Minneapolis Beach provides a quiet lakeside retreat along the northern shores of Lake Chelan near the community of Grandview Village, offering visitors clear water swimming and natural beauty away from the busier beaches closer to downtown Chelan. This beach features a mix of sandy shoreline and smooth lake stones, with the pristine waters of Lake Chelan extending for 50.5 miles into the North Cascades creating stunning views of distant mountain peaks. The beach area includes a free parking lot that serves visitors, though arriving early during peak summer season is recommended as spaces fill quickly on warm weekends. Surrounded by ponderosa pines and the characteristic dry landscape of Eastern Washington, the setting provides a peaceful atmosphere for families and individuals seeking a less crowded alternative to the main Chelan waterfront. Named after the city of Minneapolis, which was known as the flour milling capital of the world during the 1800s, the beach carries historical significance alongside its natural appeal. Lake Chelan's excellent water quality shows consistently low E. coli levels and exceptional clarity, making it both a drinking water source and premier recreation destination. The lake's unique depth, reaching over 1,400 feet in some sections, creates the characteristic deep blue color that attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Swimming draws visitors throughout the summer months when Lake Chelan's water temperatures warm to 65-68 degrees Fahrenheit, creating comfortable conditions for extended water play. The beach boasts gentle waves and clear waters suitable for swimmers of all skill levels, though no lifeguards monitor the area so visitors must take personal responsibility for safety. Children should wear life jackets and remain under close adult supervision at all times. The cold water can reduce body heat 25 times faster than air at the same temperature, making it important to limit swimming duration and watch for signs of hypothermia. Sunbathing on the sandy sections provides relaxation between swims, while beachcombing along the shoreline reveals interesting lake stones smoothed by wave action. The beach is not heavily developed with amenities, lacking restrooms and nearby food services, so visitors should pack supplies including water, snacks, and sun protection. Nearby attractions include the Chelan Riverwalk Park for post-beach strolls, Lake Chelan Wine Valley for afternoon tastings, and Slidewaters Waterpark for families seeking additional aquatic entertainment. Fishing from shore or boats attracts anglers pursuing lake trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon. The surrounding area provides opportunities for bird watching, with osprey, eagles, and waterfowl frequenting the lakeshore.
After your day at Minneapolis Beach, downtown Chelan offers diverse dining options showcasing the region's culinary scene. Bistro at Lake Chelan serves French-inspired cuisine with a 2024 menu featuring baguettes with house Provence butter, pommes frites, Mediterranean olives, French onion soup with gruyere, burrata tarte, Grand Marnier prawns, classic steak frites, and hefty burgers topped with caramelized onions and melted gruyere. Sorrento's Ristorante at Tsillan Cellars provides authentic Italian fare with panoramic Lake Chelan views, including house-made pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood preparations, and regional Italian specialties paired with estate wines. Winemaker's Grill at Wapato Point Cellars features their famous Chicken Piccata with lemon caper sauce, along with fine dining options suited for the whole family including grilled steaks, fresh salmon, and seasonal northwest ingredients paired with award-winning wines. 18 Brix Restaurant at Karma Vineyards offers an ingredient-driven menu that changes seasonally, often featuring sushi and fresh sheet items alongside creative preparations of locally sourced meats and produce, all designed to pair perfectly with their handcrafted wines. Chelan Ridge Winery serves wood-fired pizzas with unique flavor combinations unavailable elsewhere in Chelan, including options with local meats, seasonal vegetables, and artisan cheeses baked in traditional style.
