Lake Powell boasts an astonishing 3,057 kilometers (1,900 miles) of shoreline—more than the entire west coast of the continental United States. This vast desert reservoir, with its stunning red sandstone canyons and emerald waters, creates a unique playground where visitors can discover hidden beaches and coves that change with the fluctuating water levels. Antelope Point Beach Areas offer some of the most accessible and beautiful spots to experience this natural wonder, combining the stark beauty of the Arizona desert with refreshing waters perfect for summer adventures.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching the beautiful shores of Antelope Point requires some planning, but the journey is well worth the effort. The closest major airport is Page Municipal Airport (PGA), which offers limited commercial service. Most visitors fly into larger airports and drive to Lake Powell.
Nearest Airports
- Page Municipal Airport (PGA) – 15 km (9 miles)
- Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) – 209 km (130 miles)
- Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN) – 177 km (110 miles)
- McCarran International Airport, Las Vegas (LAS) – 418 km (260 miles)
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – 450 km (280 miles)
Driving Directions
- From Page, AZ: Take Highway 89 east for approximately 5 km (3 miles), then follow signs to Antelope Point Marina
- From Flagstaff: Take US-89 north for about 209 km (130 miles), then follow signs to Antelope Point
- From Las Vegas: Take I-15 north, then US-93 and AZ-389 east for approximately 418 km (260 miles)
Antelope Point is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which requires an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Alternatively, the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass ($80) provides access for a full year to all national parks and federal recreational lands.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Lake Powell experiences distinct seasonal changes that significantly impact your beach experience at Antelope Point. Timing your visit correctly can make the difference between an uncomfortable scorching day and a perfect desert lake adventure.
Recommended Seasons
- Late Spring (May-early June): Pleasant temperatures between 21-29°C (70-85°F), fewer crowds
- Early Fall (September-October): Warm water from summer, cooler air temperatures around 24-32°C (75-90°F)
- Weekdays: Significantly less crowded than weekends throughout the year
Seasons to Avoid
- Peak Summer (July-August): Extreme heat often exceeding 38°C (100°F)
- Holiday Weekends: Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day bring massive crowds
- Winter (December-February): Too cold for water activities, limited services
Weather Considerations
- Summer Mornings/Evenings: Best times for activities during hot months
- Afternoon Thunderstorms: Common in July-August monsoon season
- UV Index: Extremely high year-round; sun protection essential
- Water Temperature: Ranges from 18-27°C (65-80°F) depending on season
Pro Tip: If visiting during summer, plan water activities for early morning or late afternoon. The sand gets extremely hot midday—water shoes are essential!
Getting Around Locally
Navigating the Antelope Point area requires some planning, especially if you want to access the best beach spots. The area combines both land-accessible beaches and those only reachable by watercraft.
By Land
- Personal Vehicle: Most visitors drive to Antelope Point Marina and access nearby beaches on foot
- Walking Trails: Short paths connect parking areas to beach access points
- Parking: Available at Antelope Point Marina, but fills quickly during peak season
- Vehicle Type: High-clearance vehicles recommended for some beach access roads
By Water
- Boat Rentals: Available at Antelope Point Marina (powerboats, pontoons, jet skis)
- Kayak/SUP: Perfect for exploring hidden coves and beaches
- Water Taxi: Services available from the marina to popular beach areas
- Houseboats: Ideal for multi-day exploration of remote beaches
“The best way to truly experience Lake Powell’s beaches is by boat. You’ll discover pristine sandy coves that are inaccessible by land and often have them all to yourself.”
Where to Stay
Accommodations near Antelope Point Beach Areas range from primitive camping to comfortable lodging options. Your choice depends on your preferred level of comfort and proximity to the water.
