The Closest Beaches to Nashville
What is the Most Popular Beaches near Nashville?
There’s no need to go all the way to the ocean to enjoy the closest beaches to Nashville. The Tennessee city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, which offer a variety of outdoor activities, from the sedate to the exhilarating. Just outside the city, you’ll find beautiful lakes and sandy shores for a chill day out or a family vacation.
From serene lakesides to bustling recreational areas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to swim, fish, or bask in the sun, these destinations offer a blend of relaxation and adventure. With plenty of opportunities for water sports and outdoor fun, it’s easy to see why these beaches are favorites among locals and tourists alike.
1. Elm Hill Recreation Area (Percy Priest Lake)
Serene lakeside escape at the edge of the city
Good for: Adventure, Unusual
Just a 20-minute drive from downtown Nashville, Elm Hill Recreation Area on J Percy Priest Reservoir is a hidden gem. Its 800-foot beach offers a peaceful atmosphere with a mix of white and tan sand. Feel free to bring your leashed dog to this pet-friendly shoreline.
At Elm Hill, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards directly from the beach and go explore the lake’s scenic coves and islands. Head up the shore to the marina to watch the boats and enjoy resort-style vibes. Don’t miss the spectacular sunset views over the lake, ideal for evening swims or photography. Soak up the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of Tennessee.
Location: 3361 Bell Rd, Nashville, TN 37214, USA
Phone: +1 615-889-5363
Elm Hill Recreation Area (Percy Priest Lake)
2. Old Hickory Beach (Old Hickory Lake)
Convenient access to nature’s beauty
Good for: Families, Photo, Budget
Old Hickory Beach is just a quick drive from the city and lets you park just steps from the water, offering superb convenience and accessibility. With a roped-off swimming area, it’s a great spot for families and less confident swimmers, making it a top choice for a leisurely day of chilling by the lake.
The beach’s group-friendly amenities, including picnic shelters and grills, will make you want to bring your whole family for gatherings and celebrations. Don’t forget your binoculars, as the shoreline is also a hotspot for birdwatching, with frequent sightings of blue herons and egrets. Plan a visit to nearby historic sites to add a layer of cultural exploration to your beach day.
Location: 876 Burnett Rd, Old Hickory, TN 37138, USA
Phone: +1 615-847-8091
Old Hickory Beach (Old Hickory Lake)
3. Tims Ford State Park (Tims Ford Lake)
Nature and tranquility combine
Good for: Adventure, Families, Budget
One of the most beautiful places in Tennessee, Tims Ford State Park offers a tranquil escape with its secluded coves, woodland cabins, and serene golf courses. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and calm waters, the undulating shoreline creates a huge amount of waterfront to spread out along.
If sitting in the lovely sunshine sounds too sedate, there are plenty of activities you can try. Tims Ford Lake has a well-deserved reputation as a prime fishing destination, and you can fish for bass right off the beach. The park features scenic trails leading to the shoreline, offering a rewarding way to reach the water and explore. Camp on one of the lake’s islands for a unique outdoor experience.
Location: 570 Tims Ford Dr, Winchester, TN 37398, USA
Phone: +1 931-968-3536
Tims Ford State Park (Tims Ford Lake)
4. Defeated Creek Park Beach (Cordell Hull Lake)
Outdoor adventure awaits
Good for: Families, Shoppers, Photo
Defeated Creek Beach is just part of a larger recreation area with a ton of amenities that make getting closer to nature easier than ever. You’ll find miles of hiking and biking trails, and if you keep alert, you could see deer, wild turkey, and rabbits living free in their natural habitat.
Adjacent to the beach are volleyball and tennis courts, making it an excellent spot for playing a few games with friends. The beach is regularly monitored for water quality, ensuring healthy swimming conditions. If you’re seeking adventure, explore the nearby Bearwaller Gap Trail, a scenic hike that combines swimming with exploration of the Cumberland River hills. Visit the marina for boat, kayak, and pontoon rentals and supplies.
