flickr
Located near Helena, Canyon Ferry Lake is a reservoir on the Missouri River. Between the public swimming areas and the boat launch, it's a great place to enjoy a summer day if you are looking for the closest beaches to Montana. Learn more about Canyon Ferry Lake and other lovely Montana lakes.

There are plenty of beaches in Montana — you just have to know where to look for them. Our lakeside state parks have some stunning shorelines that rival the coast. What do you think is the best beach in Montana? Tell us in the comments!

Are beaches near me in Montana not enough? Check out these swimming holes in Montana.

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More to Explore

Beautiful Montana

Rachel Raimondi | June 01, 2023

Which state parks should I visit in Montana?

Aside from the beaches in Montana, the state is also home to 55 state parks. Consider heading to some of the best parks in Montana:

  • Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park: Located in Whitehall, this park is 3,015 acres. While you can hike and bike here, the park is most known for its limestone cave tours. You can also stay the night at a campsite, in a cabin, or even in a tipi.
  • Flathead Lake State Park: You’ll find this park over in Bigfork. Swim, boat, or fish on the beautiful Flathead Lake, or take in the biking, hiking, and camping opportunities.
  • Giant Springs State Park: This park is located in Great Falls. There is a lot to do here, from taking in 14 miles of Missouri River shoreline to marveling at Giant Springs to exploring the Giant Springs Hatchery. There are also 60 miles of trails along with biking and fishing opportunities.

 

What are the best hikes with a view in Montana?

While any hike is a good hike, if you want a nice payoff, check out the best hikes with a view in Montana:

  • Drinking Horse Mountain Trail: You’ll find this 2.4-mile trail in Bozeman. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of both the Gallatin Valley and the Bridger Range.
  • Avalanche Lake: Located within Glacier National Park, this 5.9-mile out-and-back trail will take you up to the lake at the base of Bearhat Mountain. Once here, you can either take the lake in with your eyes or take a swim.

 

What are the most beautiful lakes in Montana?

Get some more time on the water in the Treasure State by heading to the most beautiful lakes in Montana, some of which are also great beaches in Montana:

  • Whitefish Lake: Located in Flathead County, this 848-acre lake offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. Head to Whitefish Lake State Park and Whitefish City Beach for the best spots to enjoy the lake.
  • St Mary Lake: This 272-acre lake is located in Glacier National Park. It is the second biggest in the park. It is a beautiful spot to take in the mountain and forest scenery as well as view wildlife like bears and elk.

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