On-Water Options
- Beach Camping: Free primitive camping on most Lake Powell beaches (pack in, pack out)
- Houseboats: Available for rent at Antelope Point Marina (reserve months in advance)
- Boat-in Camping: Set up camp on secluded beaches accessible only by water
Nearby Accommodations
- Lake Powell Resort: Located at Wahweap Marina, 15 km (9 miles) from Antelope Point
- Page, AZ Hotels: Various options 10-15 km (6-9 miles) from Antelope Point
- Vacation Rentals: Homes and condos available in Page with lake views
Designated Campgrounds
- Wahweap Campground: Full facilities, 15 km (9 miles) from Antelope Point
- Lone Rock Beach: Primitive beach camping, 20 km (12 miles) from Antelope Point
- Stateline Campground: Basic facilities, 25 km (15 miles) away
Important: Reservations for houseboats and campgrounds should be made 6-12 months in advance for summer visits. Beach camping requires no reservations but follows “first come, first served” availability.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Dining options around Antelope Point Beach Areas range from marina restaurants to picnic opportunities. While food choices directly at the beaches are limited, several options exist within a short drive.
At Antelope Point
- Antelope Point Marina Restaurant: Casual dining with lake views, serving American fare
- Marina Store: Basic groceries, snacks, and beverages
- Beach Picnicking: Bring your own food to enjoy on the beaches (no facilities)
Nearby Options (Page, AZ)
- Big John’s Texas BBQ: Popular for smoked meats and sides
- Blue Buddha Sushi: Fresh sushi and Asian cuisine
- El Tapatio: Mexican restaurant with authentic dishes
- Grocery Stores: Walmart Supercenter and Safeway for picnic supplies
Local Tip: Pack a cooler with plenty of food and drinks if you plan to spend the day at the beaches. The hot desert climate increases water needs—plan for at least 3-4 liters (1 gallon) of water per person per day.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Antelope Point Beach Areas offer diverse activities centered around the unique combination of desert landscape and refreshing water. From relaxing on sandy beaches to exploring hidden canyons, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Beach Activities
- Swimming: Refreshing in the desert heat, with shallow areas for children
- Sunbathing: Sandy beaches perfect for relaxing
- Picnicking: Bring supplies for meals with spectacular views
- Fishing: Striped bass, smallmouth bass, and crappie (Arizona fishing license required)
Water Recreation
- Boating: Powerboats, pontoons, and jet skis available for rent
- Kayaking/SUP: Perfect for exploring shorelines and narrow canyons
- Cliff Jumping: Popular at designated spots (only with local knowledge)
- Wakeboarding/Waterskiing: Ideal in the calm waters of protected coves
Nearby Attractions
- Antelope Canyon: World-famous slot canyon, 15 km (9 miles) away
- Horseshoe Bend: Iconic Colorado River viewpoint, 12 km (7 miles) away
- Rainbow Bridge: World’s largest natural bridge, accessible by boat
- Glen Canyon Dam: Impressive engineering marvel, 16 km (10 miles) away
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While the Antelope Point Beach Areas are primarily known for natural beauty, the surrounding region offers rich cultural experiences that provide context to this remarkable landscape and its human history.
Museums & Cultural Centers
- John Wesley Powell Museum: Exhibits on exploration and geology of the Colorado Plateau
- Glen Canyon Conservancy: Educational displays about the lake’s formation
- Navajo Village Heritage Center: Traditional hogans and cultural demonstrations
- Carl Hayden Visitor Center: Exhibits about Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell
Annual Events & Festivals
- Lake Powell Balloon Regatta: November event with colorful hot air balloons
- Page Rim Trail Run: Annual race with lake views (April)
- Fourth of July Celebration: Fireworks over Lake Powell
- Western Legends Roundup: August celebration of Western heritage
“The cultural history of Lake Powell spans thousands of years, from ancient Ancestral Puebloan civilizations to the modern engineering marvel of Glen Canyon Dam. Understanding this context adds depth to your beach experience.”
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
The unique environment around Antelope Point Beach Areas creates a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The combination of water, desert, and dramatic rock formations offers activities impossible to find elsewhere.
Water Sports
- Jet Skiing: Rentals available at Antelope Point Marina
- Paddleboarding: Perfect for calm mornings on the lake
- Tubing: Popular family activity behind powerboats
- Scuba Diving: Explore underwater features with local guides
Land Activities
- Hiking: Trails around Antelope Point with lake views
- Photography: Endless opportunities for landscape shots
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution for spectacular night skies
- Rock Climbing: Options for experienced climbers (guided only)
Wildlife Viewing
- Birdwatching: Over 300 species including bald eagles and great blue herons
- Desert Wildlife: Bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various reptiles
- Fish Viewing: Clear waters allow observation of various fish species
- Dawn/Dusk Viewing: Best times for wildlife activity
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Visiting Antelope Point Beach Areas requires awareness of both safety considerations and respectful practices. The desert environment presents unique challenges that visitors should prepare for.
