Gray's Bay
About
Gray's Bay is a fantastic lakeside destination where families can spend an entire day enjoying Lake Minnetonka's beauty. With a sandy beach for swimming, playground equipment, paved walking trails, and a spacious lawn area perfect for picnics, this waterfront park offers the quintessential Minnesota summer experience that keeps kids entertained for hours.
Highlights
- ✓Sandy swimming beach with lifeguard supervision during summer months
- ✓Well-maintained playground with equipment for multiple age groups
- ✓Paved walking trails perfect for strollers and family bike rides
- ✓Picnic areas with grills and shelters available for reservation
- ✓Stunning sunset views that make evening visits magical
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends (before 10am) to snag parking and a prime beach spot, as this popular park fills up quickly on hot days
- 2.Bring water shoes as the lake bottom can be rocky in spots, making it more comfortable for little ones to wade and play
- 3.Pack a cooler with snacks and lunch since there are no concessions on-site, but plenty of picnic tables and shaded areas under trees
- 4.The best sunset views on Lake Minnetonka are from the north end of the park,bring a blanket and make an evening of it
- 5.Restrooms and changing facilities are available near the parking area, making beach gear changes much easier with kids
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons during summer for smaller crowds and comfortable temperatures. The park truly shines during sunset hours (plan for 7-9pm in summer) when families gather to watch the spectacular colors over Lake Minnetonka.
What to Know
Daily parking fees apply during summer season ($7-10 for non-residents). Free parking is available in off-season. Restrooms, picnic shelters, and beach access are all family-friendly with relatively easy accessibility from the parking area.
Seasonal Notes
Peak season is June through August when the beach and swimming area are fully operational with lifeguards. The park remains open year-round for trail walking and winter activities, but beach facilities and restrooms may have limited hours or be closed during colder months. Fall offers beautiful foliage along the trails.
Nearby Eats
Head to Big Bowl Foods (5 minutes away) for fresh, healthy bowls that please picky eaters, or visit Blue Point Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Wayzata (10 minutes) which offers a kids' menu and lakeside dining atmosphere perfect after a beach day.
More Activities Near Minnetonka
Purgatory Park, Minnetonka Township
Purgatory Park is a hidden gem in Minnetonka that offers families the perfect blend of natural exploration and traditional playground fun. Kids can splash in the creek, spot turtles and birds along the scenic trails, then burn off energy on the playground equipment,all while parents enjoy the peaceful wooded setting and well-maintained paths.
Lone Lake Park
Lone Lake Park is a gem for families seeking a peaceful outdoor escape in Minnetonka. This well-maintained neighborhood park offers something for everyone,little ones can burn energy at the playground while older kids try their luck at the fishing pier, and the scenic walking trails around the lake make it easy to enjoy nature with strollers or bikes in tow.
Big Willow Park, Minnetonka
Big Willow Park is a lakeside gem that offers families the perfect blend of water fun and outdoor adventure. With direct Lake Minnetonka beach access, multiple playgrounds, and scenic trails, this expansive park provides everything you need for a full day of family entertainment in one beautiful location.
Minnetonka Community Center
The Minnetonka Community Center is a one-stop destination for family fun year-round, featuring indoor swimming pools that are perfect for all skill levels, gymnastics programs, and a rotating calendar of youth activities. With its excellent 4.7-star rating, this full-service facility offers everything from open swim times to structured classes, making it ideal whether you're looking for a casual drop-in visit or regular programming for your kids.