Cedar Lake East Beach Travel Guide

Cedar Lake East Beach is Minneapolis's most beloved urban freshwater beach and the traditional clothing-optional gathering space at the north end of Cedar Lake. Located within the Chain of Lakes Regional Park in the Kenwood neighborhood, this destination offers year-round recreation for swimmers, cyclists, naturists, and community members. The beach's north end—Hidden Beach—maintains a multi-decade clothing-optional tradition, while the southern sections serve as fully supervised public beaches serving thousands of swimmers during Minnesota's brief, intense summer season.

Getting There

By Air

Most visitors arrive via Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), located approximately 15 kilometers southeast of Cedar Lake East Beach (roughly 20–25 minutes driving in normal traffic). MSP is a major regional hub with flights from across North America and select international destinations.

From MSP, take I-494 West toward Minneapolis, then exit onto MN-100 North. Continue to US-12 West (Wayzata Boulevard), then turn north onto Cedar Lake Road. Follow signs to Cedar Lake East Beach parking areas. The drive is straightforward; avoid 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM weekday rush hours.

By Car

If driving from outside the Twin Cities region:

• From St. Paul downtown (8 miles): Take Hennepin Avenue North or MN-65 North to Wayzata Boulevard (US-12 West), turn north on Cedar Lake Road; plan 20 minutes.
• From Des Moines, Iowa (245 miles): Take I-35 North to Minneapolis, exit to US-12 West; plan 3.5–4 hours.
• From Chicago, Illinois (345 miles): Take I-94 Northwest to Minneapolis; plan 5–5.5 hours.
• From Madison, Wisconsin (250 miles): Take I-90/I-94 West to Minneapolis; plan 3.5–4 hours.
• From Duluth, Minnesota (260 miles): Take I-35 South to Minneapolis; plan 3.5–4 hours.

Parking at Cedar Lake East Beach is free. Two primary lots serve the beach:

• East Beach South Parking Lot: Main public lot with restroom facilities, located at the developed southern sections. Typically available except on peak summer weekends; capacity roughly 200 vehicles.
• Hidden Beach/North End Parking: Smaller lot serving the north end (Hidden Beach). More intimate, often less crowded, approximately 75 vehicles.

Street parking along Cedar Lake Road is available but limited and seasonal. Summer weekend mornings (9 AM–1 PM) experience highest demand.

By Public Transit

Minneapolis Metro Transit operates several bus routes serving Cedar Lake:

• Route 6 (Wayzata Boulevard): Runs directly along US-12 near Cedar Lake, with stops within walking distance of East Beach South. Service operates year-round; headways are 15 minutes during peak hours, 30 minutes off-peak. One-way fare is $2.75 (July 2026 pricing).
• Route 21 (University Avenue): Provides connection from downtown Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota; transfer to Route 6 via Cedar Lake Road. Total travel time from downtown is 35–45 minutes.
• Route 5 (Xerxes Avenue): Serves the western edge of Cedar Lake; plan 15–20 minute walk to the beach.

Light rail (Blue Line) connects downtown Minneapolis and MSP Airport, with transfers available to Route 6 via downtown transit centers. Plan 55–75 minutes total from airport to beach using transit.

By Bicycle

Cedar Lake is one of Minneapolis's most bicycle-accessible beaches. Two dedicated cycling paths provide direct access:

• Chain of Lakes Trail: A dedicated 7-mile paved loop connecting all four lakes (Cedar, Bde Maka Ska, Calhoun, and Harriet). Cedar Lake East Beach is directly on this loop. Flat, well-maintained, heavily used; plan 20–30 minutes from downtown Minneapolis via Midtown Greenway.
• Midtown Greenway: A 5.5-mile protected bike path running from downtown Minneapolis (at the Nicollet Avenue/Band Shell area) southeast to the Chain of Lakes. Connects directly to the Chain of Lakes Trail at Cedar Lake's south end. This is one of North America's most heavily used urban bike trails; expect significant summer traffic but excellent infrastructure.

Most visitors bike from downtown Minneapolis (5–8 miles) in 20–30 minutes using the Greenway. Bike parking is available at both beach parking areas.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal Overview

Summer (June–August) is the only viable swimming season. Water temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) in early June to 72°F (22°C) in mid-August, then cool rapidly in September. Daytime air temperatures range 75–85°F (24–29°C). This is peak season: expect crowded beaches, busy bike paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere. June offers fewer crowds than July–August. Lifeguards are on duty at the main beach (typically 11 AM–6 PM daily) during this window only.

Spring (April–May) shows increasing activity as ice melts and weather warms (50–65°F / 10–18°C). Water is too cold for swimming (below 55°F). Excellent for biking, walking, and bird watching as migratory species return. Far fewer crowds; most restaurants and facilities are open but not at full capacity.

Fall (September–October) mirrors spring with comfortable temperatures (50–65°F / 10–18°C) and declining crowds. September water temperature may still support hardy swimmers (60–62°F) for brief swims. October water becomes unusable for swimming (below 55°F). Excellent for photography and cycling; fall color along the lake's forest edge is significant.

