The Arizona Beach Park That’s Unlike Any Other In The World
By Katie Lawrence|Published March 07, 2023
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
If beaches in Arizona – especially ones with white sand – sound like a pipe dream, allow us to introduce you to West Wetlands Park. Located in Yuma (the sunniest city on Earth!) this 110-acre park features not one, but two beautiful beaches situated along the mighty Colorado River. The park also offers tons of other amenities, including a playground, hiking trails, picnic areas, and more, making it an ideal spot to visit year-round.
Beloved by Yuma locals and tourists alike, the 110-acre West Wetlands Park offers world-class outdoor recreation opportunities. The park is situated along the beautiful Colorado River, allowing visitors to partake in activities both on the water and on land.
The park is divided into two sections: the "Upper Bench" and "Lower Bench." While the Upper Bench boasts a lake and picnic areas, the Lower Bench is brimming with native trees and grasses.
As close to the real thing as it gets here in the Grand Canyon State, these pristine beaches are perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and immersing yourself in nature. There is also a boat launch/boat trailer parking area right near Centennial Beach.
One of the biggest perks of the beaches at West Wetlands Park is the lack of crowds. You may even get the whole place to yourself, particularly if it's a weekday and/or not summertime.
Speaking of seasons, Yuma just so happens to be the sunniest city on Earth, with 11 hours of sunlight per day in the winter and 13 in the summer. That means you can enjoy a beach day year-round here!
Also in the park, there is a pond that's 15 feet deep at the center and stocked with a variety of game fish. The pond is surrounded by picnic ramadas available for rent, and it's also near a playground and hummingbird garden.
The play area, called the Stewart Vincent Wolfe Creative Playground, is a dream come true for kids. Volunteer-built and community-funded, it has been recognized for being one of the nation's most inclusive and accessible playgrounds.
Have you ever visited West Wetlands Park? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more of the most underrated parks in Arizona (one of them is a nearby national wildlife refuge)!
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