Top 5 Vancouver WA Beach Spots (Within 30 Minutes of Downtown Vancouver)

So, you’ve heard that Vancouver has some beaches, and now you’re here…wondering if this landlocked corner of the Pacific Northwest somehow has palm trees, white sand, and a tiki bar serving blended drinks with umbrellas. Spoiler: it doesn’t. But what Vancouver does have is a surprisingly solid lineup of lakes, rivers, and sandy-ish shores where you can swim, sunbathe, or at least pretend you’re in Astoria if you squint hard enough.

The best part? All of these spots are just a 30-minute drive (or less) from Downtown Vancouver, meaning you can chase a summer vibe without packing snacks for a road trip to the Washington or Oregon Coast. So, without further ado, here are the top Vancouver WA beach spots within 30 minutes (or less) of Downtown:

Wintler Community Park (6 minutes from Downtown Vancouver)

Ah, Wintler! The crown jewel of the Vancouver WA beach line-up. It’s managed by the City, situated on the Columbia River, and has picnic tables, walking trails, and more.

Can I Swim at Wintler Park?

Swimming/wading allowed, but there are no official lifeguards, so swim at your own risk

Are There Entry Fees For Wintler Park?

No entry fee

How Much Does Parking Cost at Wintler Park?

$6/day from May 1 to Sept 30 via app; annual pass ($50) available.

Is There a Sandy Beach at Wintler Park?

Yes! There is a spacious sandy area for sunbathing and wading.

What Views Can I Expect at Wintler Park?

Riverfront views, Mount Hood visible; also planes/pass overhead and serene natural ambiance.

Who is Wintler Park Best For?

Locals seeking a quick beach stroll, dog-friendly relaxation, or a trail gateway with excellent riverfront vistas.

Salmon Creek Regional Park / Klineline Pond (10 minutes from Downtown Vancouver)

Klineline Pond is basically summer camp condensed into one very splashy park. Lifeguards are on duty, which makes it feel slightly more official than “just swimming in a pond.” Bonus: there’s a splash pad, so your kids will sleep extra hard after this excursion.

Is There Swimming at Klineline Pond?

Yes! There is a rope-off swim zone and staffed lifeguards during summer.

Are There Entry Fees at Klineline Pond?

No entry fee

How Much Does Parking Cost at Klineline Pond?

$3/day; annual regional pass works.

Is There a Sandy Beach at Klineline Pond?

Yes! With playground and splash pad nearby.

What Views Are There at Klineline Pond?

Park setting; wooded picnic areas with family-friendly vibe.

Who is Klineline Pond Best For?

Families with young children who want lifeguard support, splash features, and gentle water play.

Vancouver Lake Regional Park (12 minutes from Downtown Vancouver)

Vancouver Lake is for optimists…the kind of people who believe in a pristine, swimmable lake even when the bright orange “ALGAE BLOOM ALERT” signs say otherwise. But even if you skip the dip, the place is massive: volleyball courts, picnic shelters, miles of shoreline, and wide-open fields for frisbee, soccer, or just chilling.

Is There Swimming at Vancouver Lake Park?

Yes! Within a designated, roped-off area. No lifeguards; swim at your own risk.

Are There Entry Fees For Vancouver Lake Park?

No entry fee

How Much Does Parking Cost at Klineline Pond?

Daily fees: $3 for cars (additional rates for motorcycles/trailers); annual pass (shared with other regional parks) available.

Is There a Sandy Beach at Vancouver Lake Park?

Yes! There is a sandy strip with roped-off swim zone.

What Views Can I Expect at Vancouver Lake Park?

Clear views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, Mount Adams on good days.

Who is Vancouver Lake Park Best For?

Families seeking a lake getaway with scenic volcano views, picnicking, and gentle water access.

Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park (12 minutes from Downtown Vancouver)

Don’t let the fancy name fool you…this isn’t a Parisian café! Frenchman’s Bar is where locals go to grill burgers, toss cornhole, and pretend they’re on vacation without leaving Clark County. You’ll get sandy beaches, plenty of space to spread out, and front-row views of freighters making their slow crawl down the Columbia. Swimming isn’t recommended (hello, strong currents), but as a place to chill with a cooler and ignore your inbox? Magnifique.

Is There Swimming at Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park?

It’s not recommended due to strong currents and no lifeguards.

Is There an Entry Fee for Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park?

No entry fee

How Much Does Parking Cost at Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park?

$3/day

Is There a Sandy Beach at Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park?

Yes! Long, deep sandy stretches.

What Views Can I Expect at Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park?

Riverside panorama; occasional anchored freighters, volcano views, ospreys

Who is Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park Best For?

Anyone seeking peaceful riverside exploration, birding, scenic relaxation, or a long picnic away from crowds.

Captain William Clark Regional Park / Cottonwood Beach (20 minutes from Downtown Vancouver)

Cottonwood Beach is our dirty little secret! Long sandy stretches, quieter vibes, and guess what? Lewis and Clark camped here!

Can You Swim at Cottonwood Beach?

There’s no official information, but we always spot swimmers when we are there! Just exercise good caution with the currents as there are no life guards on duty.

Are There Entry Fees at Cottonwood Beach?

No entry fee

How Much Does Parking Cost at Cottonwood Beach?

Free but very limited…may need to park along Index Street and walk

Is There a Sandy Beach at Cottonwood Beach?

Yes! Wide sandbars and shoreline.

What Views Can I Expect at Cottonwood Beach?

Historical interpretation of Lewis & Clark camps, open sands, calm Columbia river backdrop.

Who is Cottonwood Beach Best For?

Folks interested in history, quiet strolls along the Columbia, and uncrowded riverside moments.

So, there you have it! Which one of these beaches are you going to head to for your perfect Vancouver WA beach day? Whichever one you do…make sure to grab a milkshake from The Yard to cool off afterwards!