Winter (November–March) sees the lake partially or fully frozen (typically mid-December through early March). Water temperature drops to 32–40°F (0–4°C). The beach itself remains accessible for winter walking, cycling on some days, and wildlife observation. The park environment becomes stark and moody. Hidden Beach has a small year-round clothing-optional community for winter swimming/soaking in open water holes, though this is not mainstream.

Monthly Breakdown

| Month | Air Temp (°F) | Water Temp (°F) | Crowds | Best For | |-------|---|---|---|---| | June | 72–80 | 62–68 | Medium | Swimming (early), cycling | | July | 78–85 | 70–72 | Very High | Peak swimming, community | | August | 76–84 | 68–72 | High | Swimming, bike crowds | | September | 68–75 | 62–65 | Low | Hardy swimmers, fall color | | May | 60–70 | 50–58 | Low | Cycling, bird watching | | October | 50–65 | 48–55 | Low | Walking, photography |

Where to Stay

Cedar Lake East Beach has no accommodation directly on the sand, but the surrounding Minneapolis neighborhoods offer diverse options within 1–5 kilometers (10–20 minute drive or 20–40 minute bike ride).

Kenwood & Uptown

The Kenwood neighborhood directly borders Cedar Lake and offers the closest accommodation options. This is a desirable residential area with vacation rentals, small inns, and bed-and-breakfasts scattered throughout. It's quieter than central Uptown but walkable to the beach and nearby Eat Street (Nicollet Avenue), a 1.5-mile stretch of ethnic restaurants and casual dining.

• Vacation rentals: $130–220/night for studios and 1–2 bedrooms
• Bed & breakfasts: $100–160/night
• Small inns: $90–140/night

Uptown

Uptown (centered around Hennepin Avenue and Lake Street, 1.5 km southeast) is Minneapolis's primary entertainment and dining district: vibrant, walkable, with significant nightlife, independent restaurants, galleries, and cultural venues. Hotels and vacation rentals are abundant.

• Chain hotels: $80–140/night; Best Western, Days Inn, budget chains
• Boutique hotels: $120–200/night; character-driven properties
• Vacation rentals: $100–180/night

Uptown is 10–15 minutes by car or 20–30 minutes by bike to the beach. Parking is street-based and can be challenging on weekends; most visitors bike or use transit.

Downtown Minneapolis & North Loop

Downtown (3 km south) and North Loop (3 km southeast) offer the most hotel variety, from luxury properties to budget chains. Downtown is near the central business district, government centers, and cultural institutions (Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Institute of Art). North Loop is trendy, walkable, and known for independent restaurants and breweries.

• Luxury hotels: $150–300+/night
• Mid-range hotels: $100–160/night
• Budget chains: $60–100/night

Downtown is 15–20 minutes by car from the beach; 25–35 minutes by bike via Midtown Greenway.

West Minneapolis (Edina, Bloomington)

The western suburbs (Edina, Bloomington) are near MSP Airport (10–15 minutes) and offer suburban hotel chains and abundant parking. However, you'll spend 30–45 minutes driving to the beach through residential streets.

Accommodation Types

• Vacation rentals (Airbnb, VRBO): $100–220/night; most abundance in Kenwood and Uptown
• Bed & breakfasts: $80–160/night; personal touch, breakfast included, concentrated in Kenwood
• Budget motels: $60–100/night; functional, minimal amenities
• Mid-range hotels: $100–160/night; chains and boutique properties in Uptown and Downtown
• Luxury hotels: $150–300+/night; downtown locations

Book 3–4 weeks ahead for summer weekends; spring/fall/winter offer immediate availability.

Costs

General Price Level

Cedar Lake East Beach itself is completely free to access. There is no entrance fee, parking fee, day-use charge, or facility rental required. This is one of Minneapolis's greatest values for outdoor recreation.

Nearby Services

Swimming/beach facilities: Free. Restrooms and outdoor showers are available at the main beach parking area. No lifeguard at Hidden Beach.

Food and beverage: The beach has no food vendors. Eat Street (Nicollet Avenue) runs nearby with options from $8 (street tacos, casual) to $25+ (sit-down restaurants). Uptown is 10–15 minutes by car with similar pricing. Picnic meals from a grocery store cost $12–20 per person.

Bike rentals: If you don't bring a bike, Twin Cities bike share (Nice Ride) has 400+ stations throughout Minneapolis. Passes are $5/day or $90/month for unlimited 1-hour trips. Private rentals (REI, local shops) are $20–35/day.

Water sports rentals: Limited; some kayak and paddleboard outfitters serve nearby Bde Maka Ska Lake (0.8 km south), typically $30–50/hour or $70–120/day. These are not readily available at Cedar Lake itself.

Parking: Completely free.

Public transit: $2.75 one-way for bus, $5.50 one-way for light rail from airport.

Overall daily budget: Budget $30–60 per person for a day visit (food + transit/parking) with no rentals, or $80–150+ if staying overnight and dining out.

