You might not expect it, but New Mexico has some surprising water spots: that is, after all, where the state got its name from. Lying in this southwestern state are these pretty lakes and reservoirs that provide several beach-related amenities. Below are the thirteen popular New Mexico beaches that are rather worth visiting.
Top New Mexico Beaches
1. Elephant Butte Lake State Park
Based on this, Elephant Butte Lake, which is the largest Lake in New Mexico, is a prominent area for beach lovers. The beaches are smooth golden sand that gives enough room to sunbathe, have a barbecue, as well as boat, jet ski, or fish. There are lots of camping grounds and facilities, so one can go study the surroundings on a weekend. This is because the lake is very large, presented with many coves and beaches to experience hence providing a great chance for fun, leisure, and at the same time a place to explore. For fishermen who would love to fish for bass, parents and children who want to enjoy an entire day in the water or even friends who would love to go camping, there is much to do at the Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
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2. Bottomless Lakes State Park
Found south of Roswell is the Bottomless Lakes State Park, which is home to nine small, but, deep lakes. Lea Lake is the only one that has a sandy area on the shore thus best for swimming and paddle boarding. There is also provision for hiking trails as well as areas that are set aside for picnics, this makes it an all-inclusive park. These lakes are interesting to visit due to their individual and otherworldly look, as well as their crystal-clear water. Scuba diving is also possible here and divers enjoy swimming deep in these rather deep lakes. Indeed looking at the rich history of the park, coupled with natural endowment, the park should be on every tourist’s list.
3. Abiquiu Lake
The amazing man-made lake is surrounded by stunning red rocks in northern New Mexico with a nice beach. It is an ideal place to do kayaking, fishing, and swimming at Abiquiu Lake. The lake has crystal clear waters and picturesque landscapes that are admired by photo enthusiasts as well as nature lovers. One just needs to see its pure blue water in contrast with parched surroundings that are so rare in this world. Moreover, Ghost Ranch, a former home of Georgia O’Keeffe, has even more attractions such as hiking trails and cultural tours (p. 11). This unique combination of art heritage and natural beauty makes it stand out among other destinations found within the state.
4. Conchas Lake State Park
This park features shores along Conchas Lake where one could spend a day on the beach nicely (p. 13). Visitors can also get involved in swimming, boating or fishing while sunbathing on the sandy beaches of this park (p. 13). Also provided in the park are camping grounds and tracks for walking thus making it a suitable place for multi-day activity (p. 14). A variety of water activities including; boating, jet skiing, and sailing among others around scenic cliffs with protected coves make up picture postcard scenery here (Conchas Lake State Park p14). A major activity here is bird watching since there are many species living here too (Conchas Lake State Park 14). Finally, Conchas Lake State Park is an ideal destination whether you want to travel on a boat or spend time lying lazily at its shorelines alone or with your family members alike
5. Sumner Lake State Park
One can also find a beach at Sumner Lake with isolated bays and nice sandy coastlines. As the park is quite large it is a favorite destination for fishing, boating, and bird watching. Vending facilities are available in the park including picnic tables and campsites for those interested in spending a night or two there bare essentials for a comfortable stay are provided. It is perfect for kayaking and paddle boarding as the lake is very serene and perfect for such pastime, there are also magnificent views to behold and wildlife to discover around the lake for hiking. That is why the Sumner Lake State Park focused on the water activities and calm nature of the area becomes the perfect vacation from the intensity.
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6. Heron Lake State Park
Well known for its quiet and beautiful environment, Heron Lake is a no-wake lake which makes it ideal for use when using kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. The beaches here are good for sunbathing and the park itself is the best for trekking and observing wildlife. It is situated in a woody region with hills surrounding it hence one will find it quite serene and beautiful. Fishing is also encouraged in the lake as the lake is endowed with trout and kokanee salmon. The park has many trails and they range from easy to difficult, thus it is easy to find a trail that suits everyone. Heron Lake State Park remains one of the best places for bird watchers and other lovers of nature.
7. Ute Lake State Park
Ute Lake, one of the largest lakes in New Mexico possesses many beaches which are primarily sandy for swimming and sunbathing. Some of the water activities provided in the park include boating and water skiing. As there are so many areas designed for camping and so many spots to have a picnic, this is a great place for families to visit. As is the case with the length of the lake, there are numerous empty and obscure coastlines to walk by as well as zones that are filled with people and stairs, shops, and eateries. There is also fishing that is done in this place since the lake harbors several types of fish. Thus, Ute Lake State Park provides a utility and an enjoyable journey to persons of all ages.
