Nestled within Missouri’s natural beauty, Lake of the Ozarks boasts many picturesque beaches that draw in tourists and locals alike during the warm summer months. With over 1,150 miles of shoreline, the lake offers an array of stunning spots for visitors to relax, swim, and enjoy various water activities. Whether you’re in search of a family-friendly beach destination or seeking a more adult-oriented experience, the beaches around the Lake of the Ozarks cater to a variety of preferences.
One of the most popular spots at the Lake of the Ozarks is Grand Glaize Beach, also known as Public Beach 2, located within the Lake of the Ozarks State Park. This beautiful beach offers a relaxing atmosphere with stunning views and easy access to the shimmering cool lake water. In addition to public beaches, there are also beach resorts, bars with associated beaches, and designated swimming areas throughout the region suited to different interests and budgets.
While exploring the Lake of the Ozarks, keep in mind that each beach offers unique qualities, amenities, and activities for visitors. No matter which beach you choose, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience amidst the sparkling waters and breathtaking natural scenery of this iconic Midwest destination.
Key Takeaways
- Lake of the Ozarks offers a range of picturesque beaches for relaxation and water activities.
- Grand Glaize Beach, located within the State Park, is a popular destination for swimmers and sunbathers.
- Beach resorts and bars with beaches provide additional options for travelers with varying preferences and budgets.
Best Beaches
Lake of the Ozarks is home to some beautiful beaches that provide visitors with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Two of the best beaches in this region can be found within the Lake of the Ozarks State Park.
Grand Glaize Beach, also known as Public Beach 2, is a popular spot due to its soft sand and shimmering cool lake water. Located within the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, this beach offers a perfect getaway for people looking to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. With ample space to set up your beach gear, you can spend a delightful summer day surrounded by nature.
Another popular beach at the Lake of the Ozarks State Park is Public Beach #1. Easily accessible just off Highway 134, this sandy beach offers several picnic areas with tables, outdoor grills, restrooms, and changing facilities nearby. Public Beach #1 is a great spot for families who want to spend a day outdoors, enjoying the sun and the refreshing water.
In addition to the two state park beaches, the Osage Beach area also offers plenty of other swimming spots, including nearby lakes and community pools. With so many options available, visitors are sure to find the perfect beach that suits their preferences at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Public Beaches
Public Beach 1
Located at Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Public Beach 1 is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy a day at the beach. The beach is open during the season from May 26 through September 4, with visiting hours from sunrise to sunset. The sandy beach offers a perfect spot to relax and unwind, with restroom and change house facilities available on-site. The swim beach area at Public Beach 1 is known for its beautiful surroundings and inviting waters, allowing visitors to cool off on warm summer days.
Public Beach 2
Also known as Grand Glaize Beach, Public Beach 2 is another popular option for beach-goers at Lake of the Ozarks State Park. This beach is open during the same season as Public Beach 1, from May 26 through September 4, and also offers visiting hours from sunrise to sunset. Grand Glaize Beach is nestled within Lake of the Ozarks State Park and attracts visitors with its shimmering waters and soft sand.
Both Public Beach 1 and Public Beach 2 at Lake of the Ozarks offer a picturesque setting for a day of relaxation and recreation. With their convenient location in the state park and variety of amenities, these public beaches provide an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Bars With Beaches
Franky & Louie’s Beachfront Bar & Grill
Franky & Louie’s Beachfront Bar & Grill offers a laid-back atmosphere with a beautiful beachfront location at the Lake of the Ozarks. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of food and drink options, while relaxing on the sandy beach. The outdoor seating provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is perfect for soaking up the sun. For those looking for entertainment, Franky & Louie’s occasionally hosts live music events to keep the good vibes going.
Captain Ron’s Bar & Grill
Located in Sunrise Beach, Captain Ron’s Bar & Grill is another popular destination for beach lovers at the Lake of the Ozarks. This lakeside bar and grill offers a laid-back atmosphere with a spacious outdoor patio and a sandy beach for visitors to enjoy. Guests can indulge in a wide array of dishes and drinks while kicking back on the sand or taking in the views from the patio. Captain Ron’s also hosts several events and entertainment throughout the year, making it an ideal spot for fun day out with friends and family.