Safety

Swimming Conditions

Cedar Lake's water is generally safe for swimming during daylight hours in summer (June–August), with important caveats:

• Water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) in spring/fall to 72°F (22°C) in peak summer. Water below 60°F (15°C) requires caution; extended swimming beyond 15–20 minutes risks hypothermia even in strong swimmers.
• Lifeguards are on duty at the main East Beach South section daily 11 AM–6 PM during summer months (June 15–Labor Day). Hidden Beach (north end) has no lifeguard coverage.
• Water quality: Monitored by Hennepin County Parks. Water quality can be compromised after heavy rainfall due to stormwater runoff; check the county parks website before visiting, particularly after storms.
• Currents: Minimal in this shallow lake; water circulation is generally gentle except near outflows.
• Leeches: Present in Cedar Lake and other shallow Minnesota lakes. Leeches are harmless but can be psychologically discomforting. Wearing socks while wading or covering legs with a thin wetsuit can reduce encounters. Do not panic if one attaches; they release with salt water, alcohol, or simply friction.
• Aquatic vegetation: Submerged weeds are common in shallower areas. This is ecologically healthy but can be uncomfortable for swimmers.
• Shark incidents: Zero recorded incidents (freshwater lake; no sharks present).

Avoid swimming after dark and always use the buddy system.

General Safety & Naturism at Hidden Beach

Cedar Lake East Beach's Hidden Beach (north end) maintains a well-established clothing-optional tradition serving a multi-decade community. It is a designated, socially accepted space where naturism is standard practice.

Important distinctions:

• Hidden Beach (north end): Clothing-optional beach, maintained by a community that respects the tradition. Expect to encounter nude swimmers and sunbathers. This is not a "secret" beach; it is a well-known local destination for naturists.
• East Beach South (main beach): Fully clothed standard, supervised, family-oriented. Separate from Hidden Beach spatially and culturally.

The communities coexist peacefully. Visitors to Hidden Beach are expected to understand and respect the clothing-optional culture. Photography is strictly prohibited at Hidden Beach out of respect for community privacy.

Safety notes for Hidden Beach:

• No lifeguard is on duty; swim at your own risk in the buddy system.
• The community is close-knit and self-policing; behavior is remarkably respectful and consensual.
• There are no reported incidents of harassment or crime specific to Hidden Beach; however, as with any isolated beach area, basic urban safety precautions apply (don't leave valuables unattended, don't visit after dark alone).
• Public indecency laws technically apply, but Hidden Beach enjoys decades of social acceptance and implicit police toleration due to its isolated, self-contained nature.

General Urban Safety

The Kenwood area surrounding Cedar Lake is safe and well-policed. Petty theft from unattended vehicles and beach belongings can occur; don't leave valuables in your car or unattended on the sand.

Health Considerations

Sun exposure: Minnesota's UV index can be deceptive on cool days. Sunscreen (SPF 30+) is essential; reapply every 2 hours, especially during swimming.

Insects: Mosquitoes are common during summer, particularly near dawn/dusk and in boggy areas around the lake. Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin) is recommended for early morning or evening activities.

Local Tips

Arrive early on summer weekends. If visiting Saturday or Sunday in July–August, be at the beach by 9–10 AM to secure parking and enjoy the space before crowds build.

Understand the geography. Hidden Beach (north) is clothing-optional and culturally significant; East Beach South is fully clothed and family-oriented. Respect this implicit geography.

The Midtown Greenway is peak during weekday evenings (5–7 PM) and weekend mornings (8–11 AM). If you prefer solitude, bike at off-peak times.

The Chain of Lakes loop is a must-do. The complete 7-mile loop connecting Cedar Lake, Bde Maka Ska, Calhoun, and Harriet is one of North America's most beautiful urban bike routes. Plan 1–1.5 hours for the full loop.

Water temperature peaks mid-July through mid-August. If you're heat-sensitive for cold-water swimming, target this window.

Bring layers and wind protection. Even in summer, mornings and evenings are cool, and wind off the water can be significant. A windbreaker or fleece is essential for non-swimming activities.

Eat Street (Nicollet Avenue) has excellent ethnic dining. Thai, Somali, Mexican, Indian, and Pan-Asian cuisine within walking distance of the beach. Most are casual, affordable ($8–18 for lunch), and beloved by locals.

Walker Art Center is 2 km south via Midtown Greenway. Many visitors bike to the beach in the morning, then continue south for a museum visit in the afternoon.

Visit the Kenwood Park area (directly west of the beach). This is one of Minneapolis's most attractive residential neighborhoods with tree-lined streets, historic estates, and excellent public gardens.

Winter cycling is possible. The Midtown Greenway and Chain of Lakes Trail are maintained year-round. Winter commuters and recreational cyclists use these paths even in December–February. Bring appropriate tires for ice/snow conditions.

Photography is prohibited at Hidden Beach. This is a firm community boundary; respect it.

Summer season is brief and intense. Minnesota's swimming season is functionally June–August. The community consciousness around this window is high. If you plan to visit, don't delay—the season is short.