
Inland beaches
Just about everyone who lives in Northern California is familiar with the region’s ocean-beach experience. First you set up your towel and apply sunscreen, despite the complete absence of sun. Then you venture into the water up to your ankles, and your feet promptly go numb. When you attempt to retreat to your towel, you find it has blown away. Time to give up and go get some hot chocolate.
Turns out it’s a lot more fun to go to the beach in an area where it really is summer. In the Central Valley, it’s sunny just about every day from May to October, and it’s so hot, you’ll actually want to get in the water. A plethora of rivers and reservoirs ― many of them uncrowded, especially on weekdays ― means that a cool swim and the chance to lounge on a towel on the sand aren’t far from the area’s major highways. Bring plenty of sunscreen, set up an umbrella for those 100° scorchers, and get ready to dive in at these great inland beaches.
FOLSOM
Granite Beach at Folsom Lake Recreation Area. When the water is low, it’s a long walk over the sands to the waters of Folsom Lake, but the perfect water temperature and a large swimming area make up for the hike. Bring an umbrella for shade and a few dollars for a cold drink at the snack bar by the parking lot. $7. Exit I-80 at Douglas Rd.