Part of our Iowa guide.
Iowa has a handful of well-documented public beach areas, including Ainsworth-Orleans Beach, Arnolds Park Public Beach, Clear Lake State Park Beach, Big Creek Beach, North Overlook Beach, West Lake Park Beach, and Beach Ottumwa. This page covers two specific spots from our Iowa coverage that offer a different kind of water experience.
Related travel guides: Where To Stay In Iowa, 7 Spectacular Beaches To Visit In Des Moines, Iowa, Beaches In Asia, Attractions In Iowa, Cedar Rapids Travel Guide, and Hidden Prairie Wetlands In Iowa.
Urban Beach Bliss At WaterWorks Park
WaterWorks Park offers a sandy beach, refreshing water, a splash pad, picnic areas, and walking trails. Its convenient location provides a beach experience without leaving the city. The park is near several attractions in Iowa that pair well with a day on the water.
Floating Islands In Lake Okoboji
Lake Okoboji's floating islands drift across the lake, driven by wind and currents. Formed by a mix of vegetation and soil, they break free from the lakebed. Locals and tourists share stories and photos of their encounters. The phenomenon is one of the unique cultural and natural treasures in Iowa that draws repeat visitors year after year.
