Vantage Beach (Wanapum Reservoir)
Vantage, Washington, United States
Restrooms
AvailableYes - vault toilet located at the parking spot
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes - free parking is available
Nudity Policy
NOT REQUIREDNo. Nudity not required
The Good
- Natural Beauty: The beach offers a stunning desert landscape with the backdrop of dramatic cliffs, making it a visually appealing destination.
- Seclusion and Solitude: On weekdays, the beach is relatively quiet, providing a peaceful oasis for those seeking solitude or a more private nude beach experience. Weekends can be busier but it is never out of control.
- Accessibility: Despite its remote ambiance, Vantage Beach is conveniently situated about halfway between Seattle and Spokane, making it an accessible destination for both day trips and weekend getaways. The furthest section of the beach can be reached via a well-worn path that is less than a mile long.
- Diverse Activities: The area offers a variety of activities, including sunbathing, swimming, boating and exploring trails and sand dunes.
- Water Depth: The river bottom has a very gradual incline, making it easy to enter the water. There are no steep drop-offs.
The Bad
- Extreme Temperatures and Lack of Shade: The desert setting means it can get extremely hot, often exceeding 100 degrees, and there's limited shade in some areas. Spots under the giant sagebrush fill up quickly on weekends.
- Limited Amenities: Basic amenities like a vault toilet and a picnic table is available, but there are no other facilities, meaning you'll need to come well-prepared.
- Varied Terrain: The mix of sandy and some rocky areas makes a comfy blanket a must have.
- Parking Use: A Discover Pass parking permit is required to access the entire area and you will get ticketed with out one.
The Naked Truth
Vantage Beach, tucked away on the Wanapum Reservoir's shores, is a nude beach delight, but not without its quirks. Its desert-like setting means scorching temperatures and limited shade if you can't find a spot under the giant sagebrush – a big test for sun-lovers. The beach offers a mix of mostly sandy stretches with some rocky sections, so a comfortable blanket setup is essential. On weekdays, it's a peaceful oasis, perfect for those seeking solitude. However, on weekends, the beach livens up, attracting a diverse crowd, from local nudists to adventurous Seattleites.
Overall, Vantage Beach is a unique blend of serene desert beauty and vibrant nude beach scene. Just remember to bring everything you need and embrace the natural simplicity of this hidden Washington gem. Also, a heads-up: the area past the white Grant PUD markers is actually private property. The owners have been a bit frustrated with beachgoers wandering over their land, so let's do our part to keep things cool and stay within the marked boundaries. Sticking to our own awesome spot ensures everyone has a good time without any hiccups.
Insider Tip
Get here early on weekends so you can get a prime spot with sand + shade!
Who's Here
Mostly locals and small groups of all ages
Beach Surface
Mostly sand and with some rocks
Access Difficulty
Easy. Access by car and 10-15 minute walk on level ground
Photos
Our Visit
Contributor Review – Charlee Peterson
Local Expert. Visited 2023
We've recently uncovered a slice of paradise at Vantage Beach, a haven situated conveniently between Seattle and Spokane. This spot is perfect for day trips or longer weekend getaways. It's amazing how easily we can transition from city life to the peacefulness of this relatively remote nude beach, located close to the Gorge Amphitheatre. We're big fans of its desert terrain and sandy stretches, but a heads-up – it can get REAL HOT here with temperatures often climbing above 100 degrees and hardly any shade. So, come prepared!
Contributor Review – Charlee Peterson
Local Expert. Visited 2023
We've recently uncovered a slice of paradise at Vantage Beach, a haven situated conveniently between Seattle and Spokane. This spot is perfect for day trips or longer weekend getaways. It's amazing how easily we can transition from city life to the peacefulness of this relatively remote nude beach, located close to the Gorge Amphitheatre. We're big fans of its desert terrain and sandy stretches, but a heads-up – it can get REAL HOT here with temperatures often climbing above 100 degrees and hardly any shade. So, come prepared!
The beach itself, managed by Grant Co. PUD, runs along the Wanapum Reservoir, featuring a mix of sandy areas and rocky patches. We usually start our journey from the "Frenchman Coulee Recreation Area" parking lot, which is a free parking spot accessible with a Discover Pass. From there, it's just a half-mile scenic walk to where the nude recreation area begins, about 100 yards east of the boat launch. The beach extends a further 600 yards east, offering a range of spots to settle down, from secluded corners near the cliffs to more open areas.
Vantage Beach is a sanctuary during the weekdays, with a tranquil atmosphere perfect if you're seeking solitude. Come the weekend, it transforms into a lively spot frequented by nude visitors and boaters from as far as Seattle. It's a great place for first-timers, given its laid-back vibe. However, it's wise to be aware of the local wildlife, including the occasional rattlesnake along the trails, and remember that fires are strictly prohibited. The local sheriff's department is tolerant of the nude use as long as there are no disturbances.
One thing to note is that the area before the cliffs is private property, so it's important to respect these boundaries. Regulars here told us the owner gets very annoyed when people don't respect this (so try not to find out the hard way if he's in town!). The beach is adjacent to state land leased to a private group, which generously allows public access. Overall, Vantage Beach stands out in the Pacific Northwest, an area with no shortage of nude beaches. Its unique combination of natural beauty and a relaxed nude beach scene make it a must-visit. Don't forget a well-padded blanket for the rocky terrain and plenty of hydration. With its breathtaking views, Vantage Beach comes highly recommended.
Map
Getting There
Vantage Beach, conveniently located between Seattle and Spokane, is an ideal spot for both day trips and weekend getaways. For easy navigation, input "Frenchman Coulee Recreation Area" into Google Maps, which will guide you to a nearby car park offering free daytime parking with a Discover Pass. From here, a short half-mile walk will lead you to the beach. Managed by Grant Co. PUD, the beach lies adjacent to state land leased to a private group that generously allows public access. The road to the parking area is fully paved and in great condtion.
Nudity is tolerated by the local sheriff's department provided no problems occur. Fires are strictly banned and there are occasionally rattlesnakes along the soft sand trails. The designated area for nude recreation begins roughly 100 yards east of the boat launch and parking area and extends further east another 600 yards. Note that the area before the cliffs is private property.
By Car: This is really your only option as the area is so remote. To reach Vantage Beach, take Exit 143 (Silica Road/The Gorge Amphitheatre) off I-90, head north for about a quarter-mile, then turn left onto Vantage Road. Follow this road for 4 miles until it ends at a boat launch and parking area. The beach access trail is located to the left of this boat launch.
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