The 6 Best Lakes in Massachusetts That Have Sandy Beaches

Although most people think of tropical beaches when someone mentions the word beach, lakes and rivers also have sandy beaches! Massachusetts is home to over 3,000 lakes and ponds. Some of these beautiful lakes offer swimming opportunities. Here we have the 6 best lakes in Massachusetts that have sandy beaches.

Mirror Lake Beach

The first best Massachusetts lake with a sandy beach is Mirror Lake in Devens. This beautiful lake was originally named Hell Pond. It’s a popular local freshwater beach that typically opens in June and closes in August. There is a small fee to enter. Mirror Lake Beach is a great swimming spot, but you can also rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Some fish species you may find in Mirror Lake include bass and trout. Mirror Lake Beach is found near the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. The area around the beach is conservation land. There are rules you must follow if you visit like no dogs or recreational floating devices allowed. Swim lessons are available at the beach. Apart from the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge, you can also explore the area while hiking the Mirror Lake Trails.

Sandy Pond Beach

The next Massachusetts freshwater sandy beach on our list is Sandy Pond Beach in the town of Ayer. This lovely beach is free for residents, but guests must pay a small fee. Swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are on duty. Sandy Pond Beach opens in May and closes in September, but the exact dates vary each year. Swimming lessons are also available. This family-friendly freshwater sandy beach does not allow dogs or smoking. Sandy Pond Beach isn’t the only thing to enjoy in the area. The beach is within the Sandy Pond Recreation Area, which also has tennis courts, basketball courts, and a softball field.

Lake Gardner Beach

Lake Gardner Beach is a small, but local and family-friendly beach in the city of Amesbury. It’s open during the summer, usually starting in May. On Lake, Gardner are also walking trails that lead to Battis Farm. Unlike the previous Massachusetts freshwater sandy lakes on this list, no lifeguards are on duty, so swim at your own risk. The surface area of the lake is about 80 acres. It’s about 0.25 miles wide, 1.3 miles long, and has a maximum depth of 17 feet. Apart from swimming and hiking, you can also sunbathe, kayak, and paddleboard. Many plants grow along the lake like white meadowsweet, buttonbush, swamp milkweed, sweet pepperbush, and broadleaf cattail.

Shannon Beach

Shannon Beach is another swimming spot on our list of the best lakes in Massachusetts that have sandy beaches. This beach is located in Winchester, Massachusetts. It’s within Mystic Lakes State Park. This freshwater beach is a popular option if you’re looking to beat the state’s summer heat. Not only can you swim in the lake’s cool water but also kayak and view wildlife. Visitors can take a break from the water and explore Mystic Lakes State Park. There is also a small playground on the beach for small children. It’s important to note that during holiday weekends, Shannon Beach gets filled so plan for parking.

Sandy Beach at Laurel Lake

Another one of the best lakes in Massachusetts that have sandy beaches is Sandy Beach on Laurel Lake located in Lee. It’s a secluded and quiet beach, mainly for locals. This freshwater beach offers seasonal passes for Lee residents. You can also visit the beach if you’re visiting the town. Swim at your own risk, but there are usually about 2 lifeguards on duty. The beach also has a fire pit and some chairs and tables available. Dogs and alcohol are prohibited on Sandy Beach on Laurel Lake.

Lake Wyola State Park’s Public Beach

Last but not least is Lake Wyola State Park‘s Public Beach in Shutesbury. This beautiful lake is cool, calm, and clear. Open in the summer, the public beach is available for swimming and kayaking. Apart from swimming and kayaking, you can also enjoy fishing along the shore. The state park has a surface area of 40 acres. Wyola is a Native American word meaning ‘quiet waters,’ which fits the lake very well. The lake’s surface area is about 128 acres. You can spend all day swimming, hiking, and kayaking on the water, and enjoy lunch on a charcoal grill. There are also plenty of picnic benches available.

Summary of The 6 Best Lakes in Massachusetts That Have Sandy Beaches

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Box Lab/Shutterstock.com