Six Beaches Near Alexandria
There’s nothing better than a quick trip to the beach during the heat of the summer. If you’re need a day trip or a week off, we found Six Beaches Near Alexandria that may be worth a visit! These are in no particular order.
Lake Le Homme Dieu Beach
This is one of the busiest beaches in the Alexandria Area and it’s easy to see why. It’s easy to find, well maintained and family friendly. The beach also has an attached picnic area, a shower stall, overflow parking and modern bathrooms. While this beach does have overflow parking, both the main and overflow parking lots are small. It can get very crowded during the busy summer days. While there are lifeguard chairs, it’s good to know that there are no lifeguards. You’ll need to keep an eye on your own.
Side note: This beach faces west. Its an amazing place to watch the sun set.
Le Homme Dieu Beach has Modern Bathrooms and an Outdoor Shower stall to remove sand.
Getting there: Head north on Hwy 29th. Just past New Testament Church, the road will start down a hill, the driveway entrance is on the left half way down the hill. Le Homme Dieu Beach is located at 2515 MN-29, Alexandria, MN 56308
The Beach at Lake Brophy County Park
This is the newest beach in Douglas County. It’s just to the west of Alexandria. It has been developed over the past several years and features wide open beaches, a playground nearby, a fishing pier and modern bathrooms.
This is a very family friendly beach, however there are no lifeguards on duty. Because it’s new and not located on the chain of lakes, there isn’t a lot of boat traffic. It is a great spot for large groups and families who need to spread out.
Modern Bathrooms, a fishing pier, boat ramp, bike trails and playground are all nearby.
Getting There: Head west out of Alexandria on CR 82. Turn right on Brophy Landing NW (CR114) and then right again on to the Park Road. Signage is good, so you’ll find your way. The Park may take a little longer to find, but it’s worth it. Find the park at Central Lakes Trail, Alexandria, MN 56308.
Rotary Beach
It has been said that “Anything can happen at Rotary Beach” and that’s probably true. In the summer this is a popular spot to pull up a boat and spend the day. On weekends its pretty crowded, but that varies based on weather and the direction of the wind.
It’s worth noting that this is a “boat friendly” beach. The beach is located on the chain of lakes on the northwest side of Lake Le Homme Dieu. The water is waist to chest deep even farther out in the lake. It’s not uncommon to see boats pull up, anchor and enjoy.
Across the road from this beach is Lake Carlos and another popular spot. The locals call it “cocktail cove.” On the busiest summer days you’ll find dozens of boats anchored in the waist to chest deep water. It’s not part of Rotary beach at all, but it’s worth mentioning because they share parking. Parking can be in short supply on busy days.
This Beach has no modern bathrooms, only a single porta potty. A boat ramp is adjacent to the beach with one additional porta potty. There are no lifeguards.
This spot is a pretty iconic in the Alexandria Lakes Area. If you’ve ever seen drone footage of a road running between two lakes, this is the spot you’ve seen.
Getting There: Head north out of Alexandria on North Nokomis (CR-42) You’ll pass the Country Club, a couple of restaurants and eventually come to a three way stop. Turn right staying on CR 42. Rotary Beach just past the boat ramp on the right side of the road. Rotary Beach is located at 4701 CR-42, Alexandria, MN 56308
Lake Carlos State Park
On the north end of Lake Carlos, you’ll find Lake Carlos State Park. This is home to two awesome beaches. The main beach is the largest beach in the area and is boat friendly. The second is a smaller and is only for swimming (Pictured left)
Lake Carlos State Park has modern amenities and is open year round. Do know that in order to use these beaches and the amenities, you’ll need to have a State Park pass. More details here. The park is open from 8am to 10pm unless you’re camping there overnight. Lake Carlos is on the Chain of Lakes so you’ll have access via boat to other lakes if you you choose this spot.
On location you’ll find both modern and pit toilet facilities, a boat ramp, camping and hiking. A full list of amenities can be found HERE. There are no lifeguards.
Getting there: Head north on Hwy 29th, turn left on County Road 38 NE. A couple miles in you’ll find the park on the left. There’s solid signage so you shouldn’t have a problem finding it. Lake Carlos State Park can be found at 2601 County Rd 38 NE, Carlos, MN 56319
Alexandria City Park
This beach is one of the oldest beaches in the area. It’s found inside the city limits of Alexandria. There are benches and shade that make this beach an easy spot to enjoy.
If you’re after a lake with almost no boat traffic, this is your beach. Lake Henry and Lake Agnes make up the body of water and both lakes are “No Wake” lakes. They are not on the chain of lakes. Its far more likely to find a Kayak or Canoe than a motorboat.
This beach is a great spot for a family gathering as there are multiple activities available. In addition to the beach you’ll find modern bathrooms, a playground, a fishing pier, pickle ball courts and covered picnic areas. It’s important to note that there are no lifeguards.
This is a family friendly beach that’s easy to enjoy. There is plenty of parking near the top of the park, but you’ll need to walk down a small incline to the beach through the park. There is handicap parking closer to the beach if you have the appropriate handicap permits.
It’s important to know that there are a few times a year that Alexandria City Park plays host to events. During those weekends, you may want to avoid this particular beach. A list of area events can be found HERE.
Getting there: Head north on Hwy 29 through town, but take a left on North Nokomis (County RD 42) before leaving the city limits. Across from the Holiday you’ll find City Park Road. Hang a left. It’s about 1-2 blocks straight ahead. Alexandria City Park is at 118 City Park Rd, Alexandria, MN 56308
Latoka Beach
Latoka Beach is one of the hidden treasures of the Alexandria Lakes Area. It’s found on the north end of Lake Latoka just a few blocks off County Rd 82 in the Western part of Alexandria. This beach has lots of sand, a slow slope into the water and your choice of shade or sun for those hot days.
This beach is little more difficult to find, but it’s worth the effort. It’s important to note that no pets are allowed on this beach. There are no lifeguards. Handicap accessible parking is available. Parking is adequate, but not abundant.
There are modern Toilets and a place to change should you need it. There is a boat ramp next to the beach.
Getting there: Head west of town on Hwy 82. Turn left on Latoka Drive then an immediate right onto Latoka Beach Rd. Latoka Beach is found at 2700-2898 Latoka Beach Rd NW, Alexandria, MN 56308
There’s the list! With 10,000 lakes in Minnesota, you’re bound to find some amazing beaches too. This quick list offers Six Beaches Near Alexandria that may be worth a look.