Cave Bar & Grill
Cave Bar & Grill is a unique waterfront establishment at the Lake of the Ozarks. The establishment’s rustic, outdoor setting offers a perfect spot for those looking for something different, while still providing access to a sandy beach. Cave Bar & Grill offers a diverse menu with various options, catering to different tastes and preferences. Guests can enjoy their food and drinks while taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Keep an eye out for special events and entertainment hosted at Cave Bar & Grill for some added excitement during your visit.
Swimming Beaches
Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers two beautiful sandy swimming beaches for visitors to enjoy. The beaches provide a great opportunity for families and friends to relax and have fun in a picturesque setting.
The first beach, known as Public Beach #1, is located off Highway 134. The beach is open from May 26th to September 4th, with hours from sunrise to sunset. The facilities at Public Beach #1 include restrooms and change houses for the convenience of the visitors. The beach is an ideal spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the refreshing waters of the lake.
Another option for swimming at Lake of the Ozarks is Grand Glaize Beach, which can be found in the Grand Glaize area of the park, off Highway 54 west of the Grand Glaize bridge. This beach also operates from May 26th to September 4th, opening at sunrise and closing at sunset. Like Public Beach #1, Grand Glaize Beach is equipped with restrooms and change houses for visitors’ convenience. Additionally, a marina is present near Grand Glaize Beach, offering boat rentals for those who want to explore the lake further.
To ensure swimmers’ safety, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources conducts weekly water quality tests at both designated swimming beaches in the state park system during the recreational season. This ensures that the beaches at Lake of the Ozarks State Park offer a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
In summary, Lake of the Ozarks State Park boasts two excellent swimming beaches, providing an ideal destination for water enthusiasts to unwind and have fun. The well-maintained facilities and water quality testing help ensure a pleasant and safe experience for swimmers and beachgoers alike.
Beach Resorts
Lake of the Ozarks is a popular destination for vacationers seeking beach resorts. The area boasts various options to choose from, ensuring a memorable stay for visitors. This section will discuss some of the well-known Lake of the Ozarks beach resorts.
One such option is the Sunset Beach Resort, located in Osage Beach. The resort offers lakefront studios and cabins, providing guests with stunning views of the water. Sunset Beach Resort is situated conveniently near various attractions, such as a Factory Merchants Outlet Village shopping mall, caves, state parks, water and sports parks, country music shows, fine restaurants, mini-golf, and go-cart tracks.
A wider selection of beach resorts can be found on ResortsandLodges.com, which lists 48 places to stay in the Lake of the Ozarks region. These resorts cater to diverse needs and preferences, making it easy for visitors to find the perfect fit. The website also provides an overview of various resort types, including options for meetings, reunions, weddings, family vacations, and romantic escapes.
For guests seeking luxurious accommodation, the WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks in Osage Beach is an excellent choice. Operated by Wyndham, this resort offers top-notch amenities and easy access to local attractions.
In summary, the Lake of the Ozarks region offers a wide range of beach resorts catering to different needs and preferences. With various options such as Sunset Beach Resort, WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks, and the list provided by ResortsandLodges.com, visitors can confidently plan their ideal beach getaway at Lake of the Ozarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beaches at Lake of the Ozarks?
Lake of the Ozarks State Park features two popular sandy beaches for visitors to enjoy. Public Beach 1 is located off Highway 134, while Public Beach 2, also known as Grand Glaize Beach, can be found in the Grand Glaize area of the park off Highway 54 west of the Grand Glaize bridge. Both beaches offer restroom and change house facilities for a convenient and enjoyable experience.
Is it safe to swim in Lake of Ozarks?
It is generally safe to swim in Lake of the Ozarks, but like any natural body of water, it is important to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, swim with a buddy, and monitor children closely. Additionally, it is a good idea to check for advisories related to water quality before going for a swim.
What is there to do at Lake of the Ozarks State Park?
Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. These include boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicking. The park also has campsites and cabins available for rent, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Are there piranhas in Lake of the Ozarks?
No, there are no piranhas in Lake of the Ozarks. Piranhas are native to South American rivers, and would not be able to survive the colder temperatures of Missouri waters. Rest assured, you can safely swim and enjoy the lake without the fear of encountering a piranha.
What snakes are in Lake of the Ozarks?
The Lake of the Ozarks is home to several snake species, including the Northern Water Snake, the Diamondback Water Snake, and the Yellow-Bellied Water Snake. While these species might be seen around the lake, they are considered non-venomous and generally not aggressive toward humans unless provoked. As with any wild animal encounter, it is best to keep a safe distance and not approach or disturb the snakes.
