What's the cure for a hot summer day? That is, aside from ice cream. When it's sunny, hot, and the skies are bright blue, what better way to play, cool off, and relax than with a beach day? Hamilton County has some great beaches, all very family-friendly and ideal for adventure. For your next day of sun and fun, which will you choose?

Blue Mountain Lake

When you're ready to cool off, swimming and splashing in one of the highest lakes in the Adirondacks is the answer! The public beach on Blue Mountain Lake is sparkling, beautiful, and easily accessible. Located off Route 28, the beach features a roped-off swimming area, dock, lifeguards on duty, and awesome views. Changing rooms and restrooms are located at the beach, too. The beach is in walking distance of Strong Rope Taproom, home to frosty drinks, and the Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts, which offers art exhibits, workshops, and live theatre performances. You're also just down the road from the spectacular, worthy of a whole day of fun in its own right, ADKX: The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake. Blue Mountain Lake is a nice, quiet spot great for relaxation.

Indian Lake

If you haven't been to Indian Lake yet, let's make this the summer that changes all that! The town is a gem, with a sweet golf course, whitewater opportunities, and a pretty, quiet beach tucked well away from the main highway. The town beach sits on a secluded part of Lake Abanakee and offers pretty swimming, swings for the kiddos, a volleyball net/court, a floating dock to swim out to, changing rooms, and a covered pavilion perfect for a family picnic. Lifeguards are on duty, and this spot is great for kids of all ages and swimming abilities. After a day at the beach, unwind with a good movie or theatre performance at the Indian Lake Theater and don't forget to stop for a sweet ice cream treat!

Inlet

Smack dab in the midst of the Fulton Chain Lakes, Inlet's Arrowhead Park is a centrally located spot ideal for a big beach day, so bring a big beach bag! With tennis courts, a baseball diamond, playground, picnic area with grills, and of course a gorgeous strip of sand to play and sunbathe on, Arrowhead Park is sure to please. Public boat docks are right next door, there's ample parking, and the beach is within walking distance of many of the town's restaurants, coffee shops, and unique spots to pick up a souvenir or two.

Long Lake

Driving through Long Lake, it's hard to miss the beach: located near the bridge that crosses the lake, this sandy destination offers one of the neatest swimming docks you'll find anywhere in the Adirondacks! The dock features a slide, rope swings, and a trampoline that will have you bouncing and splashing your way to summer fun in no time. Conveniently located near the Adirondack Hotel, where you can grab some lunch, as well as local shops, the beach is also close to kayak and canoe rentals, and features a pretty gazebo. Relax on the sand and watch float planes take off and land close by; you just might book yourself a scenic flight, too!

Speculator/Lake Pleasant

Pleasant is the keyword when it comes to visiting the beach in Speculator! The beach is located on Lake Pleasant, less than half a mile from shops, restaurants, and the all-important ice cream stand! Relax on the sand, play in the water, and picnic on the shady point. When you're ready for a break, walk across the street to the Sacandaga River Nature Trails, which is a great way for the whole family to explore nature. The 1.5 mile trail is handicap accessible, including an 850-foot boardwalk, over wetlands and through a variety of habitats. It's a great place to explore and learn at the interpretive panels. With so much to do, the beach feels like the center of everything!

Wells

Located in the southern portion of Hamilton County, the cute town of Wells — surrounded by a lot of stunning wilderness — offers a kid-friendly beach on Lake Algonquin that is close to everything you need in town. Picnic tables provide a shady spot for lunch or a post-swim snack, there's a dock with diving board, and plenty of room to frolic and play. Down the road, grab a cone at the Lakeside General Store, then visit the extraordinary sculpture garden of artists Caroline Ramersdorfer and John Van Alstine.

I don't know about you, but after all this I'm ready for a beach day! It's hard to choose which beach is the most fun; my vote is that this summer, try them all! You won't regret spending memorable quality time on these lovely lakes and beaches with your family and friends. Start planning your summer adventure today by exploring where to stay, eat, and have fun.