Great Swimming Beaches in Sonoma County

Sonoma County boasts great swimming beaches all along the Russian River and Lake Sonoma, many of which offer an array of amenities for the perfect outing. Pack your swimsuit and explore some of Sonoma Wine Country’s most popular swimming beaches.

Swimming Beaches on the Russian River in Sonoma County

Beginning in northeast Sonoma Wine Country and ending at the Pacific Ocean, the Russian River offers a shoreline with beaches perfect for swimming.

Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the water, we always recommend wearing a life jacket while wading or swimming in the Russian River. Read our water safety tips here.

Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach, Healdsburg

Swim, wade, and splash on the large sandy beach at Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Park. Created by a temporary dam, the swimming area is typically open from July 1 to Labor Day with lifeguards on duty. Surrounding the beach, visitors will find picnic areas, restrooms, and a small golf course.

Cloverdale River Park, Cloverdale

Along the bank of the Russian River sits Cloverdale Regional Park, a popular destination offering access to beaches and fishing areas. The park features a one-mile trail that offers kayak launches, picnic sites, and a great opportunity for birding. Open from 7 a.m. to sunset, leashed dogs are allowed on the beach and trails.

Mom’s Beach, Forestville

Another popular spot for families is Mom’s Beach. This delightful beach is great for a day of splashing in the water, kayaking along the river, or basking in the sun. The park is open from 7 a.m. to sunset. Restroom facilities are available from May through November. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Johnson’s Beach, Guerneville

Johnson’s Beach is a longtime local tradition and popular with summer visitors, too. You’ll find a roped-off area for kids to swim (no lifeguards), as well as canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and inner tubes available for rent. A small snack bar offers treats and drinks. Camping enthusiasts will love the rustic cabins and tent campsites at Johnson’s Beach.

Monte Rio Community Beach, Monte Rio

The largest public beach on the lower Russian River, Monte Rio Community Beach is a popular spot with an array of amenities, such as a concession stand, BBQ grills, boat rentals, and volleyball courts. (No lifeguard.) Open Memorial Day through the end of September, this beach is also ADA accessible and dog-friendly.

Other swimming beaches on the Russian River include: Riverfront Regional Park in Healdsburg, as well as Steelhead Beach Regional Park and Sunset Beach River Park, both in Forestville.

Swimming Beaches on the Lakes in Sonoma County

Sonoma County is home to incredible lakes, which offer beaches and fun places to swim.

Again, make sure you’re prepared by reviewing the water safety precautions here.

The Swimming Lagoon at Spring Lake Regional Park, Santa Rosa

Spring Lake Regional Park offers a popular three-acre swimming lagoon that’s a lot of fun. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, there is an inflatable water park in the swimming lagoon where folks can bounce, climb, and slide into the refreshing water. Lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer swimming hours.

The spacious park features boat access, watersport rentals, a large picnic area, a seasonal café, campsites, and over 10 miles of trails, including some wheelchair-accessible routes.

Lake Sonoma Recreation Area, Geyserville

Nestled on the beautiful coastal foothills, Lake Sonoma Recreation Area boasts more than 50 miles of shoreline, making it the perfect setting for watersports and outdoor activities. Discover a designated swimming beach at Yorty Creek, with a sandy beach, a picnic area, a playground, a fishing trail, and a public boat ramp.

Leave No Trace

Together, we can preserve the natural surroundings for generations to come. Look over the Leave No Trace Seven Principles.

If the outdoors is calling you, discover Sonoma County’s excellent camping sites and campgrounds.

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Written by Sonoma Insider Suzie Rodriguez