La Playa The nearest beach for those living in western North Carolina is several hours away. From Asheville, for example, getting to Folly Beach, South Carolina, takes more than four hours. But in the mountains, there are other options for enjoying the water during the summer.
Throughout western North Carolina there are lakes with beaches and designated swimming areas, where residents and visitors can spend the day by the water and enjoy activities such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), recreational kayaking, or fishing.
Before entering the water, it's important to take some precautions. One of them is to consult the Swimming Guide, a tool from the environmental organization Waterkeepers Carolina that allows check water quality on beaches, lakes and rivers.
In addition, the use of life jackets is recommended, especially for children and people with disabilities. little experience in the water; wear river shoes when possible; and swim only in designated bathing areas.
These are some of the most popular lake beaches for swimming this summer in western North Carolina:
Lake Lure Beach and Water Park
Lake Lure beach reopened this season after the damage caused by the Hurricane HeleneWith sand, a designated swimming area and mountain views, it remains one of the most popular places to cool off during the summer in western North Carolina.
The beach has lifeguards on duty and with specific rules for the swimming area. Among them, glass containers, alcoholic beverages, and certain types of floats are not allowed.
More information: www.townoflakelure.com
Lake James State Park
Paddy's Creek Beach is one of the main access points to Lake James, a 6,800-acre lake located between Burke and McDowell counties. This beach attracts visitors from across the state and is usually crowded on summer weekends.
In addition to the designated swimming area, Lake James State Park offers hiking trails and cycling, picnic areas, campsites, and access to activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. For many families, a visit to the lake ends up becoming an all-day excursion.
More information: ncparks.gov
Related: What you need to know about fishing permits in North Carolina to avoid immigration problems
Lake Powhatan Swim Area
Just minutes from Asheville, Lake Powhatan is one of the area's most popular lake beaches. Located within the Pisgah National ForestIt has an open bathing beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day and with access to the extensive network of trails of Bent Creek, very popular among cyclists.
The beach attracts families and visitors looking to spend the day by the water without leaving the city.
However, the Forest Service warns that there are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming with caution is recommended, and you should stay within the designated swimming area.
More information: www.fs.usda.gov
Related: 5 lakes to visit in North Carolina
Wildcat Lake
At Banner Elk, Wildcat Lake offers a different experience than the region's great lakes. The beach is smaller and the atmosphere is generally more tranquil, which appeals to both residents and visitors spending the summer in the High Country.
The beach has a designated swimming area, and according to management, entering the water is not permitted when lifeguards are not on duty. During the season, restrictions are also in place on diving, rough play, motorized boats, alcohol consumption, and glass containers.
Lake Glenville, Pines Recreation Area
Pine Creek Access Beach in Lake Glenville is one of the few public swimming beaches in this mountain area. Located near Cullowhee and Cashiers, it features a designated swimming area, a picnic area, and a fishing pier. It also offers easy access to the trail leading to... Cullowhee High Falls.
During the summer, the area attracts families and visitors looking to spend the day by the water at one of North Carolina's highest lakes. The beach opens seasonally starting Memorial Day weekend.
More information: www.friendsoflakeglenville.com
Related: Summer educational and nutritional activities for children in Union County
Lake Santeetlah, Cheoah Point Beach
Located next to Lake Santeetlah, near Robbinsville, Cheoah Point Beach is one of the lesser-known lake beaches in western North Carolina.
Surrounded by the Nantahala National ForestIt features a sandy beach and a designated swimming area, as well as picnic areas and access to the lake for other recreational activities.
It stands out for its clear water and tranquil atmosphere compared to other, more crowded destinations in the region. The beach is also popular with kayakers and those simply looking to spend a few hours by the lake. Access costs $5 per vehicle for daily use.
More information: recreation.gov
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After the storm
A year ago, Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina. The Latino community responded with something stronger than the storm: solidarity.
🎧 In this episode, learn how Latino organizations transformed crisis into resilience.
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