While Nashville, Tennessee, is primarily known for its vibrant music scene and rich cultural heritage, it also offers several beautiful lakes and beaches perfect for swimming, picnicking, and water sports. These scenic spots provide a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle, making them ideal destinations for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with extensive amenities or a serene, natural retreat, the beaches in and around Nashville have something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the best beaches in and around Nashville, Tennessee.
1. Percy Priest Lake
Percy Priest Lake, located just east of Nashville, is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. This expansive reservoir offers a variety of beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The clear waters and sandy shores make it an ideal spot for families with children, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages to enjoy. The lake’s serene setting and scenic views make it a favorite spot for both relaxation and recreation.
The amenities at Percy Priest Lake include clean restrooms, well-maintained picnic areas, and convenient barbecue grills, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a full day at the lake. Several designated swimming areas ensure a safe experience for swimmers, and lifeguards are on duty at some locations during peak times to provide added safety. For those looking to explore the water, the lake offers boat rentals, allowing visitors to enjoy boating and fishing. Anglers will appreciate the abundant fishing opportunities, with the lake being home to various fish species.
In addition to water activities, Percy Priest Lake features several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding natural landscape, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. These trails cater to different skill levels, making them suitable for both casual walkers and avid hikers. The combination of natural beauty and excellent facilities ensures that there is something for everyone at Percy Priest Lake.
With its versatile range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to boating and hiking, Percy Priest Lake is a must-visit destination near Nashville. Whether you're planning a family outing, a day of adventure with friends, or a peaceful retreat by the water, Percy Priest Lake offers a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Review Beach Rating: Percy Priest Lake
Family-Friendliness: 10/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with safe swimming conditions and ample amenities.
Accessibility: 9/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking available nearby.
Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Good amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills.
Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views with clear waters and natural surroundings.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during peak times.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed but must be leashed.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and fishing spots.
Safety: 9/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty to ensure safety.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Several dining options nearby.
2. Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake, located northeast of Nashville, is another popular spot known for its recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. This expansive lake features several beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The calm waters and sandy shores make it a great destination for families and those looking to relax by the water. The lake's tranquil environment and picturesque landscapes make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The amenities at Old Hickory Lake are designed to enhance the visitor experience. These include clean restrooms, well-maintained picnic areas, and convenient boat ramps. These facilities make it easy to spend a full day at the lake, enjoying both the land and water activities. Old Hickory Lake is also well-known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with several species available for anglers, including bass, catfish, and crappie. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of spots to cast their lines and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.
One of the standout spots at Old Hickory Lake is Old Hickory Beach. This beach is a favorite among visitors, offering a designated swimming area that ensures safety for all ages. The beach also features shaded picnic spots, providing a cool respite from the sun and making it an ideal location for family gatherings and outdoor meals. The ample space available at Old Hickory Beach allows visitors to spread out and enjoy various recreational activities, from beach volleyball to simply lounging on the sand.
In addition to the beaches, the surrounding areas of Old Hickory Lake offer hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, adding to the allure of this destination. With its combination of natural beauty and convenient facilities, Old Hickory Lake is a must-visit destination near Nashville. Whether you’re looking to swim, fish, boat, or simply relax in a beautiful setting, Old Hickory Lake provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Old Hickory Lake
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families with safe swimming conditions and scenic surroundings.
Accessibility: 9/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking available nearby.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and boat ramps.
Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views with calm waters and sandy shores.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during weekends.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed but must be leashed.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to Old Hickory Beach and local shops.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with calm water conditions.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Several dining options nearby.
3. Montgomery Bell State Park
Montgomery Bell State Park, located west of Nashville, offers a serene and family-friendly beach experience. The park features a beautiful lake with a designated swimming area, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors.
The amenities at Montgomery Bell State Park include restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills. The park also offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and a golf course, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its combination of natural beauty and excellent facilities, Montgomery Bell State Park is a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Review Beach Rating: Montgomery Bell State Park
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with safe swimming conditions and ample amenities.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking available nearby.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views with lush greenery and a serene lake.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally peaceful and less crowded.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed and dog-friendly areas available.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and fishing spots.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with calm water conditions.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Limited dining options nearby; best to bring your own food.
4. Center Hill Lake
Center Hill Lake, located about an hour east of Nashville, is a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings. The lake features several beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The serene environment and scenic views make it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers.
The amenities at Center Hill Lake include restrooms, picnic areas, and boat ramps. The lake is also popular for boating and fishing, with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. One of the most popular spots is Hurricane Marina, which offers boat rentals, a restaurant, and additional amenities. With its natural beauty and excellent facilities, Center Hill Lake is a must-visit destination for a relaxing day by the water.
