Craving a beach vacation? There’s no need to drive all the way to Galveston. Hop in the car and venture to Sandy Creek Park. This astonishing destination sits along the basin of Lake Travis, and there are so many ways to enjoy it. This one beautiful Austin lake has a beach that rivals the coast.

Austinites adore the glistening waters of Lake Travis, but not many people know about Sandy Creek Park.

George A./TripAdvisor Get off the beaten path and explore new horizons! Sandy Creek Park is every bit as stunning as the crowded greenbelt.

This Austin jewel proves that you don’t have to visit the ocean in order to experience a bit of the beach.

George A./TripAdvisor The bright shoreline stretches as far as the eye can see.

The waters are refreshing, and the scenery is distinctly Texas.

George A./TripAdvisor As you explore the area, keep your eye out for local wildlife. Visitors often report catching a glimpse of the rare Golden-Cheek Warbler.

There’s no limit to the adventures you can have here.

Andi H./Foursquare In addition to making a splash in the crystal blue waters, you can fish along the pier. If you’re really aching to explore, bring a kayak and paddle along the coastline.

There’s more than just sand and water here.

George A./TripAdvisor After a long day along the water, you can explore the nearby nature areas.

Don’t want to go home? Pitch a tent and sleep under the stars.

Kelsey/Foursquare Sandy Creek Park is also a popular camping destination. The park does not accept reservations, so it’s wise to arrive early and claim your spot. Camping costs $15 per vehicle each night.

Come and experience this 25-acre park.

George A./TripAdvisor Sandy Creek Park can be enjoyed any time of year. Address: 9500 Lime Creek Road, Leander, TX 78641.

The fun doesn’t stop here. These seven little-known beaches around Austin will make your weekend awesome.

George A./TripAdvisor

Get off the beaten path and explore new horizons! Sandy Creek Park is every bit as stunning as the crowded greenbelt.

The bright shoreline stretches as far as the eye can see.

As you explore the area, keep your eye out for local wildlife. Visitors often report catching a glimpse of the rare Golden-Cheek Warbler.

Andi H./Foursquare

In addition to making a splash in the crystal blue waters, you can fish along the pier. If you’re really aching to explore, bring a kayak and paddle along the coastline.

After a long day along the water, you can explore the nearby nature areas.

Kelsey/Foursquare

Sandy Creek Park is also a popular camping destination. The park does not accept reservations, so it’s wise to arrive early and claim your spot. Camping costs $15 per vehicle each night.

Sandy Creek Park can be enjoyed any time of year. Address: 9500 Lime Creek Road, Leander, TX 78641.

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