8. Santa Rosa Lake State Park
Santa Rosa Lake is a picturesque place that remains a secret from many; it has wonderful shores and perfect water. The park is ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing activities because of the availability of natural resources. It also contains several places where hikers may go trekking and other areas for those who may go for picnicking. Snorkeling and diving can be done on the lake due to its good water quality; one can still explore more beneath the clear water surface. The environment, especially the hilly nature and the amount of space available incisors the day’s activity. Santa Rosa Lake State Park should thus be on your to-list for those who wish to disappear into the wilderness.
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9. Blue Hole
Again it is not a sandy shore beach per se, but is a highly regarded natural swimming pool locally called Blue Hole in Santa Rosa noted for its crystal clear blue water and fabulous diving spot. Located near the cliffs, it is quite an extraordinary place for swimming or even diving and snorkeling. The Blue Hole in the shape of a cylinder and the water temperature inside is constant, therefore it is can be visited at any time of the year. Due to that, it has become one of the favorite locations for training divers and a must-visit sightseeing destination as well. The Blue Hole is one place that one cannot afford to miss when it comes to natural beauty.
10. Cochiti Lake
Cochiti Lake situated near Santa Fe presents a scenic strip for a beach holiday complemented by a mountainous landscape. It is ideal for swimming, canoeing, and having a picnic as well as other water activities. Due to its natural serene atmosphere, the lake is ideal for personal reflection and observing nature. The lake is operated by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and provides for well-developed camping and picnicking arrangements. Hiking fans get more opportunities nearby: a Tent Rocks National Monument with rock formations and trails attracts vacationers. Cochiti Lake may just be a beach however, it is highly recommended for those who are planning to have a beach day alongside sightseeing.
11. Navajo Lake State Park
Stretching across the New Mexico-Colorado state line, Navajo Lake is among the largest lakes in New Mexico. Several beaches within the park can be used for swimming, sunbathing, and sand banking amongst others. The park is also ideal for boating fishing, as well as hiking in the large parking area. Due to its vast size, numerous numbers of sites and shorelines can be surveyed both physically on water and on the ground. When visiting the marina, there are boats for hire, and other facilities available for use hence easy to access water bodies. The topography of the park which comprises forested hills, steep slopes, and open water among others makes it much more interesting and attractive for the many activities to be carried out. One of its kind, the Navajo Lake State Park is an ideal place for water sports.
12. Fenton Lake State Park
Fenton Lake which is located in the Jemez Mountains is also good for a beach experience given that the water is clear and the surrounding environment is green. They are also famous for fishing, boating especially kayaking, and also for picnicking. The park also boasts well-designed, and easily accessible hiking trails and quality camping grounds as well. There is a network of hills and meadows around the attractive shores of the lake which also offers the beauty of nature. There is plenty of wildlife and one can easily see deer, elk, and many more species of birds in the surroundings. Fenton Lake State Park is the best place for those who want to combine the sea coast with some hiking in the Jemez Mountains.
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13. Brantley Lake State Park
One of New Mexico’s state parks is Brantley Lake which is to be found in the southeastern part of New Mexico; this place is perfect for beach lovers. For those who love to take a sun bath, there are beaches with sand that are appropriate for sun tanning. Tourists can also go boating, fishing, and picnicking hence a variety et al; making it an excellent center for any physical exercise. The lake has shallow waters that allow boating swimming and paddle boarding, while the area all around has great hiking and wildlife watching. This means that the park has campsites/ picnic areas so that one is well-equipped to have a comfortable stay. So if one wants to have a good time by the lake then they should visit Brantley Lake State Park.
Conclusion
New Mexico has many lakes or reservoirs in which one can enjoy sandy beaches, crystal clear water adventurous water activities, or breathtaking stunning views. These top 13 beaches are perfect for those people looking for beautiful scenery and a place to relax or for other visitors who seek a fun-filled day under the sun. So, do not forget your suntan lotion, some towels, and flip-flops, and get ready to absorb the beauty of New Mexico underwater. New Mexico has various stunning places that you can visit if you want to have a vacation and have some fun at the beach.
