Moran State Park
Orcas Island, WA
Moran State Park covers over 5,400 acres on Orcas Island, and its freshwater lake beaches are the rare San Juan swim spot where the water actually gets comfortable. Cascade Lake has a full swim beach with a dock and paddleboat rentals, while Mountain Lake, several miles further into the park, is quieter and clear.
A genuinely popular, well equipped freshwater beach in a massive state park, though no lifeguards means swimming here is always at your own risk.
How we score beachesCascade Lake has a seasonal snack bar (the Sugar Shack) and coin operated hot showers. Mountain Lake has neither, so plan food and a rinse accordingly if you're headed there instead.
A Discover Pass is required for parking.
Cascade Lake's beach has a large parking area close to the sand. Mountain Lake's access is more limited with a smaller lot near the campground.
June through September is the real swimming window. The lakes stay cold outside summer.
This isn't one entrance, it's a stretch with a few. Here's where locals actually meet up.
Cascade Lake Beach
The main swim beach with a dock, paddleboat and rowboat rentals, and a seasonal snack bar.
Get directions →Mountain Lake Beach
A quieter, more secluded lake several miles into the park, clear water and a small boat launch, no concessions.
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