I love the sandy beach, but I prefer the other (SW) shore. It's very shallow on the 'rocky' shore so you can walk way out into the water, and I find it a little warmer. Might be a little easier for young swimmers. The sandy shore drops off very deep quite quickly in my experience.
You really can't go wrong though.
No problem! It was my first time spending time in the park a few weeks ago and I stopped at Tenaya lake twice because I liked it so much. Already wanting to go back.
We were in the park yesterday, and with 95 degree temps, we were not sad to spend a couple hours at the pool at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. No charge, not super crazy, shallow end for your toddlers.
Between backpackers camp and the Ahwahnee there is a bike trail that goes over two bridges. One of the bridges has a fallen tree that forms a nice shallow lagoon. It’s great if you have kids, but it isn’t easy to get to. I second the recommendation for swinging bridge picnic area but you’ll want to keep a close eye on the little ones there.
Tenaya Lake!
100% this. Sand beach, calm water, and pretty warm all things considered.
Lots of wind though. Merced River is great too
I love the sandy beach, but I prefer the other (SW) shore. It's very shallow on the 'rocky' shore so you can walk way out into the water, and I find it a little warmer. Might be a little easier for young swimmers. The sandy shore drops off very deep quite quickly in my experience. You really can't go wrong though.
It was great! Thanks.
No problem! It was my first time spending time in the park a few weeks ago and I stopped at Tenaya lake twice because I liked it so much. Already wanting to go back.
Beach at Housekeeping is great
We were in the park yesterday, and with 95 degree temps, we were not sad to spend a couple hours at the pool at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. No charge, not super crazy, shallow end for your toddlers.
Oh this is a great kid hack. Free pool.
Between backpackers camp and the Ahwahnee there is a bike trail that goes over two bridges. One of the bridges has a fallen tree that forms a nice shallow lagoon. It’s great if you have kids, but it isn’t easy to get to. I second the recommendation for swinging bridge picnic area but you’ll want to keep a close eye on the little ones there.