aerial view of davenport

Iowa's Most Charming Beach Towns

Iowa is a midwestern state situated between the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, boasting scenic rolling hills, historical treasures, and an exciting culture and atmosphere. Nicknamed the Hawkeye State, after the Native American warrior Chief Black Hawk of the Sauk tribe, Iowa offers plenty to do in the great outdoors, with numerous hiking trails, state parks, and flowing rivers.

The state is brimming with historical sites, pop culture events, and year-round festivals, attracting tourists from all over the world. While the beautiful cities deserve a spot on your bucket list, Iowa is also home to some of the most charming beach towns in the United States, ideal for family vacations, romantic getaways, or summer trips.

Clear Lake

Two kids sitting on a dock in Clear Lake, Iowa.
Dock into Clear Lake. Image credit jerseyjoephoto via Shutterstock.

Clear Lake is a small town that sits along a 3,684-acre natural spring-fed lake. Jump in the clear waters and spend days swimming, water-skiing, fishing, sailing, or soaking up the sun. Take a ride on the Lady of the Lake, enjoying the breeze and the scenic views of the waters. There are also year-round events and festivals, including Color of the Wind (a winter kite festival), Fourth of July celebrations, and a Harvest Festival.

The town is close to Des Moines and Minneapolis, offering easy access to bustling city life, however Clear Lake offers many local bread and breakfasts. There are plenty of different restaurants scattered throughout the town, whether you have a hankering for Italian, donuts, or deli sandwiches.

Bodies of WaterCheck out The 10 Longest Rivers in Iowa.

Solon

Kayakers on Lake MacBride in Solon, Iowa.
Kayakers on Lake MacBride in Solon, Iowa. Image credit Kailey Knetzer via Shutterstock. 

Just a few miles from the larger cities of Coralville and Iowa City, Solon is home to charming restaurants, unique boutiques, and different wineries and breweries. Enjoy a day at Wilson's Orchard and discover over 80 varieties of apples and scenic views of the 88 acres of valley.

The Devonian Fossil Gorge is another popular spot where visitors can take a self-guided tour and delve into the history of intriguing fossils and limestone bedrock, revealing the stories of an ocean floor from 375 million years ago.

The town is a short jaunt away from Lake MacBride State Park, where folks can enjoy the beachfront along the 900-acre lake and spend the day swimming, boating, fishing, camping, and hiking through the beautiful sanctuary.

Davenport

The Century Bridge crosses the Mississippi River from Davenport, Iowa, to Moline, Illinois
The Century Bridge crosses the Mississippi River from Davenport, Iowa, to Moline, Illinois. Image credit Randy Runtsch via Shutterstock.

Davenport sits on the western banks of the Mississippi River and borders Illinois. Founded in the 19th century, the town offers a rich history. Documented in the numerous museums and historical sites, including the German American Heritage Center and Figge Art Museum. There are also plenty of places to enjoy the arts, such as Pocahontas Rialto Theatre, the RiverCenter Adler Theatre and the Catich & Morrissey Gallery.

The downtown area is full of exciting shops and restaurants with many local businesses to enjoy. Davenport has great places to enjoy the great outdoors such as the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. More options include taking a hike along the RiverWay Trail, biking through the Sunderbruch Park Mountain Bike Trail, and visiting the Nahant Marsh. Try not to forget to spend a day swimming and relaxing on the sandy shores of West Lake Beach!

Polk City

Early morning rainbow at Big Creek Lake, Polk City, Iowa
Early morning rainbow at Big Creek Lake, Polk City, Iowa. Image credit Angela Arnold via Shutterstock.

Polk City is only a half hour from Des Moines, pairing small-town charm with big city excitement.  It is home to Jester Park and Saylorville Lake which are ideal for camping, horseback riding, golfing, picnicking, and enjoying the town’s natural landscape.

Be sure to dive into the beautiful beach at Big Creek State Park, where one can partake in leisurely activities such as swimming or relaxing on the shore with a good book. More adventurous visitors might want to also rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats. Fender's Brewing is a great spot for refreshments after a long day of recharging. Polk City also has many charming hotels and inns—great spots for more relaxation and comfort!

Spirit Lake

Sunset on Spirit Lake, Iowa.
Sunset on Spirit Lake, Iowa. Image credit Karl Kraut via Shutterstock. 

Spirit Lake sits on the shore of the East Okoboji Lake, though it is the centerpoint of all of Iowa's great lakes. The town is a hub for all water-based activities, be it relaxing on sandy beaches, partaking in water sports, or spending hours swimming in the glistening waters. Gull Point State Park is one of the most popular spots for outdoor adventurists which boasts scenic hiking trails, cozy campsites, and even more tranquil beaches.

The downtown area is worth the wander, featuring an array of antique stores, locally-owned boutiques, and a variety of tasteful restaurants. The drive-in theater is the best way to cap off any day by indulging in classic films and buckets of popcorn.

Oxford

Picnic table overlooking meadow in Kent Park.
Picnic table overlooking meadow in Kent Park. Image credit Dan Reck via Shutterstock.

Oxford is a quaint town, ideal for a quiet, relaxing vacation. A 1,062-acre park, F.W. Kent Park is the perfect spot for bird watching, exploring seven historic county road bridges, picnicking, and camping. It is also home to beautiful sandy beaches, ideal for sandcastle building, basking in the sunshine, and jumping into the sparkling waters.

AJ's Copper Garden is another popular spot, home to an abundance of copper garden structures. They have some available to purchase—making perfect mementos or souvenirs for friends at home. Wander down the quiet streets of the town and enjoy all it has to offer, visiting all the different shops and restaurants. Top the day off with a stop at the Millstream Brewing Company and enjoy a few refreshments with a scenic backdrop.

Milford

Aerial View of Main Street in Milford, Iowa during Summer
Aerial View of Main Street in Milford, Iowa during Summer

Milford is another great town to visit the great lakes of Iowa, with over 15,000 acres of glacier-carved waters to explore. Be sure to bring a swimsuit and dive into the flowing waters, rent a boat and head out fishing, or relax on the plentiful beach fronts and shores of the different lakes. In winter, snowmobiling and ice-fishing are popular activities. 

Okoboji Classic Cars is a popular stop, home to a beautiful collection of vintage vehicles. Music lovers will want to stop by the Iowa Rock 'N Roll Music Hall of Fame Museum, which houses memorabilia and songs from some of the greats. End your stay at one of the beautiful bed and breakfasts or inns that capture the excitement and heart of the town.

Charming TownsVisit the 9 Cutest Small Towns in Iowa.

Conclusion

Iowa's charming beach towns are all fantastic choices for a getaway this summer. While beaches are of course one of the top attractions, visitors will also find exciting outdoor adventures, unique historical sites and museums, and endless entertainment. Plan a trip to Iowa and  be sure to visit any or all of these beautiful beach towns!  Each one fascinating and beautiful in its own right, making them perfect for a weekend getaway or a summer-long escape.

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Sheridan Grant April 11 2023 in Places

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