Cool Beaches Near Austin, Texas

With summer temperatures that can soar into the triple digits, and the cooling waters of the Gulf of Mexico over three hours away, finding relief from the often torrid days that can engulf the Texas capital of Austin might seem like a lost cause. But nearby lakes are dotted with enticing stretches of sand, perfect for taking a dip, playing volleyball, laying out a picnic or catching some rays.

West Lake Beach

• Austinites love West Lake Beach, situated west of downtown on the western shores of Lake Austin. This sandy beach is surrounded by the rolling hills of the Westlake Highlands and the scrubby cliffs and canyons of the Colorado River. The private park, which charges a daily admission fee for use, is typically only open on weekends. During the week -- as well as on weekends -- it can be booked for special events. Features include water and sand volleyball equipment, picnic areas, and lake access for fishing, swimming, kayaking and canoeing.

Festival, Lamar and Waller Beaches

• Located just south of downtown Austin, Festival, Lamar and Waller Beaches are small sand beaches situated on Town Lake. Each beach offers scenic spots to set up a picnic, barbeque, throw a Frisbee or drop a fishing line. At Lamar Beach, there is a designated entry point that allows kayakers and canoers to explore the lake. The beach also affords access to the Lady Bird Lake Trail, a multi-use trail that parallels the water. Festival Beach is popular with families for its playground, basketball courts and baseball fields. Waller Beach backs the condominium highrises of downtown and also has access to the Lady Bird Lake Trail. During summer, these beaches have concession stands and inner tube and life jacket rentals.

Shore Club Volente Beach Waterpark

• Shore Club Volente Beach is a waterpark located just outside of Austin, in Leander, Texas. The park, a favorite with families and teenagers, includes a sandy beach on the shores of Lake Travis. The beach is just part of the draw, however; most visitors come for waterpark rides, water slides and wading pools. Shore Club Volente Beach also has snack bars and two restaurants: Shore Club Restaurant & Bar and Beach Bar & Grill. The park is open seasonally and charges admission fees; memberships are available for frequent visitors.

Hippie Hollow

• Arguably, Hippie Hollow reflects the city's ever-present slogan, "Keep Austin Weird." The 109-acre clothing-optional park sits on rocky terraces stacked above Lake Travis. Just 20 minutes away from Austin, the beach has gained international recognition among nudist travelers. The park charges entrance fees for day use, though annual permits are available.

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Resorts in Austin on Lake Travis

Several resorts line the shores of Lake Travis in Austin, Texas, an area known for beautiful sunsets and an abundance of boaters, fishers and vacationers during warm months, when temperatures can top 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In the colder months, temperatures dip low enough to put a damper on outdoor activities, but the resorts provide plenty of indoor activities, such as spas, to keep winter travelers occupied and relaxed. In general, the shores and resorts are usually peaceful and quiet, providing for some of the best waterside relaxation in Texas.

Lakeway Resort and Spa

• Lakeway Resort and Spa sits on the southern edge of Lake Travis and has several lodging options. Try a Lakeview Room to take advantage of the view of Lake Travis at sunset or opt for a private condominium situated right on the lake. Condos have full amenities and private balconies. Lakeway is dog friendly and operates a children's zone with supervised games and activities every day except Monday. Enjoy a massage at the spa, purchase a golf package from the resort or rent a boat from the nearby marina to take onto the lake.

La Villa Vista

• La Villa Vista, on the southeastern shore of the lake, is a somewhat quieter, but equally accommodating resort. It has upscale amenities such as a hot tub and infinity pool -- which appears to extend to the horizon without a defined edge -- and also brings mountain charm. All five themed suites are elevated high above the shore of Lake Travis, providing spectacular views. La Villa Vista is just a short walk from popular lakeside restaurants.

Travaasa

• At the northeastern edge of Lake Travis is Travaasa, which refers to an atmosphere described as a "Zen-like preserve for the soul," according to its website. An experiential resort, Travaasa offers an ever-changing list of activities to guests under the categories of adventure, culinary, culture, fitness, spa and wellness. Some notable activities include a mechanical bull workout, a group cooking demonstration and horseback riding. The spa has 11 treatment rooms, a hot tub, sauna and infinity pool. The 70 rooms are spread out among seven buildings.

Lake Austin Spa Resort

• The Lake Austin Spa Resort is located just south of Lake Travis on the north edge of the Colorado River. The resort places an emphasis on health and fitness, with both exercise classes and personalized instruction. After your workout, unwind at a treatment room, sauna or hot tub. Swim in the indoor lap pool or the resort-style outdoor pool. Resort staff members host specialized activities for guests, including cooking classes. Rooms include maid service twice a day and private porches; rooms with a view of the water are available upon request.

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