Location: 140 Marina Lane, Defeated, TN 37030, USA
Phone: +1 615-774-3141
Defeated Creek Park Beach (Cordell Hull Lake)
5. Lake Malone State Park
Family fun in a stunning setting
Good for: Couples, Food, Nightlife
If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination with a lifeguard-protected beach, Lake Malone State Park is the answer. The beach is framed by dramatic 50-foot sandstone cliffs, creating a picturesque backdrop for a day of swimming and sunbathing. It’s a great place for families with little ones.
Kids will love discovering the whimsical Big Twigs sculptures near the shore, offering fun photo opportunities with fairytale giants. The park is packed with convenient amenities too, like a full-service bathhouse with showers and vending machines. Before hitting the beach, take a hike along the wildflower trails, lined with mountain laurel and dogwood.
Location: 331 State Route 8001, Dunmor, KY 42339, USA
Phone: +1 270-657-2111
Lake Malone State Park
6. Floating Mill Park (Center Hill Lake)
Panoramic views and community vibes
Good for: Families, Adventure, Photo
The way Floating Mill Park sticks out into the lake means it has water on 3 sides, providing panoramic lake views and a sense of seclusion. This pet-free zone ensures a cleaner and quieter environment, creating an idyllic peace for those seeking relaxation. The northern side of the peninsula has the widest stretch of beach, making it a spacious spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Take advantage of the adjacent boat ramp for quick access to water sports like tubing and wakeboarding. For gatherings, the lakefront picnic shelters with electric hookups and grills are fantastic for hosting, so invite the whole gang. Keep an eye out for seasonal beachside events, such as live music shows that bring the community together.
Location: 430 Floating Mill Rd, Silver Point, TN 38582, USA
Phone: +1 931-858-4845
Floating Mill Park (Center Hill Lake)
7. Obey River Recreation Area (Dale Hollow Lake)
Expansive beach with family appeal
Good for: History, Photo
Up in the hills of northern Tennessee, Obey River Recreation Area boasts Dale Hollow Lake’s largest sandy beach, offering a comfortable setting for lounging and water play. With its soft sand and clear water, it’s a top choice for families and groups seeking a full-service beach destination. Located next to Sunset Marina, you’ll have access to rentals, dining, and even ice cream.
Recreational facilities like a basketball court and playground keep kids entertained between swims. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the beach hosts seasonal events like costume contests, adding fun for all ages. Anglers will appreciate the clear waters with nearby trophy fishing opportunities.
Location: 100 Obey Park Rd, Monroe, TN 38573, USA
Phone: +1 931-243-3136
Obey River Recreation Area (Dale Hollow Lake)
8. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
Adventure awaits across shorelines
Good for: Families, Adventure, Photo
Just across the border into Kentucky, deep into the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, there’s an incredible, pristine beach known as “The Sands.” In summer, it’s only accessible by boat, but there are several nearby campgrounds with boat ramps to help you get there.
This secluded spot promises soft sand and clear water in the ultimate secret hideaway. The park is known for its abundant, mostly pebbly, shorelines, spring-fed lakes, and outdoor activities. The camping here is backcountry-style with only basic facilities, so reserve a space if you want a digital detox and a self-sufficient vacation.
Location: 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211, USA
Phone: +1 800-525-7077
Explore Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area Hotels
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
9. Cook Day Use Area (Percy Priest Lake)
Affordable family-friendly retreat
Good for: Families, Photo, History
J Percy Priest Reservoir’s Cook Day Use Area offers a large sandy beach with calm waters, making it ideal for families and casual swimmers. This quiet corner of the lake has picnic shelters, a playground, and a large grassy area so you can let your kids run wild and have fun in the fresh country air.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Three Hickories Trail, which winds through wooded areas and ends near the beach. Wildlife viewing is a bonus, with deer, turkeys, and rabbits often spotted nearby. Amenities at the beach include restrooms with accessible flush toilets and grills you can use to prepare hearty meals. Get out on the water using the boat ramp.
Location: 12230 Old Hickory Blvd, Hermitage, TN 37076, USA
Phone: +1 615-889-1975
Cook Day Use Area (Percy Priest Lake)
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