Travel Guides Outdoor Adventures Water Adventures
Lauren Richards
Summer is the quintessential time for a trip to the beach, be it an ocean beach or a lake beach. Choosing colorful swimsuits, sitting along the shore with a book, swimming in the gentle, rolling waves, and basking in the sunshine — all of it can feel like divine relaxation. Sometimes, though, the relaxation is disrupted by the constant chatter and bustling of a busy beach. It can feel like a stressor when you’re bombarded by tourists and families sprawling out on the beach, or music blaring from speakers, interrupting your afternoon doze. These circumstances can create less-than-ideal experiences.
With that being said, it is still possible to find quiet, secluded beaches. Sure, you can visit popular beaches at odd times, like early morning, or you can take a look at unexpected places and plan a trip there and find yourself a near-empty beach any time of day. One of these destinations is Orval Hansen Point Beach located in the unassuming state of Idaho. This beach might just be the perfect place for the quiet and rest you’ve been looking for.
Immerse yourself in nature
CSNafzger/Shutterstock
Orval Hansen Point Beach is a quiet beach nestled in the Sawtooth National Forest along the Redfish Lake. It’s a perfect getaway for those looking for a secluded beach to reset and recharge. It’s best known for swimming and boating, specifically non-motor boats, meaning it’s great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing.
The beach is landlocked, so you won’t have the expansive ocean views, but that doesn’t mean a lack of beauty. There are mountains and hills graced with trees surrounding the lake, making for majestic views. Because of its location in a forest, there are plenty of hiking trails you can go on too. There’s also a campground nearby, so pitch a tent or park an RV and make your stay at the beach one for a full weekend — or however long you desire. You can have a beach vacation and explore the great outdoors all in one place. It’s a perfect vacation for individuals, couples, and even families.
The beach and the town
For those of you who prefer residential areas over camping, you can head over to the nearby town of Hansen, Idaho. The quiet town offers activities like an escape room, historical sights, and adventure tours. You can stay at an inn or a hotel, and visit one of the many local diners. For those willing to venture out of town, there’s even a tandem.
While it’s not a beach town, and it’s definitely not the ocean, Orval Hansen Point Beach offers scenic views, quiet shores, and an abundance of nature. It could be just the vacation you need. The best time to go is in the summer, when the sun is blazing and the water can cool you off. The fall is great for hiking since it has miles and miles of trails and leaves turning on the trees to make for a beautiful sight. Visiting here is sure to bring you a peaceful, nature-filled time away from the crowds.