Safety Considerations
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water; dehydration is a serious risk
- Sun Protection: Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, wear hats and UV-protective clothing
- Heat Awareness: Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke
- Water Safety: Always wear life jackets during water activities
- Flash Floods: Be aware of weather forecasts; avoid narrow canyons during rain
- Boat Navigation: Watch for submerged rocks and changing water levels
Etiquette & Conservation
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Take all trash with you
- Noise Consideration: Maintain reasonable sound levels, especially in evenings
- Beach Spacing: Keep reasonable distance from other groups
- Cultural Sites: Do not disturb any archaeological remains
- Wildlife: Observe from distance; never feed animals
- Water Conservation: Minimize water usage; lake levels are declining
Important: Cell phone coverage is limited around Lake Powell. Consider renting satellite communication devices for emergencies when venturing to remote areas.
Visitor Comments About Antelope Point Beach Areas
Real experiences from travelers who have visited Antelope Point Beach Areas provide valuable insights for planning your own trip.
“We discovered a perfect little cove near Antelope Point that became our private paradise for the day. The contrast between the red rocks and blue water is simply breathtaking. Renting a small powerboat gave us the freedom to explore hidden beaches that were completely deserted even in July.”
“Coming from Europe, I was amazed by the scale of Lake Powell. The beaches near Antelope Point offered the perfect mix of swimming and stunning landscapes. Just be prepared for the heat—it’s intense! Early morning kayaking was the highlight of our trip, allowing us to explore narrow canyons impossible to reach otherwise.”
“Our family spent three days camping on a beach near Antelope Point, and it was magical. The kids loved swimming in the warm water and building sandcastles. At night, the stargazing was incredible—we’ve never seen the Milky Way so clearly. Just watch out for the hot sand during midday!”
Practical Travel Tips
These insider recommendations will help you maximize your experience at Antelope Point Beach Areas while avoiding common pitfalls.
Essential Gear
- Water Shoes: Protect feet from hot sand and underwater hazards
- Beach Umbrella/Shade: No natural shade on most beaches
- Cooler: Keep food and drinks cold in the desert heat
- Dry Bags: Protect electronics and valuables on boat trips
- Portable Phone Charger: Limited outlets available
Money-Saving Tips
- Bring Supplies: Shop in larger towns before arriving
- Share Boat Rentals: Split costs with other travelers
- Weekday Visits: Lower rates for accommodations and rentals
- Annual Parks Pass: Cost-effective if visiting multiple parks
- Self-Catering: Prepare your own meals instead of restaurants
Local Insights
- Water Level Awareness: Check current lake levels before planning beach activities
- Fuel Planning: Limited fuel stations on the lake; plan accordingly
- Time Zone Confusion: Lake Powell straddles Arizona and Utah with different time zones
- Navigation Tools: Get a physical map; don’t rely solely on GPS
- Beach Selection: Beaches facing west offer better sunset views
Pro Tip: For the best experience, arrive at beaches early in the morning (before 9 AM) to secure prime spots, especially during summer weekends. The early morning light also creates spectacular photo opportunities with the red rocks reflecting in the calm water.
Your Desert Oasis Awaits
Antelope Point Beach Areas represent a remarkable convergence of stark desert beauty and refreshing waters—a true oasis in the Arizona wilderness. Whether you’re floating in the turquoise waters beneath towering red cliffs, exploring hidden canyons by kayak, or simply relaxing on a pristine sandy beach, Lake Powell offers experiences impossible to find elsewhere. The changing water levels continually reshape the shoreline, ensuring that each visit reveals new wonders to discover. With proper planning and respect for this unique environment, your journey to Antelope Point will create memories that last a lifetime. Pack your sunscreen, fill your water bottles, and prepare to be amazed by one of America’s most spectacular landscapes.
The above is subject to change.
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