Review Beach Rating: Center Hill Lake
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families with safe swimming conditions and beautiful surroundings.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking available nearby.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and boat ramps.
Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Scenery: 10/10 🌅
Stunning views with crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally peaceful and less crowded.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed but must be leashed.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to Hurricane Marina and local shops.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with calm water conditions.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️
Several dining options at the marina.
5. J. Percy Priest Dam and Recreation Area
J. Percy Priest Dam and Recreation Area, located near Nashville, offers a fantastic beach experience with a variety of recreational activities. This area features several designated swimming spots, perfect for families looking to enjoy the water. The beach areas are well-maintained, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages. The clear, inviting waters and sandy shores make it an ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
The amenities at J. Percy Priest Dam and Recreation Area include clean restrooms, spacious picnic areas with tables and grills, and convenient boat ramps. These facilities ensure that visitors have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable day at the lake. The well-marked swimming areas are monitored for safety, and lifeguards are often on duty during peak times, providing an added layer of security for families with children.
In addition to swimming and picnicking, the area is a hub for a variety of outdoor activities. The scenic hiking trails offer routes for both casual walkers and avid hikers, winding through the picturesque landscape and providing stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast their lines, with the lake being home to a variety of fish species. Boating is another popular activity, with boat ramps available for easy access to the water, whether for fishing, water skiing, or leisurely cruises.
The J. Percy Priest Dam and Recreation Area also offers unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. The combination of recreational opportunities and scenic views makes this area a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a day of adventure with friends, or a peaceful retreat into nature, J. Percy Priest Dam and Recreation Area provides the perfect setting for a memorable experience.
With its comprehensive amenities, diverse recreational options, and stunning natural beauty, J. Percy Priest Dam and Recreation Area is a must-visit destination near Nashville. The blend of active pursuits and tranquil spots ensures that every visitor can find their ideal way to enjoy this beautiful lakeside location.
Review Beach Rating: J. Percy Priest Dam and Recreation Area
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with safe swimming conditions and ample amenities.
Accessibility: 9/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking available nearby.
Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Good amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and boat ramps.
Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views with clear waters and natural surroundings.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during peak times.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed but must be leashed.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and fishing spots.
Safety: 9/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty to ensure safety.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Several dining options nearby.
6. Long Hunter State Park
Long Hunter State Park, located southeast of Nashville, offers a peaceful and family-friendly beach experience on J. Percy Priest Lake. The park features a beautiful lake with designated swimming areas, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a serene and picturesque setting for visitors.
The amenities at Long Hunter State Park include restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills. The park also offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping facilities, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its combination of natural beauty and excellent facilities, Long Hunter State Park is a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Review Beach Rating: Long Hunter State Park
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with safe swimming conditions and ample amenities.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking available nearby.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views with lush greenery and a serene lake.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally peaceful and less crowded.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed and dog-friendly areas available.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and fishing spots.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with calm water conditions.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Limited dining options nearby; best to bring your own food.
7. Cedars of Lebanon State Park
Cedars of Lebanon State Park, located southeast of Nashville, offers a unique beach experience with its picturesque setting and abundant recreational opportunities. The park features a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by lush cedar trees, providing a serene and family-friendly environment. While not a traditional beach, the swimming area offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
The amenities at Cedars of Lebanon State Park include restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills. The park also offers hiking trails, horseback riding, and camping facilities, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its combination of natural beauty and excellent facilities, Cedars of Lebanon State Park is a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Review Beach Rating: Cedars of Lebanon State Park
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with safe swimming conditions and ample amenities.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking available nearby.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Great for swimming, hiking, and horseback riding.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views with lush cedar trees and a serene environment.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally peaceful and less crowded.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets allowed and dog-friendly areas available.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and horseback riding.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with calm water conditions.
Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Limited dining options nearby; best to bring your own food.
Whether you’re looking for a bustling beach with plenty of amenities or a quiet, serene spot to relax and enjoy nature, Nashville and its surrounding areas have something to offer everyone. From the popular Percy Priest Lake and the lively Old Hickory Lake to the serene Long Hunter State Park and the unique Cedars of Lebanon State Park, each location provides a unique beach experience. With their combination of stunning landscapes, excellent amenities, and opportunities for various outdoor activities, these beaches ensure that visitors can find the perfect setting for their ideal beach day.
Stay tuned for more waves of beach bliss and sun-kissed adventures at Review Beach!
#NashvilleBeaches #TennesseeLakes #FamilyBeaches #BeachGetaway #NatureEscape
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