Travel Features

A Secret Beach: Walking to The Sands During Winter Pool

October 14, 2025 | Lakin' It with Lydia

If you are a boater on Kentucky Lake, you might already know about The Sands—that fantastic, wide-open sandy beach where people anchor up and spend all summer long. But here’s the secret for everyone else: now that the lake is at winter pool, it’s actually super easy to get here by foot!

For those who don’t have a boat or just prefer a less crowded beach, now is the time to visit this LBL gem. The lake has dropped significantly, which means you can walk right across the bay from the Birmingham Ferry Day Use Area to reach the shoreline. This spot, which is normally packed, is now incredibly peaceful and uncrowded. I love how quiet it is this time of year! Grab a picnic, pack your friends, and enjoy what feels like your own private beach for the afternoon.

If you decide to visit, remember a few crucial things. Wear shoes you are willing to take through muddy spots, as the exposed lakebed can be soft. Also, it's vital to check the lake level: make sure it's at or below 355 feet before you go (you can check our website, explorekentuckylake.com, for the current level).

This is a limited-time opportunity! Go explore The Sands on foot before the water comes back up, and remember our philosophy: pack out what you pack in. Let's keep this beautiful area pristine!

Here is how you get there:





Here is a video of my experience:

< More Features & News